Relish

A pumpkin and cream cheese muffin with pecan streusel comes lofting in to you from the west, and you
catch it nimbly.

((Squinting to see if it is Gurashi or Cheliyi this time!))

Within a calm terrace.
The rippling sound of flowing celestial waters echoes distantly from a healing shrine of Lantra
nearby. This location is flooded with shallow, crystal clear water. A slender leothin sits here
motionless, brightening its surroundings with its natural golden bio-luminescence. Gurashi, The
Heart's Friend with a Regal face shifts and blurs, their figure cast into uncertainty by the
enveloping Presence that lingers large, unseen, and heavy about their form. They wield a vibrant
mandolin of songbirds and stars in their left hand.
You can see no further.

You tell Gurashi, The Heart's Friend, "I see you, Gurashi."

Gurashi's melodic voice sings into your mind, "*from the periphery of the seat you have chosen, you
can see a bit of orange poke up from the bottom of the hill before hearing an audible gasp, the
figure ducking back out of sight*."

Bizirik slinks in from the west, clicking and thrumming softly.

Scuffling in, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks, "Ahhh heckity - was I that obvious?"

Gurashi bobs their head side to side, more muffins in hand. "Good morning, good morning. Please
forgives me if am interruptings."

Seated, as typical, by the flowing water's edge, Avaris lifts his lower right hand
from his knee to gesture to the wings that follow Gurashi's approach. "Not to most, I should
imagine. Good morning, Gurashi - You are quite fine. I was not entrenched in anything of great
import. Thank you, for the food."

Gurashi wanders over to the seated kephera, blinking and standing up a little taller, not quite
reaching your height with their smaller shape. They puff their cheeks and scrunch their face. "You
are very welcome," They hum, holding out another helpfully.

Eyes wide, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks you, "How goes? How are you doing to-day?"

Gurashi's short tail wags a mile a minute behind them, a blur of orange and white.

Though the great helm of Avaris's head does not move its facing away from the
waters before him, the condensed red aether of his antennae bend and twist to track Gurashi's
approach, flowing in an oddly liquid manner. "I am quite well, Gurashi, as ever. Thank you for
asking." Extending a gauntleted hand, he accepts the proffered treat in a delicate manner, taking
evident care to keep the sharp edges of his joints from coming into contact with Gurashi's form.
Murmuring yet another thanks, he gestures to the grass beside him in invitation, saying, "What of
yourself? Tell me of this form you have now - It is one I am not familiar one, as a whole."

You think to yourself: A tranquil sense of benevolent calm, still and level as a pool of glimmering
water - Though with the unmistakable sense of mighty currents shifting and flowing beneath the
surface.

Gurashi gives their mandolin a squeeze, the instrument pressed to their chest as they readily jog up
beside and sink down to sit beside the kephera. "Am O-K, I am O-K. Easily distracted, tasks getting
done tiny bits at a time, yes." They scoot forward, sprawling their hooved legs out before
themselves. "This shapes? Ah, uhm, this is my sileni-me! Am a sileni, yes. Have heard of thems?"
They look up, smiling. "Is my singliest-shapes!"

Avaris's pointed chin dips in a series of slow, slight nods as his companion
speaks, his immense chest rising and falling in a steady, unhurried rhythm. "So long as progress is
being made, and all will be done in time, little steps are more than sufficient. A march is not
swift, but inevitable." Turning his head a shade towards Gurashi, the solid blue spheres of his eyes
sparkle with a faint wash of bright motes of light, a smile in his voice as he answers, "I have not.
What makes it your 'singliest' shape?"

Repeating thoughtfully, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Marches is not swifts but inevitables..."

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "That makes me feel less badly for
being such a slow writers."

Avaris lifts his lower left hand from his thigh to turn the pointed tips of his
fingers in towards himself, saying, "I, too, am a plodding writer. So long as we get there when we
need to, Gurashi, there is no need to feel bad, I believe."

Gurashi chews their lower lip, turning slightly in their spot to better face the kephera, drawing in
one of their legs and casually tucking it beneath themselves. "Because sileni are musicians," They
explain, strumming each of their six fingers along a vibrant mandolin of songbirds and stars,
producing a bright and clear chord that resonates cheerily throughout the surroundings. "They have a
link to something special. A Song only they can hear, yes. Like the Hives, to the kephera," They hum
pleasantly, strumming another chord.

As the sileni plays their mandolin, there is a pulse of psionic energy that radiates away from their
body, saturating the air with a comforting warmth.

The ridged, flaring jut of Avaris's jaw tilts down towards Gurashi as he studies
the mandolin and form both, the quartet of red lines flowing up from behind his bladed crest
quivering minutely in place. "Indeed? That brings to mind the Keepers of the Song of Creation, as
Lady Rhapsody was. Is there some relation?"

You think to yourself: A dark shape stirring restlessly beneath the calm waters, disturbing the
placid surface into choppy wavelets of distant, old emotion. "Like most kephera."

