Making Fun News

**The handwriting is shaky and spaced awkwardly, written with what seem
to be large, clumsy hands. Light scratch marks mark the paper, leaving
behind rubbed bark and bits of moss.**

Dear Gurashi **This has been hastily scratched out with a shaky hand**

Dear Friend **This has been struck out once, tearstains marring the
ink**

Dear Sibling Gurashi,

Hello! I was very, very sad to get your letter, and while I know you
think I am goodly, I still cried lots. I'm sorry. But! I talked to Esei
and Ethna, and am feeling much better now.

One of the reasons why I was crying so much was because my siblings are
silent. This has not changed, and I do not think it will change for a
while. But Miss Aleyah is going to help me be better at loving Her
Glomdoring, so maybe they will forgive me soon? I hope so. But also...
I promised **Blotted out with globs of dried ink**

I decided a long time ago that I would be your friend. I still am! But I
also told myself that I would leave with you, if you left. I promised
myself this, because you deserve someone who will stay with you, and
make you happy! You are the nicest, goodest thing I have seen since I
woke up in the Portal, and you deserve to be happy and good too. You may
have made a mistake, but that does not make you any less goodly, not to
me.

But, I am not so goodly, because I cannot bring myself to leave my
siblings, and my other friends. I'm very sorry for being a bad friend.
Miss Ethna told me that I could stay here and still visit you though,
which I will do lots!

Only if you love me still **scratched out hastily**

Only if you want me too! But I might visit anyways. :) **a shaky,
slanted smiley face**
So I am going to stay with my siblings, and hope they forgive me. And I
will also stay with you! But... not as much as I'd like to.

Love you lots,
Your family Cheliyi

PS: Please pet Bizi for me! I know they are a greedy little noodle, but
I want them to be loved anyways.

PPS: Oh! And Also, if you hug yourself, you can imagine it is me hugging
you! Until I see you. If you want that.

Gurashi's melodic voice sings into your mind, "*a gentle thrum*."

You tell Gurashi, the Heart's Friend, "**soft green and a brightening yellow, like your heart is going to burst with happiness** Gurashi!"

Gurashi's melodic voice sings into your mind, "Ah! Heckity!"
Gurashi's melodic voice sings into your mind, "Sorry! I was doing a whole diplomacy."

Gurashi's melodic voice sings into your mind, "I am here - so are you! Are you O-K?? I got your letter - Miss Cheliyi I am so sorry -
You tell Gurashi, the Heart's Friend, "I do not mind. Can... can I visit you?"

Gurashi's melodic voice sings into your mind, "Yes yes - uhm, I will go to the aetherplex, and then outside from there - am a whole people again...! Just. Look for awkwardly shaped human persons with a leothin."

You hum softly, your leaves resonating with song.

You speedwalk in to the Portals of Glomdoring.

------ 5:-8:-2 ------
The Portals of Glomdoring.
The shadowy outline of a twisted forest casts a dark gloom here. The cylindrical chamber has been carved from marble veined with dark sediment, and polished to a lustrous smooth shine. Concentric circles are inlaid upon the floor, alternating with rings of black opal, onyx and dark amethyst. High above, the ceiling shines with a bright light that pulsates softly and steadily like a heartbeat. The air itself is charged with energy, veritably crackling with power. You see a sign here instructing you to use the PORTAL command to enter the aetherplex system. There is an aetherways portal here.
You see a single exit leading out.

You portal to the Aetherplex Chamber.

------- v148 --------



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The Stairs of the Last Nine. (road).
This location is flooded with shallow, crystal clear water. It is well below freezing and your breath is a white haze. Far above, the peak touching the sky seems to resonate with power and an unspoken message; if the earth can touch the heavens, then perhaps mortality can touch immortality. Wear and tear have worn the path smooth, revealing that many have attempted the pilgrimage to the top of the mountain, but not hinting at how many have successfully completed it. A slender leothin sits here motionless, brightening its surroundings with its natural golden bio-luminescence. Playing a spirited song on a wooden pan flute, an alluring sileni frolics here.
You see exits leading up, down, and in.

You have emoted: Cheliyi hurries forward and hugs Gurashi tightly, not even giving them a chance to escape. Her branches tremble.

---> LOOK Gurashi

They are an ordinary human lost demigod changeling. They stand several inches shy of six feet tall with a slender build. Their arms and legs are lanky, soft hands nervously balled into fists at their side. Their most prominent three knuckles of the same hand are faintly scarred, star-shapes etched across their skin. Their sandy skin has been reddened from exposure to the sun, causing an array of tawny-colored freckles to appear upon their round cheeks and thin, upturned nose. A hint of discolored flesh can be seen near the center of their sternum, mostly obscured by their clothing. A moderately-sized, crescent-shaped scar mars their right cheek. Perhaps the most noteworthy thing about them is their untamed mop of fiery red hair, complete with a few strands at their part that fail to obey the natural laws of gravity. A shock of bone-white hair has grown in along their temple. A pair of vacant gray-blue eyes gaze out from below red bangs, their color striking against all the surrounding warm hues. A shifting pearlescence graces their skin as they walk with the truefavour of Carakhan, Sculptor of Waves. Scarlet hieroglyphs dance along their cheekbones and swirl towards their temples, filling the area about their head with the clear indication of Mysrai, the Scarlet Courtesan's truefavour. An ethereal bracelet of azure flame rests upon their wrist, marking the truefavour of Raezon, the Forbidden upon them. The image of a seven-pointed star has been seared into their forehead, flaring with the displeasure of a truedisfavour of Nocht, the Silent.

They are wearing:
a veiled crown of woven heather
a circlet of crystal thorns pressed far too-tightly to their head
a Glomdoring friendship bracelet which jingles softly on their left wrist
minty citrus incense beads pulled taut against their right wrist
a leather explorer's hat pulled firmly down onto their head
a vivid red-orange poppy tucked into the band of their hat
an ebon throwover cloak striated with lilac patterns pulled shut around their shoulders and dragging on the ground behind them
mercurial Mysraian prayer beads pulled taut against their right wrist
a soft blouse of dove-grey cotton fitted to them loosely
finely tailored black dress trousers fitted snugly to their legs and worn high on their waist.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Ah--!"
Gurashi stands up on their tip-toes, scrunching their face as they return the hug with little hesitation.
Fretfully, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "Am so sorry."

Barely above a creak, you say, "Please do not be sorry. -I- am sorry."

Shaking their head and huffing, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend exclaims to you, "Do not leave - you do not have to!"
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "You should only do the thing, if you really want to, because it," Their voice cracks, "it is really quite quiet otherwise! And uh, a little different!"
Gurashi frets over everything that might go wrong.

You have emoted: Cheliyi pulls back from the hug, keeping her hands on Gurashi's shoulders as she inspects them silently.
After a long, quiet moment, you ask, "You are okay?"

You think to yourself: They look so tired. And small.

Gurashi smiles weakly.

Gurashi's smile falters, and they look down, then back up, furrowing their brow. "Ah. Uh."
Gurashi's shoulders sag slightly as they sigh.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "...yes am O-K."

