"I think you're wonderful, friend Gurashi."

<-- Shortly after Olethea told Gurashi that Esei told them they LIKED HER

look
A blackened gazebo within a scorched garden.
Standing atop a tall central hill and providing some semblance of shelter to the nothingness that has replaced the sky, the gazebo you find yourself in is beautifully crafted, a marvel of carpentry and craftsmanship. Built in such a manner that it uses as few unbroken pieces of wood as possible, each sculpted log is fit with the others in a manner befitting a puzzle box, and it becomes quite difficult to determine where one piece of carpentry cedes to the next. Despite this, the gazebo is roomy and well suited to a large gathering of people within it at is stands as a centerpiece to the strange and twisted garden in which it has been built. It is not immune to whatever fire plagues the blasted earth, and the wood has long-since blackened where it touches the ground, but this does little to damage its apparent structural integrity. On all sides beyond the gazebo's ostensible walls sprawls a field of smoldering, dying plantlife, obsidian sculptures that mimic the most verdant of fields in chipped and rippled mockery, and curiously healthy, fragrant and lush night-blooming jasmine. Paths branch out through this curious collection of abundance in all directions, each accompanied by an arching 'doorway' in the gazebo itself, and each doorway obscured by billowing, translucent indigo silk curtains, wrought with delicate glass beads. There are 5 lushly-cushioned backless chairs here. Its brilliant surface gleaming with reflections, a grand round table stands here. Completely motionless, a slender leothin intently surveys its surroundings. Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd is here, shrouded. She wields a richly decorated ravenwood viola in her left hand.
You see exits leading north, northeast, southeast, south, southwest, and northwest.

Gaze softening, you ask, "So ... they said that liked you? How do YOU feel?"

You tilt your head curiously at Olethea.

Olethea runs a hand through her fiery mane dripping red-gold embers, stroking the tresses gently and tucking a lock back into place.

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "They are terribly sweet, and I've told them so. I do rather look forward to learning more about them, but... I am still settling right now. And, ah... I didn't bring this up, but there is someone that *I* like."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods sympathetically, his chin in his hands, elbows against his knees, feet flat on the ground. He raises his eyebrows in surprise. "...oh my! Really?!" He gasps, then flushes. "Oh - that must be... very awkward for you..."

Fretfully, you say to Olethea, "Am so sorry!"

Olethea smiles crookedly, the expression somewhat sheepish. "I mean... it's never unpleasant to be told that you're admired by someone admirable, I don't think."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Eh? Oh... well - guess this is also true..."

You have emoted: Gurashi drums his fingers on his chin, smiling. "Well, that is a nice way to look at it!"

You beam broadly at Olethea.

Olethea smiles, dipping her head in a nod. "Yes, so I... Am hard-pressed to be upset, per se. I do feel bad...?"

Olethea runs a hand through her fiery mane dripping red-gold embers, stroking the tresses gently and tucking a lock back into place.

You have emoted: Gurashi heaves a great sigh. "That's good... ".

Voice bright and clear, you exclaim, "Er, that they were kind. N-not that you feel bad!"

Olethea smiles softly at you.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I understand."

You have emoted: Gurashi quickly sits up, flailing his arms. "Sorry! Know what I mean, not what am saying, haha! Ha..."

Olethea hides a giggle behind her fingertips.

You have emoted: Gurashi grins toothily, ears red.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I do."

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Olethea.

Perking up, you say to Olethea, "So... what are going to do about the person that -do- like? Oh," He suddenly looks worried, "Are they part of the Shadowlight alliance or..."

You fret over everything that might go wrong.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "...n-not that should matter! You will like who will like, Ironhart or not."

Waving her hand placatingly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Oh! Yes. Of the Glomdoring, even."

You hands fly to your mouth as you give a short gasp of elation.

Hands clasped over his heart, you say, "Oh! What a relief."

Olethea fiddling slightly with the hem of a plush silk-lined ivory fox-fur short coat, slowly tilts her head to one side. "Though I'm not sure they've... noticed."

Canting his head, speaking excitedly, you say to Olethea, "Is it a boy or a girl? Oh - wait wait," He squeezes his eyes shut and flails his arms, "you don't have to tell me!"

Perking up, you say, "Oh..."

It is now the 8th of Dvarsh, 558 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 27 days until the New Moon

Clasping a hand on his cheek, tempering his excitement and replacing it with wonder, you say, "...that is... again, awkward."

Olethea laughs brightly, folding her hands on her lap. "A little. But I also think it's very endearing."

Relieved, you say to Olethea, "Oh - O-K. That's a relief."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "Listen, trust me - as someone who doesn't notice things, it is probably not their fault."

Your design #30669 of a grumpy sphynx kitten origami was approved.
Like the pulsing of a great heartbeat, the strength of the Master Ravenwood dims your surroundings for but a second, as hidden whispers spread the tales of merciless reaping and the Wyrd's slow consumption of the First World.

