Guidance, Of A Sort

((At the willow tree, where Avaris was reading some poetry in an attempt to prepare for his upcoming meeting with Terentia's muse, Eatti came along to do some sketching. A polite exchange was had, and Avaris left Eatti in peace to draw, waving as he went. Then he received the lovely letter, below!))


You read what is written on oceanic blue stationery:
Blessed Tidings, Avaris,

First, I do wish to apologise, as I did not intend to drive you from the
park. It is a wonderful place to read, and to contemplate. And I
certainly do not want to deprive anyone of that luxury.

It is not often that I sketch beyond things to be made. You see, I am a
jeweller by trade, and produce most of my pieces by sketching them
before they can be realised in metal and gem. That being said, I did
produce a small sketch which I am happy to share with you. Just a simple
thing, but it is included below.

It was an honor to make your acquaintance, and I hope that we can meet
again.

Blessed be in the Light,
Eatti


Attached to the letter is a piece of sketch paper:
A noble figure dominates this sketch, cast in shadows from the draping
branches of a large weeping willow. As if drawn from memory rather than
a model, the details of the figure are mere impressions, suggestions of
form and not a perfect facsimile. Boasting an exceptionally tall frame,
the focus of the piece is kephera-born graced with feathery antennae and
large multifaceted eyes, with a bearing that suggests aristocracy and
formality. Movement blurs most of the figure, the moment caught
mid-step, with one of four arms lifted in farewell. Even so, hints of a
furred ruff hugging the neck and the faint outline of wings clear some
mystery regarding the subject. Though the sketch lacks color, shading
has been added to imply color, particularly within the compound eyes
which seem to shine bright against the page with careful use of shadow
and highlight.

((Hunted down a nice stationery to use, and was about to go send it!))

New Celest Postal Service.
This location is flooded with shallow, crystal clear water. The floor of the lobby is an almost
indefinable greyish brown. At the counter, everything has the dull grey luster of being at least
fifty years old, and anonymous in form. From the scratched, vaguely translucent glass bowl for
wetting stamps, to the stacks of outdated forms, everything seems grey, sticky, sun-faded, or
unused. Through a small window, can be seen rows and rows of carrier pigeons in small cubbyholes,
and disgruntled pelicans waddling back and forth, their beaks brimming with parcels. A dark brown
leather chair stands here invitingly. A graceful desk of rich, dark wood stands here. A portrait of
Pally the Pelican, the postal mascot, hangs near the service counter. Bound tightly by a red cord, a
fine scroll lies here. Eatti, a Partial Adjudicator is here. You may MAIL letters from here.
You see a single exit leading north.

A harried-looking merian takes barely illuminated indigo stationery from Eatti, and whistles for a
white seagull. She attaches barely illuminated indigo stationery to the seagull's leg, and it speeds
away.

Blinking with slow surprise, Eatti, a Partial Adjudicator says, "Oh, hello again, Avaris."

Clearly born of some merian heritage with skin kissed cerulean and dappled with ivory freckles,
nonetheless she is an ordinary human. Like frothy waves, pale seafoam curls crest upon her head,
lapping her soft face with twists that tickle gently. Similarly pale, long white eyelashes frame
indigo irises which sparkle with curiosity and compassion. An aquiline nose casts a faint shadow
over her rounded lips, softened with dimples. Her form is that of a swimmer, wide hips and well-
muscled legs supporting a lean torso and flat chest. A shifting pearlescence graces her skin as she
walks with the truefavour of Carakhan, Sculptor of Waves.

Her silvery hair is cut into an attractively short pixie cut, long bangs swept to one side. Each
strand gleams with a faint emerald hue, granting a mysterious, verdant cast to her overall
hairstyle.
She is wearing:
a whimsical egg-yolk jellyfish stud through her right ear,
an exquisite coat of cerulean trimmed twilight blue silk,
subtle trousers of midnight blue lightly dusted with sand,
a delicate pair of tawny leather sandals.

Avaris pauses, a sheet of stationery held in his hand. He utters a low laugh, the
sound woven from an array of pleasant buzzes and tones of varying pitch. "Hello, indeed, Eatti. This
is serendipitous - I was just about to send you a letter in return."

Eatti laughs lightly into her hand, eyes sparkling with mirth. "Oh! Very serendipitous, indeed," she
replies with a soft smile, "I'm glad to hear my letter made it to you."

Avaris dips his head in a mild nod, folding his upper and lower pairs of hands atop
one another, the whole resting upon his abdomen, nascent letter pressed between plates of gleaming
white chitin. "I was most gladdened to receive it, in truth - That was a very kind gesture of you,
and most unexpected. You should apply your skills to people and places more often, I think."

Stepping away from the post desk, Eatti hums softly, the sound equally thoughtful and uncertain.
Even despite her hesitance, she does appear to consider your words. "Creatures and objects are
rather more comfortable for me," she admits after a moment, "But I will give it some consideration."

Adding softly, Eatti, a Partial Adjudicator says, "I'm also gladdened to hear to was not
inappropriate, given the briefness of our meeting."

A rippling wave of glittering motes of light spreads throughout the inverted
teardrops of Avaris's faceted eyes, his upper right hand extricating itself to brush through the air
gently. "Please do. You may find it fulfilling, and if nothing else, it will bring more art to life,
which is rarely an unpleasant matter." The ensuing nod dips his chin into the thick ruff of lustrous
white fluff that rings his neck. "Not at all. It was a very sweet gesture, in truth. I do not doubt
that many would be delighted to receive such."

At that, Eatti relaxes visibly, tense shoulders smoothing as her lips curve into a weak smile. "I
suppose that is true. I do not think I have yet seen unpleasant art, after all..." She trails off,
gaze falling to the floor as the smile fades as quickly as it came. "Maybe so," she says finally, "I
am not certain as I've not done it before."

Again, Avaris laughs, though this time it is a freer, fuller thing built from a
richer array of deeper registers. "Oh, I am sure that you will - If there are those that have my
lack of ability, no doubt there are plenty works that elicit grimaces from one and all." The
feathered plume of his antennae flow forward slightly as he cants his head curiously. "Are you
alright, Eatti? You do not seem to be at ease."

Indigo eyes flit from the floor to you, wide and startled. Almost frozen in place, like a doe in the
sights of a hunter, Eatti blanches at the question. "Yes, of course," she assures quickly, maybe
more by instinct than anything else. A complex expression, perhaps guilt?, clouds her face. Pulling
herself from her shock, she quickly waves a hand, dismissing the concern.

With a wan smile, Eatti, a Partial Adjudicator says, "I am often lost in my own thoughts, and... it
can be a very... It can be hard to stay grounded."

All traces of levity slowly fade from Avaris's presence, replaced by a sober mien
as he regards Eatti quietly for a moment. Slowly, he lowers himself to a knee, diminishing his great
height enough so that he no longer towers like some marble edifice. Resting his right set of
forearms upon his upraised knee, his voice is gentle, the humming tones low and reassuring. "You
have nothing to fear here, Eatti. I will neither harm you, nor grow angry at you. You are among
friends, here. I promise you this." He lifts a single hand - the upper right - and turns it so that
his palm faces Eatti in a pacifying gesture. "Be at ease."

The cerulean of her cheeks darken to a shade reminiscent of bluebonnet flowers as embarrassment
colors Eatti's face. Even so, she appears to relax some with the bunch of her shoulders smoothing.
She brings her arms before her, gently cradling one another in a reassuring gesture. "I..." she
begins, starting and stopping in rapid succession. Closing her eyes for just a moment, she takes a
deep breath and steadies herself. "Yes," she finishes, "Thank you."

You think to yourself: "Ah, what has happened to this poor lady to have her so unsettled in her
home? This breaks my heart to see."

Avaris makes no sign of having noticed the shift in hue of Eatti's cheeks, nor the
self-soothing gesture. He waits, patient and calm as a pool of still, clear water, and allows Eatti
ample time to work through Eatti_'s words. When they come, he nods slightly, the brilliant blue of
his eyes dimming to deeper shade. He straightens once again to his feet, settling his hands atop one
another at the small of his back, beneath the cloak of his wings. "Of course. I know it can be
difficult to feel comfortable around others, or in certain places. If there is anything that I can
do to help you relax, make me aware of it, and I shall do what I can."

The warmth and color quickly fading from her cheeks, Eatti nods slowly as you straightens. At your
assurance her embarrassment easily gives way to gratitude, softening her gaze and quirking her lips
in a slight smile. "You have already been incredibly kind and patient with me, Avaris. I could not
ask any more from you, truly."

A small shake of Avaris's head meets this statement, though the negation is not a
harsh one. "I have merely been as cordial as I would expect anyone to be towards a fellow citizen,
nothing more." The long white sheets of his wings whisper as they shuffle slightly, in tandem with
an encouraging, coaxing gesture of his lower pair of hands. "You would be doing me a favour. It
would hearten me to know how to set you at your ease, truly. I am often clumsy when it comes to
dealing with those of a more retiring nature, you see."