You have emoted: Cheliyi narrows her gaze from behind a pair of thin spectacles. "You are sure?"

With a loud yet playful whistle, a mechanical dirigible comes puttering in on currents of air, its metallic claw grasping a bottle, which it quickly deposits in Gurashi's hands.
A mechanical dirigible bobs up and down on the air currents before jets of steam erupt from several of its valves, then putters off.
Gurashi blinks.
Gurashi blushes furiously.

You blink.

Gurashi bunches their shoulders, wrapping their arms around their mandolin. They are about to speak when they are thrown a bottle, blinking in surprise. "Oh," They fumble, turning bright red. "...it is my birthday."
Gurashi stares blankly at a bottle.

Gurashi blushes deeper, lifting the bottle in bemused victory.

You have emoted: Cheliyi goes very quiet, and pulls her hands away. Something in her expression crumples, before she coughs out a weak chuckle. "Happy Birthday, then. What is in the bottle?"

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "...a cocktail... ah."

You nod slowly, leaves rustling softly.

Gurashi beckons you to them.

The dazzling flash of coloured glass announces the stealthy arrival of an iridescent clockwork dragonfly. Hovering just above Gurashi, it drops a bumbling bumblebee bumbleberry pie, then is off whizzing through the air in a metronomic drone.
An iridescent clockwork dragonfly rises effortlessly into the air, only to vanish in a dazzling flash of glass and metal.

You begin to follow Gurashi.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "Come with me - it is loud and busy here."

You follow Gurashi, the Heart's Friend to A chilling, forestal curiosities room.

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.
Gurashi's shoulders sag slightly as they sigh.

Whipping around, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend exclaims to you, "I miss Glomdoring SO much!"

You have emoted: Cheliyi glances around, smiling weakly at the room before blinking in surprise.

Rambling a mile a minute, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "What is going on? How is Mixter Esei!? Do they have any new designs?? Has anyone contested for Minister of Cultural Affairs yet?!"
With a loud yet playful whistle, a mechanical dirigible comes puttering in on currents of air, its metallic claw grasping a sandcastle-shaped cake, which it quickly deposits in Gurashi's hands.

Gurashi stares at you, gaze softening and face filling with concern as they frown at you.

Barely above a creak, you say, "I..."

A mechanical dirigible bobs up and down on the air currents before jets of steam erupt from several of its valves, then putters off.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "You do not have to go!"

You smile, lips creaking softly.

Reaching out to take your branches, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "I know the very thought of leaving hurts, I do I do."
Shaking their head, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "And, would not wish this pain on -anybody-, so please do not do it! At least - not the way I did ..." They tighten their grasp. "You must do what your heart wants to do the mostest. Not what anyone else tells you to do."

Gurashi exhales slowly, allowing a long fluid breath to creep from their lungs.

You have emoted: Cheliyi's branches almost seem to wrap around Gurashi's hand, as if they were returning the hold.
You nod slowly, leaves rustling softly.

You think to yourself: I am glad to see them so talkative. It is not so quiet, now.

With surprising stealth, an imposing kepheran princess suddenly enters from the west, mandibles twitching.

Reassuringly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "I am O-K. I am not all by my--."

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues taps her foot with mild impatience.

You blink.

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues begins to follow Gurashi obediently.
Antennae raising curiously, an imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues says, "Gurashi... there is a tree in your portal room."

Gurashi gives a horrified gasp.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend exclaims, "This is Miss Che-li-yi!"

The wind sings quietly as it passes through the branches of the ravenwood trees.

You have emoted: Cheliyi's branches curl inward at the sudden arrival, and she inhales sharply.
Very quietly, you say, "Hello."

With a great big sigh, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "Miss Cheliyi, this is Miss Khep. She is my friend from the pre-portal me."

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues attention suddenly turns to Gurashi, antennae twitching as she cants her head to the side.

You have emoted: Cheliyi blinks rapidly and adjusts her spectacles, before nodding slowly.
You think to yourself: ... pre-portal gurashi? I wonder...

A warm, gentle wind brings forth the scents and sounds of fresh moving water.

Huffing and puffing, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Miss Khep! This is Miss Cheliyi! The nicely Wyrdenwood-wump was telling you about!"
An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues attention suddenly turns to Gurashi, antennae twitching as she cants her head to the side.

Antennae still raised as she lowers her gaze slowly, an imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues says, "I see ..."

Eyes widening, you say, "... You talk about me?"
You think to yourself: **motes of yellow growing brighter**.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "...w-well nothing -bad-."
Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.
Gurashi fidgets impatiently.

You smile, lips creaking softly.

Folding her arms across her chest, an imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues says, "He talks about all of his friends. Constantly. Every day."
An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues glances askance at Gurashi.

Barely above a creak, you say, "O-oh! I am not upset. It is just... odd to be talked about. I guess it is a friends thing?"
You chuckle softly, your leaves rustling with laughter.
Barely above a creak, you say, "I am sorry they talk your ear off, Miss Khep."

Gurashi blushes furiously.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend exclaims, "I promise it is nothing badly! Only nice things!"
Gurashi blushes furiously.

Black, starry mist coalesces into Dusan, the coruscant as he gives an elegant white letter to Gurashi before disappearing again.

Gurashi covers their face with their hands, and the princess lets out a short, sharp laugh. "Apology accepted."

Barely above a creak, you say, "I..."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Do not listen to her!"
Gurashi huffs, puffing their cheeks.

Black, starry mist coalesces into Dusan, the coruscant as he gives a bright orange origami shaped like a caracal kitten to Gurashi before disappearing again.

Huffing and puffing, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "She is pulling your leggies - er." They look down awkwardly. "Your rooties."

Gurashi suddenly cants their head and narrows their eyes at an imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues, peering at her suspiciously.

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues smirks.

You have emoted: Cheliyi giggles, before glancing down at her rooties. For a moment she says nothing, but then, "I talk about you a lot too. Not everyone wants to talk, but I still talk to my siblings. I am sorry I did not visit sooner."

Wooden wind chimes can be heard clunking gently together as a breeze moves through.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "...it's O-K. It was really sudden. Are you O-K? Your letter was really sad."
Gurashi stares at you, gaze softening and face filling with concern as they frown at you.

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues glances at Gurashi appraisingly, antennae twitching in their direction as she turns her attention to Gurashi.
An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues glances at you appraisingly, antennae twitching in your direction as she turns her attention to you.

Gurashi twiddles their thumbs.

You have emoted: Cheliyi's branches creak as she shifts her weight idly, avoiding Gurashi's gaze. "... I am okay, now. You are okay, and I will not leave. I will be okay." Her expression suddenly brightens as she looks back at Gurashi, but the smile does not reach her eyes. "And I will visit you! That is very O-K."

You think to yourself: I am not lying, I will be okay. It still hurts, a little.

A flash of emerald from the west announces the entry of an ethereal cat.

You blink.

Watching the wyrdenwood quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "...you must do what you want to do."
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "And not what anyone else makes you to do."
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "O-K? That is most important part."

