Big Talks with a Sister-to-Be

<-- we were doing Wheel things at the Wheel because things when Qillilitli arrived!

LOOK QILLI
She is a feathered cloud trill demigoddess and bustles with effervescent energy, characterized by animated and perhaps restless mannerisms that belie her lissome frame. The trill's shorter stature and slender figure are yet compensated by her impressive wingspan; jet black feathers with flecks of silver and gold comprise mighty avian wings that would surely withstand the most violent of storms. From the top of her head to her back, a sable crest runs down the center like a mohawk, boasting a wavy, voluminous plume that curls slightly forwards at the feather tips. Peering out in contrast to her fair complexion, intense sapphirine eyes gaze upon the world with indominatable curiosity, often flicking about as if she were perpetually calculating. A shifting pearlescence graces her skin as she walks with the truefavour of Carakhan, Sculptor of Waves.
She is wearing:
an exquisite black suit embellished in sanguine and gearwork tailored to a smart fit upon the trill's frame
a sable scarf with aureate geometries stylishly wrapped about her neck
a plain golden band set lovingly upon her left ring finger
a golden pocket watch draped across her suit vest
a crystalline cloudberry brooch proudly affixed upon her chest
stately high-heeled shoes of sleek black leather adorned with an elegant stature
a violet gladiolus.

LOOKIT CALI
She is a feathered storm trill demigoddess, a statuesque and imposing woman that stands well over six and a half feet tall. Her face is full of strong, rough edges, evoking imagery from a battlefield: her skin's hue is reminiscent of dusty, sun-bleached bones, long since stripped of their flesh and vitality; her lips are the tone of blackened earth, and her eyes the tint of a cloudless morning sky polluted by plumes of smoke. The feathers that adorn her head, the expansive wings upon her back, and much of the rest of her body are the color of a stream into which bodies were carelessly thrown, their blood staining the water. At the end of each of her well-muscled arms are hands hardened by callouses, and the nails that tip each of her fingers are curved and appear to have been sharpened, giving them a talon-like quality.
She is wearing:
an austere suit of full plate
a pair of disciplined roseate wings, protruding dutifully from her back through slots in her armor
a serviceable grey cloak with a dodecahedron clasp
a tactical leather baldric, clasped across her chest and back securely
a crystalline cloudberry brooch, pinned to the right side of her cloak
the Quintessential Mandala of Resplendent Harmony, partially obscured by her cloak
a striking wedding ring bearing a miniature black ghodak stone, worn on her left ring finger
a utilitarian pouch, secured to the left side of her waist.

LOOKIT ME-ME
The being standing before you exudes friendly energy, standing several inches shy of six feet tall with an athletic build. They are an ordinary human kindly demigod changeling. Their arms and legs are sinewy, the muscles in their upper body evidence of recent training efforts. Their calloused hands are constantly in motion, either loosely balled into fists at their side or resting on their instrument. Their most prominent three knuckles of their right hand are faintly scarred, pale star-shapes etched across their flesh. Their sandy skin has been tanned from repeated 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 kind gray-blue eyes gaze out from below red bangs, their color striking against all the surrounding warm hues. Two tendril-like scars akin to burns wind their way up the humans's arms, marring their knuckles, the backs of their hands, and ending finally before the elbow. A brilliant ivory light suffuses the air about them, pulsing occasionally with a sense of childlike joy.
They are wearing:
a starry wreath of celestial light set atop their head like a halo
a circlet of crystal thorns resting loosely atop their head
a vivid red-orange poppy tucked lovingly behind their left ear
a sunset cloak of the darkening sea which hangs off of their right shoulder asymmetrically
the Mantle of Starlight which flows dreamily about their shoulders and back
a calming lavender dress shirt which has been tucked into their pants
mercurial Mysraian prayer beads pulled taut against their right wrist
minty citrus incense beads pulled taut against their right wrist
aromatic cedar and cinnamon incense beads pulled taut against their right wrist
a crystalline poppy with inlaid smoke worn delicately upon their left wrist
a charming wedding ring bearing a miniature white ghodak stone fitted securely to their left ring finger
a pair of black trousers bearing silver stars which fit their shape nicely
Refined Boots of the Paladin, worn and weathered from use.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says to Qillilitli, "Sister."

Qillilitli beams broadly at Calioliahali.

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

Esei stares blankly into space.

Qillilitli beams broadly at Calioliahali.

Esei gives the corpse of a giant dismembered tongue to you.

You beam broadly at Qillilitli.

You blink.

Bright and clear, you ask Esei, "Ah - aouwah?"

Bright and clear, you say to Esei, "...thank you, many thank yous."

You toss the corpse of a giant dismembered tongue onto the blaze of Mount Zoaka's Titanium Brazier of Explosive Transformation, engulfing it instantly in the flame as it is filled with 10 esteem.

Esei blinks innocently.

Qillilitli flashes you a joyous smile.

You have emoted: Gurashi politely shoves the monstrous tongue into Mount Zoaka's Titanium Brazier of Explosive Transformation.

