order picnic!

You nod your head sagely.
You strike a pose.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "All the foods... prepared."
You flop down onto the ground.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I surveyed people on what foods they like, you know? Flavor?"
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "And so... made designs."

Your frills twitch as you detect an errant sound.

Calioliahali's feathery ears twitch as she listens to you, nodding her head gently. "Ah, what sort of foods?"

Gurashi nods their head emphatically.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Ah, well, spicy for Miss Nabithia, sweet mochi for Tavi, some icecream for.... Miss Aeldra... and Mister Alarin..."
You glance askance.

In a canorous baritone, Herald Gurashi Skydrifter, Confidant in Saffron says, "Yeah - you were mentioning this ... are any powder fruit things?? Oooh."

You have emoted: Cheliyi bites her lip faintly, casting a worried glance to the ground.

Gurashi quickly reaches for your hand, smiling reassuringly. "Even if they are not there in persons they can be there in spirits. By eating their favorite foods."

In a canorous baritone, Herald Gurashi Skydrifter, Confidant in Saffron says, "Or at least the foods they enjoy."

Clearing her throat, you say, "Yes. And also some tea for my Lady."

In a canorous baritone, Herald Gurashi Skydrifter, Confidant in Saffron says, "You could even send some to thems!"

You smile softly.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I coulds, yeah."

Gurashi's gaze softens as they smile at you.

You sigh quietly, frills drooping as your tail sags.

In a canorous baritone, Herald Gurashi Skydrifter, Confidant in Saffron says, "Bizi promises not to eat them if you want to ask her to be your carrier."

Bizirik, the leothin snorts indignantly at this offer, giving Gurashi a look.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Anyways, I should go start waiting in Her realm, so that peoples can show ups when they need to. And, uh."

Softly, Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "I am certain it will be a wonderful picnic, Cheliyi."

Gurashi leans close to you and gently lays a kiss upon your forehead.

You have emoted: Cheliyi chuckles quietly. "... I think Bizi should stay with you guys, yes. And thank you Mom. Means lots."

In a canorous baritone, Herald Gurashi Skydrifter, Confidant in Saffron says to you, "No matter what, you did your best! And will have lots of delicious foods and company, yes."

(Celest): Avaris says, "Good evening, New Celest."

Gurashi's eyes light up as they smile.

(Celest): Gurashi says, "Good evening!"

Gurashi points off into the wild blue yonder.

In a canorous baritone, Herald Gurashi Skydrifter, Confidant in Saffron says, "There is someone!"

(Celest): You say, "Hello Incandescents Avaris!"

You blink.
A wry smile spreads across your face.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "And, ah... if there are leftovers, we will help you eat them."

You smile brightly at Calioliahali, your frills puffing with joy.

Bizirik, the leothin gives a short gasp of elation.

You give Gurashi a peck on the cheek.
You give Calioliahali a peck on the cheek.

In a canorous baritone, Herald Gurashi Skydrifter, Confidant in Saffron exclaims, "We love you!"

You grin mischievously at Bizirik, the leothin.

Bizirik, the leothin stares blankly at you. After a moment its tail lifts once then thumps back against the ground with potential delight.

Calioliahali hugs you compassionately.

In a canorous baritone, Herald Gurashi Skydrifter, Confidant in Saffron says to you, "Soooo much. Have -fun-."

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I love you boths."

Folding his wings so he can reach them easily, Muginn, the ghost-feathered magpie preens his wings happily, straightening out the disheveled feathers.

You hug Calioliahali as best as you can, pulling them into a tight embrace.
You wave goodbye.

Gurashi waves goodbye.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "Good luck."

Gurashi waves goodbye.
Gurashi beams broadly.

(Before the Veil): You say, "Ah, will be waiting in our Lady's realm for the picnic if you would like to attends, yes. But also, know some people are busy with Battle Chesses, yes. Is no rush at all!"

(Before the Veil): Avaris (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "I shall be there presently."

The soft voice of Faragan tickles your ear, "Have I missed your picknek?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star, "Nopes! I am in our Lady's realm still, yes."

The soft voice of Faragan tickles your ear, "Where is it taking place? better late than never."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star, "It is Before a wisteria-laden pergola. Can also teleport to me, yes."