Olethea's ears perk up physically at the pulsing of the Master, and she smiles. "Oh..."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Your designs."

You have emoted: Gurashi's gaze lifts up, and he stares at something only he can see.... a light comes into his eyes, and his whole face brightens. "AhhhHHHHHH it's DONE."

You deftly fold and cut a sheet of vellum into a bright orange origami shaped like a caracal kitten.

Utterly entranced, Olethea emits a long "Ooooh."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Uhm, let's see...."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "Do not worry am not forgetting what we are talking about."

Olethea's eyes crinkle at the corners as her face warms with an imperceptable smile.

You carefully inscribe your message onto the inner folds of a bright orange origami shaped like a caracal kitten. The magic ink flashes slightly as its glow permeates the origami with its power.

You have emoted: Gurashi peeks at Olethea, then turns away, whispering into the origami as he works.

With a final fold, you close and seal a bright orange origami shaped like a caracal kitten, hiding its message deep within the folds.

You give a bright orange origami shaped like a caracal kitten to Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd.

You nod your head sagely.

Olethea blinks.

Olethea smiles softly.

A bright orange origami shaped like a caracal kitten unfolds and sings to Olethea, "We are both very orange, Miss Olethea!!"
A bright orange origami shaped like a caracal kitten flutters apart in wisps of vellum and disappears from Olethea's hands.

You beam broadly.

Olethea giggles happily.

Olethea nods her head emphatically.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd laughingly says, "You're very right."

With especially precise folds, you assemble a grumpy sphynx kitten origami from four sheets of vellum.

Gently, you give a grumpy sphynx kitten origami to Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Here, have a mini Fitzroy too - on me."

Olethea smiles softly.

Olethea sighs fondly.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "O-K, done being silly."

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Oh, I don't mind."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "No no, this is important."

Olethea tosses a glance in your direction full of warmth and fondness.

Voice bright and clear, you exclaim to Olethea, "Only thought of the origamis, because you said something... otherwise, you were all of my attention! Promise!"

Pursing her lips thoughtfully, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "...He is a boy."

You have emoted: Gurashi adopts a serious expression. "Oh! O-K. We have a few of those."

Carefully choosing her words, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Very macho."

You have emoted: Gurashi gasps. "Oh, gosh, we have a few of those too... wait," He shuts his eyes, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Let me think."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd, "//kill me lol."

The soft voice of Olethea tickles your ear, "// This beautiful idiot."

Voice bright and clear, you ask Olethea, "Ahhh - wait, why have not told them? Is he married?"

Olethea stares at you with a carefully neutral-faced amusement. "...I have more hints if you need them. No, not married."

Voice bright and clear, you whisper, "We have many macho peoples, yes. Unmarried, macho man. Boy. Manboy."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Hmmmmmmm."

Bizirik, the leothin stares implacably at you.

Bizirik, the leothin slowly looks at Olethea, ear flicking.

Olethea's eyes sparkle with amusement at Bizirik, the leothin.
Bizirik, the leothin stares blankly at Olethea. After a moment its tail lifts once then thumps back against the ground with potential delight.

Voice bright and clear, you whisper, "Aurik is -very- macho, yeah, do not think is seeing anymore either. Mister Shehrose? Is macho, maybe. Has met you? I do not know..."

You have emoted: Gurashi continues to mull over names of various men, most of which you've never met, many who no longer wake, puzzling softly.

Softly, helpfully, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I have told him, before, that he reminds me of the last few gasps of sunset, before dusk sets in."

You have emoted: Gurashi cups his chin in his hand, then sits up, a puzzled look overcoming his face. He looks at Olethea suddenly, furrowing his brow. "Wait - you said that before."

You blink a few times and stare at Olethea in confusion.

You blink a few times and stare at a bright orange origami shaped like a caracal kitten in confusion.

Voice bright and clear, you whisper, "Brycllgami..."

You shake your head.

You tilt your head curiously at Olethea.

Olethea smiles softly at you.

You have emoted: Gurashi narrows his eyes a little, then sits up, then looks at Olethea again, then out over the scorched garden, pursing his lips.

You think to yourself: Oh wait.

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly stops, gaze landing on a particularly burnt patch of ground. He blinks.

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I just... I think you're wonderful, friend Gurashi."

You blink.

You have emoted: Gurashi quickly swivels his head to look at Olethea, nearly jumping in his spot. He blinks.

You have emoted: Gurashi makes a noise. Maybe, a whole word? You aren't sure.

Unable to really meet your gaze, Olethea has turned her head to look over the corners of the garden, her ears visibly glowing with that odd red-orange luminescence that is her blushing.

You have emoted: All visible skin flushing a bright shade of crimson, Gurashi sits perfectly stiff on the steps, his grey eyes wide and disbelieving, lips parted, leaving him looking stupefied.

Voice high and strained, you say, "... ...a....oh!"

Shyly, Olethea glances at you out the corner of her eyes with the hint of a sheepish smile.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "...w.. I - wait... wait wait wait ..."