Eatti does not argue, but your denial brings her smile into a bright fullness far beyond any
expression she managed thus far. One of her hands pushes through her curls, and in that motion her
gaze to fall upon the wall just behind you, near enough to catch the impressions of his movements.
"You have not been clumsy. Not in my eyes, at least. But... if you insist, I am..." She takes
another moment, either gathering her thoughts or finding her words. "I am uneasy with such strong
focus on me. But I understand that is not something easily fixed."
Avaris considers this for some time, his upper left hand rising to absently curl a
thick tuft of his ruff's fluff about the hardened chitin of its forefinger. "No, that it is not.
That is something that requires much time, patience and effort, I believe." Lifting his chin, so
that it seems he regards the ceiling, far above Eatti's head, he inquires, "Is it easier to have
someone's gaze averted from you while speaking, perhaps?"

Humming softly, Eatti ponders your suggestion for a moment, absentmindedly twirling a lock about her
finger. "Yes, that is less..." she begins, trailing off before finally finding an answer, "It is
less too much than before." No longer cradled by the other arm, her free hand moves to rest upon the
opposite shoulder, tilting her who upper body slightly in that direction. "It is not something I
would expect from anyone. Even if I do feel better with the effort," she admits after a moment, "As
you said, it is something that requires consideration and patience above and beyond beyond normal
bounds."

Still with his head angled up and away from Eatti, Avaris lifts his higher right
hand to tap a pointed fingertip against the smooth, rounded carapace of his cheek. "I do not think
anyone would protest, if you explained that it would make you more comfortable. Quite the opposite,
in fact." Lowering both hands to set them upon his flared hips, he utters a faintly melodic humming
sound, the noise thoughtful. "Perhaps a more serene surrounding would help. Have you been to the
Lady Lantra's Realm, perchance?"

Releasing the seafoam curl and tucking it gently behind her ear, she drops her hand so that it rests
easily within the pocket of her coat. "Only by accident," Eatti says, voice slightly abashed and
rushed, "I had been told that one could find the Divine Realms of any of the Divine, if such a Realm
existed, by thinking strongly of them before they set off on a path? But I hadn't realised I would
enter... and it felt as if I had intruded."

Avaris's lower left hand separates from its ilk to gesture soothingly at Eatti, his
voice warm and faintly amused as he replies, "You are quite fine, with this Divine in particular,
fear not. My Lady is not inclined to driving Celestians from Her Realm. I thought much the same,
when I ventured there initially, but I know better now." Lowering his hand, he tilts his head aside,
though his gaze ostensibly remains focused elsewhere, rather than upon Eatti. "Would you like to go
there? I am of Her Order, if you would feel more comfortable with an escort. I find that it is the
most peaceful and soothing place in all the world."

"I would love that," Eatti replies easily with a light laugh, "If only I am not taking up too much
of your time, Avaris." Straightening her body, she brings both hands together, clasped before her
with fingers laced. As she rights herself, pose shifting into one of poise rather than of self-
soothing, her gaze flits briefly to your feathered antennae and then to the ground just before your
feet.

A scintillating wave of bright points of light ripples throughout Avaris's eyes at
this response, his head dipping in a pleased nod. His voice is warm, a layered harmony of enthusiasm
and easy confidence, as he says, "I am most glad to hear it - And not at all, truly. It would be my
pleasure to allow another to enjoy Her Realm, as I do." He pauses, however, the bloody curve of his
left antenna twitching down towards Eatti. "Do you have access to the ability to walk across water?
There is much of it, both on the way to Her Realm, and within it."

Clearly pleased, her smile only grows, gently crinkling around her eyes even as she focuses on the
brown-grey floor of the post office. At your question, Eatti dips her head into a shallow nod,
quickly flexing her toes within her sandals. "Oh yes," she answers readily, excitement bright in her
voice, "I have harnessed my knowledge of cosmic energy to walk upon the water. So, that should be no
issue on my end."

Auriella Zayah, Lady of the Holy Flame yells, "Rhan smells like a goat!"

Auriella Zayah, Lady of the Holy Flame yells, "I like cheese!"

"Ah! That is excellent. A most impressive ability to command naturally - Well
done." Avaris commends, nodding in an approving manner. Evidently electing to studiously ignore the
maddened yelling nearby, he gestures to the dense, luxurious halo of his mane. "I must rely on the
enchantments of others, personally." So saying, he reaches within and grasps something between
forefinger and thumb, twisting it slightly so that there is a gleam of gold peeking out from within
the pristine white depths of the fluff. "Very useful, I must say." Brushing a chitinous finger
across the metallic surface with a soft rasp, he releases it, and gestures towards the door with his
right set of arms held out in an inviting manner. "Shall we?"


"Not so impressive, I think, as properly wielding a sword or commanding the elements," she replies,
a playful tone in her voice. Briefly, Eatti her eyes flit to the rainbow ring, watching as it glows
with light. When the enchantment is firmly in place, she once again looks at your feet, nodding
eagerly. "Yes, of course."

 Avaris waves a dismissive hand towards the four scabbards that adorn his hips, his
manner mild, as he remarks, "All it takes to wield a sword correctly is time, diligence, and
exercise. It is a very common skill for a reason - Though I will admit that truly excelling at it is
a rare and difficult matter indeed." This said, he flicks an antenna at you, the feathered curve
drifting benignly through the air, and turns to leave.

((Movement to Lantra's Realm))

Before the veil of mist.
Sidereal waterfalls spill into the luminous pool of this baptismal font, forming a sparkling veil of
mist. The banks of fog at the base of the cascading water swirl across the marble floors with an
enchanting, mysterious haze, whispering across the mosaic lotus tiles. Pillars of white marble
encircle the fountain, while celadon blue statuettes of veiled priestesses hold urns of overflowing
light before the waters. The starry light that pours forth collects and pools at the centre of the
chamber, where a single star lotus unfurls in eternal bloom. Luminous streams overflow from a
baptismal fountain of water and light here. Eatti, a Partial Adjudicator is here.
You see exits leading northeast, southeast, southwest, northwest, up, and down.

Stepping through the waterfall, Avaris gives himself a shake that sends droplets of
water sprinkling out from him in an arc. Stepping aside, the surface of the luminous pool rippling
gently beneath his footfalls, he gives Eatti room, and time, to enter and absorb the surroundings,
allowing his own gaze to drift about fondly.

Seemingly unbothered by the water as they move through the waterfall, she ignores the droplets that
hang on her skin and clothing. Instead, her indigo gaze widens in awe. Eatti's eyes cannot seem to
find a single thing to focus upon, flitting freely from one beautiful wonder to the next, and back
again. Her mouth gapes slightly, amazement painting her face with a youthful exuberance. "Wow!" The
only word she can seem to manage, whispered in reverence.

You think to yourself: A warm, rippling light of pleasure, and approval. It was good, truly, to see
the works of His Lady appreciated as was their due.

The azure pools of Avaris's eyes glimmer with pinpricks of brilliant blue at
Eatti's reaction, though he remains facing at an angle slightly away from Eatti, his antennae
drifting in Eatti's direction at the hushed exclamation. A single, slow nod precedes his own voice -
Not at all hushed, but relaxed, calm, and lit with a simple and pure joy. "Yes. That sums it up
nicely, I think."

Avaris tilts his head towards Eatti, and asks, "Would you like to explore? I can
accompany you."

After a slow spin, the better to see everything to see within the chamber, she laughs gently.
Turning towards you, gaze landing on your antennae rather than his face, Eatti shakes her head once
in simple negation. "I am not opposed to exploration," she explains, "But I would rather not lead
the way. If that is what you were suggesting?"

((Caleb comes and goes a few times))

Eatti glances after Caleb's retreating form, distracted only for a moment.

Avaris's nod is an indulgent one, Eatti's preference evidently not one that
troubles him in the least. "It was what I was offering, yes, but Her Realm can be a touch befuddling
to navigate, at first. A wise choice." All traces of the benign, relaxed manner with which he bears
himself evaporates the instant his attention lands upon Caleb, replaced with an immediate hardening
of presence that lends his eyes a cold, sharply-cut looks, as frosted sapphires. The glaring
markings upon his wings, shoulders and the center of his forehead pulse with an abrupt, intense red
light, the stylised eyes throbbing with a baleful, bloody lambency that fades only gradually.

You think to yourself: A voice, recalled from an earlier encounter, firm yet feminine. "Deep breath,
Avower."

Avaris inhales slowly, the breath clearly an attempt to combat the displeasure that
is writ plain upon him for all to see. When he does, finally, turn away from where Caleb last
exited, his manner is not quite as relaxed as before - but significantly less forbidding than when
the wrathful light emanated from his wings. "Shall we?"

Eatti tenses, loosely clasped hands suddenly clamped tight. With obvious effort, her eyes dart to
your face, equally concerned and alarmed. She says nothing, even as you appears to relax some at
Caleb's final departure. Instead, she simply nods, lips tight in a small frown.

