"...I...was called...was called..."

<-- immediately after getting decapped by Vira, and then talk with Xenthos, so many BIG. FEELIES.

A cozy living room above the kitchen.                  (#HAH_5)
A comforting feeling of privacy pervades the area. Eleven steps, all different dimensions and carved from dark ravenwood lead to a comfortable little living area. Dark floors contrast the gentle green shade painted on the walls, and bright, flickering wall sconces. A curved ceiling looks as if it has been scooped directly out of a tree, and thick support joists criss-cross the expanse. Delicate muslin curtains cover either window and barely touch the floor. On both window sills sit half a dozen tiny planters with newly sprouting flowers and herbs inside. Three plain oak doors typically stand closed, but whiffs of lavender and petrichor can be detected when they open, briefly displacing the delicious smells of the kitchen below. The diminutive size, low lighting, and soothing colors of this room invoke a sense of ease and respite. An elegant wall sconce featuring numerous large poppies juts from the wall, holding a flickering candle. There are 2 soft couches decorated with needlepoint poppies here. A tapestry depicting the creation of the lyrebird is proudly hanging here. A lush beige carpet is spread out on the ground. There are 2 elegantly carved ravenwood armchairs here. A small dark brown tea table stands here. A painting of Gurashi and the Racist Dartboard is proudly exhibited on a nearby wall. A gilded pedestal, displaying a painting of A Stack of Cats, stands here, its gold leaf cracked and weathered. A gilded pedestal, displaying a painting of The Seal Of Approval, stands here, its gold leaf cracked and weathered. A shimmering blue circle floats in the room here.
You see exits leading east (open door), southeast (closed door), southwest (open door), and down (open door).
You close the oak door to the down.

You think to yourself: ...Ishra's study...

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "/ *you feel her attention shift away from you* /."

You hear a couple sharp raps emanate from the oak door to the down.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**no answer, though you can hear movement**."

You tell Bizirik, the leothin, "Emote emote snorts, looking at ^Tridemon, then at the door, scratching at it."

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "You locked Bizi out."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**frantic sounding** Am thinking maybe she should stay with you for a couple days think."

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "Well, if you're quite sure that you don't want hugs..."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**you hear the pacing pause... **."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**...a quiet click, and the door opens, though Gurashi is careful to stay out of sight**."

You open the oak door to the down.

Great waves crash over one another as they pour in from the down, finally swirling together before solidifying into Tridemon.

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

Bizirik, the leothin strikes a pose.

You have emoted: Gurashi steps away, quickly separating himself from Tridemon with one of the couches.

Tridemon blinks.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "You're terrible at hide and seek."

Shadows swirl around your arm as the Fingerblade of dha'Wyrden-cree digs itself more painfully into your finger.

Narrowing his eyes, you say, "Don't know what t-they do."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down at the blade as it drifts past, and you see another fearful bit of life seep out of him. "Or if they do things to other people."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Don't care, come here."

You think to yourself: **too many colors - too many synapses**.

Shaking his head, you say, "No, you will get -hurt-."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Maybe. So?"

You have emoted: Gurashi looks across the living room towards the now very shut study door, wringing his hands together.

You blink a few times and stare at Tridemon in confusion.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Tridemon, "But you -hate- hugs."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "And you need some."

You think to yourself: / *a gentle chitter* /.

You have emoted: Gurashi's brow furrows in confusion. He does his best to keep a stiff upper lip, but eventually drops his chin, tears welling up in his eyes. Finally, he stiffly moves away from the back of the couch, still a few paces away from Tridemon. He eyes the blade as it drifts by again.

Eyes wide and tearful, you say to Tridemon, "I let Her down."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Mmhmm."

You think to yourself: **a wash of blue - deep, unforgiving. guilty**.

You are embraced by a sudden longing for a sumptuous repast.

Tridemon reaches out with both arms, stepping toward you and pulling you in against his body, hugging you tightly.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "That you did. But... were Her standards anything you would have reached anyway?"

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a terrified little noise as he is drawn into the embrace, eyeing the blade and anticipating the worst... but it doesn't seem to do anything to Tridemon, and after it passes again, he deflates, bursting into tears. He returns the embrace, burying his face into the center of Tridemon's chest.

Hiccuping, you say, "Thought could at least -try-."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "She is devoted to the Wyrd, and has little time for something as petty as individual people. Anything less than equal devotion would be falling short. And ignoring other peoples' suffering... isn't you."

Thought his tears, you say, "But why can't it be both?" He pulls back suddenly, and you realize his cheek has started bleeding again. "I do not understand how helping peoples is bad - s-so, someday, they will think of the Glomdoring and remember how nicely their friends treated them and..."

You have emoted: Gurashi trails off, face flushing as he fights another fresh round of tears.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "That would be nice. But... gratitude is a fickle thing, at times. Something that people can reason and weasel their way out of, if they don't want to make an effort to return the kindness."

You sniffle softly.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Ashira is an example."

Sniffling again, you say, "Xenthos -really- hates her... she is... an Un-Friend, yes."

Your stomach grumbles as you are hit with a craving for a nibble and a nosh.

You think to yourself: / *another sympathetic tick... attention turning to the grumbling of Gurashi's stomach* /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "The terms of the alliance were favorable to Gaudiguch. More than that, skewed heavily toward assisting them. And as repayment for that kindness? A repudiation of the treaty, of all the hard work. Of all the GOODWILL that had been built. All of it dashed for a single person's grudge."

You think to yourself: **continued miserable shades of blue, deeper, nearly black - suddenly, feeling very stupid**.

Tridemon pats you in a friendly manner.

Rain steadily streams down the window panes, crashing in noisy waves against the walls and roof.

Pulling away from the hug but pulling you back in afterward, Tridemon gives a puffy platter of fluffy waffles to you.

Surprised, you say, "Waffles."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "You're hungry."

You think to yourself: **somewhat amused words spoken in gold* am a waffle**.

You have emoted: Gurashi blinks slowly as he accepts the platter, staring down with one free arm, the other half-returning the embrace. "...am -hungry-?" He whispers in disbelief, looking up at Tridemon, horrified.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "And because of the disfavour, you will be hungrier more often."

Eyes wide as the platter he's holding, you exclaim to Tridemon, "I... I-I haven't been hungry in...... t-thirty years!"

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Favours stave off the need for food. And dying returns you to life satiated."

You think to yourself: Favors...

