"Glory be. Even when it hurts."

<-- Shortly after Sebitti left, explaining so to Khep

You think to yourself: / .... I was wondering why it felt... /.

You think to yourself: / *a vague gesture* /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Emptier and depressing?"

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

You think to yourself: / *suddenly very soft* ... familiar ... /.

You think to yourself: / *gentle, earnest - not like before* ..... Tiso? /.

You have emoted: Gurashi doesn't look like he's quite heard, idly petting Bizirik's head while watching the various marine life swim about.

You think to yourself: / ... did he say why? /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "No. He got a letter from Aschwar that interrupted him."

You think to yourself: / *a confused chitter* A letter? /.

You think to yourself: / ...they learned how to write? /.

You think to yourself: / *she shakes her head* Never mind /.

You think to yourself: / *gentle, chittering concern, her hands resting on the space where Gurashi's shoulders would be were she there* .... do you want to tell us what happened? /.

You think to yourself: ** ...... **.

You shake your head.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... Alright, deep ocean time."

You follow Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters northeast to the icy depths of the Inner Sea.

Tridemon nods his head sagely.

You think to yourself: / *confused chittering* Wh - why? /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Because the deep, icy, crushing depths seem to match somebody's mood."

Bizirik, the leothin swims about without a care in the world, looking utterly content and unbothered by the deep waters.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist has entered the realm of Lusternia.

You think to yourself: / *surprisingly unmatching of your humor* Very funny /.

You think to yourself: / *softly buzzing to herself* ... I supposed I could find out... /.

Tridemon pats a mighty quinotaur in a friendly manner.

You think to yourself: **suddenly, one of the vines nearest to Khep jolts, then moves towards her, growing, twisting, just enough to catch her attention, before it settles into stillness again**.

You think to yourself: / *a suspicious twitch of her antennae, then a scoff* It was a -joke- /.

Tridemon begins to wield a golden firefly squid in his right hand.
Tridemon hurls a golden firefly squid up.

A small ball of light jets in from the up.

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

You sense the piercing eyes of Xenthos looking upon you.
Ilistala emerges from the shadows, curiously looking around.

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

You think to yourself: / *a sudden sharp chitter - anger* /.

Tridemon begins to wield a golden firefly squid in his right hand.
Tridemon hurls a golden firefly squid up.

A small ball of light jets in from the up.

Tridemon picks up a golden firefly squid.
Tridemon begins to wield a golden firefly squid in his right hand.
Tridemon hurls a golden firefly squid up.

Tridemon peers about himself unscrupulously.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to Tridemon, "It returned a few times."

Speaking quietly, you say, "Is Mister Kistan no longer collecting them."

A small ball of light jets in from the up.

Tridemon picks up a golden firefly squid.
Tridemon begins to wield a golden firefly squid in his right hand.
Tridemon hurls a golden firefly squid up.

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

You have emoted: Gurashi holds out his hand. "Give them to me next time."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "I'm trying to get that particular squid to go UP."

Speaking quietly, you say, "Why."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Well, there's Kistan."

Speaking quietly, you say, "He is up?"

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Training squid isn't outside the realm of possibility!"

You think to yourself: / *soft but bitter* I hear they're quite intelligent - or is that adoraths... /.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "It seems very unlikely."

Bizirik, the leothin sniffs Tridemon, trying to decipher just what that smell emanating from him is.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts and snuffles, tossing its head.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard sniffs Xenthos, trying to decipher just what that smell emanating from him is.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard tilts her head curiously at Bizirik, the leothin.

Bizirik, the leothin lets out a little whine, tail lashing.

You think to yourself: / *quietly growing anger, a mild din of hive noise* ... /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to Bizirik, the leothin, "Now, you shouldn't come out here to bother the kelpies for shrimp by yourself. They probably won't understand you."

Bizirik, the leothin tilts her head curiously at Tridemon.

Bizirik, the leothin chatters softly, tail sweeping back and forth.

You have emoted: Gurashi pauses, as if just now fully registering Xenthos's presence. "Oh. Hello you two."

You pet Ilistala, an enormous leopard ingratiatingly.
A loud rumbling emanates from Ilistala as she rubs against you.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard rubs up against you, purring like a cat.

You think to yourself: / I've half a mind to... *soft, frustrated chittering* /.

Suddenly, you say to Xenthos, "We do not have to ask the Dark Spirits for things."

