When Gods Talk

The morning light pales and wavers against the creeping darkness that overtakes the firmament, like an enormous web unfurling across the sky. The sweet aroma of roses drifts through the air as if it  were always there, marking the return of the Lady of the Thorns to mortal perception.

A heat grows along the back of your neck, your heart beating a little faster as you hear Mysrai's oddly echoing voice ring out, "Come, come, My darling kin. We have much to discuss, You and I. Shall I send You an escort, or will Your darling children gnaw them to the bone?"

(Order): You say, "Dear Lady, is this about Akuuko?"

Someone powerful's divine voice echoes across the land, "Gurashi. I believe that you offered to escort Me to wherever it is that Mysrai would lead Me, in the depths of the chaos city. Is this no longer the case?"

(Order): Viravain says, "I am uncertain, but we shall soon see."

Someone powerful's divine voice echoes across the land, "Ah -- but first."

A whistling sound fills the air as a wickedly curved scythe whirls by high overhead at incredible speed.
Gurashi has been seared to death by the divine flame of Viravain, Lady of the Thorns.
You see the death occur at along the Dragon's Scar bordered by greenery.

(Order): You say, "My Lady, do You want us with You?"

You have emoted: Aleyah hops from foot to foot, restless.

(Order): Viravain says, "If it pleases you."

Kalaneya smiles wryly as her golden eyes glint with amusement.

You nod your head emphatically.

Kalaneya begins to follow you.

(Order): You say, "I would very much like to, please! I am not sure where You are, though."

(Order): Kalaneya says, "We believe observance of Your ways may be informative to ours, so if would not offend Your senses, we would ask to join as well."

(Order): Viravain says, "Indeed."

You cast a hopeful gaze towards the heavens as the shadows obscuring your wings briefly dissapate, showering your surroundings with refracted opalescence.

(Order): Viravain says, "Mysrai is quite right -- as soon as Gurashi has untangled themself from My scythe, I suspect they will inform Me of where I should find them."

(Order): You say, "Ah, I see."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Gurashi, the Heart's Friend, "Please let me know where you are! I am going to be attending My Lady."

Gurashi's melodic voice sings into your mind, "Please come."

Reaching out with your mind, you grasp the harmonic song of the domothean energies as you seek Gurashi.

The lingering notes of harmonic purity swell to impossible heights as you step confidently through the song of reality itself.
Kalaneya follows you ether.

Great Southern Highway adjacent to Glomdoring Forest. (road).
The shadowy outline of a twisted forest casts a dark gloom here. It is quite mild. Gurashi, the Heart's Friend is here. They wield a vibrant mandolin of songbirds and stars in their left hand and a wyrden shield emblazoned with the Drums of the Dead in their right hand. Viravain, Lady of the Thorns hovers here, shrouded within an ambiance of unnatural darkness. She wields a wickedly curved scythe with both hands.

You kneel before Viravain, swearing your allegiance to Her.

Gurashi rises back to stand stiff and upright, their eyes wide.

Kalaneya smiles wryly as her golden eyes glint with amusement.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Hi, hi ..."

Tilting Her head, Her scythe shifting from one hand to the other, Viravain, Lady of the Thorns says, "Well?"

You begin to follow Viravain.

Kalaneya kneels before Viravain with deep humility, bowing her head to the ground.

Frowning, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend asks, "Is this everybody?"

Viravain reaches out to tenderly cup your cheek in Her hand.
Viravain reaches out to tenderly cup Kalaneya's cheek in Her hand.

Kalaneya rises again, restoring her regal bearing. She gives Gurashi a tacit nod.

You smile softly at Viravain.

You nod your head at Gurashi.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "O-K ...uhm. Follow... me."
You begin to follow Gurashi.

Gurashi makes a beckoning motion to no-one in particular.
Gurashi nods their head emphatically.

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.