You have emoted: Gurashi's face turns red as he watches the blade pass again.

You sniffle softly.

Tridemon pulls away from the hug for the moment, to sit on one of the couches.

Tridemon sits himself down on a soft couch decorated with needlepoint poppies and makes himself comfortable.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Little better?"

You have emoted: Gurashi politely wipes clean his mouth as he finishes, sinking to sit on the same couch, albeit pressed as far away against the other arm as he can be. He nods once, returning his hands to his lap and sighing.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to Bizirik, the leothin, "Know what Gurashi needs? Face-licks."

Bizirik, the leothin doesn't seem inclined to move much closer, tossing its head. It looks towards the eastern door, then back at Gurashi, gaze trained like it was earlier in the month.

Quietly, you say, "It is O-K ... she saw the Lady too."

Morose, you say, "... do not think she likes scythes."

Bizirik, the leothin stomps its little front feet, whining.

Tridemon nods his head sagely.

<-- abruptly DC'd, apparently Tridemon got pelican delivery

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... Thank you, Unitos."

Tridemon gives a pained sigh.

Swooning, you ask, "Ooh... what... did Mister Unitos do?"

Tridemon makes a motion with his right hand to gather up the water from the pelican delivery of the anomaly, and sends it down and out of the room, toward the pond.

You have emoted: Gurashi pauses, watching the water as it is carefully whisked away... then letting out a quick, quiet laugh. "Ahh. Haha."

Quietly, you say to Tridemon, "Imagine being one of the cats he delivers with those things...."

You have emoted: Gurashi shakes his head, reaching up and hesitantly touching his cheek with his pinky. He pulls away his finger, checking for blood. "Does it look bad?" He asks in a whisper. "Why didn't resurrection fix it..."

You think to yourself: / *you can feel her moving around, present and listening, concerned, but still quite overpowered by the other sound* /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "It'll probably heal up around the same time as the disfavour wears off. A sign of her... disappointment."

A flicker of lightning is followed shortly after by long, low rumble of thunder which causes the windows to rattle.
It is now the 11th of Urlachmar, 560 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 29 days until the New Moon

You have emoted: Gurashi covers his cheek again, flinching, then leaning heavily against the arm of the chair, letting out a loud, disbelieving sigh.

You stare blankly into space.

You think to yourself: **the start of sickly rose scent... no, no no, do not think about it anymore. happened...**.

You have emoted: Gurashi pauses, looking at the door to the east worriedly.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "... She -totally- sort of said yes, right."

You stare at Tridemon, eyes wide.

Voice bright and clear, you ask Tridemon, "Right?"

You think to yourself: **a trickle of pink**.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Mm. Sounds like She's just going to leave the matter to mortals."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Without being strictly for or against."

Awkwardly, you say, "...Xenthos is gonna say no, isn't he."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "I... think he's more worried about your relationships with the Beloved than the law in question."

You blink a few times and stare at Tridemon in confusion.

Voice bright and clear, you ask Tridemon, "What do mean?"

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "You might well end up pitted in combat against, say, Alary. Or Tsakali. ... Not Shulamit, Shulamit's just adorable."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "...I would never be able to fight Shulamit...."

You glance askance at a painting of A Cool Forest Clearing.

You think to yourself: Do not know if should tell her... may hurt her feelings...

You have emoted: Gurashi pauses, pulling the painting out as he remembers it... stares.... then offers it to Tridemon. "She said she left a present.... I didn't think to look."

Shaking his head, you say, "And, I already am -O-K- with this."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... You should probably give it back to Shulamit. Or else she might keep making paintings that aren't wanted by their recipient."

A bit of pale morning light tries to bleed through the clouds, but is quickly lost again in the storm.

Sadly, you say to Tridemon, "We already fight, it would be no different."
Tridemon gives a painting of A Cool Forest Clearing to you.

Sighing, you say, "O-K."

You have emoted: Gurashi lightly touches the frame, then sets it to the side of the couch. He pulls up his legs from the ground and onto the couch, hugging his knees to his chest and staring towards the window on the opposite wall.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Am gonna have to use the butlers."

Tridemon tilts his head curiously.

You think to yourself: / *quietly buzzing* ... it's a bit of a mess /.

You take a long, woven tassel from a Rope Belt of Advantage.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... Oh, the whole... decapitation thing."

You have emoted: Gurashi fidgets awkwardly. "Not sure if should tell Ishra..."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Yes. I'd help with that but... I think the blood would probably have started to set by now. fresh blood, sure. But there's a limited amount I can do about it when it sets in and dries."

You have emoted: Gurashi shifts uncomfortably on the couch, lowering one foot, then the other. He wanders over to the door, resting his hand on the knob. You can see him start to lean in, then quickly shut the door again, eyes wide.

You think to yourself: IS A MESS....!

You think to yourself: ....!!!!!

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

You think to yourself: **an unwilling vision of the room - formerly cozy, if a bit cloistered, now disturbingly sprayed with swaths of fast-drying ruddy brown**.

You think to yourself: O-K O-K O_K.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Mm. Yep, that's a little much to be handling on your own."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "I know you like chores, but..."

The faintest hint of poppies coils out of the nearby poppy covered wall sconce, candle flickering softly.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "I think you should let professionals handle large masses of bloodstains."

You have emoted: Gurashi's forehead lightly rests against the door, and he makes a noise. "....O-K." He pauses, stepping away from the door and moving instead to the southeastern one instead. "Uhm. Stay here... am gonna... tell these gentlemens what to do...."

<-- goes into study, which is nasty and bloody and gross

You anchor a long, woven tassel here.
You grab a long, woven tassel and give it a good yank.
A series of bells can be heard ringing off in the distance.
A shirtless man-servant enters the room, bowing deeply before you, flexing his arm muscles in the process.
A shirtless man-servant says, "You rang?"

LOOK. AT THE MAN.
Wearing nothing but black, pressed slacks, this servant is the epitome of masculinity. Brawny in build, finely chiseled muscles adorn his chest and stomach and firmly toned arms extend to strong, callused hands. Jet black hair is cut short on his head, while his face and the rest of his visible body remain hairless. Bright blue eyes take careful note of his surroundings, making sure there is nothing that needs to be done. The rest of his face, however, remains expressionless, his focus only on his duties for the household.
A shirtless man-servant seems strong and confident.

You blanch suddenly.

You close the oak door to the north.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**suddenly, your ears get -hot-** HE IS NOT WEARING A SHIRT."

