A Plea of Purity

A pulse of white light radiates through the aether through a dense thicket of starry mist, beckoning
you to the Grotto of the White. Amidst the shimmering motes of white, you sense a small, frail voice
calling to you, though it is drowned by a gust of wind.

Avaris's antennae flick upwards, his head swiveling.

The Grotto of the White.
Captured rays of light reflect off the sparkling waters of the Grotto of the White, enhanced by the
glittering limestone that surrounds the narrow, underwater cave. Reminiscent of starlight, these
twinkling motes bob and twirl against the surface of the walls, then dance across the still pool
that fills most of this cavern, winking in and out to allow only brief glimpses of this mystical,
sacred place. As if seeking to further obscure the crystalline waters, a rolling blanket of mist
shrouds much of the pool from view to linger here in a dewy, glistening mantle of white. Murmurs of
distant feminine voices echo here, muted by the sound of trickling water; though their cadence is
soothing, it leaves a disquieting sense of being watched and observed as if by the waters
themselves. Boundlessly flowing with light, a luminous pool of healing waters radiates a celestial
glow here. Wispy silks drape about Princess Nabithia as she stands here, a haughty look in her
compound eyes.
You see a single exit leading north.

Princess Nabithia inclines her head politely to you.

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

Her antennae flicking, Princess Nabithia says, "You received the summons as well?"

Her voice drifting through the air with a watery echo, Auriella Zayah, Lady of the Holy Flame says,
"I did, just now, yes."

Dipping his head to Princess Nabithia in a courteous nod, Avaris replies, "Indeed.
Do we know what is the cause?"

Princess Nabithia wordlessly points to the pool, saying in a chittering voice, "Witness for
yourself. Someone calls for the Lady."

(The Avowing): Princess Nabithia says, "We are desired at the Grotto of the White."

Crossing her arms, the starlit silks shimmering with the movement, Princess Nabithia says, "Gaze
within its depths and see for yourself."

The healing waters of the Grotto of the White ripple as the pale mists part to reveal the pale
reflection of a memory:
You see the frail and shivering form of a rain-soaked merian girl, clinging to a tattered cloak as
she seeks the healing mound of Lantra, the White in Daeiv ma'Mornhai. Her lips move in fervent
prayer over and over, a shredded magnolia's petals barely visible in her outstretched hand.

(The Avowing): Faragan (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "Sorry yes, wrong place. Ithink I am."

(The Avowing): Princess Nabithia says, "Do you wish for assistance?"

Rising immediately, Avaris turns as if to leave, only to pause, facing Princess
Nabithia. "Shall I await the others?"

(Before the Veil): Glacydra says, "How may I reach the Grotto of the White, please?"

(The Avowing): Faragan (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "You might be faster princess."

Faragan suddenly appears, looking bewildered.
Faragan has entered the area.

Glacydra suddenly appears, looking bewildered.

Glacydra folds their hands at their waist and bows solemnly before rising again.

Princess Nabithia inclines her head to all present, her crown of antennae shifting with the
movement. She gestures to a luminous pool, saying, "Witness what we have within the pool's depths. A
new vision has emerged."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star asks Princess Nabithia, "Is our lady weakened princess?"

Princess Nabithia turns to you and Auriella, asking, "What did you think of the vision."

Lifting her gaze from the pool, to the magnolia within her hands which she holds closely to
her chest before speaking quietly, Auriella says, "I see a vision of someone that requires help and is looking to
the Lady for assistance."

Half-turned towards the exit, many of Avaris's glowing eyes shift elsewhere,
suggesting an impatient desire to act held in check. "Someone is in need. Whether the need is
genuine, or this is a ploy remains to be seen. We can verify."

Glacydra nods their head emphatically.

Placing her hands behind her back as she nods, Princess Nabithia says, "I saw the same. A merian
girl, yes? Seeking the healing mound of the Lady in Daeiv ma'Mornhai."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says, "They seem a merian."

With a burbling in their throat, Glacydra Coldwater says, "I think if she is in need, it is best to
encounter her as soon as possible."

Avaris's sharp chin dips down in a curt nod of affirmation. "The same, yes."

Auriella nods her head at Princess Nabithia, showing her acceptance.

Princess Nabithia says, "The Lady may be occupied after the most recent events. Perhaps this is a
prayer we might answer for Her, indeed?"

With a burbling in their throat, Glacydra Coldwater says, "Yes."

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

Her voice drifting through the air with a watery echo, Auriella Zayah, Lady of the Holy Flame says,
"I believe we are able and willing."