Avaris does not depart immediately, lingering for a time. Lowering his head, he
breathes a soft sigh, his voice a peculiar mix of contrition, apology and modest tension. "I
apologise, Eatti. That was unseemly. Be assured, my displeasure was not directed at you, not at all.
Caleb and I simply have a...Strongly differing viewpoint on a rather important matter, that is all."

You think to yourself: "Ah, see what your lack of control over your anger has wrought? You have
frightened her, you oafish fool."

Still silent, she nods again and allows her gaze to fall again, studying the mosaic tiles. Eatti
relaxes at your words, though the tension is not gone completely. She lets her hands flutter apart,
one moving to rest on the opposite shoulder as the other pushes through her curls, and quickly
finding a lock with which to fidget. The frown melts away but is not replaced by a smile, instead
her expression remains polite and neutral, if tinged with confusion.

You think to yourself: "I am not good at this. Aeldra should be here, or Alarin. They are gentler by
far, and could coax this skittish lady as easy as breathing."

Avaris dips his chin in a slight nod, not pushing the matter further.

The Cloister of the Enduring.
This canopied path continues through the southwestern cloister, its alabaster columns offering
glimpses of the cascading waterfalls at the centre of the Temple of Lantra. Celadon lotus tiles
comprise the winding walkway, bordered on either side by rivulets of water which travel through an
immaculate marble basin to form twin rectangular reflecting pools. Here, an abundance of white water
lilies floats with tranquil beauty, while koi fish of green and turquoise hue dart within the still
waters. A place designed for quiet thought, several delicate benches have been placed here to allow
for moments of contemplation. Wrought from celadon jade, a small shrine of a merian healer stands
here, her cupped hands overflowing with water and light.
You see exits leading northeast, southeast, and northwest.

Avaris walks with his hands folded at the small of his back, set into a neatly
interlocking array of glossy white chitin that is glimpsed briefly between the gaps of his wings
that come and go with each step. "If you wish for me to linger in each location for a time, I am
content to do so. If you would rather a less sedate tour, I can oblige that, as well - Simply inform
me as to your preference."

Eatti cants her head towards you, replying softly, "Please feel free to set the pace, Avaris. You
have already been rather generous with your time and patience." As she speaks, her eyes consider the
rectangular pools, lush with water lilies and aquatic life. More of the tension bleeds away, making
room for quiet admiration of the Temple and its wonders.

A watery spray of starlight twinkles dreamily across the alabaster pillars.

Inclining his head in quiet acceptance of the words, Avaris steps to the edge of
the closest pool, so that he can regard the darting forms of the koi that dwell within. "I am
sincere when I say that I am content to spend as much time showing you Her Realm as you desire,
Eatti. You need not feel that my patience has a set limit that you must abide by, before it runs
out." His tone is soft as he speaks, his taloned feet clicking upon the lotus-patterned tiles as he
wends his way around the alabaster columns - which he would blend in with rather admirably, given
his gleaming white carapace, where it not for the sanguine red of his markings.

Within a secluded forum.
A podium adorned with the emblems of the Lady Lantra has been placed on this circular stage, which
sits in the centre of the forum to allow a pulpit for lectures, speeches, gatherings and sermons.
Arranged in a theatre-style, rows of pews radiate outwards like the petals of a lotus, surrounding
the stage on all sides. Heavy tapestries serve as curtains which provide this forum with its sense
of clandestine solitude, their heavy brocades depicting the Lady Empyreal standing beside the Lord
Exalted. Each pennant shifts to show Them at other times throughout history, beginning together in
Celestia, then before the healing mounds of the Hamadhi, voting against the Elixir, and finally
watching with silent judgment as Malmydia is sentenced by the Triumvirate and exiled to the Void.
The distant sound of rushing water fills this otherwise quiet place, resounding from the east.
You see exits leading northeast, east, and southeast.

Avaris remains on the outer portions of the forum, regarding the tapestries
quietly.

Dipping her head, Eatti's lips quirk into a small smile once more. "Thank you," she murmurs as she
trails after you. When you begins to study the tapestries, she turns instead to follow the walls of
the forum, stepping around the pews delicately. As she walks, she hums absently, the tune a pale
echo of the Singing Coral's song within the Inner Sea.

"I'm afraid I am rather uninformed regarding the Divine, the Lady Empyreal included. Is the lotus
something She favours?" Eatti wonders aloud.

While he still studies the array of depictions of his Lady, the curving sweep of
Avaris's left antenna twists to follow Eatti's unhurried circuit of the forum. It twitches at the
question, and he nods readily. "It is, indeed. Specifically the star lotus. Her primary iconography
is the star lotus, an urn that spills forth light and water, and a pair of koi fish - One white, one
black, that dance with one another in an eternal balance." A slight glitter of shining motes twinkle
to life within his eyes, as he suggests, "If you wish to learn more of Her, you need only ask. I am
but recently come to Her service, but I will share what I can."

Avaris gestures about the area with all four of his arms, encapsulating the Realm
entire. "You are certainly in the right place for it."

Eatti laughs into her hand, whatever tension that once remained now faded. "I suppose you're right,"
she agrees, eyes sparkling with amusement. Spinning on her heel, she continues her languid pace, now
moving back towards you. Her gaze finds the pews, considering their placement. "Are there any books
within the library that might tell me more about Her? You see, I'm not certain what questions to
ask... I know only that She is a Patron of Celest."

You think to yourself: A flush of relief as he sees the full return of Eatti's ease - All is not
lost on that front, at least. But...Did the Order...Have a library?

Likewise, any lingering vestiges of the spike of ill feeling that shattered
Avaris's initial relaxed manner have since dissipated entirely. While his stance is upright and
dignified, still, it is one of obvious comfort, given the relative looseness of the lines of his
form. "In the city's? No, I do not believe so, unfortunately. Perhaps I may have missed some in my
initial search, however." Gesturing for them to continue their tour, he speaks as he moves,
commenting, "She is that, indeed. She is a healer, first and foremost, and one of the oldest of the
Elders. She has seen...Much, in Her long life, I believe."

The Cloister of the Seekers.
This canopied path continues through the northwestern cloister, its alabaster columns offering
glimpses of the cascading waterfalls at the centre of the Temple of Lantra. Empyrean blue lotus
tiles comprise the winding walkway, bordered on either side by rivulets of water which travel
through an immaculate marble basin to form twin rectangular reflecting pools. Here, an abundance of
white water lilies floats with tranquil beauty, while koi fish of white and black hue dart within
the still waters. A place designed for quiet thought, several delicate benches have been placed here
to allow for moments of contemplation. Fashioned from alabaster stone, a small shrine of a veiled
merian mystic stands here, her expression distant and inscrutable.
You see exits leading northeast, southeast, and southwest.

Rhapsodic hymns emanate from within the depths of the chamber, fervent with devotion.

Following you, she nods thoughtfully along as you speaks. As she walks, she brings her hands down
from their self-soothing motions, allowing them to fall to her sides to fidget with the hem of her
coat. "A healer?" Eatti echoes, voice warm with respect.

Avaris nods soberly, the thick halo of his lustrous white fluff drifting gently
with the air disturbed by his steady pace. "Yes. One of the greatest in all of creation - If She is
not /the/ greatest. She and the other Hamadhi tended to the wounded Elders at their healing mounds
upon ethereal, during the Elder Wars." A crimson plume flicks towards Eatti as he moves towards the
next area, elaborating, "Much of the Third Circle of the Elders were healers and mediators, I
believe."

An immaculate, sidereal pavilion.
The northernmost petals of the Temple of Polaris unfurl to reveal this immaculate pavilion, upheld
by pillars of unblemished marble. Adorning the walls, stained-glass windows of misty blue
constellations map a sidereal vista where various Elder Gods have only just manifested into
existence, among them the unmistakable silhouette of the Lady Lantra and the noble figure of the
Lord Darvellan. Their subdued palette is framed by gold and illuminated by rays of starlight,
radiant and glowing as they bring the landscape of the Elders' creche to life. As the windows wrap
around the room, the walls open out into a wide balcony which reveals the world beyond the temple's
halls. From these heights, the balcony offers a view of the beautiful water gardens outside, as well
as the glissade of water lilies which graces their tranquil surface.
You see exits leading southeast, south, and southwest.

Eatti's eyes are wide as she does her best to soak up your words and the wonders of the Temple.
Despite her best intentions, it is apparent by her slowing steps that she has become distracted. The
stained-glass windows steal her focus away, and it takes her effort to pull her thoughts together.
"Oh? I see," she says after a moment, "I had no idea. History is not something I have put much time
into learning. Perhaps I will change that when I next get the chance... Are there any books you
might recommend?"