Speaking quietly, you say to Xenthos, "And you can tell Shadow Court do not have to worry about ghost stuffs anymore."

Ilistala, an enormous leopard tilts her head curiously at you.

Bizirik, the leothin eyes the squid.

Bizirik, the leothin opens its mouth.

You give a golden firefly squid to Bizirik, the leothin.

Speaking quietly, you say, "Deliver to Kistan - please."

With a toss of its head and some noisy chatter, Bizirik takes a golden firefly squid from you with its smaller set of forelimbs and scampers off.

Bizirik, the leothin strikes a pose.

While looking at Bizirik, you say to Xenthos, "She left."

Tridemon picks up an emerald firefly squid.

You have emoted: Gurashi holds out his hand again.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "Where did she go?"

You have emoted: Gurashi shrugs.

Reaching up to touch his temple, you say, "But she was sorry that caused trouble. And couldn't put herself or me or Beloved in danger."

Speaking quietly, you say, "So she is gone."

You have emoted: Gurashi drops his hand.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "I see."

Tridemon gives a golden firefly squid to you.

Soundlessly, you give a golden firefly squid to Bizirik, the leothin.

Speaking quietly, you say, "Deliver to Kistan."

With a toss of its head and some noisy chatter, Bizirik takes a golden firefly squid from you with its smaller set of forelimbs and scampers off.

Bizirik, the leothin strikes a pose.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "So her presence in you was not a necessity of some kind, as I thought, but instead a conscious decision on her part."

Ilistala, an enormous leopard strikes a pose.

You have emoted: Gurashi lifts his gaze to stare at Xenthos.

Tridemon gives a golden firefly squid to you.
You give a golden firefly squid to Bizirik, the leothin.
Speaking quietly, you say, "Deliver to Kistan."
With a toss of its head and some noisy chatter, Bizirik takes a golden firefly squid from you with its smaller set of forelimbs and scampers off.

Bizirik reappears with a smug look on its face, sauntering up to you to encircle you endearingly before sitting down, tail slapping the ground once with pride.

Bizirik, the leothin chatters at Ilistala, an enormous leopard, tail sweeping back and forth.

You think to yourself: ** ... a subtle wash of ruddy hues ... **.

Speaking quietly, you say to Xenthos, "...so - what."

Speaking quietly, you say to Xenthos, "Do think it was like a trick."

You think to yourself: ** a sinking feeling **.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "A trick? No, I don't think so. It simply was not what I thought."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to Tridemon, "Are we just standing here to get all the squid that come to us?"

Xenthos tilts back his head and inhales deeply while twitching a wolf's snout.

Tridemon gives a golden firefly squid to you.

You think to yourself: / *sarcastic* I'm sure he'll appreciate our reasoning for being here /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Well, first we came out here because Bizirik wanted to see how I get the shrimp I give her. Then I moved us down here because the cold, crushing, dark depths seemed to match Gurashi's mood."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Ah, so the squid are just a benefit."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "The squid are just congregating because that's what squid do, yes."

You have emoted: Gurashi watches the squid as they jet in, not seeming quite so keen to reach out and attempt to grab them himself.

Speaking quietly, you say, "Was going to go to sleep. But there was a timequake."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Ah."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "But that was a while ago now."

Speaking quietly, you say, "That was before the thing Tridemon said."

Speaking quietly, you say, "And Miss Sebitti left me just before that."

You have emoted: Gurashi folds an arm over his chest awkwardly, fidgeting.

You think to yourself: ** a terrible, deep welling feeling **.

You think to yourself: / *mildly critical* Usually one strives to expose themselves to the opposite environment than submerse themselves in it /.

You wrinkle your nose in distaste.

You shake your head.

You think to yourself: ** an intensifying sinking feeling ... **.

Speaking quietly, you say, "I think I want to go home."

Speaking quietly, you say, "My stomach does not feel so good."

Tridemon pats you in a friendly manner.

You follow Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters to the Aetherplex Chamber.
You follow Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters to A chilling, forestal curiosities room.

Speaking quietly, you say to Tridemon, "...whoa that was fast."

Ilistala, an enormous leopard ponders your stomach for a few moments, before bumping it gently and affectionately with her nose.

You think to yourself: / *a deep, resigned sigh* /.

You have emoted: Gurashi folds one hand over his stomach, frowning.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard tilts her head curiously at you.

Removing his coat, you ask Ilistala, an enormous leopard, "What?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "/ *a whispering buzz* ... I do not know what to do /."