Bright and clear, you ask Qillilitli, "How are, how are?"

Calioliahali administers a tender squeeze to your hand as she smiles faintly toward Qillilitli.

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says to you, "I'm doing alright! How was practice?"

Swaying, you say, "Dizzying and fun."

Qillilitli nods her head emphatically.

Bright and clear, you say to Qillilitli, "It was my birthday! I got to dance! I did not panic when I went upside-down."

Comprehension flashes across Qillilitli's face.

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says to you, "Well a belated happy birthday to you! I'm glad it was a good one."

Bright and clear, you say to Qillilitli, "I will work on my final performance and sends it in the next couple <months>, yes yes - ah! Many thank yous!"

Bright and clear, you ask Qillilitli, "How are you? Have been well?"

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says to you, "Ah, excellent! I'll look forward to reading your script. I suppose we must be completing ours as well! Time gets away from us, hmm."

<-- bunch more people arrived at the Wheel so

Politely, you say, "Excuse me, am going to just... step..."

Calioliahali follows you out.
The Enigmatic Stairs. (road).
Throughout the location, small dancing flames flicker and spark. It is uncomfortably cold. Weighing heavy upon the air, a sense of palpable loss and indomitable will seems to emanate from the path itself. Far above, shrouded by clouds, the imposing summit of Avechna's Peak soars overhead. The mountain pierces so far into the sky as to give an onlooker vertigo, should they gaze upon it for too long. Resinous smoke eddies from the top of a glassy, smoke-filled cylinder of poppy petals and paradigms nearby.
You see exits leading up, down, and in.

You close your eyes and inhale deeply, absorbing the scent of your surroundings.

You let loose a long breath from your lungs, exhaling slowly.

Bright and clear, you say, "Loud."

You flail about helplessly.

Calioliahali nods her head.

Your melodic voice sings into Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter's mind, "Sorry! So sorry, was getting too noisy to think, dearest Qillilitli!"

You look at a healing shrine of Mysrai hopefully.
You pat a healing shrine of Mysrai in a friendly manner.

Qillilitli tells you, "Ah, yes of course."

Qillilitli ponders the situation.

You beam broadly.

Bright and clear, you say, "Hi..."

Calioliahali quietly glances between you and Qillilitli, then discreetly pulls an angelic spice cake from her cloak.

Without any evident effort, Calioliahali devours an angelic spice cake entirely with eyes closed in ecstasy.

You look at Calioliahali hopefully.

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says to you, "Ah, well, I have been well, just focusing on preparing for the trials ahead and pursuing some other projects."

Qillilitli ponders the situation.

Bright and clear, you say to Qillilitli, "...ah, I thinks was asking how you had been? If had many applications and words, and - oh! Trials!"

You clap your hands together merrily.

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says to you, "I do believe I owe you a conversation, when you are ready to have it. Cali and I had a good talk, anyway."

Calioliahali's cheeks faintly fill with color as she consumes the last of her cake, and she gently nods toward Qillilitli, though she remains silent.

You have emoted: Gurashi's gray eyes widen, and they suddenly blurt out, "Oh, r-right. Actually," They look up at Calioliahali, then back at Qillilitli, biting their lower lip. "You are right. Of course. I do owe you a conversations too, a conversations back."

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says, "Well, ah, don't let me interrupt what you were doing!"

Calioliahali shakes her head toward Qillilitli. "You are not interrupting. It was ah, good to see you, dear sister."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods quickly in agreement to Calioliahali, their free hand flying to their own chin. "Ah, yes! She is right! Is goodly to see you, is nicely to see. I-I have time to talk. I would not be opposed."

Qillilitli nods her head emphatically.

You have emoted: Gurashi squeezes Calioliahali's hand, looking up from one tall trill to the other. "Ah, uh. A private, conversations? Or..." They puff their cheeks. "Which do prefer, yes?"

You look at Qillilitli hopefully.

Qillilitli smiles at Calioliahali and asks, "May I borrow them for a bit, then? I shall return them in one piece." She solemnly raises a hand in the air.

Bright and clear, you say, "Ah, there is my answers..."

You have emoted: Gurashi squeezes Calioliahali's hand before releasing it and letting their own fall back before their waist. Fidgeting, they step in line behind Qillilitli, smiling politely. "Many thank yous."

Calioliahali's eyebrows knit together as she glances between Qillilitli and you, and then she nods once toward Qillilitli. "Yes, of course." She gives your hand a final squeeze, then releases it.

Qillilitli begins to follow you.

Qillilitli nods her head at Calioliahali.

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says to you, "Lead on! Wherever may be comfortable for you."

Perking up, you say, "Ah! Ah? O-K! Do you have a preference for where would like to go? Oh!"