Avaris seems unperturbed by Eatti's attention sliding elsewhere, apparently content
to simply regard the wondrous working of art upon the windows as well. Waiting with a benign
patience, he dips his head minutely when addressed, answering, "There are a number of important
books that will give you a firm grasp of the history of Lusternia, and the Elders. The Elder Wars
contains a number of individual volumes written from the perspective of differing Elders - Most of
which are the originators for the sharded races that walk the basin now, I believe." Turning from
the glasswork to step towards the balcony, he gazes out over the beauteous vista that spreads out
before them, continuing, "There is the works relating to the Vernal Wars, as well, and then the
Chronicles of the Holy Celestine Empire. You should find most of them in the library, I think." He
pauses, and adds, faintly amused, "You may wish to pace yourself. It is...Rather a lot to take in."

Reflexively following your movement, Eatti also moves towards the balcony, though she still appears
drawn in by the artistic renderings in the glass. "A number of important books?" she repeats, tone
slightly unenthusiastic. Catching herself, she laughs into her hand, mild embarrassment finally
pulling her gaze from the windows to settle on the balcony. "I'm sorry," she says quickly, "I am not
an avid reader by any means, but I did not mean to sound... rude."

"I will be sure to read them, when I can. And I will certainly pace myself," Eatti adds.

Avaris's answering laugh is low and rich, his manner easy and unruffled as he lifts
a hand to wave the apology away. "I did not write them, so you have no need to praise them for my
sake. I am still working my way through them, myself. Perhaps ask an older citizen to educate you
over time, instead." Noting the manner in which Eatti's attention lingers upon the glass, he uses
the same hand to gesture towards it with a relaxed unfurling of his armoured fingers. "By all means,
appreciate what you are drawn to. I will remain until you are ready to move along. If you are
pressed to go, or wish to resume the tour another time, that is more than fine as well - There is
much to see here."

"I am rather fascinated by the stars and their constellations," Eatti admits easily, casting another
quick glance at the glass, "I am not an astrologist, and the specifics are not something I am
familiar with, but they are beautiful. Comforting, somehow." Smiling in your direction, gaze
lingering above your shoulder, she shakes her head once. "I am ready to move on if you are, Avaris.
Simply lead the way."

Avaris tilts his head to the right, a wave of effulgence spreading throughout his
eyes. "That they are. There is much of the stars about my Lady, you know. You will see that, I
think, as you explore - And if ever you are graced with the wonder of behold Her in the fullness of
Her glory." He pauses, and then echoes, almost to himself, "Beautiful, but comforting." Gathering
himself, he nods, antennae flicking in Eatti's direction as he considers. "We can visit the Fonts,
if you like, first - They represent the four tenets that we of Her Order strive to abide by, if you
have a desire to learn." Gesturing in a southwesterly direction, he offers, "Then there is the
charming company of young Tavi, an elephant child that is very sweet, but brave of heart." His hand
pans in a directly southern direction, now, as he continues, "Or there are the isles, further south,
and across the waterfall. Each one is worthy of many days of exploration in and of itself."

Avaris lowers his hand, rejoining it with the other three behind his back. "The
choice is yours - Do take your time."

Avaris adds, as if suddenly remembering, "Ah, and then there is the monument that
signifies Lady Aeldra's cult with our Lady, as well."

Eatti considers the options, though mention of Aeldra causes her to pause, canting her head
thoughtfully. "Oh? I am only familiar with Lady Aeldra from her design, a lovely and intricate set
of prayer beads. Which I can only imagine, given the star lotus beads, must be in honor of Lady
Lantra. It is a remarkable piece..." Her voice trails off as she resumes contemplation of the paths
before her.

After a time, she nods once as if decided. "I would love to know more about Her teachings, if you
would indulge me. In time, perhaps I will see the other sights. But I do find myself rather curious
about Her and Her tenets," Eatti answers.

Nodding in a swift, affirmative manner, Avaris's voice is fond as he replies, "That
seems entirely likely, yes. I hope that you can meet her, in time, as well. She is the Lady
Empyreal's Avatar, and a splendid woman in her own right." With one last look towards the view
beneath the balcony, he dips his head in acquiescence, the arcing talons of his feet clicking as he
steps onward. "I would be delighted to - Though I must caution you that I am far from the best one
to explain them to you, given my freshness to Her service. I can explain my perspective on them, and
then perhaps I can encourage another to speak on them to you at a later time. Lady Aeldra, perhaps."
Nodding to himself at this, he moves with long, purposeful strides - though is sure to maintain a
pace that does not strain Eatti's ability to keep up.

The Font of Fortitude.
Cold, argent light filters through this chamber, which is upheld by stark white pillars illuminated
by starry torchlight. The frescoes painted upon this water-filled chamber are haunting in their
black-and-white shading as they depict the horrors of the Elder Wars. Here, countless Elder Gods
hold Their ground before the likes of Kethuru, Crazen and Zenos, held in proud formations perfected
by the Second Circle. Yet the wounded and dying have begun to pile up behind Them, and while many
faces which grace these walls seem familiar, far more are blurred, as if the memory of Them has
finally begun to fray. A statue of Lantra, the Lady Mediatrix looks upon all these images in
silence, surrounded by startlingly bright red lotuses which blossom at Her feet and crown Her regal
brow. A single crimson lotus blooms eternally in Her outstretched hands as water and light flows
forth from beneath its sanguine petals, as if stained with blood.
You see exits leading northeast, south, and northwest.


Bathed in the silver light that pervades the chamber, Avaris makes for a bleak
figure indeed - Rendered harsh and forbidding by the stark illumination. The severe air is not
ameliorated by the frescoes that adorn the area, given their unsettling subject matter. Sober as a
judge, turns to the statue of the Lady Lantra and kneels before it, head bowed. He maintains this
posture for a long moment, before rising, clasping all four hands over his heart, and then lowering
them as he returns to the images.

Quietly, Avaris asks, "What do you feel, in this place, Eatti?"

Gaze drifting, Eatti follows you, her short strides accounted for by your patient pace. When her
attention finds the frescoes, a hand flutters to land at her heart and grips at the fabric of her
coat. Though the imagery is haunting, her expression softens as a profound sadness clouds her indigo
eyes. "Adrift," she replies softly.

Though his gaze is not directly upon you, Avaris's attention is intent as he
listens, hands clasped tightly together in an intricate knot of layered, armoured plates of pristine
white chitin. He nods, the gesture subdued. "Yes. I brought you to this Font first, in particular,
because I think that it is the one that you may benefit from the most." The bloodied banner of his
left antenna drifts towards Eatti, as he asks, "Can you guess what it might be?"

You think to yourself: "Adrift...Yes. That is a very valid feeling, indeed, as is the sorrow that
rests upon her like a heavy cloak. A gentle soul, this one."

To your question, she shakes her head. "I can only assume... something like a strength of heart to
weather such loss. But that is just a guess." Finally pulling her focus from the painted memories,
Eatti studies the statue of Lantra. She blinks once, drawing up her other hand to touch her cheeks
in surprise. "I am sorry," she says at once, "I should not be..." The words fade, lost as she takes
a breath to steady herself, shaken but doing her best to remain composed.

Avaris does not respond immediately, intent upon the harrowing scenes portrayed
with such artful elegance. The stark light of the chamber gleams upon the smooth countours of his
face as he shakes his head slowly, tone serious, without straying into harshness. "You have no need
to be sorry. If I could shed tears, this place would make me do so." Another silence follows this
statement, the quiet pooling about him as he stares at the Soulless with an unwavering, cold
intensity. "You are correct, largely. This Font is that of Fortitude. Weathering losses draws upon
it, yes, but Fortitude extends to many matters in life, grand and small."

Avaris frees a hand to gesture at himself with a tight twist of the wrist.
"Fortitude, to me, is endurance. It is determination. Facing strife of all shades and forms, and
being resolute in the face of it. We must remain steady, and firm, no matter how life seeks to shake
us, how it wounds us, or undermines our footing. It is resolve, of the heart, the will."

If Eatti notices your intensity, she does not show it. Following along, she nods silently, wiping at
her eyes. She mouths a few words, in a quiet echo of your explanation, favoring 'fortitude' for its
importance as the Font's focus. Eyes still wet with unshed tears, she forces herself to look up at
you. It only lasts a moment before she drops her gaze once more, flitting between the red lotuses
blossoming at the feet of the statue. "Steadiness no matter how life would shake us...Yes," she
agrees, voice unsteady, "Yes, I suppose... that is something I might benefit from."

"That all can benefit from, if they will only dedicate themselves to it," Avaris
responds, the muted chorus of his voice unwavering as hammered steel. It softens somewhat, though,
as he allows, "You may find it more beneficial than some, yes. It is not easy, for anyone, but I
truly believe that it serves as a foundation for all that you might seek to build in life, both
within yourself, and without." He turns his head a fraction towards Eatti, the sanguine markings
that adorn his alabaster form rendering him an echo of the colours that fill the room. "Are you
ready to move on? We can remain a time, of course."

