if you give a moth a cookie...

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "**a gentle nudge across the aethers, followed by a stifled yawn.** Mister Avaris? How are, yes."

Avaris tells you, "[The nudge bumps up against a solid wall, though a polite voice sounds through it clearly.] Ah. Good evening, Cheliyi. I am hale. Thank you. How does the eve find you?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "Am goodly, am goodly. ... hm. **a sudden pause, as if contemplating something.**."
Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "Mister Avaris, have you tried to bake stuffs befores?"

Avaris tells you, "Ah...No, I have not. That was not my caste. I do not know how to cook at all. Why do you ask?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "**a burst of warmth, and stubborn determination** Then we are baking cookies togethers! No buts, am coming over to drag you to the kitchen, yes."

You portal to the Aetherplex Chamber.

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. Hidden deep within the environment lies a mystic pathway. 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. Long, lean, and vibrating with barely-contained energy, a greyhound sniffs about here. A platinum eye sigil is here. A fluffy husky puppy sniffs anything that isn't moving here. With a graceful countenance, a graceful swan graced with velvety wings of blush-pink glides through the air here. A headless humanoid stands here wearing bloodied hunting leathers and carrying a large, grinning jack-o-lantern under one arm. Clothed in starry robes of Void-spun brocade, a Merchant of Thelem waits here. 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.

Cupping your hands before you, they fill with water and an image forms within of Avaris at A serene, featureless expanse of dark water (the Aetherways).

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "... as soon as I find out where the hecks you are."

You have emoted: Cheliyi squints intensely at the portal, as if it will divulge its secrets to her.

Avaris tells you, "[A reluctance, still remote, but not cold.] I am within my aethermanse, such as it is. It is unfit for company, but someday, it shall be a suitable refuge. I appreciate the offer, truly, but I will only cause damage. I do not wish to ruin your kitchen."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "Mister Avaris. I used to be a spiky, 15 foot tall wyrden tree. There is literally no ways you could break my kitchens more, and besides! Is Dad's, which reforms -magically-. **somehow, there is an impression of jazz hands.** No one is -only- a damage cause. Is why we make cookies! Now get your many-wings but out heres or I will search the entire aethermanse catalogues! I will do it! Even if it takes me a whole weave!"

Avaris tells you, "[A faint, subdued sense of amusement.] You would be searching until we are both old and grey, Cheliyi. None can enter my nascent fortress save myself, and the Empyreal. [The mirth snuffs out, flickering into the safety of courteous speech once more.] I was not referring to the kitchen, Cheliyi. You are a kind soul, with a gentle heart. I am not suited for such company. I am tired of trampling upon the feelings of others."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "**there is a long pause, followed by a soft sigh.** You... you do knows, that is inevitable, right? Is something that, happens all the times. We will always hurt the peoples we care about, upset the peoples we respect. Is just a consequences of.... I guess one way to describe its, is it is the consequence of Will. Mans, have been listening to Dad too muchly lately. **Despite the clear barrier, warmth reaches out across the aethers, a non-verbal invitation of sorts.** All that matters is that you have Intent to be good, and to make the worlds betters. Some people will take longer than others to feel better, but I understands, yes. Promise, can be candid with me, and will be just fine. The important thing about squishy people, is that we do not crack when we are hurt, we squish! And squishing, means bouncing back."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "Like breads!"

Muginn, the ghost-feathered magpie peers at you unscrupulously.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you whisper to Muginn, the ghost-feathered magpie, "Am not -actual- breads."

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

Flapjack the fox lopes in from the ether.

You hug Velcora as best as you can, pulling them into a tight embrace.
You smile softly at Velcora.

Velcora beams broadly at you.
Velcora gives you a friendly squeeze.
In a bubbly croak, Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Culture says, "Hello."

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you murmur, "Hello, love. How are yous this mornings?"

You give Velcora a peck on the cheek.
Velcora smiles softly at you.
Velcora gives you a peck on the cheek.

In a bubbly croak, Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Culture says, "Very good."

You have emoted: Cheliyi giggles softly.

In a bubbly croak, Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Culture says, "And you, my love?"

A flurry of blackthorn petals arrives from the ether, thorny vines sprouting within the floral cloud and twining together to form the body of Esei, riding Dusan, the coruscant.
Flapjack the fox holds his head out to Esei for petting.

Esei stares blankly at Flapjack the fox.
Flapjack the fox beams broadly.

Esei stares blankly into space.

Flapjack the fox sips cognac happily from a small glass.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say to Velcora, "Mm, am goodly. Are going to do important things today?"
You smile brightly at Esei, your frills puffing with joy.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered magpie stares implacably at Esei.

Velcora greets Esei with a sincere smile.
In a bubbly croak, Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Culture says to you, "Nothing planned."

Esei pats Muginn, the ghost-feathered magpie in a friendly manner.
Muginn glances at Esei warily, before nodding once in approval.