You sense the piercing eyes of Faragan looking upon you.

White water lilies glide in from the north upon a flowing stream, their gentle procession heralding the entrance of Faragan, riding an exalted ivory and gold dragon, in a burst of water and light.

The air ripples with celestial energy as Avaris marches in from the north, his form radiant and bold.

With a flourish of his arm, Faragan bows deeply.

You smile brightly at Faragan, your frills puffing with joy.
You smile brightly at Avaris, your frills puffing with joy.

You think to yourself: **a swell of joy**.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Hello!"

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "Sorry to be late."

With a laugh, you say, "Technically, you are the second. So, both are on time."

Comprehension flashes across Faragan's face.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I have to..."
You ponder the situation.
You wince in pain.

Faragan raises an eyebrow questioningly.

Sheepishly, you say, "I left something in the oven. But here are some foods for now!"

Avaris inclines his head politely, hands clasped beneath the folded wings of stark, burning white light. The mane that froths about his throat flows with languid mist as he watches the other two calmly. "Take your time."

You have emoted: Cheliyi fidgets endlessly, muttering to herself as she rummages through her pack. "Sorry, sorry yes."

You give a platter of powderfruit elephant mochi to The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star.
Comprehension flashes across Faragan's face.

You give a platter of powderfruit elephant mochi to Immaculate Avaris, Her Incandescent.

With a regal incline of her antennae and a flutter of diaphanous silks, Princess Nabithia strides in from the north.

Faragan bows respectfully to Princess Nabithia.

---> look avaris

An imposing figure of titanic proportions, he is a compound-eyed kephera celestial demigod. Easily twice the height of a tall man, possessed of a dignified and noble bearing. Six vast wings of pure, stark white light spread out from his back, each bearing a multitude of stylised eyes formed of starlight, which move and gaze about with eerie awareness. The shape of his domed head is reminiscent of a knightly helm, the alabaster of his pointed chin and the wide flares of chitin that form his jaw contrasting with the layered crest of shining gold that sweeps up and out from his severe brow in broad, curving blades. Seven eyes of brilliant azure are set into the burnished, aureate visor of his immobile face, three beneath each side of his brow, with a single, larger one set at the center of his forehead. Flowing up from behind the prominent crest are two arcing pairs of liquid, red antennae - the interior set grand, the other, outer pair smaller, each thick line of sanguine essence dense and opaque. Engulfing much of his upper torso is a dense, luxurious mane of languidly stirring mist, which flows up over his shoulders and behind his neck in a spray of ethereal tendrils. His immense frame is plated in dense chitin of white-streaked, gleaming gold, the exoskeleton formed in the manner of natural armour - most notably so in his upper set of shoulders, which are shaped like pauldrons from which a halo of spiked gold arcs, with a star lotus of intense red emblazoned upon them. All four of his arms are thick and powerfully constructed, the long limbs terminating in pointed fingers that extend from long, inherently gauntleted hands. His narrow waist juts out into broad hips, from which descend the wide span of his plated thighs, the digitigrade legs supported by large feet that possess viciously hooked talons of thin, steeply angled gold, three at the front of each foot, and two upon each heel. Soothing mists of water and light weave about him in a sparkling white veil, marking the truefavour of Lantra, the Empyreal.
He is wearing:
a bright crimson star lotus blossoming against his heart, bound in silver chain
a celestial mark of the Empyreal
a glass ampoule of bottled starlight secured to his hip by a fine silver chain threaded through the chitin
a white imperial scabbard on his right hip
a black scabbard with a gold horn on his left hip
a white leather scabbard bearing a silver cross hanging low from his right hip
a black scabbard with a gold horn hanging low from his left hip
an onyx and pearl ring
an immaculate symbol of the Empyreal Goddess

---> look nabithia

A slender, statuesque creature who carries herself with utmost elegance and refinement, she is a compound-eyed kephera princess dressed in an azure dress dusky and deep as the darkening firmament at twilight. The slim contours of her porcelain figure are encased in an alabastrine carapace, with ornamental flourishes of chitin upon her delicate shoulders and long limbs. A pale bracelet of mist-wreathed lilies softly glows upon her right arm, while a delicate diamond and opal choker twinkles enchantingly about her neck. Pearlescent in quality, her ivory carapace is touched in subtle casts of champagne, and flows into tints of rosy quartz and blush pink about its edges, leaving her similar in appearance to an orchid bloom. Scythe-like in execution, her long limbs lend her a further semblance of lissome height as she stands tall upon elegant high-heeled shoes of metallic dawn hues. A stole of starlit silks settles about her shoulders, delicately draping about her opulent attire. From a beautiful, if alien, countenance, her compound eyes reflect her surroundings in tinctures of aubergine and merlot, while slender, delicate antennae curve back from her temples, a crown fit for any queen of the hives.
Princess Nabithia has an air of extreme strength.