"I had not considered it might be something one could... build. I thought that kind of strength must
be innate," she admits, chancing a look at the statue as if to find some answer within Her stoic,
stone mien. After a pause, Eatti takes a deep breath as she composes herself, blinking quickly to
chase away any errant tears. Finally wiping the last away, she manages a quiet, shaky sigh. "Yes,
I'm ready to move on, Avaris. Whenever you are ready," she answers with a weak smile.

Avaris's answering shake of his head is immediate, the negation in the gesture
absolute. "No. While there may be some degree of strength bestowed to us when we are born, it is of
little importance. Our core is built piece by piece, tempered and strengthened with every blow we
suffer - So long as we do not allow it to shatter us. Even then, we can be reforged, annealed
through will and intent, and with the support of others." He inclines his head respectfully to the
statue of the Empyreal, saying, "Even the Lady, I think, possesses Fortitude of significantly
greater magnitude and depth than She did when She first came to be. One cannot suffer through so
much and continue on, without building upon the resolve within."

With one last glance at the frescoes, Avaris turns and makes his way to the other
Fonts, antennae flicking behind him in Eatti's direction.

Eatti only nods in understanding, expression decidedly thoughtful and searching as she follows you
to the next Font.

The Font of Devotion.
The refined elegance of Lantra, the Blessed Mother is made manifest in this beautiful alabaster
font, the sculpture's eyes aglow with adoration as She stands upon a marble pedestal with hands
pressed to Her heart. Her gaze falls upon the Supernals of Celestia whom watch over these blessed
waters, each sculpted into the chamber's six surrounding columns. A shimmering aureole surrounds
Elohora, her hands extended upwards in a sign of benevolence to the Goddess while Shakiniel guards
her sister's left, her gold-embossed shield raised and sword in hand. To the right stands the noble
Methrenton, his armour imbued with a soft iridescence; Raziela follows, her slight form shown
singing beneath an arbour of yellow daisies. Japhiel emerges from the next pillar, his stern gaze
fixated upon the heavy gilt tome held in his hands. The final column resembles a faint masculine
figure, though its face is faded, as if lost to memory. Golden lotuses stand serenely at the base of
each pillar, illuminated with motes of starlight that cast luminous ripples across the room.
You see exits leading east, southwest, and northwest.

Unfurling to reveal their starry hearts, radiant lotuses bloom upon these waters with a stoic grace.

The atmosphere of this font is reflected in the visible easing of the severity of
Avaris's demeanour, the stiffness of his stance fading into one of a more relaxed confidence as he
gazes upon the statue of the Lady Lantra. The feathered plumes of his antennae drift back, flowing
in a gentle, undulating ripple as he looks upon the beneficent Lady's eyes with immense fondness,
tinged with a faint wistfulness. His voice is soft, warm as a comforting hand upon the cheek, as he
asks Eatti, "And what do you feel here?"

The sights within this Font brighten Eatti's entire being, a joy as of yet unseen brought forth by
the marble representations of the Supernals and the adoring gaze of the Blessed Mother. Unbidden, a
delighted laugh escapes her lips as she observes the careful craftsmanship of the sculpted columns.
Hands to her heart, she dips her head in reverence to each of the Supernals, and finally to the
alabaster rendition of Lantra. The familiarity of the surroundings and the serenity of the Font do
wonders to ease the worries brought on by the frescoes and their depiction of suffering. "A familiar
joy," she answers easily and readily, without hesitation.

You think to yourself: Faint surprise, the feeling easily overwhelmed by the swell of pleasure at
seeing the skittish woman expressing joy so freely and unabashedly. "The Lady heals even when She is
not present, truly."

Avaris's left antenna flicks down towards Eatti at the sound of Eatti's laughter,
his head twisting a few degrees towards Eatti, before he stills the motion. The teardrop pools of
his eyes alight with brilliant motes of light as he asks, tone benign, "Oh?" He steps forward a few
paces, his gait an unhurried stroll that ends with him standing before the statue of the sixth,
indistinct figure. In an idle fashion, he stretches his immense wings out, fluttering them gently as
he gazes up at the sculpture of his Lady, the adoration of his own eyes more than a simple
reflection of that which Her own hold.

You think to yourself: "Let us not see the conversation turn to this errant child. Another time."

Her gaze follows your movement, finding the sixth figure with surprise. "Oh!" Eatti gasps, "I... I
hadn't noticed that one." Her faint embarrassment at overlooking the figure fades quickly, replaced
with interest. Even her curiosity does little to dampen her bright smile, though it pushes her
forwards to better see the faded column. "Perhaps not so familiar, after all," she admits softly.

The gentle undulations of Avaris's antennae ceases as they bend inward in a
peculiarly angular motion, even as he lowers his wings slowly to settle upon his back once more,
folding into a natural cloak. "I was most curious about it myself, when I first came here, as well,
yes." His words come slowly, a slight reluctance to them as he turns his head over his shoulder,
cheek brushing against the dense tufts of his mane. "I will not speak of the sixth, here, but if you
wish to sate your curiosity, seek information of the Red Star." With this said, he casts a faintly
guilty look towards the statue of Lantra, dipping his head in mute penitence, before turning his
attention to the Font. "Now. Care to guess after the nature of the Font?"

Eyes still on the sixth column, she hums in quiet contemplation. Finally, Eatti nods in
understanding and turns her gaze to golden lotuses at the base of the pillars. Silent, she mouths
'the Red Star' to herself, your reluctance and guilt lost on her as she tries to instill the phrase
within her memory. The change in subject seems to startle her briefly, though she quickly recovers
with a small, thoughtful smile. After a pause, she ventures, "Based on the presence of the
Supernals, I suspect it must be within the realm of adoration, or perhaps faith?"

"That may be my own feelings as a student of Celestialism creating bias," Eatti admits.

Avaris tilts his head aside as he considers this, his lower left hand disengaging
from the layered interlocking of its brethren to drift up towards his mane. Seizing a thick tuft of
voluminous fluff about his forefinger, he coils it about the edged digit thoughtfully for a time,
before saying, "More accurate to say, I think, that it is the wellspring from which faith flows." He
dips his head towards the sculpture of the Lady, clarifying, "Devotion. A subtle difference,
perhaps, but an important distinction nonetheless. Faith, trust, loyalty, adoration - Love. Many
are the qualities that rely on Devotion to remain true." His steps slow, but steady, the kephera
walks up to stand at the base of the statue - though he is careful not to come bewteen the adoring
gaze of his Lady and Her beloved Supernals. "Devotion must be unwavering, consistent. We cannot
flinch when our Devotion is questioned or challenged, but stand firm, and true. Passion drives it,
zeal grants it the fire and strength it needs to withstand the assault of doubt and disregard." He
lifts his upper right hand, bringing it up with his palm turned towards the sculpture, as if to
tenderly place it upon Her cheek - but he does not, simply holding it there as he looks upon the
beauty of Her gentle features. His voice is soft, almost a whisper. "Devotion is what She asks of
us, and what we give freely to Her, for She is worth it, and far, far more."

"Devotion," Eatti echoes, voice soft. Still poised above her heart, she allows her hands to
interlace lightly as she heeds your words. "Yes, I can see it now," she agrees, smile gentle. A cant
of her head pushes her eyes up, away from the golden lotuses, flickering briefly to chase the path
of your hand. "I am familiar with Devotion, though I admit that my own is..." she trails off,
searching for the words before finishing, "When the foundation is unsound, even the most steady of
devotion may appear wavering."

"That's not to say I lack Devotion," Eatti assures, "But there are things that do make me uneasy,
which I would rather not trouble you with."

Avaris nods at this, the motion slight. "I assure you that you would not be
troubling me, Eatti. I am no healer, in the truest sense of the word, but this is a place of
healing, in all of its forms." Lowering his hand, he turns his head a fraction over his shoulder,
antennae leaning in Eatti's direction. "If there is something that causes you pain, or an old wound
that has left a scar in your heart, you are more than welcome to unburden yourself of it, here."

Eatti's expression turns pensive, unfocused for a brief moment. With a brief shake of the head, her
gaze catches on a mote of starlight and scatters the fog from her mind. "It is not a... scar or
wound, as such. Perhaps it is not something in need of a healer, either. Simply a concern that has
wormed its way into my heart." A wan smile, which fails to meet her indigo eyes. "Something some one
said when I was fresh from the Portal of Fates, which has... stuck with me."

Avaris listens attentively as Eatti speaks, maintaining the angle of his head that
keeps Eatti within his field of vision without making Eatti the focus. As the explanation finishes,
the deep red of his antennae shift forward and down, curving into points. "Will you share it with
me?"

You think to yourself: "What could someone have said to a young person to have unsettled them so,
and for this long?"