You speedwalk west to The Humblebee Patisserie.
You have reached your destination.
The Humblebee Patisserie.
This location is flooded with shallow, crystal clear water. The pastel-hued gravel of Nautilus Pompilus street gives way to colorful flagstone as one approaches the open front of this timber-framed, single-story building. Exterior wooden supports have been lovingly carved to resemble the gnarled exterior of trees and winding branches for a supporting lattice that sits above a quaint patio. Boughs of verdant ivy and purple clematis cling to the supports and hang down from the lattice, offering a distraction for insects that might otherwise be interested in the sweets. The storefront itself is brightly colored to match its surroundings, double glass doors propped open on sunny days to let the fresh smells of baked goods drift out into the streets. A sweet-sounding bell hangs poised atop the door's frame to announce the arrival of customers on poor weather days. The shop's cozy interior allows standing room for only a few visitors at a time to comfortably gather. A poppy-shaped lantern hangs from the low rounded ceiling, bathing the room in warm golden light. Dark wood floors offset the rose-gold interior walls where short shelves hold an assortment of curiosities and tiny sprouting planters all lovingly tended to. A simple counter and glass-front display houses the day's specials, and a chalkboard mounted overhead lists the specials of the month and how much they cost. A sign here suggests you READ SIGN! A midnight black woolly rhino with a black diamond horn and a tufted tail dominates the area, pawing the ground and snorting arrogantly. Swirling clouds of purest white meld to outline the ghostly figure of a stormy air elemental here. You see a sign here instructing you that WARES is the command to see what is for sale.
You see exits leading east (open door) and down (closed door).

Singing drifts in from outside, faintly muffled.

Bright and clear, you whisper, "Ta-daaaa--where is Bizirik."

You put your fingers in your mouth and let out a high-pitched whistle, then hope for the best.
Bizirik, the leothin trots in with head high.

Bizirik, the leothin strikes a pose.

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says, "Ah, you are quite agile."

Bright and clear, you say to Bizirik, the leothin, "Come here, silly beast."

Bizirik, the leothin chirps happily at you.

Calioliahali tells you, "*warmth and reassurance stretches across the aethers after you* I love you, Gurashi. Ah... Remember to breathe. It will all be okay. I will see you soon."

You have emoted: Gurashi laughs quietly as they ruffle Bizirik, the leothin's crest of fur, looking up towards Qillilitli hopefully. "Ah! Yeah! I worked hard to be sure to be ...fast? Quickly."

Bright and clear, you say, "Ah, uh. Welcome, to my shop? If you see anything that would like I can fetch it for you for free from the shelves, yes yes. Make yourselfs at home, please."

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "*assent - assent* I love you. Thank you for being so patiently."

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles at Qillilitli, wandering over towards one of the tables where they pull out two chairs, offering one of them to the trill politely.

Qillilitli graciously takes the chair, seating herself and clasping her hands politely in front of her. "Well, I am unsure if she talked with you about our conversation, but as I said, I was able to speak with Cali fairly extensively about the situation... the situation." She looks upward curiously. "I guess it sounds a bit transactional when you say it like. Your relationship!"

You have emoted: Gurashi blinks a few times, dropping down into the sea opposite Qillilitli, hands tucked into their lap. "She just mentioned you two talked, and," They watch Qillilitli, expression scrunching thoughtfully. "That you asked lots of ... good, hard questions." They fidget. "I am prepared to answer anything about it, yes. It is, a conversation I wish I had had the foresight to haves be-fore I asked for her hand." They fidget further, their ears reddening. "Sorry again for that, yes."

Qillilitli waves her slender hand before her. "It is alright. As I told her, well, I feel that this is more of a formality, as I believe that her choice of partner is her decision, and I would always support that. I do, of course, care for her greatly and did promise to uphold my role within her vows, and so I merely seek to understand and not to judge, and to perhaps hold such discourse to allow you both to reach the conclusions amongst yourselves as you should."

You have emoted: Gurashi blinks a few times, lip twitching as they carefully go over the words just spoken to them. "Understanding is very important," They whisper reverently, bowing their head. They knit together their brow, gray eyes locking on Qillilitli. "So ... what questions can I try 'n answers for you?"

Qillilitli breaks into a bright laugh and shakes her head. "Well, this is no inquisition, firstly. I just wanted to talk." The trill pensively look downward for a moment to collect her thoughts. She then looks to you with a sincere expression. "Before I launch into such questions, I did want to offer you some kind words as I feel you deserve. Your positive influence on her is evident, as I recognize a sister that I have perhaps not known in many years. She appears to be quite happy and healthy, and for that, I would commend you for enabling her to move past old wounds or stipulations that she had crafted for herself."

You have emoted: Gurashi blinks hard at this, sitting up a little straighter in their seat at Qillilitli's words. Their eyes suddenly glaze over with tears, and they exhale, their hands tightening upon one another where they are folded in their lap. "A-ah, uh. T-thank, you." They stare down into their lap for a time. "That is, ah. Part of what drew me to her, I think. Is always the ones who put everyone else before themselves, who are extra hard on themselves even when no one asks..." They look up at Qillilitli, smiling warmly. "They shine so brightly, yes. Your sister - she has always shone brightly to me. Am glad seeing her happy makes you happy - it makes me happy, too."