---> look Faragan

He is a bouncing furrikin empyreal demigod changeling and His diminutive form is covered in ivory white fur with lotus blossom-like patterns in gold. His small paws, like those of a marsupial, are coated in a gold fur that matches the pelt of his belly, showcasing a soft, shimmering iridescence. Floppy ears with a velvety inner lining that is pale gold in colour occasionally fall in front of his caramel eyes, eyes that radiate with compassion. A gently upturned soft pink nose rests in the middle of his face and flutters as it samples the scents in the air, while his cottontail twitches in harmony.
Resembling an entity from the cosmic planes, his head is wreathed in undulating strands of shimmering cosmic fire. Attuned to his moods, the chromatic waves are in constant flux, from rising up in a halo of incandescent anger to streaming back in ripples of pleasure.
He is wearing:
an ivory-and-gold necklace bound with a sea-glass gem
a celestial mark of the Empyreal
a boreal eye mask wrought of ice and frost
Glass Wings of the Sacred Cherub
a pair of black silk poisoner's gloves
a gold olive branch brooch with ivory olive blossoms
a gold and ivory exalted crest brooch
a circlet of smooth stones
a white-gold star-edged wedding band with a gold and ivory dragon
a striped badger nose
the Mantle of Starlight
the Holy Helm of Avechna
Immaculate Prayer Beads of the Empyreal Goddess
the Incandescent Bracers of Vernal Might
a celestial golden pocket watch
a fashionable fesix tote
a snow-white velvet cloak accented with silver
a well-tailored suit of ivory and golden silk
a pair of darkened iron boots

---> look me

Small and cheery, she is a glistening mugwump tidal demigoddess of axolotl descent with pearly skin and six mauve-tinted frills. Her stature is not unnatural for a mugwump, barely above 4'3" and sturdy with a clear fitness that implies years of climbing about trees and swimming through swaths of swamp. A messy bob of magenta hair flows from her scalp, tangled with shiny knickknacks, small origami, and albino feathers. Carefully woven, a single braid hangs from her disheveled bangs, affectionately clipped with a small, sapphire bead. Affixed to one frill is a tiny set of chimes, so small that it almost seems like an earring. Her skin has a soft, oily sheen akin to most mugwumps, but strangely enough, the skin becomes abruptly dry and brittle in some places. Most notable of these places are her forearms and her eyes, her complexion discolored to an uncomfortable beige, rough to the touch. Glittering mists soothe the damaged areas, ebbing and flowing in a constant tide across her skin. Her eyes fare no better than her skin, the traditionally midnight orbs a clouded, milky grey. When caught at a certain angle, they seem to almost glow with a vibrant light that radiates from the mugwump's very being. A bright grin reveals normal teeth with suspiciously wooden canines, while thick bark clings to the soles of her webbed feet. A long, thick tail lined with a frilled fin twitches occasionally behind her, stirring up dust and litter with each sweep. The pale frills that would usually extend from her tail tip are torn and scarred, the wounds long since healed.
She is wearing:
a pair of thin spectacles tinted a smoky black to reduce incoming light
Immaculate Prayer Beads of the Empyreal Goddess wrapped reverently around her bandaged right hand
a pair of supple leather hunting gloves fastened tightly to her palms
a gentle water lily brooch proudly securing a leaf-green woollen blanket in place
a leaf-green woollen blanket a leaf-green woollen blanket pinned over a dark moss-green linen shirt like a shawl
a dark moss-green linen shirt tucked into her skirt, the sleeves rolled just above her forearms
the Mantle of Starlight tied like a skirt around her waist
a glass ampoule of bottled starlight hanging securely from her waist
a water lily stud through her left ear - like tuft
a water lily stud through her right ear - like tuft
a beautiful bonnet of bark
a fox and axolotl engagement ring

You blink.