An ethereal cat makes a plaintive meow, looking pitiable.

Gurashi smiles weakly.

The soft tinkling of seashell wind chimes is carried in on a warm breeze.

Barely above a creak, you say, "You have... a lot of people in your manse."

Gurashi pets an ethereal cat ingratiatingly.
An ethereal cat rubs up against Gurashi's legs, a small purr barely audible.

Eyeing the cat with some irritation, an imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues says, "He does, doesn't he."

You have emoted: Cheliyi snorts, hiding her laughter from behind a mossy palm.

With a loud yet playful whistle, a mechanical dirigible comes puttering in on currents of air, its metallic claw grasping an ice cream sundae of sugary smiles and pearl tears, which it quickly deposits in Gurashi's hands.
A mechanical dirigible bobs up and down on the air currents before jets of steam erupt from several of its valves, then putters off.

Barely above a creak, you say, "I am doing what I want. No one has told me what to do! Well, except myself. And the Lady of the Roses, but I want to do it so it's okay."

With a loud yet playful whistle, a mechanical dirigible comes puttering in on currents of air, its metallic claw grasping an ice cream sundae of sugary smiles and pearl tears, which it quickly deposits in your hands.

Gurashi smiles weakly.

A mechanical dirigible bobs up and down on the air currents before jets of steam erupt from several of its valves, then putters off.

You have emoted: Cheliyi's smile weakens, and she glances askance. "Oh. Sorry. What She wants has nothing to do with you, though! I just need to be better for my siblings. I want to stay home, and I want to visit you lots. So I will do that."

A flash of emerald from the west announces the entry of an ethereal cat.
Gurashi stares at you, gaze softening and face filling with concern as they frown at you.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "...O-K."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "You are always welcome to visit me, O-K? My manse magics will let you come say hi."

You have emoted: Cheliyi frowns at the ground, and her branches creak irritably. "I am doing this all wrong. I am sorry for upsetting you. How about I tell you about Glomdoring?"

Gurashi blinks.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend asks, "What are doing wrong?"
Gurashi flails about helplessly.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "Ack! No! You came to say hi!"
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "I am happy!"

You blink.

Barely above a creak, you say, "O-oh! Okay."

You have emoted: Cheliyi chuckles weakly, before pulling at her glasses.
You remove a pair of thin spectacles.

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues says nothing, watching the conversation unfold with her arms crossed as she stands near the garden door. Cats begin to congregate around her legs, much to her clear dissatisfaction, though she says nothing.

Barely above a creak, you say, "I love you lots, you know? But also, about Glom. Today someone asked me if I wanted to be culture minister, after you. It was very scary."
You chuckle softly, your leaves rustling with laughter.

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.
Gurashi glances askance.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "It's really not hard..."
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "You just submit a play once every two years ... and keep notes ....."

Gurashi opens their mouth, suddenly lifting their head.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Oh."

Barely above a creak, you say, "I do not know how to cook, much less how to be cultured! Or write. Writing is hard."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Writing is ... hard...."

Barely above a creak, you say, "Well, I -know- how to write. But..."

Gurashi reaches up to touch their lower lip, looking off.

You have emoted: Cheliyi wiggles her fingers.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "I know what mean..."

Gurashi suddenly covers their face with their hands. "Dearest Cheliyi I am so sorry. It's. Eliron." They wither slightly where they stand. "He probably wants to talk to me about my dad."
Gurashi fidgets impatiently.

You blink.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "M-may I find you later?"

Barely above a creak, you say, "... yes? I can go wait in my manse."
You hug Gurashi compassionately.

Gurashi wrings their hands together, their earlier excitement deflated. "Do not feel like have to sit around waiting for me."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "Go on and do you-things, O-K?" They smile sadly. "And I will reach out when I am finished. I don't know if it will be ..."
Gurashi closes their eyes and inhales deeply, absorbing the scent of their surroundings.
Gurashi exhales slowly, allowing a long fluid breath to creep from their lungs.

Barely above a creak, you exclaim, "I need to sort out my reflexes anyways. Do not worry!"

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "O-K."
Gurashi fidgets impatiently.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "O-K!"

You smile, lips creaking softly.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "You can always enter my manse, O-K? It is HAH, like, a laugh!"

You chuckle softly, your leaves rustling with laughter.
You follow Gurashi, the Heart's Friend to the Aetherplex Chamber.

You cease to follow Gurashi, the Heart's Friend.

You greet Eliron with a respectful nod, leaves swishing.
With a flourish of his arm, Eliron bows deeply.

You portal to Overgrowth.

A Gentle Grove.                                        (#OVERGROWTH_1)
A quiet glen of gnarled weeping willows encase all sides, leaves swishing softly in an unseen breeze. Twilight cloaks the area, blanketing all in a ghostly glow. Soft grasses and leaves crunch underfoot, the soothing smell of decaying flora and wet earth flooding the air with each step. Giant, glittering moths and large, leathery bats flutter overhead, oddly docile despite their inherent natures. There are plenty of spaces for rest, a soft patch of grass here, a plush expanse of moss there. The sound of a babbling brook seems to echo in the distance. Little else can be heard, save for the soft woosh of the entry portal. A thick bed of moss clings to the ground here. There are 3 moss-covered stump chairs here. Filamentous paper tentacles swirl around this fungus blossom's putrid yellow petals. A blossom of thorn-throated crows gapes its beaks in a silent caw. You see a sign here instructing you to use the PORTAL command to enter the aetherplex system.

You sigh quietly, branches creaking with the weight of drooping leaves.

Barely above a creak, you say, "... They look so tired."
You have emoted: Cheliyi's jaw sets in a determined line.

Barely above a creak, you say, "I will visit them more often. And maybe make them sleep."
Barely above a creak, you say, "But for now..."

You sit yourself down on a moss-covered stump chair and make yourself comfortable.

---> I work on increasing my defenses, before running out of wood.

You portal to the Aetherplex Chamber.

You portal to the Portals of Glomdoring.
------- v7747 -------
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------ 5:-8:-2 ------
The Portals of Glomdoring.
The shadowy outline of a twisted forest casts a dark gloom here. The cylindrical chamber has been carved from marble veined with dark sediment, and polished to a lustrous smooth shine. Concentric circles are inlaid upon the floor, alternating with rings of black opal, onyx and dark amethyst. High above, the ceiling shines with a bright light that pulsates softly and steadily like a heartbeat. The air itself is charged with energy, veritably crackling with power. Dusan, a coruscant wyvern, lurks in the shadows here. Lady Aleyah Shee-Slaugh stands here within the pulsating thrumming of the Dark Heart's power. She wields a diamond and onyx violin in her left hand and a midnight black rose in her right hand. You see a sign here instructing you to use the PORTAL command to enter the aetherplex system. There is an aetherways portal here.
You see a single exit leading out.

A look of understanding crossing their features, Esei nods their head slowly.

Aleyah flashes you a joyous smile.

You blink.

Esei inclines their head politely to you.

A sudden flurry of dusky color accompanies Aleyah as she takes to the air, flying over to you and alighting delicately on your shoulder.
Lady Aleyah Shee-Slaugh says to you, "Oh, I was hoping I would catch you!"