You close your eyes and inhale deeply, absorbing the scent of your surroundings.

Qillilitli smiles at your words, nodding along. She slightly narrows her sapphirine eyes, as if seeing into a distant memory. "You speak true. She is, ah, a trill of strong convictions, and so for someone to have softened her resolve and enabled her own growth and reexamination of a creed she felt so strongly, it is firstly impressive, but it is also quite telling of your shared bond and your care for her. So, in this, I thank you for what you have done for her, and for all of us who care for her."

You blush furiously.

You have emoted: Gurashi opens their mouth, then closes it. Then opens and closes it a few more times. Finally they settle on a gentle, "Ah. M-many thank yous. Ah," Their shoulders relax a little, unbunching as they smile at the trill opposite them. "S-sorry. I w-wasn't expecting the nice words. I am. Grateful. And, feeling like am not deserving of such high praises? B-but am also, grateful. She would not have gotten this far, without any of you, either. She is lucky, to have such a goodly family and such wonderful siblings."

You huff, puffing your cheeks.

Qillilitli's mouth turns upward. "Humility is an appreciable trait, but I would certainly be remiss to not say such things, or to attempt to soften you up." Her smile widens at this, and she inhales deeply to return to a more serious expression. "When I was first introduced to your relationship, well, I did wonder how it would work, given the incompatibilities between your own... circumstances... and her own coded values. I have come to understand these things in part, and I do agree that such changes from her own side are for the better." She stops for a moment to compose her thoughts, attempting to choose her words carefully. "However, in some ways, it remains conceivable that some of your current alignments do represent things that are antithesis to the aims or values of Hallifax and its Pantheon. This is, ah, where the difficult questions arise."

You have emoted: Gurashi knits together their brow, head canting to the side as they listen to Qillilitli, blinking slowly. "Ah," They say at last, face and ears reddening again. "I understand." Then, they say nothing else, watching Qillilitli with nervous expectation.

Qillilitli leans forward in her seat a bit, flexing her hands before intertwining her fingers and folding them together. She studies you for a moment. "I am, ah, unsure how familiar you are with Hallifaxian principles. Our ethos is borne of logic, espousing such things as science, beauty, and harmony. We seek balance, progress, order." She ponders before continuing. "I am not as much an expert as my dapper twin may be, but we have a bit of a written creed - the Collectivist Manifesto, have you read it?"

You have emoted: Gurashi nods politely as they listen along, their gray eyes wide. "I remember the tours," They admit quietly, looking over to where Bizirik is yawning and staring pointedly at the snacks within the cabinet. "I do not remember every details, no. But, I did read it be-fore." They cant their head to the side.

You tilt your head and listen intently to Qillilitli.

Qillilitli's face alights as she recalls at your mention of the tour. "Ah, right!" She frowns slightly. "Perhaps I should carry a copy on my person as they do for times of reference. Well, between you and I, it is a dry read and somewhat uninspiring, althought its logic is sound." The trill brushes her hand against the top of her head, rustling her mohawk-like plumes sheepishly. "I am not as much of a devotee of the Eternal Chairman as some would be. Umm, anyway, sorry, I digress. The Manifesto does, ah, criticize such establishments as the city of Celest for its perceived religious zeal, and also denounces ideals as chaos or disorganized freedom. I understand that you are, ah, a follower of the Thousandfold, as well. I suppose to actually get to a question, I wanted to ask your motivations for aligning with such ideals. What is it that they mean to you? I, ah, again, do not seek to judge but to understand."

You nod your head sagely.

Flinching, you exclaim, "It is, ah, a long book. But, a lot of things like Covenants and Manifestos are, I thinks." They fidget again, continuing to listen, eyes wide. When they speak next there is no fear but instead unbridled joy, and they sit up straighter in their seat. "Ahhh, the Most Beloved, the Thousandfolds - Mysrai, yes yes. That is They!"

Qillilitli nods mutely, continuing to listen politely to you.

You have emoted: "They helped open my eyes," Gurashi explains, shoulders bunching as they reach up to rub the back of their neck. "It is, ah. I-I have a book, actually! A books about Thems, and my experiences with Thems, if you would like to read. There is... ah, so much history, that led me to join Thems. A long, painful..." They trail off, then shake their head. "They and their following have shown me what it is to have a Choice, and how important Choice is. And, They helps me to sow Love where it is needed most. To be goodly, in all that I do." They smile, eyes shining with tears again. "Love and Will. That is what is the most important things to Thems. To our Order."

Earnestly, you say to Qillilitli, "I want to be good. And, I want to be kind. And I want to someday leaves this Basins better than I found it." They pause to catch a breath. "And They have helped me do this, and, even encourage me to do so. And, I do not know that I could say that about every Divines."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down at a crystalline poppy with inlaid smoke upon their wrist, letting out their nervous breath.