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "*equally quietly* Mm. It's yet another thing that the forest has taken. By accident or design."

Ilistala, an enormous leopard tilts her head and listens intently to you.

Speaking quietly, you say to Ilistala, an enormous leopard, "You are the one whose big beautiful eyes are gazing into mine, yes."

You think to yourself: ** humor **.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard purrs softly against your leg for a moment, before returning to sit in front of you where she looks up into your eyes.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "/ *glancing towards Gurashi* ...don't tell, but - I looked and saw. *urgent chittering* It is as he said. She left because she didn't want to cause trouble /."

You have emoted: Gurashi stares back at Ilistala, an enormous leopard, then looks away, hanging his coat up on a nearby chair.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "/ She -- /."

You remove a full grain leather coat of midnight black.

Speaking quietly, you say, "She told me to be good and not to change."

Quieter still, you say, "Still do not know why came to me - or how to find her again."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "Did she leave any hints?"

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

An ethereal cat makes a plaintive meow, looking pitiable.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard makes a plaintive meow, looking pitiable.

Speaking quietly, you say, "Oranges..."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "Sounds familiar, does it not?"

Speaking quietly, you say, "Shifting City..."

You have emoted: Gurashi reaches up, rubbing his nose.

You think to yourself: / ... Gurashi? /.

You think to yourself: ** a feeling like a rock in the center of his chest **.

Bizirik, the leothin lets out a little whine, its butt finding the floor as it sits.

You glance askance.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard tilts her head and listens intently to you.

You have emoted: Gurashi awkwardly looks at those still gathered in the room, shoulders bunching a bit. "What."

Speaking quietly, you ask, "...everyone is just waiting for me to say a thing?"

Bizirik, the leothin snorts.

You think to yourself: **another wash of ruddy hues - growing frustration**.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard shakes her head.

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

Tridemon pats you in a friendly manner.

Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters has lost you.

You think to yourself: ** confusion **.

You look at Tridemon, expression filled with concern as you frown.

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

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**quiet, apologetic buzzing**."

You have emoted: Gurashi blinks slowly, watching Tridemon go... then turns his attention back to Ilistala, an enormous leopard, sighing.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard continues to purr softly against you.

The sun, unable to pierce through the thick clouds, manages only to bathe your surrounds in an eerie golden-green glow.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down at Ilistala, an enormous leopard, shoulders bunched... finally he lifts a hand, petting the leopard's head morosely.

Speaking quietly, you say, "...it feels kind of like a mean joke."

Ilistala, an enormous leopard continues to purr softly against you, twining around your legs comfortingly.

Lightly nudged about by Ilistala as she encircles him, you say, "Everybody that know feels very..."

Speaking quietly, you say, ".... drawn to Someone."

Looking down, you say, ".... and it hurt to hear the Lady say that I felt that way, just because was intrigued by mystery..."

You think to yourself: ** a straight wash of gray **.

Confused, you say, "... now am stuck in this ... after-place."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist looks skeptical and says to you, "It can be hard, when our dreams crash upon reality."

You have emoted: Gurashi watches Ilistala, an enormous leopard tiredly. "The Lady of Roses is displeased with me, and probably always will be." He drops his arms. "And I am no more useful to my friends than I was last month, or the month before."

Confused again, you say, "Even less useful."

Speaking quietly, you say, "What am going to tell Friend Alary? They will be crushed."

You have emoted: Gurashi wrings his hands together. "What if she was right."

You think to yourself: **a deep, uneasy wash of indigo - mauve**.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Lady Viravain is not one to hold onto something forever- I know I have said that the Divine are not like mortals. Our existence is very fleeting to Them, even one as long as mine has been."

You have emoted: Gurashi flinches as the name is said aloud, glancing quickly about the room.

You think to yourself: **white hot pin pricks of fear...**.

For a moment, bright vermilion hues paint the surroundings, giving the illusion of everything being aflame. Shortly thereafter, a passing cloud obscures the sun and everything is dark once more.

Sadly, you say, "I feel very dumb."

Speaking quietly, you say, "Or, hurt. Or both. I cannot tell."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Hurt, I think. Pain can make us doubt ourselves, doubt our worth."

You have emoted: Gurashi draws his lips into a tight thin line. "I have picked incorrectly."

Suddenly sounding tired, you say, "So this is going to hurt for a very long time."

The grass rustles slightly as a warm night breeze caresses your skin.

You have emoted: Gurashi trails off, leaning a little where he stands.