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

Showing that you understand, you nod your head slowly towards Velcora.

Esei sways back and forth.
Esei leans over to the side, then straightens up again.

Flapjack the fox gives a rice-paper wrapped candy to Wyrden Auspice Esei Shee-Slaugh of the Ascending Dusk.
Flapjack the fox gives a black liquorice wheel to you.

Thoughtfully, you say, "Am trying to get a grump out of his manse, yes."

Avaris tells you, "Perhaps it is inevitable, but it is all that I seem to do, Cheliyi, not the rare exception. I have no desire to see you hurt, be it...Squish or crack. You have suffered enough in your life already. You are very kind, to try so, but I assure you that I will be fine. Perhaps go visit Falaine. She is a good soul, but in need of friends. She is stiff, and formal, but kind of heart. She will make a very fine companion for you, I think."

You pet Flapjack the fox ingratiatingly.
Flapjack the fox beams broadly.

Esei blinks.
With an ethereal, smoky lilt, Wyrden Auspice Esei Shee-Slaugh of the Ascending Dusk whispers, "Who, if I may ask?"

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

With an ethereal, smoky lilt, Wyrden Auspice Esei Shee-Slaugh of the Ascending Dusk whispers, "And why is he, as you put it, a grump?"

Flapjack the fox sips cognac happily from a small glass.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "**There is another sigh, almost wry.** Am sure she is great to talk tos, Mister Avaris, but want to hang out with -you-. And, while I can never promise not to be hurt, I can promise that even still, I. Want. To. Bake. Cookies. With. You. Can even choose a less squishy shape, if it makes you feel safers."

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I have no clue, though Miss Lady Even-Bladeds was mad at him last nights, yes."

Velcora curls their nose up and grimaces awfully.
In a bubbly croak, Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Culture says, "That sounds scary."

You have emoted: Cheliyi's smile falls slightly, her gaze growing distant in some sort of memory before she jerks back to the present.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Ah, yeah, feels terrible when Divines you like are mad at you."

Dusan, the coruscant paws the ground and shuffles about impatiently.

Velcora takes your hand gently and squeezes it.

You give Velcora a friendly squeeze.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "And, are clearly not fines. Do not lie to me like thats, you silly mothy man."

Esei hums softly, thoughtfully, cupping one cheek in their hand.
Wyrden Auspice Esei Shee-Slaugh of the Ascending Dusk thinks to themself: And what has the poor, foolish Avower done to anger Her, I wonder?

Your frills twitch as you detect an errant sound.

In a bubbly croak, Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Culture says, "So how are we luring grump Avaris out?"
Velcora scratches their head looking for an idea.
In a bubbly croak, Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Culture says, "Candy?"

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I am mostly arguing with him that he is not a badly person."

Esei begins to wield a cat of black ink in their right hand.
Esei pets a cat of black ink ingratiatingly.
Esei ceases to wield a cat of black ink in their right hand.

In a bubbly croak, Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Culture says, "Oh."

(Squirrels): You say, "**chucks tsillah into avaris's manse**."
(Squirrels): Esei says, "LOL."
(Squirrels): You say, "Pspspspspspsp avarissss."
(Squirrels): Esei says, "She will be VERY SAD because HE WILL NOT PET HER."
(Squirrels): You say, "*pearls*."

In a bubbly croak, Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Culture says, "Deliver to Avaris."
Flapjack the fox looks at Velcora in confusion.
"Ugh!", Velcora says in disgust.
Velcora opens a scarlet, heart-shaped box.
The candy heart shimmers briefly as it clearly becomes a hot pink heart-shaped candy with ivory writing.
Flapjack the fox nods his head gratefully at Velcora.
Velcora gives a sugary gumdrop to you.
In a bubbly croak, Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Culture says, "Deliver to Avaris."
Eyes twinkling intelligently, Flapjack the fox takes a tart lemon drop with his mouth and silently slinks away to deliver it.
Flapjack the fox lopes in happily and holds his head out for a congratulatory petting.
Flapjack the fox begins to follow Velcora obediently.

(Squirrels): You say, "So far the conversation is "come bake cookies" "i will break your kitchen" "i used to be a tree and we can fix things" "i will hurt you emotionally" "everyone does that at some point now get out here" "no u" "NO U"."
(Squirrels): You say, "Wheeze."

In a bubbly croak, Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Culture says to you, "I know your way makes more sense, but might as well do both."

(Squirrels): Avaris (from the Aetherways) says, "Avaris is besieged by incredibly stubborn celest ladies."
(Squirrels): Esei says, "EVERYONE DOES THAT AT SOME POINT LOL."
(Squirrels): Avaris (from the Aetherways) says, "Avaris: I just want to mope in my manse and be Sad. Celest Ladies: That is Illegal."
(Squirrels): Esei says, "I mean sad but also WHEEZES."