A shrine-shrewn, cavernous garden.
One or two light fluffy clouds drift lazily through the sky. The cavern ceiling above is dotted with numerous openings in this section of the pyramid, where an entire section of walling has been placed down to mute whatever noise may escape its inners. Long, spiralling walkways wind through gardens lined with small shrubs and flowering cactuses carefully cultivated to survive the desert climate while still providing a pleasant look to the eye. Fountains made of marble spit water in forceful arches over certain paths, creating alternate pathways cradled in a fine spray of mist for those seeking a reprieve from the heat. Five gazebos are placed an equal distance from each other, the white marble they are constructed of graffitied with hand-painted prayers to the various Divine. Small offerings of origami, food parcels, and even small daggers have been left in front of the appropriate, bare altars as citizens of Gaudiguch pay their respects to their Pantheon. Covered in a thick layer of patchwork black-and-gold fur, Aschwar lingers here nervously. A fiery blue phoenix perches here, her fiery plumage illuminating the area with golden fire. Surrounded by an aura of brilliant hues and searing heat, Ankaa perches here on one leg. Vyell D'Cente is here, surrounded by a flurry of dancing cherry blossom petals. She wields a rune-etched shortsword in her left hand and a scarlet-tinged steel longsword in her right hand. Ixchilgal is here, pondering thoughtfully. He wields Gnomish Industries Multitool in his left hand and Vestera's Balanced Wand of Apocalyptic Aesthetics in his right hand. Revelrous Xisiro is here, shrouded. He wields a black ash lute in his left hand. A lithe, ebon veiled dancer wreathed in black stars poises gracefully here. Clothed in starry robes of Void-spun brocade, a Merchant of Thelem waits here. Kalaneya Shee-Slaugh, Ma'lanas Runia is here. She wields spectral psiblade claws in each hand. Arms crossed over His chest nonchalantly, Mysrai, the Scarlet Courtesan lounges here in a lazy, attractive manner. Viravain, Lady of the Thorns hovers here, shrouded within an ambiance of unnatural darkness. She wields a wickedly curved scythe with both hands. Manifold eyes, limbs, and mouths in constant motion, a hulking golem of twisted flesh looms here. Gurashi frowns deeply, lines creasing their forehead. They wield a vibrant mandolin of songbirds and stars in their left hand and a wyrden shield emblazoned with the Drums of the Dead in their right hand.

Eritheyl bows respectfully to Viravain.

Kalaneya's knuckles grow momentarily white as she strengthens her grip.

Mboagn's boggle in panic.

You curtsey gracefully.

You take to the air with a few lazy wafts of your wings.

Softly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "... hi ..."

High Wisdom Mboagn Lunarose says, "Umm...goodest greetings..."

Kalaneya inclines her head briefly in cordial acknowledgement.

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.

Viravain runs a finger along the blade of Her scythe, sparing a slight glance toward Gurashi.

You think to yourself: Mama's here! She's been watching us so much lately! It's wonderful. I hope this goes well....

Eritheyl Ryseni, of Hedonistic Virtue says, "Good afternoon, Lady and people of the Glomdoring."

Mboagn gives a small, apprehensive wave of greetings at the guests.

You smile and say, "Good afternoon, assorted Beloved."

Mysrai stands near the most decorated shrine, looking towards Viravain with a brilliant smile across His face as He offers Her a small quarter bow of respect, saying, "My dear Viravain, how delighted I am to see You well."

Gurashi looks quickly about to those gathered, then around the garden, their eyes wide before they look towards Viravain, chittering softly.

Eritheyl Ryseni, of Hedonistic Virtue says to you, "We are not all so, but those lesser among us appreciate the gesture nonetheless."

You have emoted: Bowing briefly to Mysrai, Aleyah says, "I hope it is all right with You that I wished to attend my Lady."

Mysrai's voidstruck eyes shimmer momentarily, the ivory constellations within glowing so bright a scarlet that His surroundings match the hue until they return to normal once more.

Gurashi glances askance at you.

Her eyes a bright, pure blue, Viravain lifts the corners of Her mouth into a polite smile and inclines Her head to Mysrai. "The same, Mysrai. How intriguing a form You've taken."

Mboagn waddles beside Eritheyl together with the rest of the unBeloveds.

Gurashi quietly wrings their hands together, looking back towards Mysrai, left antennae sagging.

The sweet scent of roses drifts through the air, emanating from the Lady of the Thorns.

Viravain ceases to wield a wickedly curved scythe.

You have emoted: Aleyah folds her hands in her lap, smiling placidly.

Kalaneya bows cordially to Mysrai with hands clasped behind her back, remaining silent before the gathered crowd.

Gurashi fidgets impatiently.

You think to yourself: I would want to either way, but I do hope I'm allowed by all....

Mysrai rises, slowly turning in a circle as His coat slips down His arms, revealing much of His chest as He asks, "Don't You think? I found myself embroiled in the throes of passion once more and suddenly I found Myself anew." He laughs, the sound causing your stomach to flip-flop as He gently shrugs the coat up once more, commenting, "Though...it is not the only form that has been taken, should My ears be true. Have you been playing with My toys again?"

You think to yourself: Toys....? Does He mean new-friend Akuuko?

You think to yourself: I made sure he was safe the whole time....

Mysrai's eyes flicker briefly towards you, and a small grin finds its way to His face.

You have emoted: Aleyah nods slowly, a thoughtful frown on her face.