You have emoted: Gurashi fumbles over his words, seeming to turn more and more red with each passing minute. He bunches his shoulders. "Y.. .Miss Ol-Olethea you like -me-????"

Olethea nods at you, slowly. "I do."

You have emoted: Gurashi inhales slowly, dropping his hands to his lap, his shoulders still bunched as he turns towards the garden, stunned into silence.

In a somewhat placative, meditative nervous gesture, Olethea begins to inspect, smooth, and rearrange her wing feathers.

You have emoted: Gurashi shuffles his feet against the ground, his hands wringing together. His eyes dart back and forth on the ground, and he is clearly contemplating what has been said to him.

Softly, you say, "...s-sorry, Miss Olethea. D... o not mean to make you nervous, with my silence."

You sweat profusely as you wring your hands nervously.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says to you, "It's... okay. You don't need to... um." She gestures, halplessly, looking for words. "...I don't like you with expectations. I just think you're lovely. And I want you to be happy. And I would like to help."

You have emoted: Gurashi's shoulders sag a bit, and he cants his head, looking up to Olethea again, the color slowly returning to his face. Not much. "Miss Olethea..."

Olethea runs a hand through her fiery mane dripping red-gold embers, stroking the tresses gently and tucking a lock back into place.

Olethea tilts her head curiously at you.

You have emoted: Gurashi shyly reaches out, taking your hands within both of his own. "... s-sorry," He laughs, short and embarrased. "W-words are hard! Am a bard, just bad with words." He squeezes.

Olethea blinks a few times, her attention shifting toward you. After a few seconds of silence, her face warms into a smile deep enough it's tangible beyond her veil. Gently, she squeezes back. "Take your time."

You have emoted: Gurashi makes a face, puffing his cheeks, clicking his tongue against his teeth. He squeezes your hands again, then blurts out, "You are so nice, too! And so beautiful! Like one of most beautiful peoples that know! And I really like your musics, and think that you are a wonderful director and writer, and you are so -kind- - even when were in Gaudiguchs and were following the Lady Enchantress you were nice to me! And to my friends! And that makes you wonderful! You are wonderful too, Miss Olethea!" He gasps, having spoken in one long string of words.

Finally, you say to Olethea, "Far much more wonderful than me!"

Olethea's face burns a vibrant, healthy glow, and she cups her cheek in hand, smiling. "I don't know about more wonderful, friend Gurashi. You have a heart open to everyone, and I find that so... very admirable. You care fiercely, and you are so bravely kind." She hums, gently. "I... am glad you think I'm wonderful. But so are you."

You have emoted: Gurashi huffs as he catches his breath, blushing again, clearly not anticipating the return of compliments. "W-what? Of course think you are wonderful! Everybody who meets you thinks are wonderful!"

Olethea smiles warmly at you, nodding. "Yes, but not more wonderful than you. It's hardly a contest."

You have emoted: Gurashi puffs his cheeks again. "O-K fine, can both be wonderful."

Olethea's eyes crinkle at the corners as her face warms with an imperceptable smile.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "...but - wait, wasn't the point."

You have emoted: Gurashi throws up his arms, letting out an audible yelp of frustration. "Sorry! Am having many feelings!"

You think to yourself: / .... /.

You think to yourself: / ....Tiso? /.

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly glances aside, reaching up to touch his circle, scratching where it rests against his head. "An... anyway. Miss Olethea, uhm," His hands find yours once more as he turns to face you. "U-uhm."

Olethea tilts her head curiously at you.

Gray eyes shining with sympathy, you say to Olethea, "...do not want to do anything to make you sad."

Looking down at your joined hands, you say to Olethea, "But... uhm."

Gently, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Please simply be honest. I'll be all right, as long as you are."

You think to yourself: / ............. *a quiet ticking* /.

You have emoted: Gurashi sighs, shutting his eyes and hanging his head. "You are very nice, and good, and beautiful, and," He inhales, "want you to be happy more than -anything-, oh my yes." He rubs the top of your hands with his thumbs, frowning. "Uhm. I ...do not think I would be the kind of person who would give you that happiness, though."

Olethea tilts her head curiously at you.

Blushing again, you say to Olethea, "...do not really know what am doing. In, romance. Did know have only had like, one whole kiss ever? Have never even -flirted-," He touches the corner of his mouth. "A-anyway. I really only know how to be..."

You glance askance.

You clear your throat.

You have emoted: Gurashi at last shyly lifts his head, frowning. "Have only ever really known how to be a friend."

You shuffle your feet uneasily.

It is now the 9th of Dvarsh, 558 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 26 days until the New Moon

Olethea smiles softly.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd asks you, "Well.... before you sell yourself short, may I...?"

You blink a few times and stare at Olethea in confusion.

Still red, perking up as he listens, you say, "Oh - y-yes, please..."

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says to you, "I was hoping... for a friend. That sometimes I can curl up with and watch theatre, or talk about books, or... not be fussed that it's quiet, nearby."