--->Celest, Seren, and Glom people continue to throw candy at Avaris for a few more minutes, and then velcora thinks very loudly about wanting to marry chel. chaos ensues, and cheliyi asks how to marry someone.

Avaris tells you, "I did not claim to be fine, Cheliyi, presently, but I shall be, in time. I do not lie, as a rule. I do not know the first thing about cooking, or cookies. I would be of little use to you - I am only very vaguely aware that flour is involved. And presumably sugar. Or...Honey."

Tonatiuh gets down on one knee and, while holding forth a cotton candy snowflake, declares his eternal love for you, and asks you to marry him. Type AGREE if you will agree to marry him.
Tonatiuh stands up and stretches his arms out wide.
Sultan Tonatiuh al-Saaoud, Oracle Thousandfold says, "Like that."
Tonatiuh's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Culture, "... then, can wait for another time, love. whenever you are readies."

You stare blankly into space.
With an ethereal, smoky lilt, Wyrden Auspice Esei Shee-Slaugh of the Ascending Dusk says, "Please, for the love of the gods, do not get married to the Sultan."
A cone of sparkling light rises up around Tonatiuh, riding a black phoenix, and whisks him away.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "... feel like it should be biglier."

You have emoted: Cheliyi sits up, fretting.

Esei points accusingly at Velcora.

You think to yourself: Flowers??? Cake??

"Eek!" Velcora shouts in fright.

Esei tells you, "A pretty spot you like."

You stare blankly at Velcora.
You playfully glomp Velcora, sending them crashing to the floor beneath you.

Velcora giggles happily.
Velcora hugs you compassionately.

You hug Velcora as best as you can, pulling them into a tight embrace.
Seriously, you say to Velcora, "Will talk about this laters."

Velcora nods their head emphatically.
You give Velcora a peck on the cheek.

In a bubbly croak, Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Culture says, "Yes."

You have emoted: Cheliyi stands, and offers Velcora a hand up.

Velcora takes the hand.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "Those are all rightly things! And please, is fines. Do you think -I- knew how to cookes when I started? Was terrified of a stove! Can help me anyways, yes. Also... am glad to hear that. Also never lie, as a rule. But, anyways. Come ons, will be fun!"

---> something funny happens that we can't see, presumably from Tona

Esei lets out a choking sound.

(Squirrels): Esei says, "T O N A T I U H."

Avaris tells you, "Perhaps. You are with the Wyrden creature, or speaking with them?"

Wisps of exotically perfumed air tickle your nostrils, billowing away from Tonatiuh.
Esei smirks at Tonatiuh.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "At the moments, yes. And they, as stabby as they are, are a -person- Mister Avaris. But, will not have them with me when we cooks. Can be just us! Will be fine."

Tonatiuh's eyes sparkle with amusement at Esei.

Avaris tells you, "[Coolly, a faint note of displeasure in his voice.] You have told them of my distress?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "Ah, they just know that I am waiting for you to come out of your manse. Did not share specifics, since I do not know any."

Ferne raises her hand in greeting to you and says "Hi!"
Ferne raises her hand in greeting to Velcora and says "Hi!"
You smile brightly at Ferne, your frills puffing with joy.
You hug Ferne as best as you can, pulling them into a tight embrace.

Avaris tells you, "Then why do they assume I am upset?"

Ferne hugs you compassionately.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "... I mean, did say you are grumpy."

You have emoted: Cheliyi suddenly looks to the portal, frowning deeply.
Quietly, you say, "Ah, made him mads, I think."
You sigh quietly, frills drooping as your tail sags.

Esei pats you in a friendly manner.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "I am sorry, that I shared more than I should have. Was silly of me. Did not mean to bring you more upsets, when are already upsets. Understand, if you do not want to bake cookies, but my offer is still there, very strongly."

You think to yourself: **an internal sigh, failure, another mistake,**.

Esei lifts a dainty hand to their neckline, glancing about with uncertain disdain.

Ferne Ladyn says to you, "I feel like I haven't seen you in foreverrrrr."

You nod your head emphatically.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say to Ferne, "How have you beens? Is Serenwilde nicely?"

Ferne Ladyn says to you, "It is! The people are lovely and everywhere is beautiful."

You smile softly."
You give Ferne a friendly squeeze.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Am glad."

Ferne's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile.
Ferne Ladyn says to you, "Oh! And I learned how to call upon forest friends!"

Avaris tells you, "I would appreciate you never sharing anything of my personal matters with any outside of Celest, Cheliyi. They have no need to know, and you are only arming them against me, however unintentionally. [A sigh, wearied and brief.] Very well. I will make the attempt, when they are gone. I have no patience this day, and am likely to be impolite."

Ferne pets a willowisp ingratiatingly.