Gurashi chitters quietly, their antennae sagging further as they cast a glance from Mysrai to Viravain, awaiting the smaller Divine's response with bated breath.

Viravain's smile broadens as She folds Her hands in front of Her to rest lightly at Her navel. "To imply that I have need of Your things, Mysrai, is quite bold. I can certainly find My own, ah...toys." Her smile remains fixed in place, as if carved from a statue. "Unless My Spiders are correct in their thoughts, and you refer to My guest?"

Mboagn tries very hard not to laugh.

Eritheyl glances askance at Mboagn.

Mboagn whispers something quietly to Eritheyl.

Vyell's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Mboagn surreptitiously squeezes an arm of Khnemu in greeting before returning to watch, in anticipation, the battle of wills between the two Elders.

Mysrai raises a hand, the sands scattered throughout the garden rising to swirl into the form of a young dracnari man with a crooked nose and a charming smile. "Quite so. I must admit, You picked one in which I had invested some energy yet. He was to guide much of Mine who would seek Saffron before he became...besotted." The sand falls to the ground as He shrugs helplessly, commenting, "Mortals can be so unpredictable at times."

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.

Gurashi stares at Mysrai, eyes wide.

Khnemu's eyes go wide and he says absolutely silent.

Kalaneya smiles wryly as her golden eyes glint with amusement.

Aschwar blinks at the sand sculpture before trying, and failing, to shrink down and make themselves less visible.

You think to yourself: Oh! I remember Gurashi mentioning something about.... being in love. Not with Gurashi, but... They were so upset. They asked me to break my oaths. Bring them into the Temple....

Alary removes a sandstone eye of pharaonic bearing.
As though it where the most natural thing in the world to do, Alary plunges their fingers into their eye socket, jutting their jaw to the side as their fingers dig within and send trickles of blood down their face. With a bloody, wet, "POP!" the eye is plucked from their skull, leaving a sandstone eye of pharaonic bearing rolling around in their hand.

Khnemu blinks.

Alary settles themselves upon Ankaa, the Incandescent's back, rolling their fake eye between two pudgy palms.

The shadows that wreath the Lady of the Thorns flex, as if they were part of Her. Viravain replies, Her voice honey and wine, "Ah -- You do refer to My guest. My children informed Me that the one called Akuuko was a bit --" She pauses, lifting a finger to Her cheek in thought. "Distressed? Disfigured?" She shakes Her head and smiles again. "Regardless, My guest can leave as he chooses."

You think to yourself: Mama promised. He has his freedom to do as he so chooses.

Gurashi glances askance at Aschwar.

You have emoted: Aleyah smiles faintly up at Viravain, quiet.

You take to the air with a few lazy wafts of your wings.

Gurashi chitters at you with energetic clicks of their mandibles.

Mboagn takes out a curious little pot filled with a white waxy substance. They begin to apply it onto every nook and cranny of their dehydrated pink skin.

With a satisfied smile, Mboagn tucks the pot away, their skin newly-moistened and able to withstand the rigours of heat.

You think to yourself: ... I hope he stays.

Viravain turns Her eyes, which flicker briefly with black flames, upon Gurashi and continues, "Much the same way silly insects get tangled into My Web when they lose their way." As She returns Her gaze to Mysrai, it is blue and serene once more. "The ones who survive may also leave."

Gurashi buzzes quietly, their wings flitting open and shut once. They say nothing.

Alary murmurs softly to themself.

Mysrai's dark eyes gleam as He takes a step closer, leaning forward as He coyly remarks, "Still, even if he may have ended up in Your forest, he was still Mine. You've made him whole and completely counteracted the lesson he had to learn." He sighs softly, disappointment tugging at his lips in an exaggerated fashion that causes your shoulders to sag sympathetically. "Still, fair is fair, and I've no choice but to offer You My blessing in whatever it is you choose to do with him. Conditionally."

Gurashi blinks.

You think to yourself: Conditionally?

You have emoted: Aleyah frowns, briefly, her brows creasing.

Gurashi's antennae bob again as they look quickly at Mysrai.

Gurashi glances askance.

Aschwar's lips warble, and their eyes water, but they press their lips together and stare forward almost stoically not even a full moment later.

Viravain lifts a single eyebrow and stares into Mysrai's eyes, Her expression unreadable. "Do delight Me."

You tilt your head curiously at Aschwar.

Gurashi stares at Aschwar, eyes wide.

You think to yourself: ....Oh, I think that's Their priest. The one that loves Akuuko.

Kalaneya's eyes flick between Aschwar and Mysrai, before resting finally upon Mysrai, her gaze pensive.