Esei tilts their head curiously.

Barely above a creak, you say, "O-oh. Greetings, Lady Aleyah."
Aleyah beams broadly at you.
Lady Aleyah Shee-Slaugh says to you, "Mama has laid out the rules for your forgiveness."

Barely above a creak, you say, "I was just on my way to-."
You have emoted: Cheliyi freezes.
Faintly, you say, "I... what?"

Lady Aleyah Shee-Slaugh smiles broadly and says, "So we're going to go watch a play."

You have emoted: Cheliyi blinks, slowly. "O-oh. Alright. Could I.. could I stop by the commodities store first?"

Aleyah nods her head emphatically.
Aleyah leaves to the out, taking with her the thrumming rhythm of the Dark Heart.

---> Go to the Commodities cache, buy some wood, and then...

You shed wyrdenwood form and flow as a spirit through the verdant leaves, embracing the physical once more and arrive at the Roots of the Dark Forest.
------ v13326 -------





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------ 7:2:-2 -------
The Roots of the Dark Forest.
The shadowy outline of a twisted forest casts a dark gloom here. An enveloping sensation of deepest night pervades this massive subterranean chamber. The walls and ceiling are adorned with a spellbinding network of tree roots, which emerge from the corners as thick as two feet in diameter and gradually taper to hair-width along their tangled, twisting paths. Sycamore and birch, yew and fir, willow, beech, pine, and ash, chestnut, hemlock, blackthorn, rowan, and most of all, stygian ravenwood; every type of tree in the forest seems to be represented in the myriad hues of brown, grey, and black that crawl and intertwine over every surface. The soil between each root has been sealed in with tar, hardened and polished to a dusky matte finish. Upon closer inspection of the walls, rune-like symbols carved into the roots become apparent. Crows, spiders, bats, wasps, beetles, and scorpions are embellished in an intricate mural that seems to reveal a new icon at each glance. The only light in the theater comes from a chandelier of undulating roots. Globes of cold shadowfire are held aloft by the gossamer webbing which enrobes the structure, pulsing and swaying ever so gently to the rhythm of the nearby Drums. There are 2 benches made from a rowan tree trunk here. Emerging grandly from the shadows, a dark, majestic stage looms here. A milestone juts up from the ground here, wreathed in thorny vines. Lady Aleyah Shee-Slaugh stands here within the pulsating thrumming of the Dark Heart's power. She wields a diamond and onyx violin in her left hand and a midnight black rose in her right hand.
You see a single exit leading up.

You blink.
Aleyah flashes you a joyous smile.

Barely above a creak, you say, "So... a play?"

Aleyah nods her head emphatically.

Lady Aleyah Shee-Slaugh says, "The Waking of the Glomdoring."
Aleyah gets some gold sovereigns from a fesix backpack.

There is a shimmering flicker in the air above a grand stage of stygian marble, as it readies itself to replay a recorded performance of 'The Waking of the Glomdoring'.
Aleyah puts some gold sovereigns in a fesix backpack.

The curtains part on a grand stage of stygian marble, heralding the start of the performance of 'The Waking of the Glomdoring'.

You sit yourself down on a bench made from a rowan tree trunk and make yourself comfortable.

---> We watch a play about Glomdoring's creation! Cheliyi also gets -homework- *jazz hands*

You tell Gurashi, the Heart's Friend, "**motes of green and yellow, tinged by blue** It has been a few days, I think. Are you well? I will come if you need anything."
You portal to the Aetherplex Chamber.
------- v6831 -------



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----- 0:-8:-40 ------
The Aetherplex Chamber.
The spherical chamber is formed from a hollow geode comprised of dozens of precious gemstones. Large jagged formations of rubies, sapphires, diamonds and emeralds line the walls and ceiling. The floor has been cut and polished to a brilliant shine, revealing concentric circles of brilliant colours. Upon close examination of the glassy floor, shimmering reflections briefly glide across its smooth surface of wondrous mansions and abodes. A current of electricity continuously runs throughout this mineral wonder, causing tiny sparks to erratically blossom up and down the crystalline formations. Shimmering with aetheric energy, a bright glowing portal floats here in midair. Hackles risen, a fierce timberwolf prowls about here. A screech owl is here, surveying the surroundings. There are 2 great brindle mastiffs here. A giant bat hangs here, wings folded about its body and one beady eye open. You see a sign here instructing you to use the PORTAL command to enter the aetherplex system. There is an aetherways portal here.
You see exits leading north (open door), south, out, and through a bright, glowing portal.

Gurashi's melodic voice sings into your mind, ".... no we...."
Gurashi's melodic voice sings into your mind, "*quiet* We're all done."

A whirling cone of snow rises up from the ground, out of which steps Gurashi.

Bizirik stalks in from the ether, wings spread as it clicks and thrums softly.

You blink.

Softly, you ask, "... Gurashi?"

Gurashi lifts their hand to offer a wave, dazed.

You tell Gurashi, the Heart's Friend, "**leaves rustling with quiet worry** Do you want a hug?"

Gurashi looks about the bustling aetherplex awkwardly, not letting on if they've heard your question.
Gurashi begins to follow you.

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.
You portal to Overgrowth.

A Gentle Grove.                                        (#OVERGROWTH_1)
A quiet glen of gnarled weeping willows encase all sides, leaves swishing softly in an unseen breeze. Twilight cloaks the area, blanketing all in a ghostly glow. Soft grasses and leaves crunch underfoot, the soothing smell of decaying flora and wet earth flooding the air with each step. Giant, glittering moths and large, leathery bats flutter overhead, oddly docile despite their inherent natures. There are plenty of spaces for rest, a soft patch of grass here, a plush expanse of moss there. The sound of a babbling brook seems to echo in the distance. Little else can be heard, save for the soft woosh of the entry portal. A thick bed of moss clings to the ground here. There are 3 moss-covered stump chairs here. Filamentous paper tentacles swirl around this fungus blossom's putrid yellow petals. A blossom of thorn-throated crows gapes its beaks in a silent caw. A slender leothin sits here motionless, brightening its surroundings with its natural golden bio-luminescence. You see a sign here instructing you to use the PORTAL command to enter the aetherplex system.
There are no obvious exits.

Gurashi suddenly scoops up a thorn-throated crow blossom.

Barely above a creak, you say, "Gurashi..."

Gurashi suddenly scoops up a parasitic fungus blossom.

Light spreads across Gurashi's back in numerous colours and hues, enfolding them like butterfly wings.

Holding the crow blossom awkwardly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "...I will take that hug yes."

You tell Gurashi, the Heart's Friend, "// SDNFKNSCNKS YOU"RE TAKING MY ORIGAMI."

Gurashi stares up at you, dazed, their eyes still red from earlier tears.
Gurashi takes a palm sigil from a Rope Belt of Advantage.
Gurashi drops a palm sigil.

Gurashi drops a bright orange origami shaped like a caracal kitten.
Gurashi picks up a bright orange origami shaped like a caracal kitten.