The wan smile fades into a frown, yet she dips her head in gentle acquiescence. "It was a question,
and while I wish I could remember his name, I cannot recall who asked it," Eatti says softly, "For
the memory is faint, even if the words have stuck with me." With an anxious breath, she purses her
lips and closes her eyes as if to summon whatever remnants remain within her recollection. "I
believe it was three of us. We had not all left the Portal at the same time, but it was rather close
and so we spent some time together learning as we found our footing. Someone asked a simple
question, I think, and it lead to a discussion about the Taint, what it was." Her brown creases as
the frown deepens, frustration tinging her words. "I wish I could remember his name."

Avaris speaks quietly, so as not to startle Eatti from Eatti's train of thought.
"The name may come later. Do not try to force it, such things tend to drift up by themselves
unbidden. Focus on the core of the memory, instead, rather than specifics."

Giving up, she shakes her head with a light sigh. "He asked how the Wyrd differed from the Taint,"
Eatti confesses finally, eyes fluttering open, "And I only remember there being no solid answer,
only that the Wyrd was different but not how or if the difference... mattered?" After a beat, she
adds, somewhat hesitantly, "It is just a concern, as I said. I have no ill will towards the
Glomdoring, I think... They are our allies." The assertion is an uneasy one, building a tension in
her bunching shoulders and clenched hands.

There is silence from Avaris for a span of time that stretches on until it is
perilously close to the precipice of uncomfortable, his face turned back to that of his Lady. "Ah."
The sound is soft, but nonetheless layered with a complexity of sentiment that renders it difficult
to discern any single one. "That is a common topic of debate, to my knowledge. What portion of it
concerns you, precisely?"

The lingering silence only serves to increase the anxiety clear in Eatti's form. At your question,
her bunched shoulders lift and fall in a small shrug. "I think, the lack of solid answer," she
admits, "I can take very many things on faith, but... It felt rather hollow, wanting. Which is why
it has stuck with me..." Suddenly, her words flow in a nervous rush, quickly cascading in a hurried
mess, undercut by an apologetic tone. "And truly, this might not have been a topic for this time or
this place. I'm certain if I were more of a scholar, I might have uncovered the answer on my own.
Unfortunately, that is not my strong suit. But I suppose my own failing was letting it fester."

Avaris holds up a hand to forestall any further torrent of words, the long,
gleaming appendage turned so that his palm faces Eatti. "Calm, Eatti. This topic would have come up
in the last Font I will take you to, regardless." Lowering his hand, he folds it, and its three
mates, into the complex blockade of harsh planes of white, the sharp angles of his chitin gleaming
in the light. "Before I give you my answer, I would hear what you think on the matter, yourself.
What do you think of the Wyrd, of the Glomdoring? Remove, if you would, the matter of the political
alliance that we are currently embroiled in. Speak from the heart, Eatti. I do not want a scholar's
opinion, on this."

Blinking in surprise, Eatti drops her gaze to her sandals, frown fading into a passive expression as
she focuses on calming herself. She laces and unlaces her fingers, once and then twice, self-
soothing with a shaky breath. "As ignorant as I am in history, and knowledge of the Divine, I am
equally ignorant when it comes to the Wyrd," she begins, uncertain, "But, speaking from the heart...
It feels wrong? Night's shadows naturally shy from the Light, after all."

Finally, Avaris turns from his contemplation of the unmoving features of the
Empyreal's Divine visage to face Eatti. He lifts his upper right hand, clenching it swiftly into a
taut fist of quivering chitin, the harmonious nature of his voice reminiscent of a fierce choir.
"/Yes/. Exactly right, Eatti." He shakes the formidable plating of his gauntleted hand once in a
gesture of emphatic approval, then relaxes it so that he extends a forefinger, pointing at Eatti.
"The Wyrd /is/ wrong. It is corruption, a disease that perverts all that it slathers its slime upon,
and takes the good hearts of mortals and coats them in beguiling shadow." Lowering his hand, he
nods, the gesture firm and decisive. "Very good, Eatti. You see true, and clear. Trust in that
feeling, no matter what those of the Wyrd may whisper in your ear."

You think to yourself: Ferocious approval, a clarion blast of triumphant brass that resounds with
thunderous joy - Finally, /finally/, another that sees the Wyrd for what it is.

The sudden movement and attention startles her, eliciting a stifled yelp of surprise as Eatti's eyes
race to meet your. Despite the fact that your words align with her own, she does not relax. Winding
tension only builds within her, a bowstring taught. "I..." she stammers, "Yes... I will trust that
feeling."

Endless cascades of water and light flow into this luminous pool, enchanting in its celestial glow.

Noting Eatti's burgeoning tension, Avaris pauses, holding all four of his hands up
in a gesture of placation. "My apologies. As you can no doubt tell, this is a matter of
some...Passion for me. I do not mean to frighten you." Lowering them, he turns so that he faces
aside from Eatti, his manner growing more relaxed once again. "Help me to understand, Eatti - Why do
you grow yet more tense? I know that I can be unsettling, with the extent of my fervour, but...Do
you believe that I will harm you, or admonish you?"

"I'd not shared... That is..." Eatti stammers, breaking her focus on you as you turns away, "I was
worried, at first, that I had... upset you. And you have been very kind. I would hate to spoil the
goodwill you've shown me." She swallows thickly, forcing herself to unclench her hands. The tension
eases, each breath forcing muscles to loosen. "It was. Much too much, that's all," she manages, "I
do not think you will harm me, Avaris. It was just... As I said, I thought I upset you, and then. It
was just very sudden, you see." A vague gesture in your direction, words failing to capture her
meaning despite her attempts.

"I am very sorry," Eatti adds quietly.

You think to yourself: An acute pang of regret, a twisting admonishment towards himself. "Yes, that
describes me rather painfully well, I think. Much too much."

A low, long sigh escapes from Avaris as he lowers his head, lifting his upper pair
of hands to absently run the points through the sanguine feathers of his right antenna, grooming it
distractedly. "No, /I/ am sorry, Eatti. I am working on being less...Intense, but I have made very
little progress, I confess. It does not come naturally to me." The azure pools of his eyes dim,
whorling with a deeper hue of blue. "I did not intend to startle you. I am not upset with you-
Rather the opposite, as it happens. It is...It has been difficult for me, lately, with that topic."
He gestures towards one of the exits, his voice pitched gentle and soft. "We can talk about that in
the next Font, if you are feeling up to it."

With a gentle shake of her head, Eatti dismisses the apology. "You are fine, Avaris. I am rather
easy to startle, as it turns out," she says, attempting a wry tone but falling short into
frustrated, "I have been, I imagine, since before the Portal. That is my failing, not yours." Slowly
but surely, and with great effort, her breathing steadies and the tension within her shoulders fades
to a murmur of what it was only moments ago. Not gone, but far more mild than before. "I'm feeling
up to it," she adds with a small nod, "Thank you."

Avaris lowers his hands from fretting at his antennae, so that he can hold all four
of them up in a gesture of surrender. "Let us say that we both have issues that are unfortunately
ill suited to mix, and that we both need to work on them." He tilts his head slightly, though he
still keeps his gaze from pointing at Eatti. "What do you think? Truce?"

With a stifled smile and wide eyes, a mixture of amusement and confusion colors her expression. An
soft, astounded laugh escapes Eatti's lips, and she nods at once. "Truce," she agrees.

Avaris nods in an amiable fashion, a glimmering wave of light rippling across his
eyes as he lowers his hands. "Truce it is, then. Onwards we go."

The Font of Purity.
Glistening waterfalls surround this marble font, sculpted in homage to Lantra, the White. Beautiful
doves carved from mother-of-pearl soar about Her with silent joy, their wings gliding through the
waterfalls to spray a gentle mist of sparkling white. The Goddess's long robes flow to the waters
below, Her hands outstretched to cradle a single star lotus held within Her palms, captured in
eternal bloom. Endless living star lotuses blossom at Her feet, unfurling their dewy petals to
reveal their sparkling hearts. Muted sconces of soft starlight provide a soft, ambient light to this
chamber, twinkling in and out like constellations on the walls.
You see exits leading north, southeast, and southwest.

The soft susurration of the waterfalls matches the whisper of Avaris's wings as he
steps within, his attention immediately going to the statue of Lantra that dominates the room. He
lowers his head towards Her in reverence, before stepping unobtrusively aside to allow Eatti an
uninterrupted view of the Font. He says nothing, he head turned aside, panning gradually across the
flow of the glistening waters, and simply waits.

Moving slowly into this new chamber, Eatti's eyes take at once to the pearl doves, admiring their
craftsmanship and beauty with quiet awe. One hand, her left, flexes as if to grasp something to find
only her other hand there waiting instead. Rather than clasping her hands together again, she simply
lets them fall to her side, to fidget with the hem of her coat once more. Finally pulling away from
the birds, her gaze flits to the statue of the Goddess and the star lotus cradled in Her palms. "I
think this must be as lovely as the last Font. Such artistry..." she murmurs with admiration.

The scarlet sweep of the antennae closest to Eatti dips down in Eatti's direction
at the motion of Eatti's hands. Casually, Avaris remarks, "You can come here with your sketchbook
later, if you like. The Lady will not mind, so long as you are respectful of Her. There is much
beauty to appreciate here."