Mboagn gives Aschwar a comforting squeeze on the arm.

Vyell stands off to the side, her gaze passing between the two Divine as They verbally spar with a look of concern and slight nervousness.

Alary murmurs softly to themself.

Gurashi remains standing near Viravain, you, and Kalaneya, though their gaze remains rested on Aschwar, their antennae drooped
From amidst the boughs of the Glomdoring, the voices of crows rise in unanimous, mocking derision.

Gurashi glances askance.

Kethaera tilts her head curiously at Gurashi.

Khnemu chews on their lip, deep in thought.

Under their breath, Mboagn mockingly mimicks the faraway crows. "...caw caw..."

You have emoted: Aleyah glances over her shoulder a moment, smiling brightly. Her attention returns to Mysrai, curious.

Mysrai raises a hand, and simply states, "My darling Tonatiuh has pledged to You that which he believed would help in a matter already settling in the annals of history. I would give you Akuuko's future for his foolish oath." His palm is held out and up expectantly, softly, but the air itself grows hotter and hotter as His alien presence suddenly becomes far more noticeable.

Khnemu takes a careful, subtle, and expedient few strides away from Mboagn.

Eritheyl stiffens at the mention of the absent Oracle, his interest snapping in full to the matters at hand.

You think to yourself: Oath? Did he promise Mama something?

Gurashi chitters at Mysrai with energetic clicks of their mandibles.

Gurashi chitters at Viravain with energetic clicks of their mandibles.

Mboagn's expression turns to that of joy at the mention of Tonatiuh the soothsayer.

Gurashi fidgets impatiently.

You think to yourself: So nervous, my cousin...

"Fascinating," Kalaneya murmurs. The word fades quickly as the desert winds pass through.

Gurashi chitters at Kalaneya with energetic clicks of their mandibles.

You think to yourself: You must be so lonely. One day you'll come home.

Lifting Her shoulders into a dainty shrug, Viravain replies, "What have I to do with a mortal's future who has not pledged themselves to Me?" The derisive laughing of crows echoes eerily through the nighttime air, dancing through the streets of Gaudiguch. They stop as their Mistress continues, "What of another bargain, My Cousin?"

Gurashi tilts their head and listens intentl

Viravain, Lady of the Thorns says, "I will relinquish Tonatiuh's pledge to Me if Akuuko pledges himself to the Wyrd."

Gurashi stares at Viravain, eyes wide.

Mboagn watches the bargaining with increased worry.

You think to yourself: Oh! Does that mean he's staying?
You have emoted: Aleyah's face lights up.

Viravain's gaze grows fixed, the icy depths glowing with pinpricks of baleful shadowfire.

For a moment, there is an insatiable feeling of pressure in the air around you, the very aether feeling as though it will snap before Mysrai's hand drops and He places it on His hip, smiling beatifically at Viravain, "Oh? I'm all ears, My dear."

Gurashi trembles from antennae to toe for just a moment, gripping their instrument tightly.

Lenara pauses for a second, a slight frown upon her face.

You think to yourself: ....Gurashi, why are you trembling?

Viravain's smile relaxes, and the weight of Her divinity impregnates the air, causing the shadows that extend from Her petite form to become fearsome and feral. Her voice, once sweet, is now a harrowing wind through skeletal trees. "Do You accept, then? Tonatiuh's pledge will be Yours if -" She hesitates, savouring the words, " - Akuuko chooses to remain with Me himself. It needs to be his heart's desire, not one of My forging."

Gurashi looks about in confusion.

Khnemu frowns, his expression faintly puzzled.

You think to yourself: I wonder what was pledged.

Flitting in with a cheerful wave, Coraline Myeras says, "Ah, so wonderful to see so many gathered inside my library! I hope that you are all writing books for me?"

Mboagn sweats in anticipation at the bargaining.

Eritheyl glances askance at Coraline.

"Shhh!" Ixchilgal hisses softly at Coraline.

Tilting Her head, Viravain, Lady of the Thorns says, "And let Us be clear. If I wanted Akuuko, I would simply claim him, dear Cousin. I've tethered a Traitor easily enough, after all."

Vyell snickers softly to herself.

You blink incredulously at Coraline.

Gurashi fidgets impatiently.

Mboagn gives Coraline a friendly squeeze.

Kethaera snickers at Coraline.

Khnemu puts his hand on a nearby wall and pants quietly as he can to calm down.

"Sh-Shofets, cou--" The voice that springs from Aschwar is immediately silenced as an oppressive heat mixed with the sultry smell of oils and incense from the Palace of Pleasure. Only moments later does Mysrai turn His eyes from the tae'dae towards Viravain, the smile remaining on His lips as He nods His head. "I had never thought to suggest otherwise, My sweet. Just as You know well that if I wanted him back..."