Her antennae attuned to the surroudings, Princess Nabithia asks in a pleasant buzz, "Ah, are we gathered for Blessed Cheliyi's picnic?"

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "Yes indeed."

You have emoted: Cheliyi lets out a delighted squeak, offering Princess Nabithia a warm grin. "Hi hello! Yes yes, I have... the dishes! Were all made as surprises, yes."

Accepting the platter with a slight nod of thanks, Avaris turns at Princess Nabithia's arrival, azure eyes glittering with motes of light. Voices warm, he inclines his head to her and offers, "Anointed Nabithia. It is good to see you, as ever. Welcome."

You strike a pose.

You have emoted: Cheliyi pauses, and laughs sheepishly. "I do have to go grab the last one from the oven, since I forgot it in my rush to prepares, yes."

Princess Nabithia claps her hands behind her back, looking pleased, as she inclines her head politely to Faragan and Avaris both, then looks at you expectantly. "This is my first picnic," she hums. "I look forward to experiencing it."

You stare blankly into space.
Nodding sagely, you say, "Then will make it a goodly picnic."
"Be right back!" you cry.

---> nyoom to get more food

Glancing about herself, Princess Nabithia says thoughtfully, "The anchoresses are busy. Shall I ask them to leave?"

(Celest): Gurashi (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "Battlechesses is beginning soonly if anyone wants to join me! I will be attempting to win the board for New Celest!"

Only a flutter of silk precedes the regal entrance of a beautiful merian anchoress from the southwest. X10

Antennae flicking at the comings and goings of the anchoresses, Avaris remarks mildly, "That may be best."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says to Princess Nabithia, "If you could ask them to work elsewhere while we picknick here that would be grand."

You have emoted: Cheliyi dusts herself off before beginning to pull out some dishes. "Ah, if can, would be appreciateds yes, Miss Nabithia. Unless they want some dishes! Is a-okay, plenty for alls." She then shakes out her her frills flaring joyously. "So, I suppose I did not explain a whole lot further than what was in my letter, but... a few years agos, I was struggling to find a task that would show Devotions, you know? I have always seen Devotion as... time." She passes another mochi plate to Princess Nabithia, rambling on. "Time spent with other people to make them feel heard and loved, and time spent making food and things for them to know they are cared for."

Princess Nabithia waves her hand, motes of starlight dispersing with the gesture, as she nods. "The anchoresses have been thus informed," she says with a nod of her antennae.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "Thank ou princess."

You have emoted: Cheliyi nods gratefully to Princess Nabithia and hefts up her own platter, letting out a slight laugh. "So, Miss Nabithia helped me put the concept into an idea, yes. Designed dishes for the peoples of the Order, so that people could have a picnics. Although, made this platter for Tavi a long times ago, yes."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "Tasty treats and the smell of this particular location is grand indeed."

You smile brightly at Faragan, your frills puffing with joy.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "Since I don't need to eat for sustinance food intreags me hwen I do get the opertunity and how creative cooks can be. I am mostly a probly functional cook rather than creative but, this platter of sweet treats is amaising."

Looking about herself thoughtfully, glancing at the pergola for a long while, Princess Nabithia asks, "Is it customary to sit for these? I did some light reading on the tradition before attending." So saying, she brings herself into a lotus position, looking to the others for guidance.

Princess Nabithia settles to the ground in a cross-legged position, inhaling deeply. As she brings her hands up to rest open-palmed at either side, she exhales, all tension leaving her body.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "You are correct princess indeed."

You have emoted: Cheliyi blinks, surprised. "Ah, I'm glad you like it." Pausing at Princess Nabithia's words, she then grins. "Ah, yeah! Usually sit down, I just didn't know if any of yous did want to." The mugwump settles down, kneeling comfortably as she sets out a few more dishes. "I guess... some of the people that these dishes were made for are not heres. But we can still enjoy them, yes!"

Faragan slips off the ivory and gold dragon and sits with his back propped against the large beast as the dragon nuzzles his hair and tries to nibble his platter.