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says, "I will take you up on the offer for the book, if it is not too personal to share. I would relish the opportunity to learn."

You have emoted: Gurashi turns away from Qillilitli to briefly fish through a backpack embroidered with wildflowers and bumblebees, eventually pulling out a leather bound book of pressed blossoms. They turn back towards the trill, sliding it towards her.

Sheepishly, you give a leather bound book of pressed blossoms to Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter.

Shyly, you say, "Of course do not have to read now, it is -long-, oh yes."

Bright and clear, you say, "It was a tasks for the Most Beloved, set by the Beloved Oracle, yes. Ah! Uh, B-Beloved. That is, what, we call ourselves. The Thousandfold calls us?"

You nod your head emphatically.

Bright and clear, you whisper, "I-in case was confusing."

Qillilitli reverentially receives the book and carefully stows it. "Ah, I see. Thank you, I shall endeavour to return it to you promptly and in pristine condition."

Bright and clear, you say, "Ah! Oh, I-I have an original copy. You can keep it, if you like it."

Bright and clear, you say to Qillilitli, "Only if you want it. I can make copies, it is noooo problems."

Golden shades radiate from your chest and your heart beats faster with newly-appeared determination.

You have emoted: Gurashi politely drums their hands on their knees, sitting up taller in their seat, inhaling deeply again. "You do not even need to keeps it pristines. Sometimes, it rains."

You nod your head sagely.

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter smiles and says, "Ah, alright. I am not much for keepsakes and accumulating things, so I hope you do not take offense if I indeed return it."

You nod your head sagely.

Quickly, you say, "I understand, yus."

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter asks, "I had a question regarding what you said, hmm. Their tenets - love is one I might readily understand, hmm, though I imagine it can take many forms so perhaps there are different interpretations. However that aside, would you mind expounding upon what you would call Will?"

A great shout breaks the firmament as waves of golden light spill through the heavens. The cries of Elders and Soulless alike fills the air alongside the clamour of fervent battle as an Immaculate Timequake comes into being, dizzying your senses in the brilliant display of power.

(Shadowlight): Qillilitli says, "Timequake."

Nodding, you say, "Everybody has, ah, a Will. It is like, one's intentions, I guess. Everybody has their own hopes and dreams and experiences, and so they all want differently things. It is wrongly, to try to force your Will upon anyone else. Rather, you must find the resolves to stand up to those that would oppose yours, yes. To have a stronglier Will - how this is inevitably achieved, like Love, and the Thousandfolds, is opened to ... -many- different interpretations, yes."

Bright and clear, you say, "Ah."

You have emoted: Gurashi perks up, looking towards the shop door, then towards Qillilitli. "Ahm. Do you want to... or..."

You blush furiously.

Bizirik, the leothin looks exhausted and opens her mouth in an enormous yawn.

You have emoted: Gurashi relaxes slightly, attention returning fully to Qillilitli, hands in their lap.

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says, "Ah, hmm."

Sheepishly, you say, "I am happy to continue this discussions - be-cause we have missed it for a while, and. Yes."

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says, "I imagine we may not have the force to oppose them. We can, ah, continue for now, I believe."

You fidget impatiently.

You nod your head sagely.

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says, "Thank you for your consideration, though."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods shyly, looking down. "Sorry if that was a little vague. The explanations, either of thems. Like the Thousandfolds, they are open to interpretations - can be looked at in many different ways."

Qillilitli ponders the situation.

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter asks, "Then what does Will mean to you? Resolve in your pursuit to do good?"

Bright and clear, you say, "I Choose to look at Their teachings as kindly as I can. Ah, yes." Their eyes widen. "I will be, as goodly and kindly as I possibly can. I want to stand up to bullies, and learn how to be braver to do so for those that I care about. I want to be open and honest and not ever bend in my resolves to anyone who would try to make me do something cruel or unbecoming or to change who I am for the worse."

You blush furiously.

Qillilitli ponders the situation.

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says, "Do I intimidate you? Ah, perhaps I should allow you a chance to ask questions."

Qillilitli tilts her head curiously at you.

You have emoted: Gurashi sits up again in their seat, swaying a little, looking back toward Qillilitli. "Ah! No!"

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter asks, "Ah, even still, do you have questions?"

Bright and clear, you say, "I-I mean! You do not intimidate me! I promise!"

Qillilitli nods her head emphatically.

You have emoted: Gurashi quickly shakes their head, then pauses, leaning forward. "Ah... I guess..." They look at where they had previously set their book. "...are there any things that YOU are worried about - concerning, me." They glance up, swaying shyly. "Any, hesitations. Or, concerns. Beyond, Who I follow. And, where I lives..."

Qillilitli studies you for a moment before responding. "Well, I would clarify that my question was as to who you are, not where you're from or what you do. I was, ah, attempting to better know your values and motivations, rather than any particular assessment of your loyalties. I think it is an important thing to know in a person, and of someone who you would wish to call your kin. I suppose that we Skydrifters are not a family of mere blood or arrangements. We do care deeply for one another and aspire to share our lives in all things. I suppose that is why I feel it important to better understand how we would adapt to your own alignments, given that we otherwise share love of cause and country, of which you may have your own unique viewpoints."