Looking towards all gathered, Auriella Zayah, Lady of the Holy Flame says, "Shall we venture to the
mound?"

Taking a moment to consider the pool, Princess Nabithia says, "One of us may stay behind to see if
anything changes within the pool. I am willing to do so, if you feel certain you know the way to the
healing mound. Much of the Basin's geography is still new to me." She lets out a soft, chittering
laugh, though her words are serious in their intonation.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says, "Yes please if you would princess."

Glacydra nods their head emphatically.

Auriella makes a beckoning motion to no-one in particular.

Bowing her head, her antennae shifting once more into their regal crown, Princess Nabithia says,
"Then it shall be so. I will await your return."

Her voice drifting through the air with a watery echo, Auriella Zayah, Lady of the Holy Flame says
to you, "Shall you be accompanying us?"

You nod your head emphatically.

Auriella lifts the Pearlescent Brazier of Fulfilled Devotion high, aetheric light enveloping her.

Within a serene glade.
The expense of the mystical forest takes pause here as it opens up into a tranquil, aged glade of
light and colour. At its heart is a long tableau of white marble, gleaming in the light with its
mirror-polished surface. The joyful song of birds lends the area a serene atmosphere, their
colourful feathers dancing among the blossoming flowers carpeting the small hill. Four pillars of
sand flow onto a bed-sized slab of white marble which rises from the ground, surrounded by a nimbus
of domotheon energies. In the shape of an open palm, a metallic sigil lies here. Long tresses of
emerald vines extending down her back, an ivy fae stands here, her downcast gaze demure. Wreathed in
aurulent ivy, a pristine healing mound gleams invitingly. Flickering like a ghostly light, a will-o-
wisp floats through the air. Head bowed, an anointed urn-bearer of water and light holds aloft the
blessed vessel here with a reverent, stoic grace. An earth elemental towers here, a behemoth of
tainted rock and stone. A sea-green kelpie drifts here as though underwater, the air thick with the
warm scent of the sea.
You see a single exit leading west.

Auriella ponders the situation.

You hear a quiet cough in the distance, echoing from the willow trees.

With a burbling in their throat, Glacydra Coldwater says, "Ah, in the forest?"

With a burbling in their throat, Glacydra Coldwater says, "I think she was just west of the mound?"

Comprehension flashes across Auriella's face.

Symone Merule looks up with large eyes, tired from what seems to be a long night of rain and wind.

((Symone desc))
A humble white cloth tied about her bowed head, this young merian has only just entered womanhood,
though she is so sick and frail it seems unlikely she will ever know old age. Her once-lustrous
scales are mottled and pale with disease, gills flickering with silvery shades of blue-grey that
glisten as she struggles to breathe. Her large, red-rimmed eyes are rheumy and bleary, as if it has
been many days since she has known true rest; there is an almost unsettling quality to how intently
she looks upon those who return her weary gaze. More often than not, however, she is seen looking
downcast, for her hunched shoulders and pursed lips reflect a certain timidity and shyness that
otherwise manifests in her as unlikely grace. Delicate spotted fins frame her youthful face, flowing
behind her in sheer rays of white-and-blue, while smaller fins of the same soft colouring adorn her
upper and lower arms. She clutches a tattered old cloak around herself, the poorly made garment
offering little respite from the elements, and her bare feet appear bruised and beaten by endless
days and nights of wandering.

Kneeling down and wrapping a dry cloak around the young girl, Auriella whispers, "Hello there."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says to Symone Merule, "Greetings."

With a burbling in their throat, Glacydra Coldwater says to Symone Merule, "Are you all right? We
were called to aid you."

Her voice soft, yet thick as if it is difficult to breathe, Symone Merule manages to say, "Ah... Are
you also here in pilgrimage to the Lady?" She takes the cloak from Auriella with wide-eyed surprise,
wrapping about herself even as she coughs again, shivering.

Wonderingly, her low voice marked by confusion, Symone Merule says, "Aid me? How would you know
to...?"

Remaining at the rear of the group, Avaris takes a step further back, his hands
slipping beneath his wings to clasp together at the base of his spine. He studies Symone Merule in
silence, the sanguine lines of his antennae curving down.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says to Symone Merule, "What is it you attempt?? We are faithful of the Empyreal."

You think to yourself: "She is so ill. The poor lass. It is good that the others are here, and not I
alone. They will tend to her."

Smiling warmly to the young girl, Auriella speaks softly, "Your prayers have been heard by the Lady
Empyreal, dear, and we have been asked to find you and help you." Gently rubbing the girls shoulder
through the cloak, she continues, "Are you feeling any better?"