You cough softly.
You drop a platter of spicy fried eggplants.
You drop a platter of spicy fried eggplants.
You drop a platter of spicy fried eggplants.

You give a platter of spicy fried eggplants to Princess Nabithia.

With a grin, you say, "This is your dish, yes."

Faragan suddenly scoops up a platter of spicy fried eggplants.
Faragan rubs a gold and ivory exalted crest brooch and it begins to glow with a pulsating light.
Faragan lets out a long, heavy sigh, and ceases to search the ground with his roving eyes.

Faragan drops a platter of powderfruit elephant mochi.
Faragan drops a platter of spicy fried eggplants.

Sagely, you say, "Remember you said that you wanted to try something new, yes. So, made some spicy veggies! Should be goodly, I think."

Faragan drops a platter of spicy fried eggplants.

The corners of your mouth turn up as you grin mischievously.

Faragan scoops up a platter of powderfruit elephant mochi.

You grin mischievously at Princess Nabithia.

Faragan tentatively sticks out his tongue and licks a platter of powderfruit elephant mochi.

Princess Nabithia lifts the platter of spicy fried eggplants with surprise and interest. "That is most thoughtful of you, Blessed Cheliyi," says with a soft buzz, taking a delicate taste of the dish before looking about herself. "Ah! I should wait until the others have food as well, before eating, yes?"

Stepping over to Princess Nabithia, Avaris settles down into a cross-legged seated position by the other kephera, hands resting atop his knees.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says to Princess Nabithia, "We have. You can eat."

You have emoted: Cheliyi nods, and gestures to the plates while glancing at Faragan and Avaris encouragingly. "Can both have some, yes."

Faragan scoops up a platter of spicy fried eggplants.

You have emoted: Cheliyi nibbles on her own mochi, before canting her head curiously at everyone else to wait for their reactions.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "I do like spicy. most of the stuff I have created food wise is. though it tends to seng my whiskers off."

Faragan tentatively sticks out his tongue and licks a platter of spicy fried eggplants.

You grin mischievously at Faragan.

Starlight eternally shines down from the sky above, casting the wildflowers in immaculate halos of white.

Tilting his head down to regard the platters of fried eggplants for a time, Avaris extends an armoured hand to select one, antennae twitching about the dish inquisitively.
Avaris picks up a platter of spicy fried eggplants.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "I must be masakistic because I like it."

You chuckle softly, your frilled tail flicking idly with amusement.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say to Faragan, "I'm pretty sure anyone who likes spice is that ways, yes."

Permission granted, Princess Nabithia begins to eat the eggplants thoughtfully, her antennae moving as she considers the flavour. "Salty and sour," she exclaims with delight, pleased. "I too enjoy spicy," she agrees with Faragan, turning to Avaris to weigh his reaction.

Faragan puts his nose over a platter of spicy fried eggplants and inhales.

You think to yourself: **a swell of pride**.

Avaris quickly devours a platter of spicy fried eggplants.

You quickly devour a platter of powderfruit elephant mochi.

Plucking one of the elephant mochi with dainty fingers, you take a bite
out of its painted flank. At first, the rice cake envelops all but hints
of powderfruit, chewy and subtly sweet. Then as the bit turns over in
your mouth, you are hit with the full force of sweet, condensed
powderfruit paste. As the mochi practically melts on your tongue, you
steal another bite from the first elephant, this time taking part of the
lotus platform with the confection. It crunches pleasantly in your
mouth, slightly sour sugar crystals flooding your palate and preventing
the sweet treat from becoming sickeningly saccharine. Without
hesitation, you devour the rest of the first piece of mochi, soon
abandoning all decorum. The remaining elephants on the platter disappear
one by one, leaving you quite satisfied.

Faragan slips a piece of eggplant off the platter and nibbles it with an approving not as his ears flop over one eye.

Starlight eternally shines down from the sky above, casting the wildflowers in immaculate halos of white.

The flat visor of Avaris's face separates, opening into a series of sharp, curving mandibles into which he feeds the food in a careful fashion, the scything blades working slowly as he chews. Eventually, he dips his head to you, commenting, "I enjoy the breaded texture. The spice is interesting. Well done."