Shango tilts back his head and inhales deeply while twitching a wolf's snout.
Shango gasps in delight, reaching out to boop Ferne lightly on the nose with his finger.
Shango nods his head sagely.
Ferne blinks.
Shango blunks.

Marigold, the lop-eared bunny gasps in delight, reaching out to boop Shango lightly on the nose with her finger.

Shango makes a petting motion with his hand.

Ferne Ladyn says to Marigold, the lop-eared bunny, "Behave!"

Shango snaps his fingers.
Shango makes a petting motion with his hand.
Primarch Shango D'Cente, Dark Animus of the Machine looks surprised and says, "I can't pet em."
Shango snuffles softly.

"Eh?" Ferne says curiously.

Ferne pets Marigold, the lop-eared bunny ingratiatingly.

Comprehension flashes across Shango's face.
Shango pets Marigold, the lop-eared bunny ingratiatingly.
Marigold, the lop-eared bunny leans into the touch before sprinting happily in a wild circle.

Esei hums thoughtfully.

You purse your lips pensively, gazing off into the distance as you carefully gather your thoughts.

Esei tilts their head curiously at you.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say to Esei, "He is... grumpy. But, would still like to make cookies with him, and he is willings."

Esei hums thoughtfully.

Softer, you say, "Can I ask a favor, yes? Can move out of the room until he is in and outs?"

Ferne raises an athame dagger up and makes a circle in the air. A radiant torc forms from the ether and settles around her neck.

Esei raises a slender brow at you.
Skeletal white blossoms flower along the flesh of Esei, riding Dusan, the coruscant, as their body splits apart into a blizzard of blackthorn petals that leave to the out.

Muginn ruffles his feathers, stirring up puffs of fog.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons, "They are gones, can come out, yes."



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

You smile brightly at Avaris, your frills puffing with joy.
You beckon to Avaris.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Come ons, cookies await, yes."
You nod your head sagely.

Hiding his hands behind his back, antennae limp and listless, Avaris nods.
Avaris begins to follow you.

You incline your head politely to those around you.

You portal to The Hoard and the Hive.
Avaris follows you ether.

A chilling, forestal curiosities room.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Watch your heads through the doorways, yes."

Avaris follows you north.

A modest kitchen with forest motifs.
This location is flooded with shallow, crystal clear water. A comforting feeling of privacy pervades the area. Like something out of a story book, this little kitchen with a small center island feels warm and comfortable. Ground-level cabinets have been painted a rich forest green and are outlined with tiny handmade crow and leaf imprints. High-mounted ravenwood shelves are lined with jars of herbs and spices, as well as odd-shaped baking implements and pans. Cast iron fixtures are set in strategic places beside heavy wash basins, and an open window overlooks the garden, offering a refreshing breeze. Hanging over the island is a blackened storage rack with several well-used skillets and cooking utensils suspended by hooks. A half dozen cabinets have small locks fastened to their handles, the dark metal surfaces carved with beautiful leafy patterns. Offsetting the dark decorations are brightly colored hand towels and oven mitts decorated with childish happy cows playing in a field. A wooden stool carved to appear as a hand rests sturdily on its own wrist, awaiting occupation. A coiling silhouette of thickets is inked upon the supple surface of this softly pale tea table, low to the ground. Warm honeyed hues dance upon the surroundings, cast by a delicately-scented glass lantern from its perch upon a nearby wall. A painting of a hoard of gold is proudly exhibited on a nearby wall. Central to the kitchen is a large oven, next to racks of pots and pans that hang nearby. In the shape of an open palm, a metallic sigil lies here. A shimmering blue circle floats in the room here.
You see exits leading east (open door), south (open door), west (open door), and up (open door).

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Wyrden Auspice Esei Shee-Slaugh of the Ascending Dusk, "Are gones. Many thanks, Esei. Will not forgets."

Avaris reflexively ducks his head, and much of his upper torso, to avoid colliding with any unsuspecting doorframes, or the ceiling.

You have emoted: Cheliyi pats Avaris's leg, before cheerfully bustling over to the oven. Pulling over a stool, she hops atop it and brings out mixing bowls, spoons, cups, and a few metal trays.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Can stand up straights, ceiling is tall."

Cautiously, Avaris straightens to his full height, glancing up at the ceiling to ensure that there is sufficient clearance. The eyes within his wings drift across the room with subdued curiosity, the lines that make up their stylised forms closer together, conveying a sense of weariness. "Ah. That is...Many implements. Is baking a complicated process?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi begins mumbling softly to herself, pulling out a catalogue and different ingredients: flour, sugar, butter, and a few other seemingly unrecognizable powders. "Sort ofs! Is like... hm. Like making a piece of arts, or... mixing paints! Then you shove it in the ovens, and it is magically yummy foods. Well, less magic and more baking, but still!"

Warm cider-orange hues seep out of a nearby honeycomb lantern and bathe the area in a gentle glow, its delicate woody fragrance reminiscent of wild honey.