You fidget impatiently.

Simply, softly, Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Yes. It will."

Ilistala, an enormous leopard doesn't stop attempting to console her friend, continuing to rumble softly against you.

You have emoted: Gurashi eventually leans back, if only for a moment. "Will ever be a point where think it will be possible." He asks flatly.

Speaking quietly, you say, "Or is that a dangerous thought to keep."

You pet Ilistala, an enormous leopard ingratiatingly.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "I don't think it is to be."

Speaking quietly, you whisper, "Nothing Matters but Glomdoring?"

You think to yourself: / Gurashi ... /.

You think to yourself: Nothing matters.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "Glory be. Even when it hurts."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods a little, his expression strangely unreadable. "... O-K."

You pet Ilistala, an enormous leopard ingratiatingly.

You sniff softly.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard inches bashfully over to you and nuzzles you tenderly.

You think to yourself: ** the heaviness, quickly filling with a stranger sensation - a hollowness - and then, a faint, cracking noise **.

You think to yourself: / *antennae raise sharply in concern* /.

You have emoted: Gurashi stares across the portal room, momentarily bereft, before straightening his face and his posture, looking at his coat. "...now what?" He asks, swiveling his head to look at Xenthos.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "How are your breads?"

Speaking quietly, you say, "Done."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Mm."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Would you like to just stand here with Ilistala? We don't -need- to do anything."

Gaze sweeping the floor, you ask, "...Psychodrama?"

Speaking quietly, you say, "Oh."

Speaking quietly, you say, "... I have done lots of standing, and, sitting, and, laying lately."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "We can do psychodrama too."

You have emoted: Gurashi steps away from the chair, then wrings his hands together, almost saying something before deciding against it.

The Roots of the Dark Forest.
The shadowy outline of a twisted forest casts a dark gloom here. An enveloping sensation of deepest night pervades this massive subterranean chamber. The walls and ceiling are adorned with a spellbinding network of tree roots, which emerge from the corners as thick as two feet in diameter and gradually taper to hair-width along their tangled, twisting paths. Sycamore and birch, yew and fir, willow, beech, pine, and ash, chestnut, hemlock, blackthorn, rowan, and most of all, stygian ravenwood; every type of tree in the forest seems to be represented in the myriad hues of brown, grey, and black that crawl and intertwine over every surface. The soil between each root has been sealed in with tar, hardened and polished to a dusky matte finish. Upon closer inspection of the walls, rune-like symbols carved into the roots become apparent. Crows, spiders, bats, wasps, beetles, and scorpions are embellished in an intricate mural that seems to reveal a new icon at each glance. The only light in the theater comes from a chandelier of undulating roots. Globes of cold shadowfire are held aloft by the gossamer webbing which enrobes the structure, pulsing and swaying ever so gently to the rhythm of the nearby Drums. A gnarly couch wrought from fallen apple boughs stands here, its twisted frame covered in a blossoming throw. Blending in with its surroundings, a bench cleverly crafted of twisting vines and tree trunks is here. Emerging grandly from the shadows, a dark, majestic stage looms here. A milestone juts up from the ground here, wreathed in thorny vines. In the shape of an open palm, a metallic sigil lies here. A leopard lurks in the shadows, curiously watching anything that moves. Nothing more than a puffball with cerulean eyes, a seal lynx point ragdoll kitten lies here lounging languidly. Completely motionless, a slender leothin intently surveys its surroundings. Clad in matte black leather, a golden-eyed savage lingers here like a living shadow.
You see a single exit leading up.

You have emoted: Gurashi settles in, reaching up to lightly scratch at his nose.

<-- loses in 2 rounds. Not even. start of round 2!
Your life points have fallen to zero. You have lost the Ikon battle!

You blink.

Speaking quietly, you say, "...that ... is fastest game that have ever played."

You have emoted: Gurashi quietly claps his hands together a few times. "Wowee."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist looks skeptical and says, "It was very quick."

Speaking quietly, you say, "The Wyrdling... stuns me right..."

Xenthos shakes his head.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "The wyrdling blocks your character."

Speaking quietly, you ask, "My character cannot move?"

Speaking quietly, you say, "Oh."

Speaking quietly, you say, "Different than a stun - right.."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "A stun blocks you from doing anything at all."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Well, that worked better than expected."

You are too stunned to play any Ikons at the moment.
Speaking quietly, you say, "...speaking of stun..."

Xenthos nods his head in agreement.