Gurashi lifts a finger, pulling away from their instrument before they pause, furrowing their brow.
"Yes, I think so," They confess, settling back into their spot. "They are an almost extinctly race,
in truths. There are only two TRUE silenis left in all of the world. Not changeling ones, not like
me. Sileni only, sileni originally. The rest," They pluck at a few more strings. "Got eaten up by
the Soulless God, Zenos. Yes. He wanted what they had."

Gurashi turns to look up at you, smiling brightly, their tail wagging. "But there are still remnants
of thems, yes. And some who are able to carry their memories." They reach awkwardly across their
chest to pat a truss of shimmering grapes where it hangs from their pack. "Keep the Songs alive.
Though, do not think we have a Song-song of Creations in us...not anymore."

Gurashi huffs, puffing their cheeks.

The kephera's benign air of calm remains entirely undisturbed as the explanation is
given - Until the name of the Soulless is spoken. The moment it leaves Gurashi's lips, the glowing
eyes that gaze contentedly about from within the golden firmament of Avaris's wings blaze with an
intense, angry red light, each eye snapping open into a glare of murderous intent. Aside form the
creak of chitin protesting the immense pressure is it placed under as his fingers clench upon his
legs, there is no other indication of the large figure's reaction - Though the sanguine hue he is
bathed in is more than sufficient. "Ah. Yes. Thank you for enlightening me, Gurashi. It is a shame
that there are so few remaining."

You think to yourself: "Zenos." The word is hissed with such an intensity of black, searing hatred
that it is nearly distorted into not a word at all, but a harsh, scalding sensation of ineffable
animosity.

Gurashi stares at you, gaze softening and frowning at you as their expression fills with concern.

Ferne arrives from the west.
Marigold, the lop-eared bunny, hops in from the west.

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "I'm not interrupting, am I?"

Gurashi's tail wags twice, and they furrow their brow as they register the faintest of changes with
you. "Yes, it..." Suddenly, they look up, face falling upon Ferne before it brightens. "Oh! Miss
Ferne!"

Gurashi's tail begins to wag faster and faster. "Not at all - we were sittings together." They
excitedly pat the grass beside them, brandishing a pumpkin and cream cheese muffin with pecan
streusel immediately after.

Looking up, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks you, "Unless you mind?"

The furious red light that emanates from the eye-like markings of Avaris's wings
simmers down to a sullen, heated glow at Ferne's approach, the kephera's antennae flicking up in
surprise. "Ah! Ferne, welcome. Not at all - Please, join us, if you wish." So saying, he gestures to
his free side, opposite where Gurashi sits.

Ferne carefully sits down upon the grass smiling softly. "Wonderful! I was hoping for good company
today!"

Gurashi sways, hands finding a vibrant mandolin of songbirds and stars again, plucking at the
strings. "Was talking about what little bits knew about the sileni, yus, cause he was asking what I
was." They giggle, bobbing their horned head side to side. "How are you, Miss Ferne? Have not gotten
to see muchly ofs."

Avaris utters a soft laugh, the humming sound underscored by the quietest note of
strain. "Ah. I cannot promise good company, myself, but gentle Gurashi here is very adept at such,
and will make up for any potential shortcomings, I am sure. Indeed, you have been missed of late.
Are you well?"

With a gasp, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "You give yourselfs not enoughly credits! You
are fun to sits withs."

Gurashi huffs, puffing their cheeks.

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "I'm doing quite well! I would like to be able to wake more often, but
I find I'm lacking the time to do so."

Gurashi thinks to themself: *a ripple of embarrassment, sheepish - gentle Gurashi! me! pink, then gray*.

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "I'm not overly familiar with the sileni, myself. But such musical
folk must be good."

You think to yourself: A brief twinge of bitter humour. "Oh, indeed. The stiff-backed, angry zealot
with self expression issues. Most fun. Too kind, Gurashi, in this."

Avaris nods in ready agreement. "Indeed. They seem a fine people."

Gurashi gives you a pout before turning to properly face both their fellow New Celestians, strumming
away a happy tune on their instrument. "When I had to fulfill my tasks for the Shofets, decided to
be thisly shapes, because thought maybe the Empyreals would listen to it hopefully the mostest."
They smile with pride. "It was also shapes that helped me get my voice back, long long long long
times ago when I lost it! There are many goodly silenis, yes. Sort-of-sileni like me." They pause,
strumming a curious tune to accompany their wondering. "The real ones are asleeps near
Serenwildes..."

Gurashi trails off in their rambling, flushing and looking back sharply at the other two, bunching
their shoulders.

Motes of effervescent light coalesce and dance in the firmament as Rekath resounds, "Hey Hallifax. Make
it morning. We got business to do. Try not to break anything this time with your silly crystals and clocks."

Gurashi thinks to themself: *negation - gentle negation - is fun, are fun, are ... a little hiss, deflating at
the voice shouting throughout the Basin*.

The sharp tip of the forefinger of Avaris's upper right hand trails thoughtfully
along the white edge of his jaw as he utters a contemplative hum. "That was a most wise decision, I
believe. My Lady is very fond of song. Did it go well?" Noting Gurashi's flush, he lowers his hand,
scribing a soothing, circular motion in the air. "You have nothing to be embarrassed about,
Gurashi."