With an embarrassed smile, Eatti dips her head in a nod. "I will do my best to show Her the upmost
respect, I assure you."

Avaris lowers his own head in acknowledgement, his manner pleased as he asks, "The
same question as before, Eatti."

Eatti hums softly, turning in place to consider the Font and her impression of it. "I suppose,
besides inspiration.... I feel..." A moment. She cants her head, trailing her gaze from the
Goddess's hands to the blossoms at Her feet. "Hope. A distinct feeling of hope," she finishes
finally.

"As for what I think the Font might represent," Eatti adds, "I suppose clarity? I'm not entirely
certain. The star lotus in Her palms makes me think of second chances, and the doves of freedom of
some kind..."

Once more, Avaris offers only a patient silence as he allows Eatti to formulate
both thought and words, standing vigil by the curtain of clear waters like a sentinel carved of
marble. The illusion is broken when he dips his head in a nod, offering, "A fine feeling, hope. An
important feeling. The Lady represents much that inspires hope, I believe." Turning the smooth,
featureless shell of his face towards the statue of the Goddess, he contemplates Her for a time.
"Clarity, in a way, yes, and...Second chances, as well. Redemption /is/ possible, as all things can
be cleansed." A pause, and then, a faint note of steel sliding into the chords of his voice, "One
way or the other."

Avaris lifts his lower left hand to sweep it about, gesturing at the water that
flows endlessly within the Font. "Purity, Eatti. This is the Font of Purity. What do you think that
means, with what you have learned of Her, so far?"

Though she sits in thoughtful silence for some time, Eatti shakes her head once. "I am not sure,"
she admits with a small frown. "I... I believe that purity of heart and mind is important for faith,
for devotion. But as for what that means when I think of Her?" Uncertain in her own words, she says
nothing more, only shrugging lightly.

Once more lapsing into quiet, Avaris turns his attention to the sculpture, which he
looks upon with a distinct air of reverent awe, a soft exhalation slipping forth from him. At
Eatti's words, he nods slightly. "You are correct in that, yes. They are all strongly
interconnected." Unfurling the fingers of his lower left hand towards the effigy of the Empyreal, he
elaborates, "To Her - As far as I am aware - Purity is more focused on that of intent, and the
integrity of oneself and one's actions. We must maintain a clear head, heart, and eye at all times.
The Taint is anathema to Purity, in all forms - Including the Wyrd."

Avaris lowers his hand, securing it at the small of his back. "The situation in
Celest is an excellent example of what occurs when Purity is not followed."

Eatti hums a soft agreement, lips pursed as she admires the living blanket of dewy star lotuses.
"Integrity of self, and of one's actions," she repeats. For a moment, it looks as though she intends
to ask something but hesitates. Instead, her eyes cut up to the sculpted Goddess, searching Her
stone mien. She tilts her head, turning very slightly towards you. "By the situation... do you mean
the alliance?" she wonders, "Or... something else?"

Avaris utters a noncommittal sound born of low, wavering pitches and higher hums as
he dips his head aside. "Yes, and no. An alliance with the Glomdoring, in and of itself, could be
leveraged as strictly a tactical, and /highly/ temporary necessity, in order to preserve the greater
good. It has gone far beyond that, however, if it were ever the case." The sanguine curves that flow
up from his brow bend forward and down, their tips curling upward in a manner strikingly reminiscent
of horns, displeasure seeping into his voice. "Mortal politics has endangered the sanctity of the
Light, of all that is good, and just. The citizens should be wary of the Wyrd, and its spawn - Yet
they are not." Shaking his head slowly in contempt-riddled bafflement, he goes on to say, "They
embrace them as if they are beloved companions. They welcome rot and disease into their homes, and
think it is a fine and natural thing to do. Their eyes are clouded with shadow, their hearts filled
with decay that they cannot sense."

"Only six years ago, if I recall, we lost Gabe and Aknarin to the Glomdoring," Eatti says softly. A
hand pushes through her curls, eventually smoothing and tucking errant locks behind her ears. "Gabe
was the Herald of Sacrifice, for a time. And Aknarin Queen. And while, I do not believe they held
these positions when the left, it is still..." she trails off, lacking the words. In their place,
she gestures vaguely at nothing at all.

Endless cascades of water and light flow into this luminous pool, enchanting in its celestial glow.

"Yes." Avaris says simply, nodding in understanding. A curved antenna twitches in
the direction of the statue, and he makes a sound as if he is about to speak, and thinks better of
it. Instead, he says, "We are poised to lose others, in a similar manner. Even those that will not leave Celest still
have an appalling sympathy for the Wyrd and its viewpoints. They listen to the poisoned honey it
whispers to them, and take it as truth. It is a sad state of affairs, when any who speak or act as
if it is as abhorrent as it is in reality, are admonished or otherwise looked upon with scorn or
ignored." He gestures towards the sculpture once more, a slight, circular motion of his lower left
hand. "They lack Purity. I intend to rectify that. It is my hope to find others that will assist me -
All that I ask of you, Eatti, is to be vigilant to the risk of corruption. Keep Purity in mind,
always."

Complex emotions play across her countenance, but at your gesture, her eyes find the star lotus
within the Goddess's palms and calm stills the storm. Freeing her hand from her hair, Eatti dips her
head into a nod. "Of course. I will do my best to be vigilant, Avaris." Both hands once again
unoccupied, she moves them to rest over her heart, clasped loosely. "I hope that your search bears
fruit," she adds, offering a faint and brief smile.

Avaris's answer is a simple, emphatic nod, his voice firm and resolute as he
states, "I will be successful, whatever path I take, and no matter how many or how few flock to the
banner of righteousness. The work will be done, one way or another." Turning from the Font, he
extends a pair of hands in invitation, indicating the next exit. "When you are ready, the last font
awaits."

Mimicking your movement, Eatti also turns from the Font, poised to follow. "Ah, yes. I'm ready," she
says readily, "Please, lead on."

The Font of Wisdom.
This shadowy, water-filled alcove is filled with the gentle susurrus of running water, for cascading
waterfalls rain over its smooth stone walls in a symphony of aquatic sound. A procession of water
lotuses, each lit by a single, luminous star, raise their stems high above the surface of sparkling
water as they surround a statue of Lantra, the Empyreal, Her inscrutable expression veiled from view
as She folds Her hands in quiet contemplation. Seven starry jewels crown the Goddess's brow,
mimicking domothean crystal as they emit an eerie light that dapples the shimmering walls. From
where the light touches stone, faint constellations twinkle into view, drawing a sidereal path
across the walls that leads through the Void-black stone to the west, as if charting a way back to
the Basin of Life.
You see exits leading northeast, southeast, and west.

The hard soles of Avaris's feet clack upon the floor as he walks, the large, deadly
sharp curves of his talons clicking in accompaniment. Once within the last chamber, he steps aside,
taking upon position by the exit to the west - a stark white figure painted upon the utter black of
the stone wall, outlined in glimmering constellations. He inclines his head towards the latest
statue, voice quiet, as he prompts, "For the last time, Eatti, once more."

Entering this new Font, Eatti's eyes skim the procession of lotuses as she moves forward, her gaze
finally landing upon the statue of Lantra. She considers the sculpture with peaceful admiration, of
the craftsmanship and majesty captured. "I feel small here," she admits rather meekly, "But not...
It isn't unpleasant. Just a truth to be understood." One of her hands drifts upwards, reaching
forward but not touching. As if catching herself, she lets her hand hang there, frozen in the
movement as she choose to instead study the jewels upon the Goddess's brow with curiosity.

You think to yourself: "Ah, an impulse I am beginning to know all to well, Eatti - But we must never
touch, no matter how strongly we are drawn to Her."

Quiet as the space between the stars, Avaris's shifts slightly in place, the motion
brushing his mane up against the black of the wall behind him - sending the spray of white drifting
gently like the flames of a pure, languid sun. "Small..." The word is spoken with a thoughtful
deliberation, as if tasting the feel of it, before he affirms, "Yes, I would say that is a very
understandable way to feel, here, before Her." The faceted sapphires that make up his eyes glitter
in the odd light cast by the crystals upon the Empyreal's brow as he turns to face the sculpture
fully. "And the nature of this Font, do you suppose?"

 A very slight shake of Avaris's head answers the second portion of Eatti's answer.
"Do not be so swift to diminish yourself, Eatti. Remember what I said of Fortitude - We build
ourselves, piece by piece. Do not tear your good work down even as you create it." A slight pause,
and then, as if struck by an inspiration, "You would not rip a hole in your page as you were
sketching, would you?"

Eatti glances back towards you, her focus falling just to the right of you on the black of the wall
as she considers your words. "Perhaps by accident," she replies lightheartedly, lips quirked with
mirth. "But otherwise, no," comes the concession, just as easily but more earnestly, "I will... do
my best to remember Fortitude, thank you."