Avaris watches the process from just inside the doorway, posture one of discomfiture as your benign chatter washes over him. "Ah. I do not know how to make art, or mix paint, either, I am afraid. It sounds interesting. Have you been baking for long?"

You peer at Avaris unscrupulously.
You beckon to Avaris.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Have been, yes. Started baking after Dad taught me what foods are, yes. Now come inside! Is room. Can sit down on the grounds even, if that is more comfortables."

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

Voice resonating with choral harmonics, Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons says, "I do not wish to get in the way."

You narrow your eyes at Avaris in an unnerving manner.
Stubbornly, you say, "Are not going tos. -Want- you in here. Helping means helping! Not staring, silly."

Awkwardly, Avaris dips his head in a nod, stepping reluctantly further into the room. He grasps his left wrists with his right, working the hands back and forth over the rigid chitin as if subconsciously trying to wipe something from his palms. "How can I assist you?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi grins triumphantly, shuffling behind Avaris to push him closer to the island in the middle of the kitchen. "Well, first, and help me with mixing. I will measures the ingredients, and then you can mix with a fork, yes."

Avaris offers no real resistance to your insistent pushing, allowing himself to be steered towards the island, which he regards dubiously. "I...Can likely manage that, yes. Is there a..Technique to it?"

Cheerfully, you say, "Nopes! Just have to make sure is all mixed smoothlys."

You have emoted: Cheliyi pulls up a stool beside Avaris, passing over a bowl and an oversized wooden fork.

You take a gnarled ravenwood catalogue from A Rope Belt of Accommodation.
You ponder a gnarled ravenwood catalogue thoughtfully, looking it up and down.
Curiously, you say, "So... cookies.... hm. Have a favorite flavor, Mister Avaris?"

Avaris almost fumbles the bowl in his attempt to keep his palms hidden from your view, but manages to secure it and the fork, which he clutches with the air of a man holding something made of the most fragile glass. "Ah. I do not, in truth. I prefer fruits, if I indulge in sweeter dishes. Perhaps we can make something for someone else? Falaine, perhaps."

Cheerfully pondering the book, you say, "Ah, well, can make it for -both- of yous then. Fruit...."
Cheerfully, you ask, "Strawberry?"

You carefully study a cooking recipe.
#: 10169 Item: Cookie  Type: Pastries  Org: Public  Designer: Sadie
Ingredients: grain 2 milk 2 fruit 2 sugar 2
Mortal Reviews: Allowed
IMPORTANT: The main noun MUST use one of these: COOKIE
Appearance:
a strawberry thumbprint cookie
Dropped:
A small cookie with a red centre is in danger of being crushed.
Examined:
The thumbprint cookie is of a simple round shape, having originally been
a little ball of dough which was then flattened gently and depressed in
its centre with a deft thumb. Now baked, the bite-sized cookie is soft
and warm with a straw coloured hue. A drop of ruby red jam has been
placed in the indent, appearing very much like a liquid form of the
gemstone its colour takes after.
Consume:
You put the small cookie in your mouth and consume it entirely, enjoying its soft shortbread-like texture, which crumbles on your tongue almost immediately. The juicy sweet strawberry jam mixes with the buttery morsel in your mouth, a satisfying accompaniment to the goody.
Smell:
It smells sweet, like shortbread.
Taste:
You take a quick lick over the whole cookie, gathering up a dusting of soft crumbs and a taste of strawberry jam.
Comments:

Esei tells you, "...ducks."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Wyrden Auspice Esei Shee-Slaugh of the Ascending Dusk, "You better not eat thems!"

Avaris considers this for a time, then nods. "So long as it is light on the sugars, yes, I think that would do well."

Esei tells you, "No. Not yet, at least."

You nod your head sagely.

You have emoted: Cheliyi props up the book on a nearby stand clearly meant for this purpose, humming cheerfully as she pulls out a box of strawberries from her rift. "Okay, so let mes...."
You have emoted: Cheliyi begins deftly measuring the ingredients, first dumping in a few sticks of soft butter, and then grinding some sugar crystals into a fine powder. "Can mix those sticks until they are smooth, yes? Then I will-" a grunt, "dump in this sugars, yes."

Avaris regards first the butter, then the sugar, with what appears to be mild horror. "That is...So very much butter and sugar, Cheliyi. Are you...Are you certain the measurements are correct?"

You roll your eyes.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Yes. Is going to make -a lot- of cookies. Not just one or two! When are that small, is barely sugar at all. Trust me."
Gesturing at the ingredients, you say, "Takes a lot more than this to make something sweet."

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

You grin mischievously at Avaris.

With no small mount of dubiety, Avaris nods slowly, clutching the bowl and spoon to his torso like a shield and sword gone terribly awry. "I see. It is little wonder that the Lady disapproves of cakes and such. Tavi will grow round as a ball if her diet persists as it is."