You have emoted: Cheliyi hums contently as she finishes her mochi, setting the plate aside. "Ah by the bys, if have any plates leftover can put them in a pile. Will dispose of thems safely so our Lady's realm is nice and clean stills," she explains, tail flicking lazily behind her. At the praise she seems visibly delighted, though it is soon swept away by a curious hum. "So, another part of picnics is just talking to one anothers, yes. How are you all doings? Anything on your minds?" Leaning forward, she passes out another dish.

You give a bowl of sweet lotus and rose ice cream to Princess Nabithia.
You give a bowl of sweet lotus and rose ice cream to Immaculate Avaris, Her Incandescent.
You give a bowl of sweet lotus and rose ice cream to The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "Sadly I've not had much time to enjoy the festival of the Creatrix. I always seem to be working in one form or another on my shops."
Faragan chuckles long and heartily.

A wry smile spreads across your face.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "People seem to like buying stuff that needs replacing."

"Hm," Princess Nabithia says thoughtfully, her compound eyes appraising her surroundings as her antennae rearrange themselves in a crown upon her head. "Given the subject for this picnic, I have been meditating on the subject of Devotion. What it means for me, for the Lady, and the Order." She moves her hand in a languid gesture as she speaks, causing the bracelet on her wrist to shimmer with the movement.

You close your eyes and focus on Princess Nabithia's voice, frills turned to them.
Folding his hands atop his knees, Avaris turns his attention to Princess Nabithia, helm-like head canting aside attentively.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says to Princess Nabithia, "And what have your meditations brought you princess? If you have musing to shair yet that is."

"You said for you, Devotion is time," Princess Nabithia continues, leaning back as she places the platter in her lap. "I agree that time can deepen Devotion, in many ways. The more time we give something, or someone, the more Devotion we offer, yes? For time is something precious to even the Elders Themselves." She takes a forkful of the eggplant, chewing it politely and swallowing, before she adds, "What we give our greatest time and attention, then, can be said to have our greatest Devotion."

Faragan holds his platters away from himself as the exalted dragon curves his head around into his lap.

You have emoted: Cheliyi nods slowly as Princess Nabithia speaks, now nibbling at some of her fried eggplant. "Is a really nice way of putting it Miss Nabithia, yes." Her words trail off, expression pensive. However, she does not voice anything, instead glancing curiously at Avaris. "Do you have any thinks on the subject Immaculate Avaris?"

Princess Nabithia glances at Avaris with a glimmering of curiosity in her compound eyes, leisurely enjoying the spiced platter of eggplant as she does so.

Faragan begins scratching the eye ridges of the head in his lap and the exalted dragon begins a rather audible rumble.

You have emoted: Cheliyi hides a grin behind her hand, glancing at an exalted ivory and gold dragon with a quiet laugh.

The immense kephera affords Princess Nabithia his full attention as she speaks, Avaris many of the sidereal eyes that dwell within the luminous layers of his folded wings focused upon the Princess. When Princess Nabithia is finished speaking, the tips of his pointed chin descends slowly into the slowly swaying tendrils of mist that circle much of his upper torso, uttering a low, thrumming tone of consideration. Upon being addressed, his antennae twitch towards you, his tone emphatic as he responds without hesitation. "Devotion is the giving of the self to a cause greater than one's own. It is the dedication to something else beyond all else, even when it grows difficult, or conflicts with our own desires or opinions." Lifting a gleaming, golden hand, he gestures at the realm about them. "Devotion to our Lady should be absolute, and without question. She should be foremost in our mind, and our hearts, in all things."

Princess Nabithia dips her head in assent, antennae bobbing with the movement, as she turns to you and Faragan expectantly. She folds her hands in her lap, head tilted slightly so that her compound eyes look at those gathered fully, and asks curiously, "And how does this manifest in your Devotions, Anointed Faragan and Blessed Cheliyi?"

Flipping one ear up so both are clear, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "I would respectfuly disagree with the immaculate princess. I don't think his way has balance but, given taht hte Empyreal holds celest and the supernals as celst has I thinkthere is a balance to be found in what we have beleaved for since long before I was born and the pillars of the Empyreal. I would say that the Empyreal would want balance as a homadhi over what ever to devotion to her alone. I am probly not saying this right though I am of her mystic waters. I've lived for centuries and have seen the folly of inbalance over balance and have tried for the greater part of my own life to find balance. I find it makes my life easier and can inspire others from inbalance and what that can bring. I honestly see no difference in following what the empyreal wants of me and what the light asks of me. The Empyreal pillars are a focus and a help to my work in the light."