Gurashi's melodic voice sings into your mind, "//this never happened."

Gurashi drops a thorn-throated crow blossom.
Gurashi drops a parasitic fungus blossom.

You have emoted: Cheliyi slowly wraps her arms around Gurashi, gently holding them in a soft embrace.

Gurashi says nothing, leaning into your embrace with a confused expression on their face.

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.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "... don't leave Glomdoring, O-K."

You nod slowly, leaves rustling softly.

Gurashi pulls back at last, their gaze still dropped. "...sorry ... I thought... I would have more funner news. Uh."

Barely above a creak, you say, "It's okay, really. There hasn't been a lot of fun news lately."

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.
Looking down guiltily, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Oh."

You have emoted: Cheliyi hums, and flops onto a bed of moss. "Oh! Today I watched a play with Lady Aleyah. It was very interesting."
Gurashi sinks to sit slowly opposite you, blinking. "...oh?"

Barely above a creak, you say, "It told me how my siblings were grown! Lady Viravain worked very hard. It was scary, and sad. But, She seemed happy, by the end."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend asks, "Oh... the play about the birth of Glomdorings yes...?"

Barely above a creak, you say, "I'm supposed to study the timeline for next month, and I'll speak to Lady Aleyah again."
You have emoted: Cheliyi nods, although it looks more like a chin tuck from this angle.

Barely above a creak, you say, "She tried so hard to make everyone happy. And then, once She realized that Gloriana would not survive, she helped it grow strong. I'm very thankful that She did."

Dazed, but listening, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Yeah ..."
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "She made... it good, She did."

You have emoted: Cheliyi pauses, and hesitantly takes Gurashi's hand. "... I found it very scary, though, especially when She was burned. That must have been awful. She seems to be okay with fire now, though."
Much softer, you say, "She must be very brave."

Within your hand, Gurashi's own is limp and clammy. "...very brave, yeah. Have to overcome lots of things to live in the Glomdorings."
Far-off sounding, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "It is tough place to live so ... toughest of peoples..."

You crease your brow in a frown.
You have emoted: Cheliyi tightens her grip, giving Gurashi a gentle squeeze.

Abruptly changing the subject, you say, "How are you Bizi?"
You think to yourself: I should not talk about my siblings for a while.

Bizirik, the leothin lets out a little grumble, looking up at the Wyrdenwood with a snuffle and snort.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "We are O-K, many thank yous ..."
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, ".... Mister... Parhelion is gonna ask Snald if it is possible... to ..."
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "...for me to be unenemied, someday."

You have emoted: Cheliyi lifts her head up ever so slightly, craning her neck to grin at Bizirik, the leothin. "You are a very grumpy noo-" She pauses at Gurashi's words, going still.

Staring at Bizirik, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "So, I can join my family again."

You have emoted: Cheliyi's head flops back on a bed of moss. "... Oh. That is... a good thing, right?"

Bizirik, the leothin snuffles and stretches, bumping into you as it is addressed, even as Gurashi continues to talk. "...I feel weird." They say finally, frowning.

You chuckle softly, your leaves rustling with laughter.

Dazed, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "The reason for my enemying was pretty bad."
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "So..."
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "M-Mister Parhelion said it may be moot."

Barely above a creak, you say, "Like you have bees buzzing inside you?"
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "...bees are good ..."
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "...mm - no I ..."
You have emoted: Cheliyi smiles weakly before it shifts into a frown. Wordlessly, she sits back up.

You think to yourself: **soft blue seeping in** This is not a very good form for hugging. They need something softer. It will be scary but...
You think to yourself: I trust them very much. And they need to feel better, for a bit.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts and snuffles, shoving its head into your hands.
Bizirik, the leothin stares implacably at you.
Bizirik, the leothin's tail slaps the ground once, grumpy.

You have set your accent to: Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool
You will now be described as "(Small and timid,) of axolotl descent who starkly contrasts her homeland with her pearly skin and salmon-tinted frills. Her stature is not unnatural for a mugwump, short and sturdy with a clear fitness that implies years of climbing about trees and swimming through swaths of swamp. A messy bob of strawberry hair flows from her scalp, unkempt and in sore need of a brushing. Her skin has a soft, oily sheen to it akin to most mugwumps, but, strangely enough, the skin becomes abruptly dry and brittle in some places. Most notable of these are her forearms and a large patch around her eyes, the complexion slightly discolored to an uncomfortable beige, pattern reminiscent of roiling flames. Her eyes fare no different, the traditionally midnight orbs a faded, milky grey. A long, thick tail twitches occasionally behind her, the extra limb a kind affordance for balance and speed while swimming and clambering about the Glomdoring. The frills that would usually extend from her tail are torn and scarred, the wounds long since healed."

You slip into a cerulean-banded pin.
You slip into a dapper, cerulean-banded black felt hat.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "It is just ... there isn't any feelings."

You have emoted: Cheliyi shakes out her frills, before flopping into Gurashi's lap.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "I had so many, and, now I don't have any?"
Gurashi blinks.
Flailing, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Oh!"

Bizirik, the leothin gives a short gasp of elation.
Bizirik, the leothin sniffs you, trying to decipher just what that smell emanating from you is.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "... I think I am better for you to hug, like this."

Gurashi blinks.

You hug Gurashi compassionately.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "... oh --."
Gurashi reaches out and gently grabs you, pulling you into a tight embrace.
Gurashi's teeth sink into their own bottom lip as they wrap their arms tightly around you, holding firmly. "Am sorry."

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I think it is okay, to not feel a lot. I was very tired for a while, and did not feel a lot. Don't be sorry."

Weakly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "Please do not have any big sad feelings on my behalf, O-K? That would be so mean of me."
Gurashi boggles at you.

Softly, you say, "I think Miss Ethna called it... shock? Or just being tired. You have felt so much over the past few months, and now you need to stop feeling for a while cause your feels are tired."

You have emoted: Cheliyi pouts, frills puffing out in irritation.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "If I am big sad, it is because I care! It is not because you are mean."
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Please do not blame yourself."

Gurashi's eyes half-close as they lean against you.

You have emoted: Cheliyi hugs Gurashi tighter, dull eyes squeezed shut. Her frills tickle Gurashi's nose.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "You are a goodly persons."
Gurashi stares blankly into space.
Gurashi wrinkles their nose, averting a sneeze as they stare off into space.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Besides, it's my siblings being grumpy. I think my big sad when I sent the letter was a mix of things. You left, which hurts but is okay because I can visit, Lady Vira hadn't told me how to fix my mistake, and my siblings were very quiet. You were not the big problem."
You hum softly, your frills vibrating with song.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Not yet. But I am trying to be."

A look of understanding crossing their features, Gurashi nods their head slowly.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "No. You are."
Gurashi's shoulders sag slightly as they sigh.

You have emoted: Cheliyi lets go, and flops back into Gurashi's lap. She hums contently. "I forgot how soft things feel when I don't have bark."

Looking down at their own hands, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "...being squishy is sometimes nice."

You nod your head emphatically.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "... Do you want to go do something fun? We can make our own fun news."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "O-K."