At Faragan's words, Symone Merule seems to attempt to straighten her posture, a sudden understanding
dawning as she exclaims, "Oh... Oh! Of course. That would explain your kindness, yes." She looks to
the remains of a white magnolia flower in her hands, having decayed overnight to nothing but
shredded petals of dust. Again she coughs, and this time, her entire body shudders with the
movement. "Did She send you to me?" she asks, tentative, as if the thought itself might be
blasphemous to voice aloud.

Simply, and quietly, Glacydra Coldwater says, "Yes, She did."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says to Symone Merule, "As Auriella said she gave us to know you needed help in your
pilgrimage as you called it."

Faragan takes a mixed seaweed salad from a survivalist's duffel bag of ivory and gold.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says, "I don't have anything to drink to help your throat but, perhaps this might help it."

Faragan gives a mixed seaweed salad to Symone Merule.

Her youthful face now downcast, either embarrassed or secretly pleased, Symone Merule holds the
cloak gifted by Auriella close, glancing to the healing mound to the east as she says sorrowfully,
"I was too late, I think, to be of much use to Her." The salad that Faragan presents her is gingerly
accepted in her frail hands as she blinks, surprised, before gratefully taking it and attempting to
take a bite. From her reaction, it appears it has been a long time since she has eaten at all.

Placing a small bucket upon the ground next to the young girl, Auriella says, "It is not fancy, but
I am sure any fluids would help with your throat. The water is fresh."

The expressionless plating of Avaris's face turns to Symone Merule at this, his
antennae bending further down still. In a calm, even chorus of resonating voices, he says, "The task
with the mound is complete, but that does not render you of no use to Her. We all serve Her in many
ways. You may yet express your Devotion to Her, if that is what you wish." He pauses, a low,
vibrating hum emanating from his throat. "But first we must heal you. Swiftly."

Pushing past a faint sense of hesitation and uncertainty, Symone Merule takes the bucket from
Auriella and allows herself to drink -- slowly, at first, until she thirst betrays her and she
begins to drink from it in earnest. Afterwards, as she speaks, the raspy nature of her voice seems
slightly calmed, though it remains thin and reedy as she says, "I... I am sorry to be a bother. I
did not mean to fall into such a state, in my travels, but the storms..." Her voice trails off,
riddled with shame.

Forlornly, Symone Merule says, "I wanted to help Her, not burden Her."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says to Symone Merule, "The storms are bad indeed. we of Hers are happy to help."

Her gentle voice drifting through the air with a watery echo, Auriella "There is never any need to
apologize dear, and you are far from being a burden. We are able and always willing to assist those
that are in need."

Her voice drifting through the air with a watery echo, Auriella Zayah, Lady of the Holy Flame says,
"As is the Lady Empyreal."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says to Symone Merule, "Tea might help slightly."

Resigned, at last, to the kindness she seems destined to receive, Symone Merule wobbles to her feet,
looking anxiously at those gathered. "Who shall I follow?" she asks, taking the glass from Faragan
and taking a long draught, its contents appearing to clear her mind.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star asks Symone Merule, "Where are you from lady?"

As if reciting by rote, Symone Merule says, "Saint Gathylyn's Orphanage."

Comprehension flashes across Faragan's face.

Gesturing at the others, Avaris says, "Perhaps we should save the queries for
later. Heal her first. Auriella, you still wish to lead, I take it?"

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says to Symone Merule, "Auriella is the leader of the chapter of New Celest that upholds
that Saint. She might be best."

Seeming grateful for guidance, Symone Merule steps behind Auriella with a halting nod, her shoulders
pressed up towards her ears as she gathers the cloak close.

Her voice drifting through the air with a watery echo, Auriella Zayah, Lady of the Holy Flame says,
"I am happy to take you wherever you wish to go, dear. Somewhere safe and out of the weather."

(The Avowing): Princess Nabithia says, "What news have you found?"

(The Avowing): Auriella says, "We have indeed encountered the young girl from the vision."

(The Avowing): Faragan says, "We found a pilgrim from the orphinage of Saint lothes that is slightly
il it seems princess."

(The Avowing): Princess Nabithia says, "Ah. Then it seems her healing is paramount?"

(The Avowing): You say, "Rather more than slightly. She will not last long."

(The Avowing): You say, "It is."

(The Avowing): Princess Nabithia says, "Worrisome indeed. The Lady's realm, however, has much healing
power within it."

Her voice drifting through the air with a watery echo, Auriella Zayah, Lady of the Holy Flame says,
"Let us return the the Princess then, shall we?"