You have emoted: Gurashi slams the southeastern door shut, eyes wide, absolutely mortified. "WHY does he not HAVE a SHIRT."

You have emoted: Gurashi rests his head against the door, sighing, hearing the man servant working on the other side. "...s'fine. Is fine." He pats the door. "Will ask him to leave... when is done." He comments, drifting back over to the couch and sitting, not quite so squashed against the arm.

<-- stomps back into living room

You narrow your eyes at Tridemon in an unnerving manner.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... yes?"

Still blushing, you say to Tridemon, "Did you know they were shirtless."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Yep."

You have emoted: Gurashi narrows his eyes more. "There is a shirtless man walking around my study, Tridemon."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Is he doing a good job with the cleaning?"

Voice bright and clear, you say, "I don't know, I didn't look."

Fidgeting awkwardly, you say, "You can check but he only just started."

Tridemon reaches over and ruffles your hair with a fond expression.

As he is ruffled, you say, "Mmf."

<-- timequake dropped, but bug had 0 desire to go, obvs

You have emoted: Gurashi looks at the study door again, then sighs, leaning back where he sits. "I am not sure if I should go out like this..." He watches the blade drift by once more before quietly adding, "...but I do not want to keep you if you are wanting to go help, Tridemon..."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Mm... I think you need more company than Bizi."

You tilt your head curiously at Tridemon.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down at his feet, knocking the toes of his boots together. "...many thank yous."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Bizi is cute and all. But she's bad at words."

Bizirik, the leothin snorts, looking over at the couch you both occupy and slapping its tail against the ground.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "So. Not a great month."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks up, coming out of his temporary daze. "Oh. Well..." He starts to puff his cheeks instinctively, then quickly flinches and stops. "...guess has been a lot of stuff."

You think to yourself: **flashes of spires and watery starscapes, trees and good memories and bad ones, big fears and little ones, all sorts of colors - a quick rush of synapses, so fast it has a sound and makes everything seem disorienting**.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts, pacing around the other couch and coming to sit in front of it, sitting on the floor. It stares at Gurashi, watching one of the blades drift by, whining.

You think to yourself: **thoughts vibrating as they spiral through** sorry Bizi-bee.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to Bizirik, the leothin, "Who's a cute leothin?"

Bizirik, the leothin snorts, looking at Tridemon, then Gurashi again, frustrated.

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to Bizirik, the leothin, "He's going to continue being sad for a while. And I don't think he's going to take of the circlet anytime soon."

You think to yourself: / *an inquisitive chitter* Oh - why did we decide she wanted him to remove it again...? /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Because she kept trying to nibble it off of his head."

You have emoted: Gurashi shifts his feet, twiddling his thumbs and watching Bizirik anxiously pace in front of them. He cants his head, studying the leothin as she chitters softly, her tail sweeping back and forth and gaze trained.

You think to yourself: ... circlet ...

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... might as well try to fit all your major suffering and bad ideas into one month, right?"

The corners of Tridemon's mouth turn up as he grins mischeviously.

You think to yourself: **already loud - still, loud, blood rushing and hive chittering - what does it matter*.

You think to yourself: / *scolding* Keeper /.

You think to yourself: / *quickly, to Gurashi* He's joking. *to you again* Tridemon, tell him you are joking /.

Bizirik, the leothin stares implacably at you.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... Partly. It's something you should probably do eventually, but you're not in a very good place for it mentally."

You have emoted: Gurashi reaches up to touch the circlet, his fingers starting to curl around it before Tridemon speaks again, drawing his attention. "Oh." His grip relaxes, and he frowns.

Tridemon pats you in a friendly manner.

Bizirik, the leothin watches another phantasmal blade float on by, whining louder and stomping a paw.

The faintest hint of poppies coils out of the nearby poppy covered wall sconce, candle flickering softly.

Dropping his hand, you say, "... can..."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Sure."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "So, how's Aschwar?"

You have emoted: Gurashi perks up at the mention of the tae'dae. "Oh... well," He looks down at his bag, "I have not seen them in the last few months. I brought them some cookies, and a letter... look what Friend Alary made for them." He rummages through the pack, pulling out a notepad and handing it over.

You have emoted: Gurashi closes his eyes. "Can we talk about not-me for a little bit?"

Smiling, you give an overly large notebook of lettering to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters.

Tridemon nods his head sagely.

Tridemon gives an overly large notebook of lettering to you.

You have emoted: Gurashi turns to face Tridemon, sitting cross legged on his half of the couch and reclaiming the notepad with a nod. "I wonder if they can read... they have not yet written back." Another pause. "Sent some singing origami too - just in case."

Rain steadily streams down the window panes, crashing in noisy waves against the walls and roof.

You think to yourself: **an intense desire to BE excited, but... colors remain desaturated - stupid reminder**.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Tridemon, "Oh ... did you look at the letter? Did the clothes look O-K? I forgot if you said so."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "I..."

You think to yourself: **did we talk about this**.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Mm. Remember that things with ivory need a source for the ivory."

Voice bright and clear, you ask, "Oh. Right. Uhm - what's that, bones....?"

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Mammoth corpses, usually."

You think to yourself: / *soft chittering, present - listening, her gaze intensely focused on Gurashi* /.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Mammoth...."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "But - did they look O-K otherwise...? I-I mean, if you see something that you want to -add-, you are welcome to, Tridemon."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Tridemon, "You make such nice clothes, and, I don't really know what, I am doing..." He pauses, looking around slowly. ".... be right back."

You open the oak door to the down.

You have emoted: Gurashi quietly pokes his head down the stairwell to see if anyone is there before fully descending.

<-- Gurashi, getting his blankie and some water and washing his face and updated desc from CUT to BANDAGE

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "/ *quietly chittering, partially distracted* He's washing his face ... /."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Spiritous Wraith Esei Shee-Slaugh of the Ascending Dusk, "**a soft, sad chitter of gratitude**."

You have emoted: Gurashi slinks back in, his face now bandaged, and wearing his new green fish blanket like a cloak. He shuffles back over to the couch and sits without commentary.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "They looked good. Nothing much to add. You don't want to make it overly complicated."

You nod your head emphatically.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks at his backpack, tapping his shoes together and leaning back on the couch. "Thank you for looking. Am excited for them." He smiles a little. "Hope Mysrai thinks they look super duper nice."