You tilt your head and listen intently to Qillilitli.

You have emoted: Gurashi nods quickly, their eyes wide. "I have seen it," They whisper suddenly. "How dearly and deeply you all care for each other. It is so sincerely sweet. So goodly, ah. It warms the heart to watch even in passing..." They trail off, looking down towards their lap, their cheeks flushing. "I was always grateful, when even before Cali and I were closer friends, she had you all to looks after her, yes. Like how she watched after yous."

Qillilitli takes a deep, measured breath. "I suppose I don't like the word 'concern' in this context. As I attempted to explain to Calioliahali, sometimes in life we are forced to make hard choices, especially with regards to matters of personal commitments and our duties. I merely wondered whether your differences would make such things difficult, in times of conflict, though you both seem quite earnest to make it work and fight for one another."

You nod your head slowly in understanding.

You have emoted: Gurashi's attention is drawn to Bizirik, the leothin for the brief moments the creature's visage drastically changes before they look back at Qillilitli, brow knitted together. They loll their head side to side, nodding slowly, smiling faintly. "I have trouble envisioning anything that I would NOT be willing to endure for she, no..."

Bright and clear, you whisper, "...did I words that right..."

You have emoted: Gurashi counts on their fingers slowly, repeating their words silently to themselves. "Am trying to say, I want. To makes it work. Yes - more than anything."

Pale gold in hue, the wreath about your brow shimmers in a steady pattern, like unto a heartbeat in its gentle pulsation, crowning you in a flickering halo before settling still once more.

The Quintessential Mandala of Resplendent Harmony suddenly begins to glow from its place over Qillilitli's chest until its many gemstones shine with a near-blinding incandescence before dimming to its normal brilliance, ripples of harmonic energy emanating for several moments after.

Qillilitli considers you curiously. "I believe I know what you mean. I suppose to say plainly, you appear to be a source of great strength for her, however one could also conceive that you are also her weakness. Keeping one's heart is a great duty to uphold, and I would trust that you would have the best intentions for her and to support her, as she does you, as we, our family, do you both".

You have emoted: Gurashi sets their jaw, their shoulders bunching slightly as tears continue to collect in their eyes. "I am not the best at finding words on the spot," They murmur, lifting up a hand to wipe at the corner of their eye as they do. "Ahm. Just."

Qillilitli smiles softly at you. "That's probably good. I talk too much sometimes."

You blush furiously.

Bright and clear, you say, "Y-you do not...!"

Bright and clear, you say, "I-I just... I do not know..." They blubber slightly, fumbling over their words. "I do not know which parts to say aloud and which to keeps in my heads."

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says, "On the matter of family, I did also want to ask regarding your daughter, Cheliyi. I understand her relationship with Cali is amicable, yes? I'm sorry to say that I do not know your child well, though I hope we may learn of one another more in the future."

Qillilitli coughs softly.

Qillilitli nods her head at you.

You blush furiously.

Bright and clear, you say, "A-ah. Yes, she and Cali get along so well! They are like beans in a pot!"

Bright and clear, you ask, "...beans in a pod? Peas, in a pod?"

You have emoted: Gurashi's tongue sticks out of the corner of their mouth. "I never get it right. They are, ah. They get along."

Qillilitli nods in understanding.

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter smiles and says, "Perhaps we may all have that tea party some day and talk of less serious things."

You look at Qillilitli hopefully.

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Qillilitli.

You have emoted: Gurashi nods several times over, glancing back down towards their lap. "I just. I do not take you, or, Cali, or, your family lightly. I know how dearly and deeply that bond can be, the familial one..." They hesitate, their eyes again flooding with tears that they blink away. "I think, being around a big loving family would be really goodly - especially for Cheliyi. She never..."

You have emoted: Gurashi fails to finish their thought, shaking their head and smiling weakly at Qillilitli. "I would like to see that you and your siblings remain smiling. And if get to be so lucky as to carry the Skydrifter names too, then, I will carry it proudly, and, honor it a whole lot. To be associated with Cali - with any of you, is a goodly thing I thinks. You are all goodly peoples."

Qillilitli smiles broadly at your compliment. With earnest gratitude, she says, "Thank you for your kind words. We would be honoured to embrace you as Skydrifters, if you should so choose to unite with our own name. I believe my kin are all quite fond of you, even before you became involved with our sister. You were, ah, quite nice to us when we first arrived to the Basin and hardly knew of anyone, or were anything." She looks wistfully downward.

You gaze softens as you smile at Qillilitli.

Quietly, you say to Qillilitli, "Am glad you all decided to stick around. Am grateful every months that see your faces, yes."