<-- for some reason takin' ages for me to die fam

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "This match has..."

You blink.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Everything succeeded for me."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "That's unusual."

Speaking quietly, you say, "It is a good day to be Xenthos."

Speaking quietly, you say, "Not as good for Gurashi."

Your life points have fallen to zero. You have lost the Ikon battle!

You have emoted: Gurashi ponders his ikons thoughtfully.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "You -have- beat me though."

Speaking quietly, you say, "Yes - and upset the streak of winning we were trying to do - remember, yes."

Speaking quietly, you say, "Because lost to the new persons - they were good."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "It worked out though, in the end."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods a little bit. "That's good."

Bizirik, the leothin lets out the faintest of whines, sitting down in the auditorium and looking up at Xenthos and Gurashi on the stage. Its tail slaps the ground, clearly discontent.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard tilts her head curiously at Bizirik, the leothin.

There is a shimmering flicker in the air above a grand stage of stygian marble, as it readies itself to replay a recorded performance of 'A Tangled Maze of Webs'.
The curtains part on a grand stage of stygian marble, heralding the start of the performance of 'A Tangled Maze of Webs'.

You have emoted: Gurashi glances up, quickly sliding off the stage to not impede the performance.

You sit yourself down on an indoor bench of twisting vines and tree trunks and make yourself comfortable.

<-- play!

The curtains draw to a close on a grand stage of stygian marble, signaling the conclusion of the performance of 'A Tangled Maze of Webs'.
The air above a grand stage of stygian marble flickers one last time and clears, as the recorded performance of 'A Tangled Maze of Webs' concludes.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard ponders the situation.

You glance askance at Ilistala, an enormous leopard.

Speaking quietly, you say to Ilistala, an enormous leopard, "Did you pick that one."

Ilistala, an enormous leopard nods her head emphatically.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "It was Tacita's."

Quietly, you say, "Oh."

Speaking quietly, you say, "I do not know very much about Miss Tacita."

Speaking quietly, you say, "...uhm. Guess should probably not call her ... Miss..."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "She has been gone a very long time."

You have emoted: Gurashi wrings his hands together, looking down at his lap.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Why not?"

Speaking quietly, you say to Xenthos, ".. she is my ... mother?? Though... we never met."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "I would think you would be more uncomfortable calling someone you have never met "mother" than "Miss"."

You glance askance.

Idly picking at his cuticles, you say, "....that is true..."

Speaking quietly, you ask, "How did you two meet?"

Speaking quietly, you ask, "She was not your ... you were married before her yes?"

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly stops. "Am so sorry. Am not sure why asked."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Once, a very very long time ago."

Xenthos removes a golden heart-shaped pendant.

Xenthos gives an iridescent beetle pendant to you.

Xenthos ponders the situation.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Wrong one."

Xenthos gives a golden heart-shaped pendant to you.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "That one."

You give an iridescent beetle pendant to Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "That was Shayle."

This appears to be a simple heart shaped locket, which hangs from a very
fine chain of pure silver. A small latch has been installed in the side,
allowing it to open on a hinge, revealing a small illusion contained
within. A lovely faeling girl, with two brown plaits falling between
indigo and silver veined wings, seems to flit about here. On the back is
carved a small dragonfly with multi-faceted sapphire eyes.
It weighs 1 ounce(s).
It is a priceless item that cannot be traded.
It bears the distinctive mark of Earthen Attendant, Maelee d'Carthan.
There is a clockwork charge regulator firmly attached.
It is enchanted with the powerful mind spell, holding 20 charges.
It has been stamped with the seal of The Glitterweb Jewellery Cartel.
It has a Great Rune of Enchanted Focus attached to it (#91481).
It has the following aliases: pendant.

You have emoted: Gurashi turns the locket over carefully, then clicks it open to examine the tiny illusion inside. "Was she nice?"

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "I thought so."

Speaking quietly, you ask, "Was Miss Tacita nice?"

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Very."

Mistress of the Night, Shayle d'Iasani Treeripper (Female Shadowcaster Faeling).
She has cut her thread from the Tapestry of the Fates.
She is 458 years old, having been born on the 2nd of Urlachmar, 102 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 30 days until the New Moon
She is an extremely credible character.
She is a Shadow Warden in the Free Forest of Glomdoring.
She is a graduate of the Shadowmaze (honours).
She is a member of the clan called 'The An'Ryshe Nobility.'
She is a member of the clan called 'The Treeripper Tribe.'
She is a mentor and able to take on proteges.
She is deemed an Apprentice by the Bardic Council of Vesteran Honours.
She is considered to be approximately 80% of your might.
She has been divorced 2 times.
She was born into the d'Iasani family.
She is not currently active in any family.
See HONOURS FULL SHAYLE to view her 9 special honours.