You blink.

Eyes widening, you say, "... oh - huh..."

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "And I would like to see you happy. That is all."

Quiet, surprised, you say to Olethea, "... oh - er..."

You think to yourself: / .... What is she insinuating /.

You think to yourself: Miss Khep... please - this is very hard to process as is...

Perking up, you exclaim to Olethea, "Well, of course will do those things with you! Will do those things with you right now!"

Olethea tosses a glance in your direction full of warmth and fondness.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "We are friends! IS w-what we do! M-mean, am a little weird sometimes about some stuff... but isn't your fault, or, anybody' elses."

You glance askance.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Anybody's else's...s.."

You have emoted: Gurashi smacks his licks and sticks out his tongue as he stumbles over his words.

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says to you, "May I hug you?"

You have emoted: His gaze having fallen back to Olethea's hand, Gurashi suddenly looks up, his eyes shiny with tears. "Oh - of course!"

Worriedly opening his arms, you ask Olethea, "U-uhm - didn't ... hurt your feelings, did I?"

Olethea gently gathers you into her arms, resting her head against your and gently rubbing your shoulders, murmuring warmly. "No. You look like you could use one, though."

You have emoted: Gurashi sniffles softly, scooting forward on the step to wrap his own arms in turn behind Olethea's lower back, squeezing the viscanti tight and close. "I am always needing a hug." He confesses quietly.

Olethea wraps both wings around you as well, ensconcing you in a warm, feathery cocoon.

With a sniff, you say to Olethea, "Am very flattered that you like me. You are like," He bobs his head side to side, keeping close to avoid making eye contact, "super duper beautiful, O-K. Am a carrot, in most forms - personified."

Squeezing, you whisper, "Am a magnificent root."

Olethea hides a giggle behind her fingertips.

Fondly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I think that's perhaps the nicest thing anyone's ever said to me."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "Nuh uh, no way - am not the first."

You have emoted: Gurashi pulls back, sniffling, his eyes still shiny as he squints hard at your face. "Definitely not do not believe you."

Olethea grins a bit, her nose scrunching up charmingly with the gesture. She sighs, the sound oddly musical and pleasant, and rests her head on your shoulder.

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Please don't cry for me, friend Gurashi."

You have emoted: Gurashi inhales, shaking his head, resting his hands comfortingly on your shoulders. "Mm, O-K. Soon."

Fondly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "You can have a hug whenever you want."

You have emoted: Gurashi squeezes your shoulders, then pulls you into another deep and endearing hug.

Muffled by your hair, you say, "O-K."

Smiling faintly, Olethea sinks into the hug gladly, rubbing your back with gentle hands. Quietly, she tilts her head, and leaves a soft kiss on your cheek, through her veil.

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd asks, "You know, I've never had a romance either?"

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a soft snort as he is kissed, cheeks puffing, breath held, face red. "...oh - r-right - you were telling that to Mixter Esei..." He exhales finally, sniffling one final time before he pulls out his purple kerchief and dabs at his nose.

Olethea nods her head emphatically.

With a tender smile, Olethea runs a hand through your hair, stroking the tresses gently and tucking a lock behind your ear.

You have emoted: Gurashi perks up, smiling weakly as his hair is tucked. "...I do not really know what to do next. Had so many feelings that, now, kind of feel like, uhm - a cloud."

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Olethea.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "Because am happy you do not hate me, mostly."

You have emoted: Gurashi ducks his head a little, blushing.

Olethea's eyes crinkle at the corners as her face warms with an imperceptable smile.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Not even a little bit."

You gaze softens as you smile at Olethea.

Voice bright and clear, you ask Olethea, "... uhm, really, uhm - whenever want to watch a play, or do any of those fun things. I will be there for you, O-K?"

Olethea's eyes crinkle at the corners as her face warms with an imperceptable smile.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Thank you."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Is cuddling okay?"

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "I like to do those things. And holding hands."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods. "Uhm, yes!" He glances aside. "Kissing is weird? Kissing is weird."

Agreeably, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Kissing is weird."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Used to sit in piles with Ishra and Miss Kyalrhin and Miss Pip, yeah."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "That's why I wear a veil."

You boggle at Olethea.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "...I should get a veil."

Olethea giggles happily.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I could make you one."

You ponder the situation.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Uhm - maybe my -trill- me would look good in a veil..."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "This me is too macho for one... yeah."

You gaze softens as you smile.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "...and me-me is too BIG for a veil think. That'd be weird."

You ponder the situation.

Kindly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Then perhaps a mask?"

Her eyes lighting up at the idea, Olethea claps her hands together. "Oh! I bet I could make you a Bizi-mask."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "...oh.... a MASK."

You tilt your head and listen intently to Olethea.

You tilt your head and listen intently to Olethea.

Softly, you say to Olethea, "That is very kind... you do not have to make me anything, though."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says to you, "I... I do like making gifts, though."