You have emoted: Gurashi swallows hard, gazing across the table at Qillilitli, expression tired and genuine. "Qillilitli, I am old, and have made many mistakes in my lifes and felt uncertain about many things, from leaving home to my firstly engagements. But, with Cali..." They inhale deeply. "I have never felt more certain about anythings in my life. I love her more than anything, I thinks."

You nod your head sagely.

Suddenly looking determined, you say to Qillilitli, "I will not let her or you or any Skydrifters down, no sirs."

Qillilitli considers your words and closes her eyes briefly in contemplation. "I do not doubt you. And I believe I have taken enough of your time, dear Gurashi, and said what I needed to say." The trill looks you squarely in the eyes. "That is, other than to say that I give you my permission to marry my dear sibling. I hope it was, ah, not too painful to earn." She grins sheepishly before moving to stand from her chair, stretching her ebon wings behind her slender frame. She offers a slight bow to you, stating simply and sincerely, "Thank you for loving my sister."

Your eyes raise to the heavens as a look of hope flashes across your face.

You look at Qillilitli hopefully.

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a little sound, a croak of a noise, rising to their feet shakily. "Ah, ouwah..." They dust themselves off, then bow as well, rising stiffly, doing their best not to burst into tears. "You are, ah - most kind. Thank you, for taking such goodly care of her too, y-yes! Ah! Thank you! For, permissions! Oh, the most excruciating!" THey dramatically throw the back of their hand to their forehead, posing dramatically. Then, they laugh nervously, arm dropping. "T-thank you, yes! For everything, Miss Tli. Qilli? Tli? Ah, th-thank you."

Qillilitli laughs brightly at your dramatics, shaking her head a bit. "Ah, 'Tli', of course. Or 'Qilli' or, ah, you know. Whatever is fine!" The trill strides over to you and offers a hug, holding the embrace for a time.

You have emoted: "I do not know if you are like your, ah, shiny twin, but ah, are you a--" Gurashi's question is cut short by Qillilitli's embrace, and they suddenly rise to the balls of their feet, throwing their arms around Qillilitli in response, returning the embrace. They heave a great sigh, squeezing shut their eyes. "O-K. I will do that. Many thank yous."

Qillilitli draws back and places a firm hand on your shoulder. "Yeah, I didn't think you would mind."

You throw back your head as you let loose a delighted laugh.

Sheepishly, you say, "Is true. I yam a hugger."

You hum softly to yourself.

You look at Qillilitli hopefully.

Qillilitli nods, admitting, "Between you and I, at first I thought that Hallifax may be too stiff to accommodate some country bumpkins like us, but ah, you know. I am a hugger behind the decorum."

You have emoted: Gurashi's smile grows into a grin at Qillilitli's confession, and they giggle again, nodding several times. "Who doesn't love a good hug?" They sigh happily, folding their arms over their own chest.

Qillilitli nods earnestly. The trill straightens the folds of her suit. "Ah, would you like to invite Cali back, or did you have some other business to attend to?"

You have emoted: Gurashi perks up. "Ah, I was going to call her myselfs if you did not - if you want to see her, then..."

You look at Qillilitli hopefully.

You bounce up and down.

Qillilitli nods her head at you.

Clapping their hands together, you say, "I can call her."

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says, "Please."

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "*a bloom of pastel colors, hopeful and bright* My love, my wish, my dearest - he-llo~."

You have emoted: Gurashi hums, head tilting upwards slightly as they stare off at nothing in the general direction of the door.

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "We are done, if you want to come...? We are, ah, in my shops...!"

Calioliahali tells you, "*warm recognition with a tinge of concern and fatigue* Gurashi. *a pause, surprise* Ah."

Matter-of-factly, you say, "She is sleepy."

You have emoted: Gurashi hums, cupping their unscarred cheek, staring patiently towards the door still.

A sense of uneasiness permeates the area as Calioliahali, riding a golden hippogriff with broad, translucent wings, patrols in from the east with rigid authority.

You look at Calioliahali hopefully.

Qillilitli raises her hand in greeting. "Ah, hello, my sleepy sister!"

You have emoted: Gurashi withdraws their hand from their cheek, stepping away from Qillilitli and reaching for Calioliahali. "Caaaaliiiiiii~!" They say in a sing-song voice, laughing. "Hello, sleepiest!"

Your shoulders bunch as you let out a short giggle.

Calioliahali's eyebrows knit together as she arrives, her arms naturally reaching out towards you as well, even as she regards both you and Qillilitli with confusion. "Ah... Greetings."

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter smiles and says, "I apologize for detaining your loved one for so long. I talk too much sometimes, but I promise I only said good things about you. Thank you for letting me borrow them."

Excitedly, you say, "We talked a whole lot! It was a goodly talk!"

Bright and clear, you say to Qillilitli, "You did not talk too muchly! The perfect amount of words! The best!"

Qillilitli shakes her head.

Calioliahali's expression brightens as she listens to both Qillilitli and you, and she nods gently. "Ah, that is, ah... I am pleased."