You give a trillingly melodic laugh, your frills resonating with joy.
You have emoted: Cheliyi pulls away from the mortar and pestle, gently pushing the bowl back to the table. "Indeeds, is why I tried to give Tavi some veggies, before. Now, come ons, help me mix! Will not mix itself." She dumps in the sugar, and urges Avaris onwards.

Regarding the bowl with a modest degree of trepidation, Avaris wields the fork with a delicate grip, pinching the handle between his thumb and two forefingers. With a number of furtive glances at you by way of his wing-eyes, he begins to stir the mixture in a stiff, linear fashion.

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

You have emoted: Cheliyi smiles encouragingly, nodding. "Are doing greats, yes. Now..." she carefully adjusts Avaris's hands, guiding him along to make the stirring more natural.
You nod your head sagely.

Avaris lets out a soft 'Ah' of understanding, smoothing out his motions so that they are more circular and flowing in nature. "I see, yes. How do I know when it is sufficiently mixed?"

Warmly, you say, "When the whole thing is the same color, no lumps."
You have emoted: Cheliyi carefully pours in the powdered sugar, and then squints at the recipe. "Now... measure out flours.... hm," she mumbles, scooping out the needed flour.

Avaris watches the mixture with an intensity that is typically reserved for either a scientific process or some form of weighty strategic planning, his antennae shifting so that they are pointed forward and down, curved at the tips in a frown.

You have emoted: Cheliyi dumps in the flour carelessly, causing the fluffy powder to poof through the air and settle on both bakers. However, instead of apologizing, the mugwump grins. And then sneezes.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered magpie shudders violently.
The room grows warm once more Muginn the ghost-feathered magpie glides off to the south with a click of his beak.

Avaris's antennae balk at the sudden influx of flour in the air, flicking loosely to and fro in a manner oddly reminiscent of cat's tails striving to free themselves of clinging dirt. Stolidly, however, he persists in his mixing, enduring the fresh coating of powder that settles into the fluff of his mane, the white flour made dull and grey in contrast to the pristine, lustrous sheen of his ruff.

You give a trillingly melodic laugh, your frills resonating with joy.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "-Relax- Mister Avaris. Is a -fun- thing, not a test! Are doing amazings, but."
You peer about yourself unscrupulously.
The corners of your mouth turn up as you grin mischievously.
Like it's a terrible secret, you whisper, "Are allowed to make mistakes when baking. Is half of the funs!"

Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons thinks to himself: Grimly, "I have made more than enough mistakes."

You have emoted: Cheliyi squints.

Avaris nods quietly, maintaining his serious manner. "As you say, Cheliyi."

Esei tells you, "Having fun thus far."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Wyrden Auspice Esei Shee-Slaugh of the Ascending Dusk, "Am, am."

Esei tells you, "...ahem. Good."

You have emoted: Cheliyi pauses in her measures, giving Avaris a concerned look.
Gently, you say, "... alrights, now for the tiny powders."

Voice resonating with choral harmonics, Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons asks, "Tiny powders..?"
Voice resonating with choral harmonics, Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons asks, "Did we not already add the flour?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi sprinkles in a spoonful of a few pale powders, humming softly. "These are not for flavor. Allow the cooking to be more than a hard brick. By adding these baking sodas, softens the flour so it is more crumbly. Make sure to mix this super wells, okay?"

Avaris does as he is bid, stirring the powder with an unnaturally methodical manner, each looping motion identical to the last, as if machine-driven. "I confess that I do not understand. Why do these powders make the other powder softer?"

You have emoted: "Honestly, am not entirely sures myself. But, this powder is like... crystal air, yes. Know how ice is cold water? Is like that, but with airs. When heated up, it turns back into airs, making things more fluffy." Cheliyi continues to hum a soft, familiar tune, the sound ebbing and flowing like distant tides.

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

Esei tells you, "Mm."
Esei tells you, "He did not pet Tsillah. She was quite sad."

Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons thinks to himself: Immediately, his mind turns to potential applications of such a process in times of conflict. Could such be utilised to raise a ramp for a siege engine, when fired? Or would the expansion be too rapid, and more suited for detonation?

You stare blankly into space.

Avaris nods along in a thoughtful manner, regarding the powders speculatively. "I see. That is most interesting. Are there other such powders, with different effects?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi giggles quietly. "Is not -that- powerful, no. Releases it like bubbles, and has to be hot enough to bake breads. Otherwise, am sure Hallifax would be using it for aerochemantics, yes. There are many fancy powders from alchemies. But, for now, it is goodly for our cookies."

From somewhere unseen, a cat meows softly before it is heard scampering off.