Mysrai twirls a long lock of shimmering, storm-hued hair braided into a coiling bracelet around a finger, winking suggestively, "I would have him back. But it is so much more entertaining to let the mortals choose themselves, is it not?"

Gurashi swallows hard, swaying in their spot as their attention bobs sharply from one Divine to the Other.

A calming, warm breeze swirls around Coraline as the fragrant scent of roses suffuses the area around her.

You think to yourself: .... Oh, lucky..... I wish I smelled like roses.

Coraline looks slightly disappointed to see that no one present has quill or scrolls in their hands, but nevertheless perches in a corner to listen.

Lenara raises her tiny paws far above her head in a big stretch before returning to a relaxed position and shaking out her fur gently.

Kalaneya raises an eyebrow, shifting her gaze to bear witness to Aschwar's sorrow.

Viravain's shadowfire eyes glimmer with amusement. "Especially when they weave their little tales about Our feelings. As if We have need of jealousy or angst." She laughs, the sound like skeletal branches breaking all around you. "As if they did not realize how much more power there is in winning a different game."

You feel weak in the knees as Mysrai laughs lightly, raising a hand to His hair and raking His fingers through. The motion releases flecks of coppery energy that shine and rain down about His face, only serving to further frame His attractive features.

Khnemu squeaks in fright.

You tilt your head back and look up at the sky.

Mboagn takes out a curious little pot filled with a white waxy substance. They begin to apply it onto every nook and cranny of their dehydrated pink skin.

With a satisfied smile, Mboagn tucks the pot away, their skin newly-moistened and able to withstand the rigours of heat.

You think to yourself: ....I'm glad I did well. I hope I made Her proud.

A satisfied smile briefly passes across Kalaneya's face, disappearing as quickly as stars before the sunrise.

Mboagn grips a fiery basalt staff tightly in preparation of what may - what will - come.

Mysrai nods His head and simply states, "None of Mine shall interfere with Akuuko's choice. This, My Will, shall be known to all the Beloved. Should he remain within Your Glomdoring, I will have what is Mine returned. Should he not? I will offer You My blessing in Your use of it as You so please for Your aid in healing the injuries of the Once-Thief."

High Wisdom Mboagn Lunarose whispers, "Once-orange."

Visibly puzzled, you ask, "Once... Orange?"

Lenara creases her brow in a frown.

Somehow Sultan, Ixchilgal Mes'ard the Space Edumacator mutters, "Not enough ....hes."

Coraline peers at Mboagn unscrupulously.

With surprise, Mboagn says, "Oh...you all heard that."

Quietly, Ruffian Kethaera says to Mboagn, "Yes, you said it out loud."

Mboagn blushes furiously.

Revelrous Khnemu asks, "Oh, you do that too?"

Mboagn hides away again behind Eritheyl.

The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across Eritheyl's lips as he glances at Mboagn.

Coraline Myeras whispers to Mboagn, "I find the glass pyramids amplify even the whispers..."

Xisiro's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Viravain inclines Her head to Mysrai and gestures vaguely. "And Mine shall continue to be hospitable to My guest. When shall We meet again, Cousin?"

Your mouth turns up as your face breaks into a smile.

Gurashi perks up suddenly, wringing their hands together as they now look at Kalaneya and you, wings flitting open and closed again.

You think to yourself: I like him. He's hopeful. He's a good listener when I tell stories.
You think to yourself: I'll tell him all the stories I know, in case he decides to leave....

"Our specialty, hospitality," Kalaneya notes. "Be assured," she concludes, as she turns her head slightly towards Gurashi.

"When a choice has been made, Cousin," Mysrai offers with a warm smile, inclining His head much the same. "No animosity shall My heart hold towards either result, for in the end all shall meet in the Maze's centre." He looks up, His hair for a moment obscuring His eyes in an attractive manner as He beams, "After all. It's more interesting when We both get what We want."

You have emoted: "I promise to make sure he never runs out of stories!" Aleyah chirps, beaming. "Or music, or...."

Like a creeping death, enormous black widows edge forward from the shadows, crawling steadily forward through the streets of Gaudiguch toward their Mistress.

Ixchilgal peers about himself unscrupulously.

Gurashi glances askance.

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.

Faded motes of green impinge on the chill blue of Viravain's eyes, and a strange youth suffuses Her features.

You tilt your head curiously at Viravain.

Khnemu blinks.

Lenara looks about herself, rubbing her chin thoughtfully.