Gurashi nods enthusiastically. "Yus. I think so. Am glad of my choices," They hum, shoulders
relaxing.

As the sileni continues to play, warm psionic energy continues to radiate faintly upon the
surroundings, welcoming, soothing. Safe, safe.

The fleeting image of himself as a Sileni - Poorly imagined, as a kephera
-Sileni hybrid of great awkwardness, before the notion is dismissed. "No. That is a silly idea. I
will make do as I am, and hope it is enough."

Utterly entranced, Ferne emits a long "Ooooh."

Ferne snaps her fingers, releasing sparkling motes of coloured light.

Marigold, the lop-eared bunny suddenly shouts, "POOF!" and waits as if expecting something.

Marigold, the lop-eared bunny thumps once in agitation.

Gurashi smiles at something unseen, swaying where they sit until the puff of colorful lights,
jumping in surprise, their instrument halting as well. "Oh!" They gasp, boggling at Marigold, the
lop-eared bunny before letting out a bright laugh. "You boths scared me!"

Bizirik, the leothin snorts, head resting on its paws as it lounges lazily nearby.

The corners of Ferne's mouth turn up as she grins mischievously.

The antenna closest to Ferne twitches at the abrupt display of light, though Avaris
does not turn his head to regard the colourful motes. "Have you spoken to the Lady Aeldra or Alarin
lately, Ferne? I would be happy to convey your greetings to them, if not."

Frowning slightly, Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says to you, "I've not had a chance to for some time. I'd
be very appreciative if you would be so kind as to pass along well wishes and pleasantries on my
behalf."

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to Ferne, "Ah! Yeah! M -- ah, Aeldra
has been waking more! You two will bound to be running into each others lots soonly I hope!"

Gurashi beams broadly at you.

Light radiates from Gurashi's heart, warming with shades of gold, wheat, and saffron.

Avaris inclines his head in acquiescence. "It will be my pleasure to do so. It is
as Gurashi says - The Lady is less somnolent than she has been. It is heartening to see. I am sure
she would enjoy hearing from you."

Ferne claps her hands together merrily.

Happily, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Mister Alarin too. He comes and goes but has been around
lots."

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Miss Alaula, she has been having
lots of soul problems." They frown. "So be sure to send her a message and let her know you still
thinks of her if get a chance! She misses you and Aeldra lots. Already told her so."

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "Wonderful! Perhaps I will have a chance to talk their ears off later
in the weave."
-
With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "I do not know if already told
you..."

Gurashi trails off, resting their hand against their chin.

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says to Gurashi, "Told me what? About Alaula?"

Gurashi nods their head emphatically.

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "My memory is not so goodly as of
lates."

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "I was aware of it regardless, so no worries!"

Gurashi claps their hands together merrily.

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Oh good."

Avaris allows the pleasant chatter to wash over him, the huge kephera remaining
still and benignly quiet as the other two speak.

You think to yourself: A return to the serenity of before, the dark currents becalmed by the balm of
bright souls and warm companionship.

Gurashi sways, leaning back and looking towards the nearby willow tree. "Is nicely when you guys all
wakes, you are a nicely family," They muse happily, leaning forward enough to see their reflection
at the edge of the pond.

Ferne smiles softly.

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "We try."

Safe... safe ...

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says to you, "I forget, you mentioned wishing to try combat, correct?"

You nod your head at Ferne.

Ferne nods her head emphatically.

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "Have you had a chance to begin exploring that facet of life?"

Avaris gives life to a brief swell of thrumming sound, the harmonics infused with a
dry sort of humour. "Unwillingly, yes. I have yet to have any training, however."

Gurashi looks down at their instrument, now the one lulling into silence as they listen to Ferne and
you speak, swaying.

Comprehension flashes across Ferne's face.

Ferne nods her head emphatically.

Without looking away from their reflection, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Miss Ferne's a goodly
teacher, yus."

Ferne stifles a giggle.

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "I don't know about that."

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "But, I'd be happy to assist as I can."

Avaris shifts his upper set of hands to brush the golden carapace of his fingers
along the hilts of his swords, tone thoughtful. "It is interesting, how I can stand against the
ravening hordes of the astral plane with ease, but combat with those that have gone through the
portal of fate is such a struggle." At Ferne's words, he nods. "I would appreciate that, if you
would be so kind, sometime."

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn smiles and says, "Certainly! I'm getting rather adept at fighting paladins,
I might have a trick or two for you."

Gurashi smiles at the response, lolling their head side to side. "Peoples have biglier brains than
astral beasties. Bigly brains are scarier than tons and tons of muscles, even..."

Gurashi hums softly to themself.

Ferne nods her head in agreement.

Avaris's chip dips in an emphatic agreement as Gurashi speaks. "That is a fine way
of putting it, indeed. As for fighting paladins...I rather hope that I will not have the cause to
put such skills to the test in earnest."

Gurashi stretches languidly.

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "Outside of the arena, I can't think of a reason why we would ever
reach that point."