Avaris pauses in his mixing, breathing a soft, 'Ah.' of faint disappointment - Before he realises that he has ceased in his duty, and hurriedly resumes, a strong note of worry in his voice as he asks, "Ah, is it ruined? Must the motion be continuous?"

Brilliant sunset hues bathe your surroundings in a vividly carmine afterglow.

You shake your head.
You shake your head.
Gently, you say, "Does not have to be continuous. Actually," she peers into the bowl, "looks perfect! Now, we scoop its into small balls, and then bake thems."

Avaris stares at the mixture for a time, before inquiring, "Is there a special tool for the scooping also? Or do we use our hands? That seems unsanitary."

You have emoted: Cheliyi grins. "Well, we -can- use a scooping spoon. Or.... use hands. Personally, I think hands are more fun." She pulls off her gloves, revealing intricate bandages expertly woven over her palms and fingers. "Come ons, let's wash our hands before we touch the doughs." The bindings come off, ribbon by ribbon, revealing terrible burn scars beneath. The mugwump pays no mind to it, however, hopping off her stool to go over to a nearby sink.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Wyrden Auspice Esei Shee-Slaugh of the Ascending Dusk, "Will remember to give her extra pets next time I see her, yes."

Avaris sets the bowl down upon the table, along with the mixing fork, and folds his hands atop one another, pressing them to his abdomen. He follows you with evident reluctance, until he stands behind and to one side of you, making no move to touch the sink. Softly, he asks, "What happened to your hands?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi turns on a spigot, rinsing her hands with a hum. "Ah, never did tell you? Guess do not mention it oftens. Was burned very, very badly when I was youngers by someone. Is why my eyes are so badly." She pats her hands dry on a nearby towel, and then moves aside so that Avaris can wash his own. "Guess... well. Guess that I tried to block it with my hands." She motions holding up her arms in an X in front of her face, each burn scar lining up to form a larger picture.

The azure, alien eyes of Avaris's visor-like face dim in hue and brightness as he looks at the burns that mar your flesh, shaking his head slightly from side to side. "I was not aware. I am sorry that you had to endure such pain, Cheliyi. That is terrible. Do you believe that you may be healed of the scars?" He does not remove his hands from his chest, declining the unspoken invitation with a subdued, "I should not use my hands in this, Cheliyi. They will not wash clean."

You have emoted: Cheliyi's arms fall to her sides, her expression softening into a frown. "Ah, is fines. And, no, I'm fine with thems anyways. Are a parts of me." She steps forward, each movement clearly indicated before she fulfills it. "What do mean? Can you let me sees them?"

Avaris nods at your response, reciting, "As above, so below." At your approach, he sways back, pressing his hands so tightly to the golden plating of his torso that it creaks in quiet protest. "I would... I would rather that you did not, Cheliyi."

Gently, you say, "That is fines, then. But, is not a wound, is it?"

Avaris is silent for a time, before replying, "Of a sort."

Seriously, you say, "Then I should see, so can tend to its. Can wrap it ups, if you want? Am very practiced."

Avaris shakes his head in an immediate, firm negative. "No. This, you cannot heal. Only time will take it from me. I do not think even the Empyreal could remove it."

You think to yourself: **a deep sigh, he is afraid you will judge him. but for what? make it fun, make it fun...**

You purse your lips pensively, gazing off into the distance as you carefully gather your thoughts.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Alrights. Can use a spoon, thens. Let me find one!"
You give Avaris a friendly squeeze.

Avaris nods gratefully, saying, "Thank you, Cheliyi. You are most kind."
You have emoted: Cheliyi shuffles over to a drawer, humming softly. "Spoon... spoon..... spoon!"

You have emoted: Cheliyi hands Avaris a large spoon, the tool holding a deep scoop. "Alright, now you just scoop out a ball, and set it on the tray. Then, once all of the dough is gone, we bake its."
The corners of your mouth turn up as you grin mischievously.

Immediately, Avaris accepts the spoon, grasping it firmly in his upper right hand. "Understood. Shall I do so now, or...?"

You nod your head emphatically.
You have emoted: Cheliyi scoops out some of the dough with her clean hand, humming cheerfully as she pats it into a misshapen ball. On it goes onto the tray, followed by a few more.

Avaris watches you intently, his manner studious as the luminous eyes of his wings track the motions of your wings. "How many will this make?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi then scuttles over to the stove, pulling out jam and the strawberries. She pours the jam into a pot and dices the strawberries, stirring both over low heat. "Keep scooping, yes! Will put a little jam on tops, and then we will bakes thems. Should make at least 15s, but can make more or less! Depends on how big you want your cookies, yes."

Seizing the bowl in his lower left hand, and the tray in the corresponding right, Avaris sets about scooping the mixture out in a grave manner, placing a series of precise, perfectly symmetrically balls upon the awaiting tray, until the bowl is empty. "I see. Baking seems very involved."