You think to yourself: Friend Shulamit is not waking...

Tridemon tilts his head curiously.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... You're very out-of-sorts."

Voice bright and clear, you ask, "... huh?"

You think to yourself: / *more, louder concerned chittering* /.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Tridemon, "... oh, er - many apologies."

You have emoted: Gurashi sits up, lowering his blanket hood. "Am sorted." He insists.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "You didn't even notice that you used Their name."

Furrowing his brow, you ask Tridemon, "Who...?"

You think to yourself: Who was talking about.

You think to yourself: ... Lady of Roses? No They - oh, Shofets? I said the Shofets's name?

Tridemon pats you in a friendly manner.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Yep. No honorifics or anything."

You catch the faintest glimpse of ivory out of the corner of your eye.
A veil-clad ghost opens a gash in your arm with a skilful blow.
You bleed 23 health.
You wince in pain.

You see the following people here:
Tridemon, Gurashi.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "W-what the."

You catch the faintest glimpse of ivory out of the corner of your eye.
A veil-clad ghost slashes you viciously.
You bleed 24 health.

You flail about helplessly.

You look about in confusion.

You get up off a soft couch decorated with needlepoint poppies.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... Are you cursed?"

Tridemon tilts his head curiously at you.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "...c-cursed?!"

You catch the faintest glimpse of ivory out of the corner of your eye.

Voice bright and clear, you ask, "I-I don't know what WAS that?"

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to a veil-clad ghost, "Stop that."

You cast a pleading look at a veil-clad ghost, flailing about helplessly.

I AINT FRAID OF THIS GHOST SO I LOOKED
Clad from ehad to toe in cascading veils of translucent, bleached silk, this figure has a curving, lithe form that exposes in flashes of ivory ectoplasm and semisolid flesh; the only colour to be foudn two amber eyes gazing out from its face. Worked with slender traceries of embroidery, the subtle shades of eggshell, alabaster, and similar whites trace her visage in delicate embroidery - the garb enveloping her like a robe, or a gown of curves and cunningly-knotted silks. Floating only a few centimetres from the ground at any given moment, the occasional scent of poppies and figs rises from the air surrounding her, imbuing into whatever it is she deigns to pass over.
A veil-clad ghost has an air of extreme strength.

You are embraced by a sudden longing for a sumptuous repast.

Again, the ghost moves forward, and this time, its target is clear - not the human, but the scythe that passes by in perfect repetition.

Tridemon lifts up a wizzer image box and points it at a veil-clad ghost, pulling a lever on the side of the contraption. It begins to click and whirr, and a bulb rises up from the contraption. With a bright flash, you find yourself blinded momentarily. As your vision recovers, you notice a piece of paper floating into Tridemon's hands from the machine.

You look about in confusion.

Tridemon blinks.

You have emoted: Gurashi takes a fearful step backward, bumping into the wall, bunching his shoulders. "Ohhhwhat," He barely manages to eek out, terrified.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... are you trying to get rid of that, then?"

Ineffective, there is a feeling of disappointment heavy in the air as the ghost retreats slightly, canting its head to stare between the two of you as though taking in its bearings.

You stare blankly at a veil-clad ghost.

"...who...are you?"

(clan): Tridemon says, "Well... uh... Mys might have, you know. heard you."
(clan): You say, "...."
(clan): You say, "Go figure the ONE TIME."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks at Tridemon with wide eyes, then slowly to a veil-clad ghost again. He opens his mouth, voice just above a whisper. "....hi - am ...Gurashi..."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks at Tridemon with wide eyes, then slowly to a veil-clad ghost again. He opens his mouth, voice just above a whisper. "....hi - am ...Gurashi..."

You have emoted: Gurashi manages to point. "....that's my friend Tridemon." His finger drops a little to the leothin. ".....Bizi."

Tridemon offers a small wave.

"...are...you..." The voice is clearly confused.

You think to yourself: **at first, SO many shades of color - confusing, glowing, hazy, too many synapses again, until it all becomes a sort of white noise, blended together**.

Voice trembling, you ask, "...... am I ... ?"

The ghost peers around before floating forward, the scent of figs and poppies rising into the air with her movement. She doesn't seem to quite know where she is.

You have emoted: Gurashi's terror slowly turns into fascination, and he tilts his head, still speaking softly. "...hi - you are ... in ... in my manse."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks across the room to Tridemon, expression nothing short of utterly bewildered.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "I've no idea what's going on either, but this ghost might be slightly lost."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to a veil-clad ghost, "Are you looking for the Shifting City?"

You think to yourself: Do ghosts get lost?

You think to yourself: ...aren't all ghosts lost??? Where did read that.

You think to yourself: **pale shades of off-white** ........ oooohhh h my GOSH there's a GHOST in my MANSE.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "Maybe she's hungry."

"...yes, the Shifting City...that is..." A pause.

There is a faint blur as the ghost shifts in and out of sight, and you have to turn several times to track her along the corner of your gaze.

You have emoted: Gurashi does his best to keep up, his movements stiff and uncertain. "... you are from there, aren't you." He inquires, tilting his head.

The ghost pauses, looking around still as though rediscovering her own location.

Nervously, you say, "...t-this is my living room."

Shaking his head, you say, "It is not the Shifting City..."

You glance askance.

"...no...but...it is my home..."

You blink.

Voice bright and clear, you ask, "...it is your home now, mean...?"

Tridemon reaches up and runs his hand along his left ear, trying to make out what's being... said? Is that an attempt at words?

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to a veil-clad ghost, "I'm afraid I can't quite make out what you're saying. If anything."
You aren't oblivious to your surroundings.

"...when...is now? Where...where are They?"

You have emoted: Gurashi pauses, looking around frantically. "Oh, uh, it's... Urlachmar - uhm... do you mean, the Shofets?" He asks cautiously.

A bit of pale morning light tries to bleed through the clouds, but is quickly lost again in the storm.

Tridemon seems to realize that you is hearing words that he's not.

(clan): Tridemon says, "There is a faint sound in the air, like the rustling of parchment."

You think to yourself: / *confused chittering* What in the hell is going on? Keeper what -is- that /.

You tilt your head curiously at a veil-clad ghost.

"...what...is...a Shofet?"

Gently, you say, "Oh, er, uhm," He lowers his voice to a whisper, cupping his hands over his mouth, "Mysrai."

In an instant the ghost disappears, and reappears just a bit more solid and present before the human, her eyes glowing with strong colour.