The illusion of blending with the sidereal vista against which he stands is
strengthened as Avaris's eyes light with a shimmering series of twinkling motes of brilliant light,
the kephera nodding in an approving manner. "Very good. As for this Font, you touched upon it
precisely - It is Wisdom." He tips his head aside, considering the statue once more. "Not Knowledge.
There is a very great distinction between the two, and it is vitally important that you do not
forget that. Knowledge, by itself, is dangerous. It can be easily misused, turned to selfish or
horrifying ends." He lifts both pairs of hands free, holding them before him, palm up, as if
weighing something. "Balance. The pursuit of knowledge must be tempered by the Wisdom to know how,
and when to use it. It is logic and feeling balanced, letting neither take precedence. Is it
thought, and consideration, before acting, and speaking - Knowing when know to do either, but to
observe, and learn."

Avaris lowers his hands, tucking them beneath his wings. "It is, in my opinion, the
simplest and most difficult of the Fonts, simultaneously. Simple to grasp, in essence, but extremely
difficult to exercise in reality."

Indigo eyes flicker to your hands, watching them as she listens. "Balance," she echoes. As you
lowers your hands, so moves Eatti's gaze, settling finally on the floor. "I can understand why you
would say that. It does seem a simple concept, but I could not say I have practiced Wisdom as you've
described it."

"Oh, you likely have, without knowing it. It is the deliberate and conscious
exercising of Wisdom that is the difficult aspect, I think." Avaris responds easily, shifting from
his place at the wall to tap the back of an edged knuckle against the stone. "That is all of the
Fonts. What do you think of Her, so far?"

"Radiant and multifaceted," Eatti remarks at once, turning to fully face the veiled statue with
reverence, "Her tenets are admirable, and any citizen of Celest should strive to uphold them, I
think." After a pause, she tilts her head towards you, though her attention remains on the
inscrutable countenance of the Empyreal. "If you would forgive my curiosity, what drew you to Her?"

You think to yourself: Warm approval, both of the sentiment conveyed, and the immediacy of its
delivery. This one has good eyes, indeed.

You have emoted: Avaris's chin dips into the thick froth of white that rings his neck as he nods at
the answer, a flicker of scintillating lights glimmering into life within his eyes. "I think, in
this chamber, of all places, there is not need to forgive such curiosity, Eatti," he remarks in a
kindly fashion, before lapsing into wordless contemplation of the Empyreal. "Many things, really. I
have a great admiration for healers, of those that give of themselves time and time again to mend
the hurts of others. It is, to me, one of the most noble and genuinely good acts one can perform -
And She has done it for longer than perhaps any other being in existence."

You sense a quiet, unseen presence watching you here, at once both calming and disquieting.

Avaris lifts a single shoulder in a slight shrug. "I gravitated towards Her,
primarily, I think, for two reasons. I wish to be the sword that shields Her, and Hers, from that
which seeks to harm them, in any fashion - Physically, mentally, emotionally, any way at all."

Gesturing to the quartet of scabbarded swords that hang form his hips, the left
side black, the right white, Avaris explains, tone frank and open, "I am a harsh soul, Eatti. You
have seen this firsthand, and only a glimpse of it. I am all sharp edges and burning zeal. I am Hers
because She tempers me, balances me. She offsets the natural violence of my soul, and makes me feel
more at peace with the anger that rages in my heart."

You think to yourself: "The simple truth of it is - How could I not be drawn to Her? One may as well
ask why we fall towards the earth when we step from a great height, or why we enjoy warmth and love
and light. It is simply the nature of things. Being Hers is mine."

Eatti's face softens with a fondness. She lifts a hand to gesture lightly between you and herself,
"You have dedicated an incredible amount of time to show me these Fonts, to explain them to me. To
make me think and ponder their meanings. And you've made generous concessions for my own...
idiosyncrasies." A quiet laugh, tinged with disbelief, escapes her. "To say all that of yourself
feels rather unfair..."

"I do not think you are all sharp edges, Avaris," Eatti finishes warmly, "Your soul is more gentle
than you realise."

You think to yourself: "Ah, that is kind of you, Eatti - But that is Her, not I. This place makes of
me a gentler soul simply by proximity to Her."

Avaris lowers his head in a small bow of gratitude, the plumes of burgundy that
flow from his brow rippling faintly. "You are very sweet to say so, Eatti, and I thank you deeply
for the kindness of your words, truly. I hope to make them true, someday." Straightening, he tilts
his face in a curious manner, asking, "You have spent just as much time enduring my vague attempts
at conveying their meaning, you know - And likewise been generous enough to overlook my foibles."
Indicating the exquisite sculpture of the Goddess with a small rotation of his lower left hand, he
says, "Please, do not take this as pressure, or expectation - Merely an invitation. Her Order is
open to you, should you feel drawn to Her that strongly. I feel that She will balance you, as She
has me - Though in the opposite direction, I think."

Avaris adds, "You should seek out Lady Aeldra, at least. Even if only to meet her.
She is a fine woman, and very wise."

With a musing hum, Eatti faces you, though her eyes stray quickly to the floor. "I admit, of all the
Divine Ladies of Celest, I knew the least about the Lady Empyreal before I came here," She trails
off, finding and steadying herself. "Because of my ignorance, my draw to Her was always weakest.
Knowing what I know now, however, I do feel a... recognition within me. Not to say that I see Her
within me, but... I can see a path under Her tenets that improves me. Balances me, as you say."

Eatti dips her head into another quick nod. "Oh, yes, of course. I will reach out to Lady Aeldra,"
she replies, "I would very much like to meet her."

You think to yourself: "There is a path guided by Her for all, if only they would see it."

You think to yourself: Again, the firm, feminine voice from much earlier, though this time leavened
by humour, echoed by his own fond amusement in the present. "Celest is already guided by so many of
Us Ladies."

Maintaining the position he has held for some time now, Avaris's face remains
pointed towards the Font, and the form of his Lady, though the twin banners of red tilt towards
Eatti as Eatti speaks. "We are much blessed to have a fine array of Divine Ladies that patron New
Celest, indeed. I have met Lady Terentia only recently, and I...Hm." He pauses here, searching for
the right words. "I think that you might struggle in Her presence, if you were not amply prepared.
She is very direct."

Avaris gestures at the waterfalls with a slight inclination of his head. "I have
not met Lady Carakhan, but I am sure She is a very fine Lady as well. You will be treated well, no
matter which you eventually dedicate yourself to, if that is what you choose to do."

Eatti hides a smile beneath her hand, face lit with mirth. "I do not know much about The Even
Bladed, but I suspect you are correct. My interest in Lady Terentia was..." She pauses, the tips of
her fingers tapping against her lips. "Well, you see, I would like to be stronger. Tempered? But I
do not know that I would survive the experience, such as I am." A gentle shrug of the shoulders, not
dismissive but rather accepting.

At mention of Lady Carakhan, Eatti drops her hand, allowing her smile to show freely. "Oh, yes, the
Sculptor of Waves. As an artist with a passion for the Sea and her song, I would very much like to
meet Her one day. I am ever impressed by the colonies of coral within the Inner Sea. I spend much of
my time there when I am not sketching."

Eatti adds, "Perhaps one day I will be lucky enough to have met each of Celest's Divine."

Avaris lifts his upper left hand to curl a tuft of fluff about its forefinger, the
gesture one of absent thought. "Oh, She would make you strong, I have no doubt of that. If you still
wish that, without engaging with such a...Prodigious entity, Lady Aeldra is a formidable foe upon
the battlefield, and no doubt could direct you to others." A benign nod, the pools of his eyes
glittering with gentle light. "You should pray to Her, if you wish to meet Her. I suggest going to
Her Fulrcrux, and perhaps leaving art of your own for Her, as an offering."

Avaris dips his head in agreement. "I think that it is but a matter of time, and
reaching out to Them. They are busy Ladies, but They care for every one of us. Be patient, pray to
Them, and it will come." Gesturing towards the exit, he continues, "But that is the future. For now,
would you like to remain on your own, or shall I escort you out?"

"Ah, if you could show me the way out?" Eatti asks.

Avaris nods readily. "Of course."

((Just outside the Realm entrance))

In a smooth harmony of buzzes, you ask Eatti, "Shall I take you back to Celest?"

Eatti shakes her head.

Eatti, a Partial Adjudicator says, "No, I can find my way from here. But thank you."

Avaris waves a hand in an amiable manner. "You are most welcome. Thank you for your
company, and your patience, Eatti. It has been a pleasure."

"And thank you again, for the same. I had a lovely time," Eatti replies quickly, returning the wave.

Avaris nods once more, inclining his head in a courteous gesture. "Until next time.
Do not hesitate to reach out to me, should you wish it. Light's blessings upon you, Eatti." With
that, he spreads his wings out to their full, immense span, and takes off in a single, powerful
burst of motion, ascending rapidly upwards.