You have emoted: Cheliyi hums thoughtfully, her head canting to the side. She nods slowly to Faragan's words, pursing her lips with thought. "... Mm, I suppose, before I began to follow our Lady, I was devoted strongly to my family. I still am, yes. Even if my way of showing Devotion may be... smaller, I guess, I make sure it is consistents. I try to always be there. I stick with the person, through all of their trials even if they are hurtful to me." She inhales softly, rubbing faintly at her temple. "For my Devotions to our Lady... I realize that it is not... the most useful to Her? She does not need food, and probably will be fine without a tiny mugwump worrying after Her. But, if She asks anything, will be there. Is simply how it is, you knows?"

Faragan smiles softly at you.

Clicking her tongue thoughtfully, Princess Nabithia asks Faragan, "Do you think that the giving of the self to a greater cause is in opposition to the Lady's stance regarding the Supernals and New Celest? One could argue that serving those are, in fact, an extension of one's service to the Empyreal." With a flick of her wrist, her starlit silks shimmering with the gesture, the kephera continues, "In that, it need not be a balance at all. It is one and the same."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says to you, "I would encourage you to make your devotions weather you think they're small or big. it's now how you see them but, how others see them that's important. a small act of devotion in sincerity is better than a grand gesture empty of sincerity."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says to Princess Nabithia, "I would agree and that was sortof my point though you elegantly said it better. They're not exclusive to one another but, indeed are the same and complementary to one another."
Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "The Empyreal has cared for the Supernals for aeons so."
Faragan smiles softly.

Several of the larger eyes that form the constellation of stellar light in Avaris's light-forged wings turn to regard Faragan for a time, the Immaculate's visored face inscrutable. No comment is offered, however, as he listens to first you, and then Princess Nabithia, his demeanour patient. "I am of the same stance as Anointed Nabithia. Devotion to our Lady is that from which all else flows - She values the Light, the Supernals, and New Celest most highly." Lifting a hand, he turns it aside, palm facing the sky. "Thus, absolute Devotion to Her remains paramount. There is no imbalance in giving all that we are to Her, and to Her service."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "I love the memory of the Empyreal and Raziela asking if it's her time yet though it's bitter sweet the caring shown is I don't have the words. Amazing that She's shown the half-formed."

You have emoted: Cheliyi pauses at Princess Nabithia's question, humming thoughtfully. "I suppose did not think about it that ways." Her expression warms at Faragan's encouragement, and she nods before listening patiently to Avaris. Hands clasping one another, she leans back, watching the conversation unfold. "Ah, is a goodly memory," she adds softly, frills flicking with attentiveness.

Reclining back in the shade of the pergola, Princess Nabithia listens to all present for a time, before saying, "I do think how the Lady is with the Supernals is a reflection of Her Devotion. Many thought less of the half-formed among the Elders, even now. And I wonder how many among the Hamadhi even thought of them as She did." She inhales the scent of the wisteria, the flowers seeming to calm her as she considers it. "They are in some ways Her family, I think. Moreso than some of Her own siblings."

You think to yourself: **at first hesitance at Avaris's words, but why? why does it feel terrifying to give all of yourself to Her? the faintest memory of a cruel whisper chills your heart, and suddenly, shamefully, you know.**.

Faragan ponders the situation.
Faragan nods his head in agreement.

Princess Nabithia glances at you with an inquisitive air, a single antennae quirking like a question mark, but she says nothing.

You have emoted: The faintest of frowns flickers over Cheliyi's expression, her hand grazing at the center of her chest without thought. It smooths out nonetheless, and she listens with a curious tilt of her head. "Ah, the Supernals are..." her voice trails off as Princess Nabithia glances askance at her, and she coughs softly. "Ah, uh. They are very goodly. Is nice spending time in Miss Raziela's garden, yes. I think all of them show versions of Devotion as well, you knows? Miss Raziela is devoted to showing compassion and love, Mister Japhiel is devoted to the upholding of justice, and so ons."