You have emoted: Gurashi tilts his head the other way, unable to mask his shock. "Oh... you know Them? You know the Shifting City, so... ".

"...it is...it was...my home..."

You have emoted: Gurashi frowns. "... was? Does that mean isn't anymore?"

"...what isn't..."

You think to yourself: Am gonna confuse her! Is already confused. Am already confused.

The ghost rises as though attempting to stand on her tiptoes, though she progresses nowhere. She seems lost, once more, as though unsure of her purpose.

You have emoted: Gurashi pauses, then shakes his head. "Am so sorry - what is your name?"

"...my name...my name...my name...is...my name..."

Wooden wind chimes can be heard clunking gently together as a breeze moves through.
Voice bright and clear, you ask, "... you knew Mysrai's name, yes? Did They call you something?"

You tilt your head curiously.

You glance askance.

You think to yourself: Please forgive me Shofets.

You think to yourself: Do not mean to say Your name so much - am so super duper sorry.

The faintest hint of poppies coils out of the nearby poppy covered wall sconce, candle flickering softly.

Once again, at the mention of the Elder's name the ghost materialises in strength for a few moments, and the next burst of sound is extended.

"...I need to...find them...but...they are not here..."

You have emoted: Gurashi gets a strange look on his face. "...what do mean, not here? They're here..."

"...where...where is the one...who called me? Where...Ash...Ash?"

You have emoted: Gurashi's breath catches. "Aschwar!"

"...yes...sweet, sweet...young...Ash..."

Face lighting up, you ask, "You know Friend Aschwar!" His face changes again, amazed. "They called you here?"

"...called me...called me...is me...called me...is you...is Ash..."

There is a faint blur as the ghost shifts in and out of sight, and you have to turn several times to track her along the corner of your gaze, now looking off into a wall as though gazing through a window beyond.

You have emoted: Gurashi turns, trying to keep up with the figure, following it to the window. "Aschwar called you... do you want to go see them?"

"...see...see...Ash...called..."

Voice bright and clear, you ask, "...see ...?"

Bizirik, the leothin watches Gurashi commune with the being, a little rumble of confusion rising in its throat.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to Bizirik, the leothin, "I know what you mean."

The ghost flashes, again, blinking around the room faster than you can turn to focus on her, and when she at least reappears stable she is crouched before Bizirik, her ghostly hand running along the leothin's spine as a rustling noise fills the air in gentle, rhythmic sussurations.

Bizirik, the leothin tosses its head, suddenly snorting and looking at a veil-clad ghost, blank eyes wide, tail slapping the ground.

"...so soft...Vrima was...soft..."

Bizirik, the leothin continues to thrum, though, it looks a bit confused, tail slapping, lashing. It lets out a curious click, sniffing the air around a veil-clad ghost.
Voice bright and clear, you say to Tridemon, "She... is from the Shifting City, and, she knows Aschwar, and, she remembers Vrima."

Whispering, you say to Tridemon, "I think she is very lost - she does not know her name."
Tridemon ponders the situation.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "I know a name that would probably get a reaction, but that would be a Bad Idea."

You blink a few times and stare at Tridemon in confusion.

Suddenly, you say to Tridemon, "Please don't."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "I wasn't going to. Like I said: Bad Idea."

Voice bright and clear, you say to a veil-clad ghost, "U-uhm... would you..."

You think to yourself: Would she follow? Could she follow? Or would she get lost on the road.

You think to yourself: Oh -no- what if wound up in Hallifax - would never be found ever -again-.

You fret over everything that might go wrong.

Gently, you ask a veil-clad ghost, "Uhm... Miss.... Sssseeeee?"

There is a faint sound in the air, like the rustling of parchment. The figure throws her head back, and it quickly becomes apparent she is laughing.

"...so sweet...such a sweet...pretty...girl..."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "... Just how badly did you mangle her name to get THAT kind of reaction?"

Quietly, you say, "...she thinks Bizi is pretty..."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Well, that means that she has the ability to see things. Not always a given, with ghosts."

Bizirik, the leothin thrums louder now, staring at a veil-clad ghost and slapping its tail against the ground. Then, eventually bored, iIt gets up, taking a few steps away and sniffing at Tridemon's boot in the process.

You stare blankly into space.

As the scent of poppies coils out into the air, there is a brief hint of colour. Tea coloured skin, and backwards-joined legs, her amber eyes glowing with an effulgent radiance.

You think to yourself: Poppies...

Voice bright and clear, you ask, "...do... you know, uhmmm... Friend Shulamit?"

Tridemon tilts his head slightly, looking at the ghost again, muttering to himself. "Sileni? ... Viscanti? Something from beyond another veil...?"

Quick as a flash, the ghost is gone, and then visible once more - directly before you. There is a brief pause, and then she walks forward, melding into your body and vanishing from sight to leave naught but a comforting warmth.

You have emoted: Gurashi inhales sharply, eyes widening.

You think to yourself: ....!?

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...Shulamit? ...so sweet...a good friend..."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... If you're trying to use Gurashi's voice, you're doing it wrong."

You think to yourself: / *you feel Khep bristle - no, she doesn't like this one -bit-. abruptly, her presence dwindles, as if retreating to the far end of the circle* /.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts, looking otherwise unbothered, canting its head.

You have emoted: Gurashi croaks a little in surprise, then coughs, clears his throat. "...Shulami...t, is, a good, sweet friend. So," He blinks a few times. "You know Shulamit...."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Tridemon, "....she knows Shulamit."

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...yes...yes...she found...so much..."

In the circle, the ghost's presence emerges - comforting and warm, and so very similar to Aschwar. Not advancing, or retreating, simply existing as she takes up space.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "The problem with that statement in regards to the inhabitants of the Shifting City is that it's hard to tell if they mean the Shulamit of our reality, or one about thirty paradigms over in a completely different sheaf of realities."

You have emoted: Gurashi squeezes his eyes shut, doing his best to fill in the gaps in sound that the presence is unable to. "...she found... so much."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "....Friend Shulamit found so much - oh... Friend Shulamit found Ascwhar, when they were lost - like the Shofets's last priest..."

You snap your fingers.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Oh no, the story. The beacon story."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Lighthouses. Uhm."

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...light...house...beacon...so pretty..."

You think to yourself: **scrambled - somehow, both comfortable, and uncomfortable, and--**.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Lighthouse..."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "That's Shulamit again, I think."