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Mhm. Is a goodly task to escape from your brains. And, when doing it with friends, is a fun things."

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

Avaris's eyes glimmer with a faint ripple of glinting motes of light, which fade almost immediately. "Ah. Yes. You and your father do seem to do it rather a lot."

A wry smile spreads across your face.
Cheerfully, you say, "Dad does it... way too much, honestly. Am sure I got stouters, because of their cooking!"

Voice resonating with choral harmonics, Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons says, "A healthy, balanced diet is important, yes. The Basin at large seems oddly obsessed with sweets."

You giggle happily.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Well, is hard to resists. Personally, am a bigly fan of sour and spicy."

Avaris tilts his head curiously at you.
Voice resonating with choral harmonics, Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons says, "At the same time?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi gingerly adds a dollop of jam to each cookie, until the whole pot has been used up. "Mhm! Though, by themselves is also fine."
You have emoted: Cheliyi sets said pot down, and claps her hands merrily. "All dones! Now, we put it in the ovens."

You use an everlasting ember to kindle a fire inside an oven.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say to Avaris, "Want to do the honors, or want me tos?"

Avaris ponders this notion, lifting a hand to tug at the flour-dusted tufts of his mane in a distracted fashion. "I must try it sometime. Perhaps I will like it - Ah! I see. You may do so. I am content to watch."

You quickly mix up the ingredients into a batter, and then bake a strawberry thumbprint cookie in the oven. There is enough for two portions.
You peer about yourself unscrupulously.
You begin to wield a spatula of twisted vines in your left hand.
You quickly mix up the ingredients into a batter, and then bake a strawberry thumbprint cookie in the oven. There is enough for four portions.

The corners of your mouth turn up as you grin mischievously.
You pick up 6 strawberry thumbprint cookies from an oven.

You have emoted: Cheliyi sets the cookies in the oven, waits about a minute, and then taps the top. She pulls out a tray full of small thumbprint cookies, grinning cheerfully. "Usually, if use a normal oven, takes like 20 or 30 minutes. But.... magic oven."
You wink knowingly.
You give a strawberry thumbprint cookie to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons.
You nibble on a strawberry thumbprint cookie.

Avaris watches the process with an expectant, curious air, only for his antennae to flick up in surprise at the speed that the cookies are baked. "Goodness. That is rather efficient. It is little wonder Gurashi can make so much." Accepting the cookie, he holds it for a moment, as if weighing whether to indulge or not.

You have emoted: Cheliyi squints at Avaris, cookie still in her mouth.
Muffled, you say, "Worked hard! Can eats."

Avaris makes a strange noise, somewhere between a melodic grunt and a vibrating sigh, nodding assent. The seams of his face part, the segments of his many jaws splitting only a modest distance, sufficient to pop the cookie whole into his mouth, which is subjected to a harrowing process that is only a very distant cousin to chewing, and swallowed.

Voice resonating with choral harmonics, Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons says, "Ah. It is good. Well done, Cheliyi."

The corners of your mouth turn up as you grin mischievously.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Well dones to you too Mister Avaris!"
You are exhausted and open your mouth in an enormous yawn.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say to Avaris, "Have to sleeps, soon. But, before I goes, can I give you a hug?"

A golden firefly squid drags itself in.
A golden firefly squid flails about helplessly.
A golden firefly squid scuttles away.
A wry smile spreads across your face.

Avaris backs away immediately at the question, shaking his head emphatically. "No." He pauses, lowering his head apologetically. "That would...Be a poor idea, I think. I am not suited to hugs. Best that you seek out someone...Gentler for such a thing. I am sorry."

You peer at Avaris unscrupulously.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Firstly, do not have to say sorry. Is your body, you have a rights to want, or not want a hug. Secondly, you are -very- hug shaped."

Avaris stares at you disbelievingly, turning his head to look at the spiked halos that thrust up from his shoulders, then the sharply jointed, gauntlet-like nature of his clasped hands. "Cheliyi, in what way could I be interpreted as 'hug-shaped'? I am a walking suit of armour."

Indignantly, you say, "Hug-shaped."
You nod your head sagely.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Means what I said, and said what I means."

Loud to the point of seeming reverberation, cicadas play out buzzing dissonances.

Avaris utters a low, dubious sound. "We can disagree on this point." Dipping his head to you courteously, he continues, "I shall go to my rest now, also. Thank you for being so kind, Cheliyi. It is appreciated."

You nod your head emphatically.

Avaris follows you south.
You portal to the Aetherplex Chamber.
Avaris follows you ether.

Not so secretly, you give a strawberry thumbprint cookie to Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons.
The corners of your mouth turn up as you grin mischievously.

Voice resonating with choral harmonics, Humble Avaris, Avower of the Archons says to you, "Light's blessings go with you, Cheliyi."

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Same to yous!"

A cone of sparkling light rises up around Avaris and whisks him away.