You put your hands on your hips and go "Hmmm!"

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "...For much the same reason I assume you like to cook."

Perking up, you say to Olethea, "Know what mean."

With a grand flourish, you give a lemon custard pie topped with blueberry meringue to Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd.

Olethea's eyes crinkle at the corners as her face warms with an imperceptable smile.

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Olethea.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "See? Nice. Wonderful."

You nod your head emphatically.

You eye Olethea suspiciously as she leans in to kiss you on the nose. You get the feeling something has been settled, but you don't know what.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "You too."

Warping the area with searing heat and blindingly colourful rays of light Ankaa, the Incandescent solidifies into being. Ankaa, the Incandescent leans his beak over to deposit an auburn pair of crispy bacon panties into your hands before fading back out of existence just as swiftly, leaving echoes of lost tongues in his wake. x2

You stare blankly into space.

Olethea blinks.

You stare blankly at an auburn pair of crispy bacon panties.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "...Ahm."

You blanch suddenly.

p panties
What first appears as a richly-hued, auburn pair of panties reveals a
perplexing creation upon closer examination. Strips of deep fried bacon
have been pulled and layered to mould into the luscious curves of a pair
of panties. Crafted to hug the hips gently, two exaggerated lengths of
bacon curve to lend simple support as the befuddling item shapes
curiously into the perfect mimicry of a piece of underwear. An
underlying layer of reinforced cotton provides a simple means of donning
the item, as the wax-treated cloth prevents any greasy remnants from
dripping onto the skin. A playful bow of bacon ends the design with a
peculiar touch of whimsy.
It has 74 months of usefulness left.
It weighs 2 ounce(s).
It has a trade valuation of worthless.
It does not retain any heat whatsoever.
It bears the distinctive mark of Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils.
It has been stamped with the seal of The Roseine Call Tailoring Cartel.
It has the following aliases: panties.

Carefully, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Those are... unique."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "...Imaginative."

You have emoted: Gurashi stares off into space, his face beet red as he holds either pair in either hand, then holds them at arm's length, panicked. "...a-ah! Friend AlARY!" He yelps.

You give an auburn pair of crispy bacon panties to Bizirik, the leothin. x2

Olethea nods her head sagely.

Whispering loudly, you say to Bizirik, the leothin, "Go destroy these."

Helpfully, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says to Bizirik, the leothin, "You can probably eat them."

Bizirik, the leothin snorts and chortles and tosses its head, taking the underwear.... and running off mischievously with it.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Oh no wait Bizi WAIT."

Olethea gives a trillingly melodic laugh.

With a great sweep of its tail, Bizirik breaks off to the southeast.

You flail about helplessly.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd looks thoughtful and says, "That will be my bookbinding nook, eventually."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "...ahhh."

Olethea purses her lips pensively, gazing off into the distance as she carefully gathers her thoughts.

You have emoted: Gurashi covers his face, leaning forward, bumping into Olethea as he does so. "Peoples have noticed I am awake, it seems!"

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says to you, "Does... being kissed on the forehead bother you?"

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "Ah - bookbinding? Oh! Yes! There are more... uhm..."

You have emoted: Gurashi turns red. "...uhm."

You shuffle your feet uneasily.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd asks you, "Because if it does, that isn't my aim, and I'll stop...?"

Voice bright and clear, you say, "I-it's... do not know. It is just. It is both so endearing. So very sweet! ... but I cannot stop myself."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "M-my hands get all sweaty and, my heart starts pounding and my stomach gets all tingly, like bees b-but."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "For some reason, kissing does this. Makes a little nervous. Is silly."

You twiddle your thumbs.

Olethea hums, softly. She shuffles a bit, so that she can face you properly. "I'm going to test something."

You blink.

Sitting up straighter, you ask, "Huh?"

Leaning forward, Olethea closes her eyes and briefly touches her forehead to your with a quiet smile.

You have emoted: Gurashi starts to say something, then freezes, at first in confusion, fear... but, no kisses. He awkwardly looks up, making very close eye contact with the viscanti, his own grey eyes wide. "...this is O-K," He says, still a bit flustered.

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

Bizirik, the leothin strikes a pose.

Voice bright and clear, you whisper, "Good girl."

Olethea leans back again, smiling.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "...That's okay?"

Olethea claps her hands together merrily.

(Shadowlight): Xenthos (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "I will then, I guess."

Reyqae tells you, "I love yellow it's so sunshiny don't you love sunshine colors?"

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I don't like making you uncomfortable."

Reyqae tells you, "Ooh green is grassy and treesy I love it too!"

Reyqae tells you, "Best colors."

Laughing, you say, "Ah - y-you are sweet! Thank you! That should be a universal goal of all peoples maybe."

You wink conspiratorially at Olethea.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "Thank you for thinking of me."

Olethea grins mischievously at you.

You beam broadly at Olethea.

Warmly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Rather a lot, actually."

Laughing softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I've been fond of you for some time. Before moving here."