(The Avowing): You say, "Indeed. The lotuses and the waters of the Grotto, for one. Let us not
tarry."

(The Avowing): Princess Nabithia says, "Perhaps there is a reason we received this missive from the
Grotto, indeed."

You nod your head emphatically.

Faragan nods his head at Auriella, showing his acceptance.

((Movement))

You follow Auriella Zayah, Lady of the Holy Flame south to the Grotto of the White.

Auriella curtseys gracefully before Princess Nabithia.

Her antennae standing at attention as Symone Merule enters, Princess Nabithia steps aside to reveal
the Grotto of the White in all its shining waters, saying, "She may cleanse herself here, if she
wishes."

Symone Merule looks at a luminous pool anxiously, then up at Auriella, as if waiting permission to
step forward.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says to Symone Merule, "You may wash here at this pool if you wish lady."

Stepping far to one side of the cavern, Avaris assumes a posture of natural
vigilance, at once relaxed and alert.

Her voice drifting through the air with a watery echo, Auriella Zayah, Lady of the Holy Flame says
to Symone Merule, "This is the realm of the Lady Empyreal, dear. You shall be safe here. The pool
shall help soothe your wounds and your worries."

The tension holding Symone Merule taut seems to relax at the gentle words from those gathered, and
at an approving nod from Princess Nabithia, she exhales. Then she approaches a luminous pool and
kneels -- her hands pressed together before herself, rather than immediately taking to the waters.
"Lady Empyreal," she prays aloud, "forgive me for failing in my pilgrimage. I arrived too late, and
did not prepare well for my journey. It was my foolishness that led to needing your power. For that
I am sorry." She pauses, the deep shame in her words causing her to lower her head, as she
continues, "Thank you for sending such kind people to tend to me anyway, in your infinite
benevolence."

Faragan turns his back to give the merian woman a simblance of privicy.

Faragan smiles softly.

Misty white light drifts across the surface of a luminous pool as a calm, feminine voice ripples
forth from the mystical waters, "Why do you suppose you have failed Me?"

Symone Merule jumps back, startled, as the pool responds in frothing mist, her eyes large and wide
as the soft voice echoes around her.

Faragan smiles softly at Symone Merule.
Symone Merule manages a weak smile that seems at odds with her frail appearance.

Faragan turns back around.

You think to yourself: A flicker of faint amusement, at the recurring question and themes present.
"She will fit in very well, I think. She already has that aspect in hand."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star asks Symone Merule, "You prayed to the Empyreal. where you not prepared for a reply?"

Lifting the pitiful remains of the magnolia in her hand, Symone Merule says, "I... That is, the
flower decayed before I could lend its power to yours. The wisps were gone, and the storms made me
useless when you needed help most. I, um..." The words trail off, her utter bafflement and
embarrassment rendering her mute.

Misty white light drifts across the surface of a luminous pool as a calm, feminine voice ripples
forth from the mystical waters, "My Immaculate. Do you believe this child has failed Me, as she
suggests?"

Facing impassively out across the illuminated waters, the effulgent, stylised eyes
of Avaris's wings shift to Faragan and Princess Nabithia.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says, "No, empyreal. the sercomstances beyond her controle were no of her choosing. To
attempt such a thing with a pure intent and heart to help is not failyer to her."

Misty white light drifts across the surface of a luminous pool as a calm, feminine voice ripples
forth from the mystical waters, "Indeed. The storms were the work of Li-varili, and Her ill-begotten
Awakening of the Sea Spirit. To take such upon your shoulders, child, is to remove that
responsibility from the Lady of the Lagoons. I would not ask that of you."

Misty white light drifts across the surface of a luminous pool as a calm, feminine voice ripples
forth from the mystical waters, "Nonetheless, you hesitate before touching My healing waters. I
would know why, for this reason is not a true one."

Her hands falling to her lap, Symone Merule looks to all present helplessly, as if seeking for an
answer that never comes. Then she swallows, and says, "I don't think... it is right to ask anything
of you, when I have not given anything in return. Not when you have already done so much, and not
even been thanked for it."

Misty white light drifts across the surface of a luminous pool as a calm, feminine voice ripples
forth from the mystical waters, "Am I such a petty Divine as this, to demand gifts for My healing?"

"N-no!" Symone Merule blurts out, mortified, before turning to Glacydra and you in desperation. "I
am not saying this right," she says, looking downwards.

Princess Nabithia watches the exchange in silence, her antennae flicking to attend to every sound as
she keeps her arms crossed in quiet thought.