Her voice as sweet as the scent of roses, Viravain, Lady of the Thorns says, "Then We understand each Other."

Your heart skips a beat as Mysrai's lips quirk into a small smirk, leaving Him arrogantly and impossibly handsome as He does.

Gurashi watches the encroaching spiders with some concern, chittering aloud.

Lenara wrinkles her nose and sniffs.

His eyes gleaming with scarlet constellations, Mysrai, the Scarlet Courtesan says, "Indeed, We do."

Khnemu scribbles a few notes on a jubilant draconic notepad of tooled leather.

Returning to the shadows, the black widows withdraw from sight, but you cannot shake the feeling that their eyes remain upon you.

You sigh contentedly.

You think to yourself: Always watching.... a comfort.
You think to yourself: I aim to match my grace to Yours, my Lady.

Viravain tilts Her head, a thought stretching across Her features. "Tell Me, Cousin, before I depart from Your considerable hospitality -- what do You think of the knife that Gurashi holds?"

Gurashi blinks.

Coraline turns to look at Gurashi.

Gurashi looks down, suddenly fishing through their belongings until they find and retrieve a cruel hunting knife.

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.

Khnemu blinks.

You tilt your head curiously.

Lenara tilts her head curiously.

You think to yourself: ....That's the Predator's knife. Is He coming home...?

Softly, Kalaneya Shee-Slaugh, Ma'lanas Runia says to Gurashi, "Show it off, dear. Go on."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "O-oh."

Gurashi proudly shows off a cruel hunting knife:
Forged from flawless grey steel, this hunting knife boasts a fixed blade set into a handle of pale white bone. The majority of the blade itself is smooth and honed to a razor edge; the tip of it, however, hooks backward into a cruel barb. The knife's handle is polished smooth and curves slightly, allowing for a more comfortable grip.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend whispers, "Ta-daaa..."

Gurashi waves three of their four hands jazzily.

Mboagn guffaws.

Gurashi sways anxiously in their spot.

Narrowing her eyes, Coraline Myeras says, "That looks dangerous. Please put it back somewhere where it doesn't hurt any things in this library."

Mysrai places a hand against His cheek, tapping a single forefinger against a painfully beautiful cheekbone as He considers. "A cruel, unique thing that only one I have ever known might comfortably hold. I can only wonder from Whom he would receive such a thing." He looks at Viravain, and despite His provocative dress and His sultry tone, there is naught but sincerity as He offers, "I would very much like to see Them explain how They received such to You."

Viravain begins to wield a wickedly curved scythe in Her hands.

Viravain, Lady of the Thorns says, "So would I."

Gurashi squeezes the hilt of the knife before lowering it at Coraline's request, frowning.

Mysrai, the Scarlet Courtesan says, "Before You go, My dear?"

You tilt your head curiously at Gurashi.

Gurashi looks about in confusion.

You think to yourself: ....Did I do well....?

Viravain strokes a wickedly curved scythe tenderly.

Gurashi looks at Viravain, expression filled with concern as they frown.

Softly, Viravain, Lady of the Thorns says, "We're waiting, My Bumblebee."

Coraline looks slightly worried at another weapon out in the open.

You smile softly at Viravain.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend exclaims, "O-O-Oh! Sorry!"

You think to yourself: He's still Bumblebee.....

The word "Bumblebee" hangs in the air, its every syllable torn apart and stitched back together by the mocking cawing of faint crow song.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "It. The Lady Enchantress...g-gave it to me, when I invited Her to Solstice festivals ...for Glomdoring ... an....."

You blink.

Coraline creases her brow in a frown.

You blink incredulously at Gurashi.

Somehow Sultan, Ixchilgal Mes'ard the Space Edumacator says, "S'cuse us please, soul is getting wonky."

Ixchilgal doffs an elemental crown cordially.

You think to yourself: ...You invited the Enchantress into the Glomdoring?

Gurashi withers in their spot at the word, antennae sagging as they continue, quieter. "And told me to give to You, and think She delivered it in insulting way and You gave it back to me ..."

Raising a hand to His chest, looking almost theatrically aghast, Mysrai, the Scarlet Courtesan asks, "Surely not the very same festival which I attended Myself?"

Gurashi nods their head at Mysrai.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to Mysrai, "Yes, Shofets."

Sheepishly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to Viravain, "And I delivered another message, think, to the Lady Enchantress, but. I still just."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Have this knife."

Gurashi looks down at it oddly.

"Very fascinating, yes," Kalaneya breathes, the incense-laden air weighing her words down.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Xenthos wants it, and I cannot give it to him. He even put it in a magical box!"

Gurashi frets over everything that might go wrong.