You think to yourself: "I can, unfortunately. Let it never be so."

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "Unless suddenly all of our paladins became infested with some sort of
brain parasite and the only way to revert them is through death..."

Ferne frets over everything that might go wrong.

Gurashi's melody falters only slightly, and they look over their shoulder suddenly, first at you
with no small amount of concern, then at Ferne, eyes wide as dinner plates. "P-para..."

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to Ferne, "W-w-what a TERRIBLE
thoughts! Shoo it from your heads for even thinking its!"

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn asks Gurashi, "You don't think that would happen, right??"

Gurashi frantically waves their hand at Ferne's head. "Stinky thinky! I do not think so but do not
want to risks it!"

Avaris lifts his hands to either side in a calming gesture to both of his
companions, his choral voice even and steady. "Be at ease. There is no need to panic over such
possibilities. Assess them cooly, instead, if you wish, so that you may be prepared for them -
However unlikely."

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Ah! Oh, that is smart..."

Regaining her composure, Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says to you, "Barring such an event, the other
reason to beat up a paladin is for bragging rights."

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "...staying calm is not my best
first response."

Ferne nods her head at Gurashi.

Gurashi boggles at Ferne.

Gurashi's mouth forms a little 'o' of surprise.

Gurashi throws back their head as they laugh.

You think to yourself: The image of the brain parasites he has found upon occasion within the
Undervault is brought to mind, along with a sense of consideration. A cascade of cold logic branches
out from there - Eventual possibilities, contingencies arising thereof, and on and on, until it is
neatly filed away for later.

The corners of Ferne's mouth turn up as she grins mischievously.

Avaris lifts a single shoulder in a slow shrug, the spikes of the pauldron glinting
with the motion. "I have no interest in glory, to be frank."

Gurashi thoroughly shakes their head, their low-hanging ears slapping them in the face. "Ah! Yeah,
bad... idea. Terrible, thought, yes. Hmm, hmm..."

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "Nor do I. But, one cannot deny the merits of being able to best
Romaan. ESPECIALLY when we don't often see eye to eye."

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn whispers, "But uh, that stays here."

Gurashi thinks to themself: *fleeting recollection of the terror first initiated by healing their antennae,
voices so loud and commanding they could not resist, so many could not refuse - something terrible, like
that? having to resist, something like that... quiet, quiet*.

The seven spheres of polished azure sparkle with inner motes of light as Avaris
nods in a grave manner. "Of course. We are sworn to secrecy."

Ferne stifles a giggle.

Gurashi reaches over, their hand resting atop Ferne's, patting it twice. "Will keeps secrets.
Always."

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "I appreciate that."

The sun reaches the zenith of the firmament, pausing in his quest to allow the land to bask in his
shining golden rays.

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "Anyway, my point - as roundabout as it may be... Is that... ummmm."

"Uhh..." stalls Ferne.

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "I forget."

Marigold, the lop-eared bunny thrusts her palm towards her forehead and hits it with a resounding
*smack*!

Avaris prompts calmly, "Combat lessons?"

Comprehension flashes across Ferne's face.

Gurashi's shoulders bunch as they let out a short giggle.

Looking up, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "If you two wanted to go and practice, I do not mind
waiting here until you are all done. If wanted."

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "Yes! Was that even within our own city, combat is at the very least
cathartic."

Gurashi huffs, puffing their cheeks.

Ferne shakes her head at Gurashi.

Avaris waves his hand aside in a slow arc. "Not at the moment."

As if suddenly struck by a thought, Avaris asks of Gurashi, curious, "Ah! How is
the shop, Gurashi?"

Ferne embraces Gurashi with great ardour.

Ferne reaches out towards you with an endearing expression, as though begging for a hug.

Gurashi smiles, then perks up at the question, letting out a little gasp. "Oh! My, gosh!" They flail
suddenly. "It is going well! It exists! It is, a shop? I have even sold some things!" They look over
their shoulder. "Have you seens it? Ah!"

Gurashi reaches out, pulling Ferne into a tight embrace.

Storyteller Ferne Ladyn says, "I demand to see this shop! But I need to rest for now."

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Ah! Ouwah, O-K."

Gurashi gives Ferne a friendly squeeze.

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to Ferne, "It is in the city, do not
worry. I will show you soonly, I promise. Next time you wakes."

In the midst of absorbing Gurashi's enthusiastic response, Avaris is apparently
taken aback by Ferne's silent request for a hug. More than a touch awkwardly, he utters an
uncertain, "Ah," yet remains as he is, as if unsure of how to proceed.

Gurashi glances at Ferne, then at you, then back at Ferne, tail wagging once before slowing to a
stop.

You think to yourself: The anxiety-inducing image of attempting to hug the much smaller Ferne, only
to hurt her with unintentionally applied force, or the myriad sharp protrusions from his natural
armour - Which in itself is a cause for balking. Who would want to touch something hard and
unyielding as metal? He is not meant for hugs.

Another pulse, a psionic attempt to soothe - safe, safe.

Ferne touches her fingertips to her hand, illuminating the temporal tattoo upon it. The air beside
her warps, as a clock-like portal manifests.