You think to yourself: **a sense of stubborn frustration, no, you will not let another wonderful time be ruined by worried thinking. especially not by thoughts of Him. sweep them aside, like motes of dust. it is a picnic.**.

Her antennae now attuning themselves to the distant sound of running water, Princess Nabithia continues in a flowing harmony of buzzes, "Devotion to the Lady is like a river, perhaps, that branches into various streams. To one's Devotion to New Celest, to the Supernals, to the Light." Tracing an imaginary such body of water in the air, she says, "That is one reason I suspect the Lady does not accept those outside the Light. She expects that service of all who proclaim to love Her."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "As it should be. I think. The pillars of the lady complement the light in my openion. they are equil in devotion because of her I thnk tending to the supernals for all those aeons. I felt the same serving the exalted lord. There was no conflict just harmonony between service t the light and those elders that pledge hemselves to new celest. though I would not expect any less honestly."

Faragan gives a pained sigh.

You nod your head slowly in understanding.

With a low, chittering laugh, Princess Nabithia comments, "It has been an unpopular stance for the Lady, I know. Those of other nations have been irate that She does not allow for their entry. Serenwilde, Gaudiguch, Hallifax. She has said She does not wish for a heart divided in its Devotions."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "I shudder to think what Gaudiguch would do in Her service."
Faragan rolls his eyes.

With a sigh, you say, "I guess, as an Aquamancers, do not have a very strongly relationship with the Supernals. Maybe should try spending more time up theres, yes. Still, do spread the light by purifying waters, yes." She hums. "Also, I do think it makes sense, yes. If are not of Celest, then might fight Celest one day, and hurt those in the City and the Light."

The Mantle of Starlight flows gently against your form, twinkling stars shifting across its surface as the starry infinity continues its eternal motion.

Nodding briskly, Princess Nabithia asserts, "Indeed." Then her antennae twitch as if hearing a far-off sound, and the kephera rises to her feet, bowing. "I am afraid I must take my leave, Blessed Cheliyi. Thank you for hosting such a lovely picnic. A pleasure to see you both as well, Anointed Faragan. Immaculate Avaris." She inclines her head to each mentioned, humming pleasantly as she gathers the last of her plate in hand. "I shall be sure to share some of the leftovers with the anchoresses. And perhaps Tavi, who we feared might eat all the food if she had been present." She chitters softly with laughter.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "Be well princess."

Princess Nabithia says, "Light's blessings upon you all. May you find your way back safely to the Star City when you take your leave."

You have emoted: Cheliyi grins, nodding emphatically. "Thank you so muchly for coming! And say hi to the anchoresses for mes, yes. Many thanks."

Gently pressing three fingers to her brow, then drawing them down to rest upon her heart, Princess Nabithia intones, "As above, so below." As the words leave her lips, a bright aura suffuses her form with a calm, soothing white light.

Her antennae attuning to some far-off sound, Princess Nabithia excuses herself to the north in a whirl of starry silks.

You smile brightly at Avaris, your frills puffing with joy.

Lantra, the Empyreal has bestowed Her divine truefavour upon you. It will last for 1 month.

You smile brightly at Faragan, your frills puffing with joy.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "And thank you both for coming! Was a nice picnic."

Inclining his head to the Princess as she departs, Avaris rises smoothly to his feet, nodding to you. "Thank you for hosting it. I, too, must depart. Light's blessings upon you both."

Cheerfully, you say, "Light's blessings!"

Avaris marches off to the southwest, the air about him rippling and shimmering with flows of celestial energy.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says to you, "Thank you for planning such a thing. I rarely take breaks from work and I so greatly enjoy an opportunity to just sit and talk. Thank you for giving me that."

You smile softly at Faragan.
Warmly, you say, "Anytimes Mister Faragans. If ever want to just sit and have tea, my manse is always open!"

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "I'll try to remember tha and take breaks. I need them. maybe just if I forget try to grab me and saytalk to me a bit faragan."

You nod your head emphatically.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I should go join the battle, yes."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star asks an exalted ivory and gold dragon, "You're sounding like a cat old friend. Are yousure you're a shard of dracnarus and not aslarn?"

You think to yourself: Thank you, my Lady.

You give a trillingly melodic laugh, your frills resonating with joy.
You nod your head sagely.

You wave goodbye.

Faragan waves goodbye at you.