You have emoted: Aleyah frowns quizzically.

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend asks, "But I do not know if it is the Lady... Enchantresses's magicks or ... the... knife's...?"

Gurashi looks dazed and confused.

Quietly, Coraline Myeras asks, "It is... attached to you?"
-
Gurashi drops a cruel hunting knife.
Gurashi picks up a cruel hunting knife.

High Wisdom Mboagn Lunarose says, "Maybe you need to wash your hands."

Gurashi shakes their head.

High Wisdom Mboagn Lunarose says, "Sticky knife? sticky hands?"

Mboagn ponders the situation.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend whispers, "Magic knife."

You tilt your head curiously at Viravain.

Revelrous Khnemu says, "Cursed."

Khnemu nods their head sagely.

Mboagn gapes and says, "Sticky magic?"

Coraline nods her head at Khnemu.

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "No! It's not cursed - it is Lord Shikari's...!"

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.

Eritheyl raises an eyebrow questioningly.

Coraline Myeras says, "I agree with Khnemu, think it might be cursed..."

Mboagn's expression visibly softens.

Coraline Myeras says to Gurashi, "It could still be cursed.."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "I..."

Gurashi suddenly cants their head and narrows their eyes at a cruel hunting knife, peering at it suspiciously.

High Wisdom Mboagn Lunarose says, "We have curse cures here in Gaudiguch."

Revelrous Khnemu says, "Wait, I thought it was Lady Enchanteressessesss's..?"

Brightly Mboagn I'm sure the flesh masters can give it a good go!"

The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across Eritheyl's lips as he glances at Khnemu.

An eyebrow lifts again, Her eyes blazing with shadowfire. Viravain says, Her voice echoing eerily, "I see."

Gurashi shakes their head.

Shyly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says to Viravain, "...am sorry for any misunderstanding ... oh!"

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "Oh!"

Mysrai taps against His exposed sternum, grinning ferociously as He looks towards Viravain. "Well, dearest, I believe it is Yours in His departure. If You desire it back, I am certain You will find a chest in which it may be buried."

Gurashi looks at Mysrai, expression filled with concern as they frown.

Mboagn flaps their arms madly.

In a small voice, Mboagn remarks, "Please take your leggy bugs with you...And thank you for visiting the Free City!"

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend asks Mysrai, "Can't it go to Xenthos?"

Mboagn takes out a curious little pot filled with a white waxy substance. They begin to apply it onto every nook and cranny of their dehydrated pink skin.

Gurashi looks at Mysrai hopefully.

With a satisfied smile, Mboagn tucks the pot away, their skin newly-moistened and able to withstand the rigours of heat.

[Looked at Viravain!
And look look look!

a crown of midnight black roses rests atop Her head, black vines twisting into the white tresses of Her hair
a thorned circlet of rose and web beneath the crown, its floral protrusions weaving with the stems of the roses until it is difficult to tell them apart.

I made the thorned circlet of rose and web!]

You think to yourself: Oh....! She still wears the circlet I have Her....
You smile softly.

Khnemu takes another step away from Mboagn.

Softly, Kalaneya Shee-Slaugh, Ma'lanas Runia says to Gurashi, "We assume you are aware of our Mother's relationship to the Lord Shikari, hm?"

Gurashi glances askance at Kalaneya.

Gurashi stares blankly into space.

Only looking at the kepheran through the corner of His eye, Mysrai, the Scarlet Courtesan says to Gurashi, "That is for Her to say, My Beloved. Not Me."

Quietly, Gurashi, the Heart's Friend says, "...yes - close."

Mboagn waddles sideways until they end up next to Khnemu.

Gurashi quickly looks back towards Viravain, huffing softly and holding a cruel hunting knife out to the Divine. "I am sorry for any misunderstandings..."

Quietly, Coraline Myeras remarks, "The spiders are welcome as long as they do not cause harm to the books or priceless artifacts here..."

Mboagn glances with alarm at Coraline.
Revelrous Khnemu says, "Or the people."

Viravain places the blade of Her scythe beneath Gurashi's chin and tilts it upward, forcing Gurashi's neck backward. Her lips curve into a feral smile that does not reach Her eyes. "I do anticipate your prompt delivery of My Brother's possession."

Alary creases their brow in a frown.

Khnemu draws in a tense breath, every hair on the back of her neck standing on end.

Gurashi lets out a little noise, their eyes suddenly widening and antennae dropping. With slow, careful movements, they gently pass a cruel hunting knife into the smaller Divine's hands, thrumming quietly.

Stiffly, Gurashi gives a cruel hunting knife to Viravain, Lady of the Thorns.