The clock face shimmers as Ferne steps through.
Marigold, the lop-eared bunny bounds off to the ether.

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Oh--."

Gurashi lifts a hand, but Ferne is gone, leaving them in half-risen silence on the ground. Suddenly,
their full attention turns the the kephera, unable to mask their surprise. "Do not like touches?"
They ask, curious.

Faint and reassuring, though they are unclear in their address, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to
you, "You will not..."

Watching Ferne depart, Avaris folds his hands together, only to reshuffle them, and
again, in a steady stop and start of fidgeting motion. "Ah. I made that awkward. I am sorry."
Clearing his throat as the hue of his eyes dims to a much deeper, subdued shade, he shakes his head
slightly, sighing. "I...To be frank, I do not truly know. All contact has been somewhat...Combat
orientated, or painful. You are from the Hives, Gurashi - You know how it is for the males.
Especially one that is defective." With a shrug, he amends, "Mostly, I am afraid of hurting someone.
There is nothing soft about me - I am hard as platemail, and all spikes and edges."

Gurashi suddenly and firmly shakes their head. "You will not," They insist, standing up straighter,
voice low but insistent, almost pleading. "And nobody will make you hug anybody so hard you hurts
thems - is not how it works, no. Do not have to be soft to be hugged. Everybody deserves to be
hugged. Points are O-K! I have lots as a kephera, too! Even so, look!" Suddenly they gesture to your
arms, waving. "Nobody else gets so many arms with which to hug!"

Avaris lowers his head to regards his hands, which he lifts, flexing the golden
claws slowly. "People are so...Soft, Gurashi. I blunder my way into trampling over their feelings
with words alone, when I do not intend to. How am I to touch them, and not expect the same result?"
Bringing his lower right hand down, he passes the back along the earth at his side - Even this slow
gesture, obviously lacking in violence, is sufficient to tear up small gouges in the soil, the
passage ripping a few unfortunate blades of grass from their home. "You see?"

Gurashi stares at you, gaze softening and frowning at you as their expression fills with concern.

You think to yourself: The rents in the earth, slowly welling with moisture, bring to mind tears in
flesh, in carapace, that ooze with blood. A voice, an older, weary one, masculine, rising unbidden
from memory. "A weapon is a weapon, Avaris. It cuts not because it wants to, but because that is all
it knows."

Gurashi considers you for a time, listening the kephera explain, one arm folding over the other,
gently scratching at their elbow. "Peoples are tougher than you gives them credits, too," They
respond gently. "Did you know, my head's been blown up? And, I've been cut in halfs, and crucified
more times than I can count. Have been, poked and prodded and jabbed and stabbed..." They wave
lightly. "But I still gots all my pieces, see?"

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "There is differences in
intentions. Between hurting on purposes and accidents." They smile, then open their arms hopefully,
their tail wagging again as they take one tentative step closer. "It is worth the risks, yes? I am
unafeared. I can teach you! Can figure it out, yes."

With a nod, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "I think you would enjoy hugging very muchly,
do."

The steadfast kephera, ever given to standing unperturbed in the face of the tide
of events, now draws back from Gurashi's peaceful advance as if the sileni is brandishing a weapon.
Avaris holds up his hands, palm-outwards, the layers of his voice falling out of their typical
harmony with the strain that unbalances them. "Please, Gurashi. I do not wish to see you harmed,
least of all from simply touching me. I would feel terrible if you were stabbed, or...Any of those
things. I am quite fine - I assure you. You need not trouble yourself."

Gurashi frowns, lowering their arms slightly, watching you withdraw. "...won't," They insist, though
their arms dip even further, eventually falling to their sides. "It is not a troubles. But," They
smile again. "We can get to that points, later, hopefully maybe." Their tail wagging again they lean
forward. "Do you want to go see my shops? You asked about it, before."

The warding palms lower only when it is clear that the looming threat of a hug is
sheathed, for the time being. Avaris watches Gurashi warily for a time, before nodding. "I would
like that, yes. If you do not mind."

Gurashi makes a beckoning gesture, hooves clicking on the stones they move over. "Follow me! I can
take you there. Is not far, no."

You have emoted: Avaris rises to his feet in a graceful, unfolding motion, falling in beside
Gurashi, shortening his great strides to keep pace.

Cheerily jogging ahead, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "This way, this way!"

On Nautilus Pompilus street, on the west side.
This location is flooded with shallow, crystal clear water. Small, fine gravel, in pastel hues,
covers the street in a thick layer, affording a soft, comfortable surface to walk on, and a pleasant
view. Short, squat palm trees, about two meters high, and two meters wide at the crown, line both
sides of the street, as it winds its way through town. A statue of Frobellon, the Celestial Groom
stands here, memorializing his noble spirit. Completely motionless, a slender leothin intently
surveys its surroundings. Gurashi, The Heart's Friend with a Regal face shifts and blurs, their
figure cast into uncertainty by the enveloping Presence that lingers large, unseen, and heavy about
their form. They wield a vibrant mandolin of songbirds and stars in their left hand.