You blink.

You have emoted: Gurashi quickly blushes again, shoulders bunching. "Oh...... r-really?"

Olethea nods her head at you.

Worriedly, you ask Olethea, "Oh - you did not switch because of me, did you?"

Reyqae tells you, "Yes Sir Romaan told me to come and he sat me in this chair."

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "No, I moved because I was unhappy."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "You should switch because you like a place, not because you like a per...sons ..."

You nod your head slowly in understanding.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "And you were right, I shouldn't have to... settle for that."

You have emoted: Gurashi reaches for your hand, squeezing it.

Reyqae tells you, "I... don't remember what I do here."

Olethea squeezes back, with a faint smile.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "...am so glad you came to the Glomdoring. Hope we have only been able to give you happiness."

You have emoted: Gurashi sways a little back and forth in his spot.

Smiling, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I have been... more at peace, as of late."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "And more productive."

You nod your head emphatically.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Plays!"

Olethea's eyes crinkle at the corners as her face warms with an imperceptable smile.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Yes!"

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "That was fun!"

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I'm excited to do more."

Voice bright and clear, you exclaim, "Yes! Please! I want to act with you!"

You look at Olethea hopefully.

You have emoted: Gurashi clasps his hands together, furrowing his brow.

Olethea tosses a glance in your direction full of warmth and fondness.

You look at Olethea hopefully.

You have emoted: Gurashi clasps his hands together, furrowing his brow.

Olethea tosses a glance in your direction full of warmth and fondness.

Olethea nods her head at you.

Olethea runs a hand through her fiery mane dripping red-gold embers, stroking the tresses gently and tucking a lock back into place.

Choosing her words carefully, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says to you, "I didn't... tell you in hopes that things would change, Gurashi. I love you very much, as you are now, and... I take comfort and warmth from your kindness and nearness, and that's all I ever wanted out of love. I just... wanted you to know that you are loved."

You think to yourself: *a sudden, unexpected pain, sharp and deep and throbbing in the chest*.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks up at Olethea, starting to smile, before wincing, leaning forward and letting out a strained little noise. "Mm..." He clears his throat, bumping his chest with his fist gently. "S.... sorry. Sorry," He flushes, looking down. "... many thank yous."

You glance askance.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "...Bad memories?"

Looking up sharply, you ask, "Huh? Oh! N-no. I mean. I don't think so?"

Olethea tilts her head curiously at you.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd frowns and says, "...Please tell me what's bothering you, then? You look like you're in pain..."

Squeezing a fistful of his shirt, you say, "Just, for some reason, hurt a lot when you said that. Do not know why. Am happy to hear it. So."

Laughing, you say, "Feelings are so complicated!"

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Does it ache in your heart...?"

You have emoted: Gurashi's smile fades, and he stares at Olethea, confused, expression twisting. "Oh." He gropes his chest, feeling. "....yyyyyyyyyyyyyeeeeesssss."

Olethea gently rests an arm and wing around your shoulders, resting her head against you. "I'm sorry that you're in pain."

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd asks, "Are you... afraid that you're going to be hurt? Or that you might hurt me?"

Surprised, you say, "I do not know why! No! It is O-K, do not be sorry, you didn't do anything."

Kindly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "It's sympathy."

You have emoted: Gurashi says this all in one breath, fretfully, looking at your arm, and then your wing, and then at Olethea again, squeezing his shirt. "Oh right."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Uh."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Do not know? Do not know. I am sorry."

Showing that she understands, Olethea nods her head slowly.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "...Can I help?"

It is now the 10th of Dvarsh, 558 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 25 days until the New Moon

You think to yourself: / *a quiet thrum, a despondent buzzing... pain. Pain, radiating. This isn't Gurashi's heartache* /.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks a little confused, scrunching his face. "...Mm. No. It is O-K. Do not change, do not do any things different," He says soothingly, his grip relaxing. "...all good, is O-K." He scoffs. "That was weird."

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I don't know that I could tell you. I worry, perhaps... it's something you don't remember yet."

Nervously, you say, "Oh - definitely."

You have emoted: Gurashi laughs, though the sound is strained. "Tridemon has said ominous things - have learned little bits and pieces. About me? About who was, maybe. Or at least the peoples that knew."

Showing that she understands, Olethea nods her head slowly.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says to you, "I... don't get a lot of glimpses."

Frowning, you ask, "Oh... from before?"

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "But I have a feeling I did some very unkind things in trying to get through the portal."

Olethea nods her head at you.

You have emoted: Gurashi blinks a couple times, furrowing his brow. "...unkind?"

Voice bright and clear, you ask, "Why would ever think that?"

Olethea runs a hand through her fiery mane dripping red-gold embers, stroking the tresses gently and tucking a lock back into place.

You boggle at Olethea.

Voice bright and clear, you exclaim to Olethea, "You are so nice!"

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd asks you, "Have you ever visited Magnagnora?"