You have emoted: Gurashi collects Calioliahali's hand in their own, bringing it up to kiss Calioliahali sweetly on the knuckles. "She said really nice things about you, it is true! The nicest. Me too! You are so lucky to be such a goodly you," They bounce up and down in their spot, gazing adoringly up at the taller trill.

Qillilitli addresses Calioliahali directly. "In any case, I have given Gurashi my permission in acquiescence of your marriage. I have no doubts of their intentions or affections for you. I have also ascertained that their hugs are of satisfactory quality." She turns her head to wink at you, before conluding, "And of course, I wish you both the very best moving forward."

You let out a loud, happy gasp as you turn to focus on Qillilitli.

You throw back your head as you let loose a delighted laugh.

Calioliahali lifts her eyebrows as she looks down at you, her cheeks filling with color as her hand is captured and kissed. Her head swivels toward Qillilitli as she begins to speak, and then she nods slowly, the rubescent hues in her face spreading. "Ah, I, ah... They do administer the ah... best hugs." She clears her throat, the corners of her lips twitching. "Ah, that is, ah... Thank you, I..." She squeezes your hand before releasing it, striding over to slip both arms around Qillilitli, pulling her close to herself. "I love you, Qillilitli."

You have emoted: Gurashi folds their arms across their own chest, watching Qillilitli and Calioliahali adoringly, their eyes glistening with tears. They heave a little sigh, canting their head to the side.

You think to yourself: *in this moment, their heart cannot possibly get any fuller, can it?*.

Qillilitli returns the warm embrace, softly remarking, "I love you too, Cali," before affectionately placing a hand upon Calioliahali's head.

You have emoted: Gurashi wibbles, politely wiping at the corners of their eyes and looking towards Bizirik, the leothin after a time, watching as the creature slinks into the back of the shop where the extra pastries are kept. They do not seem to mind, attention returning to Calioliahali and Qillilitli before long, squeezing their hands together.

Calioliahali eventually releases Qillilitli from the hug, her now misty blue eyes quietly roaming over her face for a long moment. "You, ah... You have provided for me so much over the course of my life, and I sincerely believe that I never would have arrived at this moment, I never would have had the opportunity to experience ah... all of this, if not for you, and of course the rest of our siblings. I do not know how I could ever repay you for ah... nurturing me, as you have. But ah... I will endeavor my best."

Qillilitli gazes at Calioliahali, searching Calioliahali's eyes. "You owe me nothing. Your love and comradery are all I could ever hope for, and I do so endeavour to continue to be worthy of such. I am happy that you are happy." The trill reaches for Calioliahali's hands, offering them a soft squeeze before releasing Calioliahali.

You have emoted: Gurashi sniffles from their spot, doing their best both not to stare and also not miss a single tender moment of the exchange, hands folded still over their own heart.

Calioliahali's black lips curve into a warm smile, the movement of her cheeks causing a chain reaction that she seems unable to prevent at this juncture; the moisture welling within her eyes spills over and begins to stream down her cheeks. She returns the squeeze upon her hands to Qillilitli's own, sniffling softly as she nods. "I, ah... I understand. Th-Thank you, again, my dear, dear sister." She takes another moment to gaze at her, and then slowly draws away to join you once more, an arm slipping around you as she presses her tear-streaked face into your fiery hair for a few seconds. When she withdraws, she intones softly, "Ah, it is ah... Perhaps time for us to retire. It has been a long month."

You have emoted: Gurashi perks up as Calioliahali approaches them, reaching out to gather one of her hands in their own, their other arm wrapping around Calioliahali's midriff in turn. They let the trill smush her face against their head, standing absolutely until they hear her voice again. "Ah, yeah. The longest of months!" They loll back their head, smiling at the taller trill beside them. Then, they look to Qillilitli, flashing a toothy grin.

Bright and clear, you say to Qillilitli, "Thank you so muchly for all of your times and speaking with me. I hopes you like the book."

Qillilitli begins to tear up at the sight of her sister's emotion. She wipes at her eyes as she watches Calioliahali join you. Nodding to you, she sincerely expresses, "Yes of course, and thank you for your time... and for your book! Ah, I shall look forward to exploring its tomes." The trill nods to Calioliahali. "I will leave you lovebirds to oogle at one another, then." She fires off her finger-guns in the couple's direction before offering a slight bow.

You have emoted: Gurashi's face twists and scrunches slightly as they fight off a yawn, then look up at Calioliahali, huffing. "C'mon sleepy face, let's get yous to sleeps, yus," They huff, giving Calioliahali's waist another squeeze. "Ah! Ahaha, soonly! Another times!"

Calioliahali begins to follow you.

You turn to Qillilitli, suddenly bending at the waist to offer a polite half-bow.

Bright and clear, you say to Qillilitli, "Stay goodly and kind! And go in Love in all things!"

You bring your fingertips together in the shape of a heart as you gaze adoringly at Qillilitli.

Qillilitli nods her head at you.

Agent Qillilitli Skydrifter says, "Be well!"

You wave goodbye.

<-- Nyoom home!!