Avaris's head tilts backwards slightly, so that he gazes at the ceiling, a faint,
shivering note drifting forth from him for a moment. In a calm, very level voice, he says, "Be at
your ease, child. She does not do what She does for thanks. The best way you can show your gratitude
to Her is to wash in the waters of the Grotto, be healed, and serve Her when you are able."

Faragan reaches out to symone with a small furry paw. speak your heart child and not your mind to
the empyreal.

Glacydra nods their head emphatically.

With a burbling in their throat, Glacydra Coldwater says, "Sometimes the words we want to say don't
come out just the way we want. It's okay. Your sincerity is understood."

Kneeling down next to the young girl with a warm smile, Auriella gently says, "Your intent was pure
and your heart in the right place. And that dear, speaks more than any gift." Reaching into the
folds of her cloak, she retrieves a small glowing flower and offers it to Symone." Should you wish
to complete your quest that you set out to, then I offer this to you."

Auriella holds out a pure white magnolia blossom to Symone.

Taking in a deep, shaky breath, Symone Merule attempts to steady herself, seeming almost dizzy as
she faces a luminous pool once more. "I want to serve you, Lady," she says breathlessly. "When I
heard of what you had done, rescuing the fallen Goddess when no other would, I thought... Perhaps
this is where I am meant to go. I am too old to remain in the orphanage any longer, and there is
little I am suited to. But to serve someone such as you, I think, would be a great thing. A life in
pursuit of healing and devotion, even when the world expects unkindness." She takes the magnolia
from Auriella with a childish sense of wonder and wistfulness alike, saying at last, "I wanted to
prove Myself before asking such a thing. Instead, I come here begging for your aid. It is not what I
wanted."

Misty white light drifts across the surface of a luminous pool as a calm, feminine voice ripples
forth from the mystical waters, "Perhaps. And yet the Fates rarely concern themselves with Our
desires, do they not? Life is taking what occurs and gleaning your own Wisdom from it."

Misty white light drifts across the surface of a luminous pool as a calm, feminine voice ripples
forth from the mystical waters, "Regardless, you do not beg from Me what is freely granted."

Her hands shaking, Symone Merule begins to reach for the mist-laden surface of a luminous pool
before hesitating one last time. "Then... You will allow me to serve you?" she asks, brow furrowed
in confusion. "Or do I, ah, misunderstand?"

(Celest): Soterasiel (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "Is anyone in need of assistance?"

Misty white light drifts across the surface of a luminous pool as a calm, feminine voice ripples
forth from the mystical waters, "What say you, My Faithful? What think you of this child's
Devotions?"

With a burbling in their throat, Glacydra Coldwater says, "I like her. She's got determination and
sincerity. I think she'd be a great fit."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says, "Stedfast through it all than to continue on. She will serve you as you say with
devotion and fortitude empyreal."

Immediately, Avaris replies, "She is worthy. That is evident. She will be a welcome
amongst those that serve You, Lady."

Faragan smiles softly.

Her voice drifting through the air with a watery echo, Auriella Zayah, Lady of the Holy Flame says,
"I agree, it was her Devotion that kept her going and brought her this far."

You think to yourself: "Purity, Devotion and Fortitude. Wisdom, perhaps, needs work, but that yet
puts her ahead of many who claim to serve Her. I look forward to seeing how she grows within the
Lady's care."

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

Glacydra nods solemnly.

Despite herself, Symone Merule seems surprised at the chorus of agreement, and faintly self
-conscious at its utterance. Still, it gives her the courage to move forward, and at last she places
her hands in the pool, and splashes her face with its cleansing waters.

As Symone Merule's hands place themselves upon the luminous pool, a breathtaking healing light
emanates from the Grotto of the White, bathing the young merian in its salubrious glow. Breath seems
to return to her at last as the coughing fades from her voice, her eyes brightening as if seeing
beyond what others might. The cloak about her shoulders, likewise, impossibly transforms, becoming
something grand and fine as it suffusing her in a warm embrace.

((Healed Symone desc))

A humble white cloth tied about her bowed head, this young merian has only just entered womanhood.
Her pale scales shimmer the faint hue of shallow waters, her gills flickering with silvery shades of
blue-grey that glisten as she breathes. Without question, the merian's most striking feature is her
large grey eyes, which shine as luminous and deep as a gazing pool; there is an almost unsettling
quality to how intently she looks upon those who return her gaze. More often than not, however, she
is seen looking downcast, for her hunched shoulders and pursed lips reflect a certain timidity and
shyness that otherwise manifests in her as grace. Pretty spotted fins frame her youthful face,
flowing behind her in sheer rays of white-and-blue, while smaller fins of the same soft colouring
adorn her upper and lower arms. She clutches an immaculate white cloak about herself with pride, the
grey robes beneath it gently billowing with each quiet step of her sandaled feet. She bears a symbol
of the Empyreal Goddess in her right hand.