You have emoted: Gurashi sheepishly shakes his head. "Mm. No. Got enemied early early on. Have only ever been to - and died at - the gates...."

You tilt your head curiously at Olethea.

You have emoted: Gurashi listens, eyes wide. "Why?"

Nodding, Olethea settles in against your side, tail flicking a little bit as she finds a place to start.

You have emoted: Gurashi lifts an arm, draping it across your back, mindful of your wings.

In a tone that suggests she is story-telling now, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Magnagora... is a city of prestige and... internal politics, and trying to build yourself up by breaking down the competition. It is the sort of place where no matter how many people are around, you are always isolated, because all of them are fighting for the same recognition that you are, and there is a finite amount to be haid."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods, sitting up straight, listening with rapt attention.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I grew up in Magnagora's slums, I think... they set up the Collegium there, and the smell was familiar. They are... dirty and full of people willing to put a knife in someone's back if it means getting out of that place. Many of the residents are deformed and forced into that part of the city so the rest don't have to look at them, but others are just... young."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "It runs adjacent to the sewers. Every so often, someone is lost to Muud, because they wandered too far looking for something that could be made to resemble food."

You look at Olethea, expression filled with concern as you frown.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "The... lucky children - I was not a lucky child - get found by wealthy society women and brought into their family houses to await portal age in relative luxury and comfort. The cutest, you know? Cherubic faces, dark hair and eyes..."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "The rest of us only make it to the portal because someone else didn't."

Olethea runs a hand through her fiery mane dripping red-gold embers, stroking the tresses gently and tucking a lock back into place.

You have emoted: Gurashi continues to watch and listen, frowning, his eyes wide and shining with sympathy.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "You cannot tell me you did not have a cherubic face when were small."

You boggle at Olethea.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I did, but you see my hair? It's blonde, near the roots. No one in Magnagora wants a blonde, pale-eyed girl."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "They seem to find the features sickly."

You have emoted: Gurashi leans forward, scrutinizing your hair, parting a few locks to get a good look.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Oh..."

Olethea smiles softly at you.

Sitting back and huffing, you say, "Their -loss-. That's awful."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "Your hair is so pretty. Like real fire."

You nod your head sagely.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "...I mentioned finding the theatre. It's just outside the undesirable district. I snuck in - I was maybe seventeen. Eighteen...? I don't remember, it was so close to my turn. I was following music, I ... I somehow got it into my head that the portal would sound like music."

You stare at Olethea, eyes wide.

Voice bright and clear, you whisper, "Musics..."

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I feel like I had already... prevented a few of my competitors from getting their chance, at that point, but at the theatre... I was spotted - I nearly got caught. And I was an urchin - I was not allowed in that theatre."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "It was a holy place to Lady Drocilla, the Unwanted weren't welcome there."

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "And I know I shoved someone toward the door to take my fall."

You have emoted: Gurashi listens, silent and still, save for the eventual rise of his right hand, which he rests atop your head comfortingly.

Quiet and unmoving, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd murmurs, "And then I ran. Out of Magnagora, as far up the road as my legs would take me, and... I don't remember very much after that. I think I walked through the portal with blood on my hands. I think that's why my hair is so red."

You have emoted: Gurashi's eyes widen, gaze drifting up to your hair, marveling at it. "...oh, that can't be true, can it...? Gosh - you remember so very much..."

You boggle at Olethea.

Olethea bites her lower lip, tilting her head to one side. "Admittedly, some of those are... best guesses, pieced together from what I saw after the portal, how Magnagoran Undesirables treat one another."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "But I know I grabbed another teenager and threw them to the feet of the adventurers in the theatre."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "...that sounds like is a painful memory."

Olethea smiles softly at you.

You have emoted: Gurashi's free hand nervously clenches at his chest again.

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I have decided, despite all that... perhaps because of it."

You think to yourself: *heart, racing... feelings - uneasy blue*.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "To be kind."

You nod your head emphatically.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Oh..."

You gaze softens as you smile.

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I am not the desperate creature that I was in my youth. I am not the selfish girl that would shed blood for her own fleeting chance."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I am... kind. Or I'm trying to be."

You boggle at Olethea.

Voice bright and clear, you exclaim to Olethea, "You are so kind! So kind!"

Olethea smiles softly at you.

Olethea gives you a friendly squeeze.

Exasperated, you exclaim, "We are so lucky to have you!"

Voice bright and clear, you say, "When you are small you are still learning - is O-K!"

Kindly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Whatever happened to you that you do not remember, whatever you have done, whatever was done to you..."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says to you, "You are kind. Or at least trying to be. And that is enough."

Suddenly, with a laugh, you say, "Tridemon said it must have been bad."

Warmly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "We are lucky to have you."

Blushing, you say, "Er... m-many thank yous."

You have emoted: Gurashi reaches his hand from his chest up to his face, covering his left eye thoughtfully.

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "It hasn't always been fun, finding memories. Some things have been wonderful, but... Magnagora is not a pleasant place to be young."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods sadly in understanding, tracing his finger over his eyebrow before dropping his hand.