You hum thoughtfully at Gurashi, your salmon frills vibrating with song.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "... I don't know about a lot of fun things. Do you?"

Looking up, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Swimming ... climbing trees..." They shift. "Making sand castles, collecting cool rocks..."
Gurashi sniffles softly.

You smile gently, frills puffing with joy.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Do... do you want to go swimming?"

Gurashi nods their head emphatically.

The corners of your mouth turn up as you grin mischievously.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "I am not very good..."
Gurashi glances askance.

You hum softly, your frills vibrating with song.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "If Tridemon asks I didn't drown."
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, ".....not... that I will drown."
Gurashi blushes furiously.

You give a trillingly melodic laugh.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Let's go to the beach! We can stay at the water and not drown."

You have emoted: Cheliyi gets off the bed and offers Gurashi her hand, smiling broadly.

Gurashi pushes themselves to stand with some effort, nodding. "O-K." They fall in line behind the mugwump, brushing off their shirt. "...the beaches.... outside Celest are nicely. Oh, or Tridemon's..."
Gurashi purses their lips pensively, gazing off into the distance as they carefully gather their thoughts.

You hum softly, your frills vibrating with song.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Then how about you lead? I don't know much outside the forest."

You move about quickly and lose Gurashi, the Heart's Friend.

You begin to follow Gurashi.

You have emoted: Cheliyi takes your hand, smiling brightly all the while.

Gurashi nods their head emphatically.

You follow Gurashi, the Heart's Friend northwest to the Inner Sea's embracement of the Toronada Delta.
"Ahah!" Gurashi exclaims triumphantly.

You smile gently, frills puffing with joy.

You follow Gurashi, the Heart's Friend southwest to bright coastline along the Inner Sea.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "This is my favorite place outside of the Glomdoring, it is."

You nod your head emphatically.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "It's very bright and pretty."

Drawing a line in the sand with their foot, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Mm."

The smell of salty air wafts past your nose.

Gurashi sinks down in their spot to quietly draw with their finger in the sand - you haven't the foggiest clue what it could be.

You have emoted: Cheliyi squints at the line, before smiling back out at the sea.

You hum softly, your frills vibrating with song.
You have emoted: Cheliyi sits next to Gurashi, and tilts her head back with eyes closed. "The sun is also very warm. I think I like it."

Gurashi pulls back their hand, revealing their drawing. It might be people - a kephera? Beside a poorly drawn stickman? Or a fish? Maybe. "I like the sound," They murmur, tracing shapes in the sand.

You have emoted: Cheliyi's frills twitch, and she hums again. "It's very... whooshy. Whooooooshy."
You have emoted: Cheliyi flops onto her back, creating a small cloud of lifted sand.

Gurashi sinks further. "Is kind of like your me-sound, but you don't have to do anything," The mutter nonsensically as they doodle.

Inhaling sharply, you puff out your frills and utter a soft squeak.

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

You smile gently, frills puffing with joy.

Bizirik, the leothin chirps happily at you.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Your drawing looks cool. Is it you?"

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "That is me, and that is Xenthos, and Ilistala, and you, but, I have never drawn you before, so." The picture looks nothing of the sort. "I cook better than draw."

You have emoted: Cheliyi sits back up, and shakes out her frills like a dog. Little flecks of sand go -everywhere-.

Gurashi lays their hand upon the ground beneath the drawing. They squint and turn away as they are sprayed with sand, coughing.

You snort at Gurashi, holding back laughter from behind webbed fingers.

Gurashi smiles weakly.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Sorry."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "You are O-K - it is what beaches are for."

Looking up to their hat, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "I got my flower on a beach..."
Light spreads across Gurashi's back in numerous colours and hues, enfolding them like butterfly wings.

You have emoted: Cheliyi glances down at the drawing, humming softly. "It is a very good drawing, I think."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Many thank yous."

You have emoted: Cheliyi sticks her finger in the sand, squinting intently as she draws the one (she assumes is herself) holding hands with the kephera. She smiles, and then takes Gurashi's hand. "There! Now it is perfect."

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "And... your flower? It is very pretty."

Gurashi blinks.
Gurashi's gaze softens as they smile.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Mm - better, yes..."
Gurashi removes a vivid red-orange poppy.

Carefully removing it from their hat and offering it out to you, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Mmhmm. My poppy."
Gurashi gives a vivid red-orange poppy to you.

You begin to wield a vivid red-orange poppy in your left hand.
You begin to wield your weapon

Smiling, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend asks, "I was making a sand-castle...and, Friend Aschwar sent it to me. Isn't it nice...?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi inspects a vivid red-orange poppy with gentle fingers, eyes wide with wonder. "It is very soft. When did you find it?"
You blink.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Came through the air - poof."
Gurashi glances askance.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Oh! That is very nice."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "It is me-colored. But also, purple - my favorite."
You give a vivid red-orange poppy to Gurashi, the Heart's Friend.

You have emoted: Cheliyi smiles, and glances away. "I... I think I like green and yellow, better. But orange is a very good color!"
Laughing, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "I have learned to appreciate orange, yes..."

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

Gurashi takes the poppy, twirling it in their hand before pulling it close and holding it to their heart.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Oh! That reminds me. Adrien taught me what a crush is, last month. It was very enlightening."

Gurashi swivels their head around to look at you, eyes widening in surprise.

You have emoted: Cheliyi smiles innocently at you. "Do you have a crush on Them?"

Surprised, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend asks, "Them?"

You blink.

Gurashi looks confused.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Er... the very scarlet big person? Mister... My sir eye?"

Gurashi stares blankly at you.

One now knows the sound of one's soul leaving the body as Gurashi's proceeds to flee theirs, leaving them momentarily sitting in stunned silence.

You have emoted: Cheliyi frowns, before glancing down at her lap. "I said it wrong, didn't I?"

The piercing call of gulls fills the air.

Suddenly whipping around to look at the mugwump, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend exclaims, "N-n-n-no!"

Hands wildly waving through the air, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend exclaims to you, "You cannot have a CRUSH on the DIVINES!?!"
Gurashi flails about helplessly.

Gurashi says all of this while beet red, sweat breaking out on their forehead.

You blink.

(Sugary Sweet): You say, "Im laughing so hard rn."
(Sugary Sweet): Coraline (from the Aetherways) says, "Hahaha wassup? Something happening in game?"
(Sugary Sweet): Gurashi says, "Cheliyi asked gurashi if they had a crush on mysrai sobs."
(Sugary Sweet): Coraline (from the Aetherways) says, ":D."
(Sugary Sweet): Gurashi says, "Just because he is beautiful."
(Sugary Sweet): Caohite says, "Yes."
(Sugary Sweet): Gurashi says, "Stupid sexy courtesan."
(Sugary Sweet): Caohite says, "Stupid sexy mysrai."
(Sugary Sweet): Coraline (from the Aetherways) says, "According to the ambients, everyone has a crush on mysrai."

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "But... Mister Adrien said that it's normal. And a crush means that you think that you would like to hug Them, or be closer to Them. Why not?"

Clasping a hand over their face, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "T-t... y-yes, I..."