Auriella beams broadly at Symone Merule.
Symone Merule bows deeply in greeting.

Faragan flashes Symone Merule a joyous smile.
Symone Merule bites her lip in thought.

Her voice drifting through the air with a watery echo, Auriella Zayah, Lady of the Holy Flame says
to Symone Merule, "How do you feel, dear?"

The words soft in their quiet utterance, Symone Merule whispers, "O-oh..." She looks at the
immaculate white cloak about herself in astonishment, speechless, before saying to Auriella, "Light,
somehow. And different, but... not poorly. Not poorly at all."

Glacydra's mouth turns up as their face breaks into a smile.

Her voice drifting through the air with a watery echo, Auriella Zayah, Lady of the Holy Flame says,
"Of that, I am glad!"

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says to Symone Merule, "Glad to hear."

The effulgent gaze of the stylised eyes upon Avaris's wings remains upon Symone
Merule as the young merian is healed, a glittering of brilliant light brightening his natural eyes
for a time.

Misty white light drifts across the surface of a luminous pool as a calm, feminine voice ripples
forth from the mystical waters, "I ask of four vows of those who serve Me, child. Purity of heart.
Devotion to Me and My city. Fortitude to withstand what comes, and Wisdom to wield what knowledge
life grants you with a selflessness of spirit. Your actions haven shown Me you understand such
things, and your heart has sworn these oaths long before I asked them of you."

(Market): Sulwh says, "Looking for peppermint and coal."

You think to yourself: A steady sensation of firm approval, both for the merian girl and his
Goddess.

Misty white light drifts across the surface of a luminous pool as a calm, feminine voice ripples
forth from the mystical waters, "You may join My anchoresses, if you wish, as an acolyte until the
day comes you are ready to serve Me as a priestess in truth. Until then, learn of Me. Speak among
Mine, and assist them in the completion of their vows."

Misty white light drifts across the surface of a luminous pool as a calm, feminine voice ripples
forth from the mystical waters, "You owe Me nothing for your healing, yet I will not deny you what
you wish to offer Me."

Symone Merule bows her head in obeisance, whispering, "Thank you, Lady Empyreal. I am... beyond
words."

Speaking up, the pleasant hum of her voice echoing in the cavern, Princess Nabithia says, "Perhaps
the Sanctuary is a fine place for her to oversee, in the meantime?"

Continuing the hunt for his dark mate, Father Sun presses forward in his journey, lowering himself
in the sky yet still casting even, full light upon the land.

Misty white light drifts across the surface of a luminous pool as a calm, feminine voice ripples
forth from the mystical waters, "If the child wishes, then so be it."

Faragan flashes Symone Merule a joyous smile.
Symone Merule bites her lip in thought.

Looking to Princess Nabithia gratefully, Symone Merule rises to her feet and bobs her head in a
swift nod, saying, "Oh, yes. I would be happy to go wherever the Lady most has need of me." Then,
with some admitted fondness, she adds, "It is very beautiful. I think I would be glad to stay there,
for awhile."

Misty white light drifts across the surface of a luminous pool as a calm, feminine voice ripples
forth from the mystical waters, "Then I leave the child in your care, My Faithful."

Bobbing lights dim and twirl about the sparkling waters of the Grotto of the White, before the
rippling waters still and go silent.

With a burbling in their throat, Glacydra Coldwater says to Symone Merule, "Welcome! I'm pretty new
too, so we'll be learning together."

Glacydra's mouth turns up as their face breaks into a smile.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star asks Symone Merule, "I'm sure you can find the sanctuary child. do you have quetions?"

Avaris lowers his head in a reverent bow before the luminous waters, then
straightens into his former posture of ready vigilance.

Symone Merule bites her lip, looking at the receding ripples of a luminous pool before blinking
owlishly and turning to Faragan. "Ah, that is... How do you each serve Her?" she asks, somewhat
awkwardly.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says to Symone Merule, "I am one of her heralds. me and my niece are the mortal shards that
lead her order if that can be aid to be a thing for we follow as the rest."

The broad, sanguine curves of Avaris's antennae twitch towards each of the others
gathered, the gaze of his glowing eyes studying them calmly, though he makes no move to speak.