Gurashi pauses as they reach the bend in the street, skidding to a halt on the gravel, nearly flying
off balance with the motion. "Ah! Be-hold!" They flail, gesturing wildly towards the west and
striking a pose.

Gurashi strikes a pose.

Bizirik, the leothin strikes a pose.

You have emoted: Hands folded at the base of his back, Avaris watches Gurashi's madcap antics with a
calm air - Extending a hand only when it seems that Gurashi is about to tip over, though the golden
fingers retract as the sileni rights themselves. The posing is giving its due appreciation with a
minute nod, his sevenfold gaze glittering with points of light, before he turns his head to the
west.

The Humblebee Patisserie.
This location is flooded with shallow, crystal clear water. The pastel-hued gravel of Nautilus
Pompilus street gives way to colorful flagstone as one approaches the open front of this timber-
framed, single-story building. Exterior wooden supports have been lovingly carved to resemble the
gnarled exterior of trees and winding branches for a supporting lattice that sits above a quaint
patio. Boughs of verdant ivy and purple clematis cling to the supports and hang down from the
lattice, offering a distraction for insects that might otherwise be interested in the sweets. The
storefront itself is brightly colored to match its surroundings, double glass doors propped open on
sunny days to let the fresh smells of baked goods drift out into the streets. A sweet-sounding bell
hangs poised atop the door's frame to announce the arrival of customers on poor weather days. The
shop's cozy interior allows standing room for only a few visitors at a time to comfortably gather. A
poppy-shaped lantern hangs from the low rounded ceiling, bathing the room in warm golden light. Dark
wood floors offset the rose-gold interior walls where short shelves hold an assortment of
curiosities and tiny sprouting planters all lovingly tended to. A simple counter and glass-front
display houses the day's specials, and a chalkboard mounted overhead lists the specials of the month
and how much they cost. A sign here suggests you READ SIGN! Completely motionless, a slender leothin
intently surveys its surroundings. Gurashi, The Heart's Friend with a Regal face shifts and blurs,
their figure cast into uncertainty by the enveloping Presence that lingers large, unseen, and heavy
about their form. They wield a vibrant mandolin of songbirds and stars in their left hand. You see a
sign here instructing you that WARES is the command to see what is for sale.
You see exits leading east (open door) and down (closed door).

Avaris murmurs, as if to himself, "Bee-hold."

Gurashi is too impatient to wait, breaking into another run, bursting into the storefront to the
west, nodding. "Bee-hold!" They sing, twirling in their spot.

Happily, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "My shops! Is shops! Is here!"

Avaris follows along at a more dignified, stately pace, ducking down instinctively
as he enters the doorway. The four swathes of red that sweep up from his brow flick and twist about
with evident interest as he surveys the shop, nodding in approval. "This is a fine establishment,
Gurashi. Did you decorate it yourself?"

Gurashi scrambles at first to stand behind the counter, then thinks better of it, instead rushing to
stand near the window, running a hand underneath the rack of hanging sky lanterns, causing them to
sway. "I did! Took a lot of times! But it was really fun!"

Beaming with pride, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Thank you! Thank you kindly!"

Avaris's antennae follow Gurashi's path about the shop as their owner folds himself
down in order to fit within the premises without risk of gouging any holes in the roof. The dense
fluff of his mane brushes along the ceiling as he studies the objects upon the shelves with
interest. "You have done an excellent job, Gurashi. You should be most proud. Have you had much
business, of yet?"

Gurashi beams, not seeming to recognize the kephera's awkward posture, flitting around the interior
of the shop to make sure everything is still arranged carefully, aligning one of the cookies on the
counter. "A little! It is mostly for hanging outs more than sellings, but have sold some foods! And
a lantern." They point to the empty hook near the window. "Has only been a couple months! Ah..."

Gurashi trails off, at last noting your leaning. They move to stand in front of him, leaning forward
and craning their head slightly to the side to gaze up wondrously into his face. "Do you want to go
sits outside? Is more spaces. Is a whole patio."

You have emoted: Spying one of the varieties of teas, Avaris visibly lights up - In a literal
manner, as the white glow of the eyes within his wings brightes. "Ah! That is the tea that I chose
to offer to my Lady. I am pleased to see it here. If She enjoyed it, I will acquire more." At the
question, he responds with a distracted, "Hm?", before continuing, "Ah. No, I am quite fine. I would
like to make a purchase, if you are amenable."

Gurashi follows your gaze to the tea, then smiles, looking back up at the kephera with a nod. "Yeah,
it was one of the drinks served during the Festival of Lights! And since was so nicely to allow me
to have a shops in Celest..." They rush back behind the counter, giggling. "You may purchase
whatever would like! But do not have to!"

Avaris nods in an agreeable fashion, taking care not to permit too much motion in
the gesture. Reaching to his hip with his lower right hand, he unfastens a pouch that has been
secured through the flared chitin with a sturdy loop of chain. With great care, he places it within
the cup of his left hand, delicately withdrawing a precise amount of gold pieces, placing each upon
the countertop before sliding the neat stack towards Gurashi. With great ceremony, he intones, "I
would like to purchase one deluxe burger, please."