Gurashi stammers, beet red. "I-I ...I mean, t-that's right, I think - I don't - I'm not."
Gurashi flails about helplessly.

(Sugary Sweet): You say, "Cheliyi is. so painful to write oh my god. i am constantly choking back either laughter or p a i n."

You hum softly, your frills vibrating with song.
(Sugary Sweet): Gurashi says, "Gurashi: no more room for sad only panicked embarrassment."

Rather simply, you say, "Okay."

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you ask, "You want to swim now?"

Still beet red, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "...y-yes. Sure." They rise suddenly, removing their instrument and their cloak. "Yes let's go swim! In the waters!"
Suddenly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend asks you, "WAIT - can you swim?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi pouts. "Of course I can! I lived in a swamp!"

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

You call upon all the spirits of Nature, and a whirlwind of power surrounds you, briefly lifting you from the ground. As every spirit embraces you, you shudder and tremble in delight.

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

Gurashi awkwardly peels off their boots, then rolls their pants up to their knees, mumbling to themselves as they do so.

You have emoted: Cheliyi stands up and puffs out her frills with determination. "Let's swim!" She wades into the water, before diving in with a splash.


Bizirik, the leothin wastes no time in diving in after you, uttering a delightful yowl as it splashes after the mugwump.

You have emoted: Cheliyi pops up seconds later, in a... completely different spot. "I bet you can't catch me Bizi~" she teases.

You giggle happily.

Bizirik, the leothin gives a horrified gasp.
Bizirik, the leothin chatters, slinking across the surface of the sea and moving in a serpentine fashion, quickly advancing on the mugwump. Upon the shore Gurashi finally stomps their way into the shallows, stopping where the water rolls up to their ankles.

Gurashi closes their eyes and inhales deeply, absorbing the scent of their surroundings.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Mm..."

Gurashi shuts their eyes, not advancing into the sea. Bizirik, meanwhile, splashes up to you, then vigorously flips about, splashing the both of them with another happy yowl.

You have emoted: Cheliyi laughs melodically, diving under just before Bizirik can reach her. She pops back out with a bubbling giggle, tail slapping against the water. "Come on!"

Gurashi smiles weakly.

Gurashi watches for a time, before they fish through their bag, eventually pulling out a red and blue bouncer ball.

You have emoted: Cheliyi goes still, intently focused on the ball.

Gurashi points a red and blue bouncer ball at Bizirik, the leothin.

Bizirik, the leothin stares implacably at Gurashi.
Bizirik, the leothin stares implacably at you.

Gurashi drops a red and blue bouncer ball.

Bizirik, the leothin watches with absolute fascination as a red and blue bouncer ball bounces several times before rolling off to the side. As it comes to rest, she waits expectantly for a repeat performance.

Gurashi picks up a red and blue bouncer ball.

Bizirik, the leothin abruptly body-checks you into the water, diving after the ball with a yelp.

You have emoted: Cheliyi falls into the water, laughing madly before she bursts to the surface and makes a chases after Bizirik with a bright grin. "That's going to be MY ball!"

Bizirik, the leothin gives a horrified gasp.

Bizirik, the leothin lets out a noise, abruptly dipping below the surface and out of sight, ball clenched in its jaws.

Gurashi blinks.

You have emoted: Cheliyi dives below as well, and all is still on the surface until she bursts from the water triumphantly, holding the ball with a certain leothin still attached.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you exclaim, "Hah!"

Bizirik, the leothin looks momentarily surprised as it is yanked free from the water. Then, with a much-more-powerful twist of its entire body, it rips away, pulling you with it and dousing them both in the sea.

Wide-eyed from the short, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Ah - be careful..."

You have emoted: Cheliyi yelps and falls back into the water, letting go of the ball and therefore Bizirik, before she starts giggling.

Bizirik, the leothin emerges from the water, victorious, snorting and snuffling and shaking out its entire body. It tosses its head, the ball flying to Gurashi, who catches it with ease.

Gurashi points a red and blue bouncer ball at Bizirik, the leothin.

Gurashi drops a red and blue bouncer ball.

Bizirik, the leothin freezes, watching a red and blue bouncer ball's progress intently. Suddenly, she rushes forward and retrieves it before retreating a short distance away to gnaw contentedly.

Gurashi suddenly scoops up a red and blue bouncer ball.

You have emoted: Cheliyi shakes the seawater from her frills, and grins at Gurashi. She makes a feeble attempt to splash Gurashi, before getting up, the grin still present on her face.

Gurashi hurls the ball far out into the sea, watching the leothin bound after it. They catch you approaching and smile, splashing back with their foot. "Are having fun?"

You nod your head emphatically.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I am glad we went swimming."

You have emoted: Cheliyi makes a face, and smacks her lips with disgust. "It is very salty, though."

Eyes widening, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Oh - p-please don't drink the water."

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

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I know. My skin is naturally absorbent, but I think I'll be okay if I just..."

Bizirik, the leothin slowly worms their way back to shore, chittering as they arrive.

You have emoted: Cheliyi stands off to the side and raises her hands to the sky, forming a tiny rain cloud that showers her gently.

You have emoted: Cheliyi shakes out her frills, and smiles. "There we go!"

Gurashi's gaze softens as they smile.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "...I have magic umbrellas that do same thing..."
Gurashi looks down at their feet, slowly sinking with each passing wave into the sand below.

You nod your head emphatically.

You think to yourself: Mister Xenthos had one of those, didn't they?

Looking out towards the sea, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "Imagine will be here ... lots, soon. Cause. I can be. And, I don't have to feel bad about it." They look down. "So come find me whenever would like to go swimming, O-K?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi places a hand on Gurashi's shoulder, her smile softer. "Of course. Do you want to go back to your manse, now?"

Gurashi takes a deep breath of air, shutting their eyes. "....alright."

You blink.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "We can also stay here, if you want."

Gurashi turns away, looking towards their belongings set upon the shore. They slip back on their boots and scoop up their mandolin, shaking their head. "No - you have been good at guiding activities so far. Will let continue to decide."

You follow Gurashi, the Heart's Friend to A chilling, forestal curiosities room.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Ta-da."

You have emoted: Cheliyi takes Gurashi's hand, squeezing it gently.

Gurashi's gaze softens as they smile at you.

You have emoted: Cheliyi glances askance. "You... did you mind if I called you my sibling? I don't... I don't know what other words to use, but you seem bigger than a friend, I think."

With surprising stealth, an imposing kepheran princess suddenly enters from the west, mandibles twitching.

You blink.

You greet an imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues with a respectful nod, leaves swishing.

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues nods her head politely towards Cheliyi, antennae twitching.
An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues begins to follow Gurashi obediently.

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues says, "Ah - you're back."

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues stretches languidly.

You smile gently, frills puffing with joy.

Gently, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "I do not mind." They smile, nodding at Khep before returning their attention to the mugwump. "Feel samely, yes. Family. Yes."

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues attention suddenly turns to Gurashi, antennae twitching as she cants her head to the side.

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.
Gurashi's eyes close suddenly.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Yes! I hope you are well, Miss."