"That sounds most important," Symone Merule says with a soft sigh, eyes shining. "Then I am certain
I will have much to learn from your Wisdom, as I continue in my study."

With a burbling in their throat, Glacydra Coldwater says, "I'm a work in progress, but I hope to
serve Her by celebrating Her with beauteous products and various forms of artistry one day."

Glacydra's mouth turns up as their face breaks into a smile.

Faragan gives Glacydra a thumbs up.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says to Glacydra, "I very much look forward to those works."

Turning to Glacydra with rapt curiosity, Symone Merule says, "You are an artist? Goodness. There are
so many ways to serve Her, aren't there?" She lets out a quiet laugh, her gills shimmering with
the sound, as she admits, "I do not think I have much of an artist's gift in me. Though I would like
to try more of it, when I have the opportunity."

Auriella smiles towards Glacydra before nodding towards Faragan, "I myself and currently working on
a sermon towards my own Devotions to the Lady Empyreal. Perhaps you may be able to attend when it is
ready if it will not interrupt your duties here."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says to Symone Merule, "To serve her is only limited by ones emagination I think."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says, "I remember auriellas introductionto the order ...amaising it was to me."

Auriella's eyes sparkle with amusement at Faragan.

Symone Merule looks at Auriella with unguarded curiosity, her fins fanned out as she listens.

Faragan flashes Auriella a joyous smile.

Faragan hops over by the pool and gently traces the dartings and circalings of the two coi fish
along the serface of the water and smiles gently into the pool.

With a warm smile to all gathered, Auriella speaks, "Unfortunately I must rest." Glancing towards
Symone she continues, "I am glad you have found a home with us, and hope to learn alongside you in
our journey."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says to Auriella, "I was about to say the same. sadly."

Gathering the cloak about herself as one might a great talisman, Symone Merule says to Auriella,
"Thank you for your kindness, Lady."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says, "Thank you all for your assistance in this."

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

Curtseying, Symone Merule says to Faragan, "And thank you for your help as well. And the tea."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star asks Symone Merule, "Glad to help child. Can you make your way to your post?"

Taking the brief silence as a cue to speak, Princess Nabithia steps forward and says in a harmony of
buzzes, "I am Nabithia, one of the Lady's Immaculate. I oversee the Vanishing Isles and the Temple
so that the Empyreal may focus on other matters." Her antennae twitch as she chitters with a
peculiar laugh, saying, "I journeyed far from the Hives to serve Her. I can understand, slightly,
the strangeness you must be feeling. It is a lot of change, no?"

Symone Merule nods at Faragan, wringing her hands even as she exudes a quiet confidence in the task.
"Yes," she says in reply.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Master Merchant of
The Star says to Symone Merule, "Be well then and again welcome and feel free to ask further
questions you have as you study."

With a flourish of his arm, Faragan bows deeply.

Symone Merule offers Faragan a shy smile, averting her eyes.

With a flourish of his arm, Faragan bows deeply.

Luminous waters dance about Faragan and carry him away in a stream of light, taking with them a
glissade of water lilies which drift along to the north.

Her voice growing slightly more sure, Symone Merule says to Princess Nabithia, "Yes, so much change.
And yet it is... good change, I think. I suppose I will be seeing much of you then."

Humming with an almost mischievous tone, Princess Nabithia says, "You will not be able to rid
yourself of me, I think."

Looking perplexed, Symone Merule lets out a slight laugh, as if unsure if the kephera is joking or
not.

Watching the others depart in silence, Avaris's attention shifts to Princess
Nabithia as the Princess speaks, a glittering of mirthful light gleaming within the azure of his
gaze.

Princess Nabithia taps her nose knowingly.

You think to yourself: Amusement and fondness both mix in a quiet, warm sense of affection. "A very
fine limpet to have attached to oneself."

As if in afterthought, Symone Merule turns to you, who has stood in quiet vigil since the grotto's
pool has gone silent. "I don't think I asked you of your service to the Lady," the merian says,
mildly abashed at this lack of courtesy.

Antennae flicking towards Symone Merule, Avaris's visored face turns to the merian
in some surprise. "Ah." He pauses, the brief silence filled with a deep consideration, before the
massive pauldrons of his shoulders rise in a slow shrug. "I do not have an answer for you,
unfortunately. I do not truly....Do anything for Her."

After a moment, Avaris hazards, "Moral support?"

You think to yourself: "I do not think exasperating Her counts."

Her brow furrowing, Symone Merule looks at you in apparent confusion, before politely saying, "Oh?"

A sudden chittering sound resounds as Princess Nabithia breaks into laughter, though she manages to
stifle it as quickly it as comes.