Gurashi opens their mouth, then closes it, then opens it again, then shuts it, lips drawn into a
thin, wibbling line. "A whole burger? Really?" They ask, watery-eyed and hopeful. With a burst of
enthusiasm they reach back and open up the back of the glass case, disappearing inside and producing
one of the shiny treats. THey whisper excitedly to themselves as they collect, then offer the dish
with great reverence to you, tail a blur of orange and white behind them. "Thank you very muchly for
your purchase and many thank yous for shoppings at the Humblebees Patisseries yessiree."

Avaris lowers his head solemnly, confirming. "Indeed. One whole burger." Despite
being forced to hunch awkwardly over in order to fit within the constraints of the shop, the kephera
seems entirely at his ease, content to watch Gurashi conduct the ritual exchange of goods for coin.
The dish is accepted with much the same air of gravity, the ceramic of the plate clinking politely
as it is grasped in the hard chitin of his hands. "Thank you for your service. I will be certain to
convey what the swiftness and pleasant nature of the staff at your establishment. Now, I shall
sample the wares." Thus declared, he pauses, and asks, "Might we sit outside? This seems a posture
that is less than conducive to eating neatly."

Gurashi seems to be quite literally bursting at the seams with excitement, papping their hands
gently against the counter. "Y-yes! Of course! That is where it is for!" They insist, gesturing
towards the door. "Are a couple tables near southern end that are not under the lattices so should
not be a problems, one moments I will go--" They burst from behind the counter, scurrying around you
and out the opened doors, scrambling to the southern edge of the patio where a few tables sit just-
under the protective lattice. With some visible effort they drag the little patio table out across
the gravel and flagstone, the bottom scraping terribly, audibly as they go. Then, they move the pair
of chairs, eventually standing behind them and waving towards the kephera inside. "Come here! Come
sits!"

Shuffling about in place so that he faces the door, Avaris watches Gurashi zip by
and begin the arduous, ear-rending task of conveying the patio table from beneath the lattice. He
lifts a finger as if to speak, only to pause, before lowering it with a sigh of resignation. Once
bidden, he makes his way to the doorway, and emerges from it like some primordial titan from a
fissure in the earth itself, preceding by his grasping hands as he carefully leverages himself out,
in an effort to not damage the premises - Or get stuck. Freed, at last, he stretches briefly, then
steps over to the chair, which he regards with immense doubt for a time. He lifts it clear, gently
placing it to one side, and then folds himself into a cross-legged sitting position before the
table, which he sets his plate upon with great care. "Would you like some?"

Gurashi shakes their head, hopping into the chair, leaving the other unoccupied as you settles on
the ground. They lean forward, making sure their mandolin is carefully slung across their back,
moved aside when they'd opened the display before. "No, no, is O-K. I make thems all the time so I
know what they are like. Is all yours!" They beam, tail still wagging.

Avaris nods agreeably, carefully seizing the burger in his uppermost pair of hands.
Studying the thing with no small degree of curiosity, he pronounces, with great relish, "/Meat./"
This said, he lifts it to the smooth, seamless visor of his face - Which shows no means of actually
eating anything, until it begins to split apart. The flaring, white portion separates from the gold
where his eyes are embedded, and then unfolds into a nightmarish array of split jaws and sharp,
curving mandibles. It is into this horrifying maw that the burger is placed whole, and the ensuing
destruction that follows is sufficiently gruesome to make a hardened veteran of the astral plane
blanch. Once this is done, the golden, angelic kephera reforms his helm-like visage, and dabs
daintily at it, brushing away crumbs. Brightly, he enthuses, "That was most delectable! Thank you,
Gurashi."

Gurashi opens and closes their mouth without offering a verbal response to the declaration of the
burger's meaty existence. They watch, but seem more interested than mortified by the display, tail
wagging faster and faster as you devours the dish. Once it is gone, they clap their six-fingered
hands together and sit up straight in their chair, flashing a toothy grin. "You are welcome! So
welcome! Am glad that liked it so muchly!"

Lifting a finger, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "So you like meats, then! Prefer meats to
other things, do you? I will keep it in minds."

Avaris dips his head in a decisive nod, voice firm, "I enjoy meat very much, yes.
Fruit also, as well as greenery. I am less fond of sugary sweets or candied goods, but I sample them
from time to time, still. There is much variance in food above the ground, it is quite wonderful."
Folding his hands neatly atop the table, he breathes a content sigh. "I wish you well with your
shop, Gurashi. I am sure it will be a great success. Perhaps hold some form of modest opening event?
A little invitational party, out here."

"Meats and fruits, greeneries," Gurashi whispers to themselves, pulling out their quill and writing
straight onto their arm. They tuck the writing implement away, beaming up at the kephera once more.
"Let me know if ever get hungry but aren't in the city, yes? I tend to carry things on my
persons..." They trail off, considering your suggestion.

Gurashi blushes furiously.