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues creases her brow in a frown.

Antennae bobbing, an imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues says, "... yes. I'm well."

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues's mandibles twitch slightly as she voices a brief, curious chirr.

You smile brightly at Gurashi, your frills puffing with joy.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "O-oh! Okay."

You have emoted: Cheliyi glances around, rubbing her eyes gently. "Do you want... do you want to show me the rest of your manse? It looks very nice."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "I wa--."

You blink.

Gurashi opens their mouth, then lets out a little laugh. "Was just going to ask..."

You snort at Gurashi, holding back laughter from behind webbed fingers.

Unfolding her arms, an imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues says, "Mind if I tag along??"

Puffing their cheeks, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Miss Khepqet, you know where everything is."

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues attention suddenly turns to Gurashi, antennae twitching as she cants her head to the side.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I am okay with it. Are you, Gurashi?"

Gurashi suddenly cants their head and narrows their eyes at an imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues, peering at her suspiciously.

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues smirks.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Of course it's fine. She lives here too."

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

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "...mm. Uhm. O-K. South is patio, and, southwest and west are my plant places, and north is the kitchen and upstairs, and east is the other gardens."

Wooden wind chimes can be heard clunking gently together as a breeze moves through.

Gently, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Pick a direction and I shall lead."

You blink.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Uhm... North?"

---> We go around their manse! It's very pretty, and then

You follow Gurashi, the Heart's Friend east to A flooded garden.

You are exhausted and open your mouth in an enormous yawn.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Me too."

Gesturing, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Pick one pick one."

You hum softly, your frills vibrating with song.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "West?"

You blink.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Oh! This is..."
You have emoted: Cheliyi's expression grows soft.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend asks, "Mm?"

Quietly, you say, "I think I like it here."

Gurashi looks at you, folding their arms behind their back. "I am bad luck at planning. The lake to the east makes it flood when it rains." They glance aside. "It rains a lot."

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

You follow Gurashi, the Heart's Friend east to A placid lake.

Bizirik, the leothin gives a short gasp of elation.

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues looks exhausted and opens her mouth in an enormous yawn.

Bizirik, the leothin breaks into a run, leaping into the lake with a great splash.

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

You have emoted: Cheliyi absentmindedly hums in harmony with the croaking frogs and insects, before yawning quietly.

For a moment, bright vermilion hues paint the surroundings, giving the illusion of everything being aflame. Shortly thereafter, a passing cloud obscures the sun and everything is dark once more.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "This is very pretty."

Stretching, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "I agree."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "I added most of this after Ishra left... and, I started letting Miss Lorina and Mister Unitos send me cats from New Celest to pad out..."
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Numbers."
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "But when want quiet just, come here."
Gurashi nods their head emphatically.

You nod your head emphatically.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "It's quiet but... loud. I like it."

As if in response to the comment, Bizirik, the leothin comes barreling in from seemingly nowhere, dripping wet, bolting between the human and mugwump and diving into the pond again with a happy yowl.

An imposing kepheran princess of deep iridescent hues gives a trillingly melodic laugh.

You snort at Bizirik, the leothin, holding back laughter from behind webbed fingers.
Bizirik, the leothin stares blankly at you. After a moment its tail lifts once then thumps back against the ground with potential delight.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Are there any rooms left?"

Gurashi shakes their head.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Huh uh."

You follow Gurashi, the Heart's Friend west to A flooded garden.
Encouragingly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "Really, can take any FLOWER you like FROM the GARDEN."
Gurashi looks suddenly to you, face lighting up as they smile brightly.

You hum softly, your frills vibrating with song.
You take a bunch of yellow freesias from a lush garden.
You smile gently, frills puffing with joy.

---> Look flowers

Each of the freesia stems holds five to ten single or double flowers. The petals are yellow but the shades change from intense to pale as one's eye moves from edge to centre. At the centre of each flower by the stamen and anthers, the colour fades into a rich and luxurious orange.
It has 2 months of usefulness left.
It weighs 2 ounce(s).
It does not retain any heat whatsoever.
It has the following aliases: freesias, flowers, flower.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "There are me-flowers this time. And a Shofets flower."
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "...hrm."
Gurashi takes a cluster of snapdragons from a lush garden.
Gurashi takes a cluster of snapdragons from a lush garden.

You blink.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Will put these ... somewhere safer."

You nod your head emphatically.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I wonder if I can find a vase to put these in..."
You hum softly, your frills vibrating with song.
You slip into a bunch of yellow freesias.
You smile gently, frills puffing with joy.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Or this."

You have emoted: Cheliyi lines her hair with the freesias, the yellow and red looking oddly similar to a sunset.

Gurashi nods their head emphatically.

You are exhausted and open your mouth in an enormous yawn.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "... I think I should sleep soon."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Oh. Yeah."
Suddenly swaying, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Yeah, I got tired for a sec."

You follow Gurashi, the Heart's Friend to the Aetherplex Chamber.

You follow Gurashi, the Heart's Friend out to the Stairs of the Last Nine.
You hug Gurashi compassionately.

Gurashi reaches out and gently grabs you, pulling you into a tight embrace.
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Thank you for being my companies this month."
Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to you, "Say hi to peoples for me. Miss Caohite, and anyone else who misses me."
Gurashi smiles weakly.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Of course. I love you lots, okay?"
You smile brightly at Gurashi, your frills puffing with joy.

Gurashi nods their head sagely.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Be goodly. Stay kind."

You hum softly, your frills vibrating with song.

You follow Gurashi, the Heart's Friend in to the Aetherplex Chamber.

Gurashi, the Heart's Friend has lost you.

A cone of sparkling light rises up around Gurashi and whisks them away.
With a playful chirr, Bizirik turns sharply and scampers off to the ether.
With a furtive glance at her surroundings, an imposing kepheran princess suddenly steps away, antennae trained towards the ether.

You have emoted: Cheliyi steps away, still smiling.

You portal to Overgrowth.

A Gentle Grove.                                        (#OVERGROWTH_1)
A quiet glen of gnarled weeping willows encase all sides, leaves swishing softly in an unseen breeze. Twilight cloaks the area, blanketing all in a ghostly glow. Soft grasses and leaves crunch underfoot, the soothing smell of decaying flora and wet earth flooding the air with each step. Giant, glittering moths and large, leathery bats flutter overhead, oddly docile despite their inherent natures. There are plenty of spaces for rest, a soft patch of grass here, a plush expanse of moss there. The sound of a babbling brook seems to echo in the distance. Little else can be heard, save for the soft woosh of the entry portal. A thick bed of moss clings to the ground here. There are 3 moss-covered stump chairs here. In the shape of an open palm, a metallic sigil lies here. A blossom of thorn-throated crows gapes its beaks in a silent caw. Filamentous paper tentacles swirl around this fungus blossom's putrid yellow petals. You see a sign here instructing you to use the PORTAL command to enter the aetherplex system.
There are no obvious exits.

You lie down on a bed of moss and comfortably stretch out.

Yawning softly into her covers, you say, "Love you lots."