Softly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I hope whatever you learn of your own past... is something that spurs you to be kind. I hope it does not hurt you. You are not that bug, anymore."

You nod your head emphatically.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Mm!"

You think to yourself: / ....... /.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Yeah... yeah, am Gurashi now. Gurashi An'Ryshe...."

You have emoted: Gurashi slowly sticks out one leg, then the other, letting his heels settle in the ground before him. He heaves a great sigh, slumping in his seat.

Olethea wraps a comforting arm around you.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says to you, "You are who you decide to be."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd smiles and says, "And the person that I have met is wonderful."

Laughing, embarrassed, you say, "S-stop! Please stop saying nice things can only hard boil for so long!"

Olethea laughs softly! And gently rubs your back.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I'm sorry."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "No no, is fine! Bah!"

Kindly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "One more, brace yoursel."

Voice bright and clear, you ask, "Eh?? One more?"

You tilt your head curiously at Olethea.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd smiles and says to you, "I'm glad to have met you, and I am so glad we're friends."

His color staying consistent, you say, "Oh...! Oh! Me too!"

Voice bright and clear, you say, "For you, mean!"

You flail about helplessly.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Come here! I am hugging you again. Yes."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "If were standing would scoop you up and and spin, would."

You have emoted: Gurashi taps his heels on the dirt where he sits, beaming.

Olethea slips in next to you, grinning.

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a cheerful sound, enfolding Olethea into another full embrace, once more mindful of wings as he links his hands together.

You give Olethea a friendly squeeze.

Olethea giggles happily.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Do you want to know a fun secret?"

Voice bright and clear, you ask, "Fun secret?"

Olethea nods her head emphatically.

Perking up, you say, "Like fun."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Listen carefully..."

Olethea opens her wings wide and fans them, which is accompanied by a strange clicking sound from inside them.

You have emoted: Gurashi squints as the wind forces his eyes to nearly shut. His expression changes, however, perplexed. "...what is that?"


Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd smiles and says, "I told you the wings were a gift, right?"

You nod your head slowly in understanding.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "They couldn't make me grow new bones, so that's gnomish clockwork."

You blink.

Your eyes bug out as you boggle in amazement.

Olethea hides a giggle behind her fingertips.

You have emoted: Gurashi scoots forward, suddenly pressing his ear up against your wing. "Wait? No. Is?"

Olethea nods her head sagely.

Olethea proudly shows off ash-feathered wings:
Ranging from ash-white to smoke-grey, the plumage of these magnificent wings is mottled and varied, lending to them a particularly soft appearance. Round feathers, wispy at the edges in a way that likens to those of owls, lend themselves to whisper-quiet flight. With a span of easily thrice that of their owner - if not more - the feathers of these wings are far and beyond larger than those of their conventional ken; it is only when they unfurl that the smaller white downy feathers are visible at all. Faint clicks and clockwork whirrs are occasionally audible with a stretch, the sole hint that these limbs may not be wholly comprised of flesh.

You have emoted: Gurashi leans back, blinking, nearly getting a face full of feathers. "Oof. Right!"

Olethea giggles happily.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd laughingly says, "I've just always thought that was neat."

Voice bright and clear, you exclaim, "It is !"

You beam broadly.

Olethea's eyes crinkle at the corners as her face warms with an imperceptable smile.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks up slowly, then back to Olethea, sitting up. "Uhm..."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Olethea, "...do want to go join the hunt?"

Olethea nods her head at you.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "One more thing first."

You have emoted: Gurashi perks up, rising to his feet, then stopping to look back down at you.

You tilt your head curiously at Olethea.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says to you, "...If you want support while you learn more about... who came before. I know how it feels to learn... you're used to be someone that... you'd kind of hate, if you met them."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "And I... I don't want you to have to do that alone."

You have emoted: Gurashi's smile fades a little... face flushes a bit. "O-oh... g-gosh. Thank you, Miss Olethea." He bows his head sheepishly.

Olethea nods her head emphatically.

Olethea rises, dusting herself off.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I decided a long time ago, that no matter who I used to be, I can make decisions about who I am."

You have emoted: Gurashi takes a step back, giving Olethea room to rise.

You gaze softens as you smile at Olethea.

Voice bright and clear, you ask Olethea, "Just be the nicest that can be, yeah?"

Olethea nods her head at you.

Olethea's eyes crinkle at the corners as her face warms with an imperceptable smile.

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "You will always be Gurashi. No matter what comes."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd smiles and says, "And Gurashi happens to be someone I rather like."

Brightly, Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Let's go join the hunt."

Nascent Olethea D'Cente, Attendant to the Wyrd has lost you.

Olethea begins to follow you.
==== Olethea is following you ====

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles weakly at Olethea, bowing his head at this, shuffling in his spot... When he looks up again, he is beaming, offering his hand to Olethea. "Yeah, let's go."