You have emoted: Gurashi reaches out, finds Tridemon's arm. "...no no, Friend Shulamit told me the story."

"...it w...ld be so ea.. .o place a k..s to y... ..rehead, a.. n... ..u Belov.."

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying,
"...another...Key..."

You have emoted: Gurashi's face suddenly flushes.

(clan): You say, "'it would e so easy to place a kiss on your forehead and call you beloved' i think."

Trying to speak with the spirit, you say, "...a-another key."

You think to yourself: What was her name.

You think to yourself: What was her name... the one Friend Shulamit loved so much.

You think to yourself: Whatwashernamewhatwashername.

TELL SHULAMIT AHHHHH
To whom do you wish to tell?
You think to yourself: Shoot.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "Perhaps it would help if I were to procure a poppy from some source or another."

You have emoted: Gurashi dazedly reaches for the living room door, pulling it open to allow the lucidian to leave, though he doesn't seem to inclined to move himself.

You open the oak door to the down.

Tridemon gets up off a soft couch decorated with needlepoint poppies.

Tridemon turns towards the down and steps forward, instantly collapsing into a torrent of water that rushes outwards with a thunderous crash of water.

You think to yourself: Beloved, Beloved Beloved...

You think to yourself: Beloved Tsakali Beloved Aschwar Beloved Shulamit Beloved Ixchilgal uhhhh Beloved Tsakali again Beloved Alary Beloved that other persons.

Great waves crash over one another as they pour in from the down, finally swirling together before solidifying into Tridemon.

Tridemon gives a bright red poppy to you.

You have emoted: Gurashi takes the flower gingerly, holding it cupped in his palms.

The ghost seems to have come silent, content to just exist until the flood of names begins. Response rises in colours, shades of ivory, voidcopper, scarlet, and brilliant gold all flaring into precedence, though none rise for Tsakali.

You think to yourself: I do not know that many beloveds who do ask.

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...so many...yet...oh...a poppy..."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "**inquisitive chittering**."

You think to yourself: OH. They are -awake-.

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "Hm? Yes?"

Softly bringing up the flower to smell, you say, "So many..."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... this is weird. There's no fewer than three people currently inhabiting either your body or mindspace."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "Who was the name of the Shofets's last uhm priest persons. The one from the lighthouse story??"

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "Ah! Sebitti?"

You have emoted: Gurashi's fingers curl around the flower a bit, and he lowers it, glancing up at Tridemon at the mention.

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "Why do you ask?"

Softly, you ask, "...Sebitti?"

You think to yourself: Oh - wait, MISS Sebitti.

A soft wisp of brilliant white light escapes the human's mouth, coiling upward and carrying with it the faint scent of poppies and figs.

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...Sebitti? Perhaps...there...is...Ash..."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks confused, tilting his head. "Aschwar.....? No.... you, mean," The color suddenly leaves his face.

You think to yourself: ... Has to mean Friend Aschwar, right?

You think to yourself: Oh, the last time Her name was said.........!

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "**you feel a flutter of emotions - confusion, excitement, bewilderment** ... am filling in... blanks!"

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "Blanks in ... what?"

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...where...is..."

You think to yourself: .... is she looking for the Shofets's Sister.

There is no response as the tentative thoughts creep into your mind, the ghost once more quieting and simply thrumming with the weight of her presence.

You have emoted: Gurashi continues to look somewhat concerned, bordering on horrified.

You think to yourself: What did they call Her.

Tridemon blinks.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "Uh... Do you want me to say the name?"

Voice bright and clear, you say, "No."

Quickly, you say, "No uh."

You have emoted: Gurashi reaches out towards Tridemon, waving his hand up and down. "I-I don't know if she means the Thousand Hued, or..."

You think to yourself: If there is .... a -third- Ash.

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...what was...I..."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "**you feel a swirl of emotions, and the noise around Gurashi's voice seems loud** I... uh - it is hard to explain, there's someone..."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "...what was I ..."

You have emoted: Gurashi reaches up to touch his lip as he speaks. "...why is she -here-." He asks, looking up at Tridemon again with a frown.

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "S-someone? Like .. who? Who Gurashi? Very .. very few would know the name, and fewer who would recall enough to speak it?"

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...I...was called...was called...was called...to..."

Softly, repeating, staring off into space, you say, "I was called... was called to..."
Voice bright and clear, you ask, "....called -here-?"

Sounding like himself again, you ask, "....in my -manse-?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "**you feel a swirl of emotions, and the noise around Gurashi's voice seems loud** I... uh - it is hard to... so, Lady of Roses is made at me and my manse is haunted!"

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...am...I...not welcome?"

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "*a hint of anger, followed by confusion marks their words* Lady Viravain? We doubt She would ... DARE. What ... what happened to Sebitti is ... was ... unkind, not even the Lady of Roses would dare bring up ... no, She wasn't even AWARE during it, we don't think. Lady Maylea yes, but n-not. No. What is happening, Gurashi?"

Quickly, softly, you say, "O-oh, no no, no, y-you're fine! Of course!"

Voice bright and clear, you say, "You are! Is O-K!"

You fret over everything that might go wrong.

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying,
"...where...but...where...who...am...I?"

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Where... but, where," He shakes his head, still speaking softly, "who am I.... ahhhh."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "No no, no, Friend Alary, I am bringing it up."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "I think she's your roommate, now."

Tridemon ponders the situation.

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "But ... why? Why would you, this would be only of Beloved concern and those ... we're confused."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "There's a ghost in my manse and she smells like poppies and figs and she doesn't know who she is or where she is from but -also- she is currently inside of me and-- **a little bit of panic** -- there's a GHOST inside of me - a GIRL GHOST - what am gonna do when I gotta go to the bathroom?!"

You think to yourself: / *from across the circle* You got over me! /.

You think to yourself: YOU PROMISE YOU DO NOT LOOK.

You have emoted: Gurashi's face turns bright red.

"...I have...seen the Devil...do awful things...I know when...to not look..."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Well, the thing to do now... is cook something tasty and eat it."

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "Figs ... and poppies? This ... is ... Gurashi, what does this ghost look like? Can you see her? Describe her? Also ... fret not, we don't think ghosts care about that. But also ... We mean, you could have worse inside of you --."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "If she's a ghost, I'll bet it's been DECADES since she's had a bite to eat."