Agreeably, Glacydra Coldwater says, "Moral support is great. Sometimes it just takes some kind words
to pick you up at the end of the day. And meet the next day."

Lost in a deep thought, Symone Merule says, "To think even Elders can be weighed down by burdens...
I suppose They would have to be, wouldn't They? Since shards are part of Elders, in some way."

Resting her cheek in her hand, Symone Merule says, "It is a strange thing to consider. The Lady
seems so very wise and capable."

Clearing his throat in a short vibration of sound, Avaris dips his head in a curt
nod, his tone politely neutral. "They have lived long and difficult lives. Wisdom and capability are
very fine qualities, which She has in abundance, but responsibility weighs upon the shoulders of
all. Even Elders."

Watching the exchange in what can only be described as amused silence, Princess Nabithia has her
compound eyes flicker from you to Symone Merule and finally Glacydra, enjoying herself immensely.

You think to yourself: Wry amusement, dry as a desert wind. "I see you, Princess. Do not think I
will forget this."

Princess Nabithia tells you, "You forget how well my antennae can hear, Enduring. A most fatal
mistake indeed!"

Princess Nabithia's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Nodding seriously, Symone Merule says, "Then it appears I have much to learn indeed, if I am to be
worthy of Her patronage and true to Her service."

Falling in a deep curtsey, her voice earnest with affection and genuine appreciation, Symone Merule
says, "Thank you all for your kindness. I am... beyond grateful for it. Truly."

With a burbling in their throat, Glacydra Coldwater says, "Thank you for joining us."

Avaris's rightmost antenna flicks towards Princess Nabithia as he gazes stoically
out across the waters. Calmly, he replies, in total confidence, "Your Devotion is what makes you
worthy. Love Her as She is due, be true to Her, and all else will flow from there." Waving the
curtsey away with a warding motion of his golden hand, he says, "None of that. Aid is given where it
is needed. You will do so in turn, given time."

Glacydra's mouth turns up as their face breaks into a smile.

With a burbling in their throat, Glacydra Coldwater says, "I'm afraid I must go as well. Please
excuse me."

Glacydra folds their hands at their waist and bows solemnly before rising again.

You tell Princess Nabithia, "I forget nothing of the sort, Princess. I know how to fling a barb well
enough."

Princess Nabithia strides over to Symone Merule and placing a hand on the merian's shoulder, affirms
in a ringing buzz, "I shall introduce you to the anchoresses, then. I am sure they will be pleased
to have such an eager youth willing to learn their ways." She then looks to you with amusement
sparkling anew in her compound eyes, as she says, "You will find they are soft spoken, unlike some
others among the Lady's service."

Obliviously, with the faintest hint of trepidation, Symone Merule says, "Oh? Are there are those
with sharp tongues I should be wary of?"

Solemnly nodding, her starlit silks shimmering as she guides the merian along, Princess Nabithia
says, "Oh, yes. You will find there are those with quite sharp tongues indeed, if you listen long
enough." She clicks her mandibles as she looks at you, as if challenging you to reply.

If the prolonged, quiet hiss of breath that flows between the invisible seams of
Avaris's faceplate has a note of long-suffering exasperation to it, surely it must be a trick of the
acoustics of the Grotto. Mildly, he says, "You will find that the Lady has in Her service what is
quite possible the most razor sharp tongue in all of Creation." Deliberately not looking Princess
Nabithia's way, he adds, serenely, "Wickedly utilised, as well. A tyrant, one might say, wielding a
whip."

Blithely, Avaris says, "The identity, alas. A mystery lost to the mists."

Her large grey eyes widening, Symone Merule says, "A tyrant? That... doesn't sound like someone who
would serve such a Divine as our Lady?"

Buzzing with laughter, Princess Nabithia says, "The Enduring speaks rightly. You shall have to walk
carefully, little one. Come, let me show you to the others."

Princess Nabithia inclines her head politely to you.

Turning his immense hand slowly palm-up, Avaris replies, enigmatically, "Wisdom."

You incline your head politely to Princess Nabithia.

Symone Merule begins to curtsey then stops, seeming embarrassed to be caught mid-action, before
straightening and finally finding something to do with her hands.

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

The two women depart in a flurry of starlit silks and white cloth, leaving the grotto empty save for
you.

Lowering his head to the departing women in a courteous gesture, Avaris's eyes
glitter with a mixture of fondness and amusement as he turns his gaze back to the waters.

You think to yourself: "Nabithia will be good for her. A fine role model for one so shy."