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "A-an opening event? Ah? Oh. I had
not considered such a things. M-mean have already been open a couple months!" They laugh. "A belated
opening!"

A flash of gold gleams as Avaris lifts a hand to ward off Gurashi's offer, the
thrumming chorus of his voice kindly as he speaks. "Please, Gurashi. If I am hungry, I will
simply..." Here, he spreads all four of his hands wide, encompassing the shop and its outer area.
"Come here. You have a business. You will not do terribly well if you simply give your food away
before people get the chance to come here and buy it from you."

Gurashi huffs, puffing their cheeks.

Avaris nods in an affable manner, folding his hands together in a precise stack
once more. "I do not think the timing is important. I believe you would enjoy it - You seem the type
to revel in hosting an enjoyable experience for others."

Muffled laughter echoes from somewhere outside.

Gurashi keeps their cheeks puffed in a childish display, swaying back and forth in their chair. "O
-K, that is fine. But I might sends you foods anyway, just in case," They stop, looking at the table
before them where the empty plate that once housed a burger still sits. "It is important to keep
peoples feds, so their morales are ups and they have goodly strengths and feelings, yes. Mm." They
begin to swing their legs, looking further down the road to the south, expression thoughtful.
"Parties ARE awfully fun..."

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "I will think about it. If do
will be sure to let know, yes?" They smile. "Give an invites! Informally formals!"

A low laugh emanates from Avaris ,the rich, warm sound a swelling harmony of
pleasant tones of varying pitch. "That is acceptable - Though I would ask that you hand them to me,
rather than bombarding me from afar. I feel somewhat like a castle besieged by a foe that is loading
their catapults with culinary delights, at times. I am ever concerned I might miss catching
something, you see."

Avaris inclines his head in acceptance, antennae undulating slowly. "Of course. I
will be sure to make an appearance, if you do."

Gurashi throws back their head as they laugh.

Wiggling with laughter where they sit, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend exclaims to you, "O-K, O-K, I
will not throw foods from a-far anymore! Am promising!"

Cheerily, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Will hands them instead."

Gurashi beams broadly at you.

Beaming at the kephera opposite them, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "You are very kindly.
Thank you."

Gurashi sniffs the air while twitching a striped badger nose.

Avaris's eyes glimmer with a gentle tide of brilliant points of light. "That is
most appreciated, thank you. Now, I believe I have taken up a great portion of your time as it is -
Do not let me keep you longer, Gurashi. You have been overly generous with your company, and I would
not deprive the world of your enthusiastic self."

Bizirik's head begins to droop. It opens its great maw and curls back its lips to allow its forked
tongue to unfurl as it yawns before snapping its mouth shut.

Gurashi sticks out their tongue. "You are not keeping me, do not worry! But I should start my
winding downs soonly, yeah," They laugh. "It has been wonderful! Thank you so muchly. Come back any
time, yes yes?"

A poofy, seal point ragdoll kitten comes flying in from the east and lands on the ground with a
'thump.'

Swaying in their seat, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "And--."

Gurashi's mouth forms a perfect 'o' of surprise.

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend exclaims, "Cat!"

Muffled laughter echoes from somewhere outside.

Avaris turns his head to stare at the cat-turned-projectile.

Hesitantly, Avaris asks, "Is...Is this normal?"

In a concerned tone, leaning towards the creature, Avaris asks, "Is it alright?"

Gurashi nods as they slide out of their chair, smiling. "Is normal 'cause is Tridemon's, think."

Avaris's antennae flow forward and down, curving up at the tips as he utters a
quiet, "Ah."

Gurashi stoops down near to the ground, gently petting the ragdoll kitten, though it seems otherwise
unperturbed, "Is not hurt! Do not worry. Cats are special!"

Gurashi looks suddenly to you, face lighting up as they smile brightly.

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "They land on feet better than
desserts."

Shaking his head, Avaris rises from where he sits, casting a last, dubious glance
at the cat. "If you are certain. I would have words with someone that throws animals around, if it
would harm them."

Gurashi nods their head sagely at you.

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Me too."

You think to yourself: "Very pointed, violent words."

Gurashi's tail slows a little, and they continue to pet the kitten, crouched on the ground. They
look out towards the road but frown, expression hard to read before they look up at you, smiling
brightly again. "Do not worry, Rugcat is just fine. Thank you, again, so muchly for your time, yes."

With a gentle, euphonic lilt, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "I enjoyed myself muchly.
Stay goodly, and kind."

Gurashi pets a poofy, seal point ragdoll kitten ingratiatingly.
A poofy, seal point ragdoll kitten blinks cerulean eyes lazily at Gurashi.

Gurashi's gaze softens as they smile at you.

Lowering his head towards Gurashi in a polite gesture, Avaris moves towards the
street, settling his hands together at the small of his back. "Thank you, Gurashi, for the food and
the company. It is always a pleasure. I wish you well, until we meet once more."

A poofy, seal point ragdoll kitten flicks her tail idly, the barest indication of life from the
puffball.

Gurashi beams broadly.

Gurashi waves goodbye.

Avaris lifts a hand in a wave, and departs.