You have emoted: Gurashi blushes deeper, his ears joining the mix. "....she has seen the DEVIL..." He whispers, softer now. "She has been to Nil?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "Uh-uhm, her legs were backwards... and her eyes, bright."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "S-she's mostly... a ghost."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "...generally, ghost shaped."

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...the Urchin...loved food..."

Softly, you say, "T-the Urchin... u-uhm, the Urchin loved food..."

You think to yourself: Oh my gosh.

You think to yourself: Oh my gosh this persons really knows the Shofets.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "She knows the Urchin."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "She knows You."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "And Friend Shulamit and Friend Ixchilgal."

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "Can you discern a race at all, Gurashi this ... no, it cannot be. Details, we need ... details. If you ... Sebitti's kin still lives in the Coty .."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "...not Friend Tsakali."

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "She knows ... me? Gurashi ..."

You have emoted: Gurashi awkwardly makes his way for the stairs, reaching for the railing and looking over at Tridemon.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "You felt familiar, yeah."

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "A-ask .. no no, no. I .. no, we ... *indecipherable sounds reach your mind* ask her about keys ... copper -- copper keys."

Bizirik, the leothin slinks up behind Gurashi, keeping a safe distance, still eyeing the circling scythe, scenting the air, confused.

Suddenly aloud, you say, "Copper keys."

You tilt your head curiously.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks around the room, awaiting a response.

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying,
"...me...and...Shulamit...who else? Three...I remember...but...what? Who..."

Tridemon begins to follow you.
==== Tridemon is following you ====

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "S-she said she was a key!"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "Before think."

Voice bright and clear, you ask, "Friend Shulamit... Friend Alary, and, Friend Sebitti?"
Confused, you ask, "... are keys...?"

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "N-no ... NO!"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "What?"

You look about in confusion.

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly looks worried.

You think to yourself: Why is Friend Alary freaking out.

Bizirik, the leothin tilts her head curiously at you.

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...always...so worried...little Alary..."

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "No. It cannot be her, it cannot. It cannot ... no, only we .. and no. No. It cannot be her, Gurashi. It cannot. It MUSN'T. We .. made a promise. We made A PROMISE. Why ... why is she .... has she said anything?"

Voice bright and clear, you say, "...so worried... little Alary..."

You look about in confusion.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "S-she doesn't remember! She was called her - here? Here."

You have emoted: Gurashi begins to look confused, then concerned, suddenly reaching up to hold his head. He lets out a little noise.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "Ahd she is lost and doesn't really know who she is, but she is inside of me, and think she wants to kiss my head but she knows the Urchin too, and she said something about a key but didn't say copper."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "She likes poppies, and she loves Vrima..."

Tridemon follows you south.
A chilling, forestal curiosities room.                 (#HAH_1)
The shadowy outline of a twisted forest casts a dark gloom here. A comforting feeling of privacy pervades the area. The first discernible sensation upon entering this room is a mixture of earthy smells; mulch, petrichor, decaying wood, and the heady scent of Wyrden roses saturate the air. As one's eyes adjust to the darkness, barely abated by shadowflame sconces hung on the walls, tall figures begin to emerge. Expansive shelves carved to look like tree trunks seem to grow out of the floor and reach clear to the ceiling. The moss-green rug has been cut to fit neatly between each root and around each curve, giving the illusion of springy turf underfoot. Gently glowing fungi, which seem to be growing out of the shelves at random, make it just possible to see their contents. On one shelf, a scorched dragonturtle shell and a dried starfish sit beside a glistening glasswork recreation of a pile of salmon roe. On another, a pair of arrows with heart-shaped heads are arranged with one crossed over the other, and a scented love-letter lies on top of them. Other shelves are crammed with an increasingly peculiar assortment of knickknacks: an ice pick, a tiny red stone, a dusty brown bottle with "Alchywhole" written in a barely legible script, a cuddly stuffed Tae'dae bear, a miniature rockeater figurine, an ornate ivory pipe, a pile of glittering Czigany coins, and a charm bracelet that looks to be of Fae origin. One rather macabre shelf holds a coiled slave master's whip and a skull that appears to have belonged to a Krokani before it made its way here. Still other shelves lie bare, waiting to be filled with more mementos of adventure to come, and in the corner of one of them a tiny black spider has made its web. A brightly colourful tapestry depicting a bear filled picnic has been hung on a nearby wall. A small table hewn from a ravenwood trunk has been upended here, providing a small surface on which to rest various objects. Depicting the four trees of Glomdoring in stylistic renditions, a woven, rose-scented rug spreads across the floor. There are 2 lyre-backed chairs here. Hanging from fine silver, this large snowflake lantern has light blue gems dangling beneath it, causing a gentle sway. A broad glass-faced display rack for musical instruments stands proudly here. A painting of Gurashi's Staring Contest is proudly exhibited on a nearby wall. A marble archway stands here, elegantly arcing up from ground to ceiling. A gilded pedestal, displaying a painting of A Wee Highland Cow, stands here, its gold leaf cracked and weathered. A gilded pedestal, displaying a painting of A Future Endeavor, stands here, its gold leaf cracked and weathered. A gilded pedestal, displaying a painting of the Lazing Leothin, stands here, its gold leaf cracked and weathered. There are 2 ethereal cats here. You see a sign here instructing you to use the PORTAL command to enter the aetherplex system.

You think to yourself: **so much NOISE and interference between hives and pin-prickling and circling blades and warm but foreign presences**.

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...you are...distressed..."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "...distressed .... o-oh, e-er."

Quickly, you say, "I-it's been a long month!"

Voice bright and clear, you say, "It's O-K! You are fine! P-promise, I am only trying to help."

Tridemon pats a luminescent butterfly in a friendly manner.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "Friend Alary - you are ...O-K...??"

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "Only ... only a few were keys, and of those keys, only one has passed on, Gurashi. Only ... only her. It can only be HEr. But it cannot, Gurashi. She ... she is gone, she HAD to be gone. She ... it is good she does not remember. It's ... she should not remember. What, happened to her was ... not good. No, she was torn asunder and we made mistakes and were forced to ... Gurashi. You must not ... has she reacted to the name Sebitti? She ... she may remember others. Xypher, Aiyana, Persayis .... amongst others. No, why would she? She should be gone she cannot ... no, she musn't remember."

You have emoted: Gurashi furrows his brow, reaching up to touch his head again, listening.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks a little worried. "...maybe, we should," He pauses, looking at Tridemon, then towards the north. "...bake something..."