Viravain lowers Her scythe and returns Her attention to Mysrai. "We have Our bargain between Us, Cousin. I will be leaving now."

Alary stares at the exchange, single eye narrowing at the touch of Gurashi. Their small mouth opens, baring the maw full of sharp little teeth as they begin to roll their sandstone eye between their palms in an agitated way.

You smile softly at Viravain.

Gurashi sways anxiously in their spot.

You think to yourself: So many questions. This is exciting...!

Mboagn lowers their head awkwardly before Viravain.

Kalaneya Shee-Slaugh, Ma'lanas Runia says, "We anticipate your city's hospitality shall expire quite quickly without our Mother with us, so shall we too depart. Our kind gratitude for hosting us in a time of strife between us."

Kalaneya places a hand over her heart, then bows in gratitude.

Coraline inclines her head politely to Kalaneya.

Mysrai nods His head sagely.

You have emoted: Very formally, Aleyah dips into a cordial curtsey before Mysrai. "As Aunt Kalaneya said! Thank you for this brief allowance."

Kethaera inclines her head politely to Kalaneya.

Gurashi finally, albeit hesitantly stepping away from their former Wyrdenkin, bereft.

Drastrath takes a long draught of whiskey.

Gurashi nods their head emphatically.

Mysrai, the Scarlet Courtesan says, "The pleasure was all Mine, Viravain. Next time I must treat you to the Palace of Pleasures. I am certain You could use some tending to."

You feel weak in the knees as Mysrai laughs lightly, raising a hand to His hair and raking His fingers through. The motion releases flecks of coppery energy that shine and rain down about His face, only serving to further frame His attractive features.

You begin to follow Viravain.

Gurashi's carapace turns a bright shade of crimson as they blush.

Coraline Myeras says, "Thank you for visiting our library! You can peruse the books here, if you like.. but don't touch anything else."

Khnemu blushes suddenly and glances down at their feet.

Mboagn guffaws.

Kethaera glances askance at Coraline.

Viravain smirks, Her eyes returned to their icy blue. "You are neither the body nor the mind of My Shikari, Cousin, but I admire Your conviction. And the invitation."

Viravain, Lady of the Thorns says, "All mortals love the rose, despite its thorns. It seems You are no different."

You follow Viravain, Lady of the Thorns to before the Master Ravenwood Tree.
Viravain, Lady of the Thorns has lost you.

You curtsey gracefully before Viravain.
Cheliyi bows respectfully to Viravain, only to sway dizzily once she stands upright.

Viravain reaches out to tenderly cup your cheek in Her hand.
Viravain reaches out to tenderly cup Kalaneya's cheek in Her hand.

You say, "Thank You, dearest Lady!"

Coiling sinuously about Her petite frame, stygian shadows cloak Viravain in an unnatural darkness and evanesce into the aether, leaving behind only the faintest scent of roses.

You sigh contentedly.

Warmly, you say, "She's so lovely."

A furrow creasing her brow, Kalaneya Shee-Slaugh, Ma'lanas Runia says, "Though we are worried about the item."

Cheliyi blinks.

You tilt your head curiously at Kalaneya.

You ask, "Item?"
You say, "Oh.... Lord Shikari's blade."

You frown and say, "I wonder how the Enchantress got ahold of it..."

Kalaneya Shee-Slaugh, Ma'lanas Runia says, "We simply...do not trust the Enchantress. And Gurashi is far to naive to know when he is being manipulated."

Flatly, you say, "I mean, that much is obvious."

Kalaneya glances at you with a wry smirk, her golden eyes glinting with amusement.

Softly, you say, "It's an endearing trait, but it got them into trouble."

Kalaneya Shee-Slaugh, Ma'lanas Runia says, "Very much so."

You say, "...I don't think I trust Her either."

Kalaneya nods her head at you.

You run a hand through your refined updo of raven-black wavy hair, stroking the tresses and tucking
a lock back into place.

You say, "I'm going to meditate a little while."

Kalaneya Shee-Slaugh, Ma'lanas Runia says, "It is almost...irrelevant as to how the Enchantress came to be in possession of the thing. We fear she has...as the Gaudiguchians say -- cursed it."

Kalaneya nods her head at you.

You nod your head at Kalaneya.

Kalaneya Shee-Slaugh, Ma'lanas Runia says, "In any case, do meditate upon our encounter."

You frown and say, "...But if She knows where the Predator is...."

Kalaneya glances askance.

Ethna blinks once, her gaze shifting to you.

You have emoted: Aleyah makes a soft noise of concern, dipping her head and fluttering off.

Kalaneya Shee-Slaugh, Ma'lanas Runia says, "...right."