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...the Urchin...will like it..."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "I believe I said that several minutes ago."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Tridemon, "...am agreeing."

You have emoted: Gurashi swallows, awkwardly looks around. "...you... like sweets too, uhm, Miss... ?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "... w-why...?"

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...Shulamit's...cooking...so sweet..."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Sh...ulamit's cooking - so... sweet."

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "A-ah. If we tell you, would she hear it? We ... cannot. No, we will not be responsible for her memories, not again, not -- not again. We cannot lay that burden on her again, it is ours, our mistakes, our foolishness, our hubris that hurt her. No. She musn't remember. F-find out why she is here, but ... we cannot tell you how or why she musn't remember."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "... but - she is lost. ... What ... am supposed to tell her?"

Tridemon follows you north.
A modest kitchen with forest motifs.                   (#HAH_3)
The shadowy outline of a twisted forest casts a dark gloom here. 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. Central to the kitchen is a large oven, next to racks of pots and pans that hang nearby. A painting of Gurashi and the Chamber of Crab-ness is proudly exhibited on a nearby wall. In the shape of an open palm, a metallic sigil lies here. A gilded pedestal, displaying a painting of An Angry Fruit Bowl, stands here, its gold leaf cracked and weathered. A gilded pedestal, displaying a painting of a hoard of gold, stands here, its gold leaf cracked and weathered. There are 4 ethereal cats here.
You see exits leading south, west (open door), and up (open door).

Tridemon ponders the situation.

You have emoted: Gurashi awkwardly looks around the kitchen, then towards Tridemon. He looks thoughtful, as if trying to figure out how to say something.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Oh, I have a ladyfinger."

Tridemon gives a lemon scented ladyfinger to you.

You have emoted: Gurashi takes the dessert, nibbling at it awkwardly while looking around the kitchen, still puzzling over something.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "I do not want her to be sad or scared - she already seems sort of sad and scared."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "... well, maybe just lost. Which equates to sad and scared."

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.

You nibble on a lemon scented ladyfinger.

You have emoted: Gurashi watches Tridemon worriedly, taking a few tentative bites of pastry, though he doesn't look particularly inclined to eat.

You think to yourself: **stomach churning with nerves - too sweet**.

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "S-she ... doesn't deserve to be sad, no nonononono. S-she. Gurashi, she died ... bad. Badly. Twice. Many times over. So ... so many. No. Nonono. She ... keep her safe, keep her hidden, keep her away. Away ... just no no no. Keep her safe, Gurashi. Please."

You think to yourself: / *a sinking feeling as she listens to the conversation over the aethers* /.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "...e-er, uhm. Of course! I... will."

You look about in confusion.

"...I wish...I could go home...where am I? Who..."

"...Why did I...who is...what am..."

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...Shulamit..."

Tridemon tilts his head curiously at you.

Rasping, you say, "S..hulamit..."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "S...orry, Miss... Sebbie - she is not awake..."

You have emoted: Gurashi swallows hard. Then, he lifts an ice cream treat, suddenly remembered from before. "Oh, but, she did send me this..."

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "We ... we cannot. Gurashi, does she want to remember does she, .... what does she remember, you said keys and us and Beloved and .... what. What does she remember, what can she remember. H-her most recent her most ... what can she does she?"

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...oh...I miss...who do I...miss? Why can't...I..."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "I miss..." A pause for breath as he repeats the words, "who do I miss... Why can't I ..."

You think to yourself: **colors slowly ebbing to become white - no, black. no? the color of the static that dances behind tightly closed eyes**.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "She wants to go home."

Tridemon gets a glint in his eye as he looks you over. "Sit. Stay. Breathe. There is time. There is no need to panic."

The presence simply remains. Apart from the occasional spur of colour or thought, she does not seem to have the presence of mind to do more than respond. She is lost.

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "H-home? Her ... h-home is here. It is here but we are AFRAID. Gurashi, she ... there was so much pain so much agony no ... we ..."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "And she doesn't really know who she is, but sometimes seems like she remembers. She wants to see Shulamit."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "She remembers Friend Shulamit. And she remembers that you worried a lot."

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "Shulamit yes ... we will call her to the City. Yes, home here is home is ... Worry? We worried a lot yes. We ... worry still, for her always for ... It's fine. Her home is here, in the City."

You have emoted: Gurashi frowns, folding his arms over his chest. "Friend Alary said something happened... and they know what happened, but am not supposed to..." He looks confused. "But."

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...why am I...so...sleepy? Played...too...much..."

Voice bright and clear, you ask, "Oh - sleep...y?"

After a pause, incredulous as he repeats, you ask, "..... -played-?"

You feel your mouth open, and hear the ghost's voice escape it, saying, "...yes, yes...be...good..."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Be..."

You blink.

Softer, you say, "...be good."

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "C-come here. To the City. Shifting City. Here. Us. Come here."

Tridemon reaches over and ruffles your hair with a fond expression.

A heavy wisp of white escapes Gurashi's mouth, solidifying once more into the form of a veil-clad ghost.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "S-she's ..."

You have emoted: Gurashi exhales suddenly, then coughs a little, staring at a veil-clad ghost as it reappears.

"...so sleepy...played...too much...yes, yes...be...good..."

Fireflies light up the darkness outside as they dance in slow, chaotic patterns.

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "S-she's what?"
As though she were never here, a veil-clad ghost vanishes abruptly.

You have emoted: Gurashi reaches out, just as the ghost vanishes.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "... is gone..."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "...I-I'm..."

You stare blankly into space.

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "G-gone? Gone how, what ... w-what happened what?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "... she left my body, and, then, she turned into a ghost again, and, then she left... she said she played... too much and was sleepy and told me to be good."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... Well, that's a thing that happened."

You think to yourself: / ....... what the actual *a loud, grating expletive* /.

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "S-she said what? What?"

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "Words, need ... need exact words please?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Blades Betwixt Ebon Veils, "...yes, yes - be good."

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "Words ... she said sleepy because she played too much she ... No no no no no. Aschwar said .. said those exact words but moments ago. They -- they said those words no something is wrong, wrong no it's ... what is happening."

Voice bright and clear, you ask, "...Aschwar.....?"

You have emoted: Gurashi gets another strange look on his face, leaning forward.

Quietly, you say, ".... I gotta... go."

<-- stomps upstairs