You have emoted: Gurashi turns the locket over once more before delicately returning it to Xenthos.

Carefully, you give a golden heart-shaped pendant to Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist.

Xenthos slips into a golden heart-shaped pendant.

Xenthos gives an elegant box of silver and ravenwood to you.

You tilt your head curiously.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Tacita constructed this for me, as a wedding gift."

Xenthos idly runs his fingers along the sinuate band of lustrous shadowfire upon his other hand while you inspects the box.

You have emoted: Gurashi takes the box, carefully resting it in his lap to look it over.

Moderate in size, this elegant music box is cuboid in shape with rounded
edges. Constructed of a deep purple ravenwood, its lid has been
inscribed with the intricate image of a single rose, the outline run
through with glistening silver. When lifted it has the function of a
locket, displaying one image in each panel. The first is of a
purple-tinged dawn view from atop Mount Seirode, every detail of the
Basin picked out intricately - whilst the second shows the same view
from dusk, the sky pink in hue and run through with tendrils of twilight
mist. Concealed within the box is a tiny handle which, when wound,
causes the music box to elicit a delicate waltzing melody.
It weighs about 3 pounds and 2 ounce(s).
It bears the distinctive mark of Tacita An'Ryshe.
It has been stamped with the seal of The Roseine Call Artisan Cartel.
It has a Great Rune of Enchantment attached to it (#49644).
It has the following aliases: box, musicbox.

Marveling at the box, you say, "Mount Seirode ...."

Speaking quietly, you say, "That is where you proposed yes? You told me once."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "We spent a lot of time there, really."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "I would sometimes make little picnic baskets of things."

You tilt your head curiously at Xenthos.

You have emoted: Gurashi settles into his place, back against the bench as he listens, still holding the box carefully in place.

Speaking quietly, you say, "That sounds really nice ..." A pause. "And maybe a little cold in winter."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "I think I mostly bought them from shops then."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "Not sure I ever noticed the temperature. Her company was all I needed."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down at the box, turning it... Very gently, he closes it, returning it to Xenthos.

Carefully, you give an elegant box of silver and ravenwood to Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist.

Speaking quietly, you say to Xenthos, "That sounds really nice."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "It was. I miss her very much. But I will always have the memories of her to hold onto."

Tacita An'Ryshe (Female Vernal Demigoddess Changeling).
She is 365 years old, having been born on the 4th of Tzarin, 195 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 10 days until the New Moon
She is unranked in Lusternia.
She is an extremely credible character.
She is a Shadow Warden in the Free Forest of Glomdoring.
She is a member of the Shadowfeast Cooking Cartel.
She is a graduate of the Shadowmaze (honours).
She is the clan head of the clan called 'Nocturnal Nutrients.'
She is a member of the clan called 'The Royal Court of Shee-Slaugh.'
She is a member of the clan called 'Aphotic Adornments.'
She is the clan head of the clan called 'Shadowfire Jewellery.'
She is a member of the clan called 'The An'Ryshe Nobility.'
She is a member of the clan called 'The Shadow Kindred.'
She is the clan head of the clan called 'Shadowfire Bookbinding.'
She is a mentor and able to take on proteges.
Her motto: 'Change is the only constant.'
She is deemed a Superior Maestro by the Bardic Council of Vesteran Honours.
She is accounted Voice of the Ages among literary writers.
She is accounted Bachelor of Science among scholars.
She is accounted a Showman on the stage.
She is considered to be approximately 115% of your might.
She has taken the hand of Xenthos Shee-Slaugh <b: An'Ryshe> in marriage.
She is a first generation member of the Great House of Shee-Slaugh.
See HONOURS FULL TACITA to view her 46 special honours.

Speaking quietly, you say, "...she has not cut her thread - Miss Tacita, mean."

Speaking quietly, you ask, "Does that mean she is out somewhere?"

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "It is possible... but it has been so long, I do not think it likely."

You look at Xenthos, expression filled with concern as you frown.

After a long, awkward pause, you ask, "...what ... made you decide to not get married again?"

You tilt your head curiously at Xenthos.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "I would have to cast her aside first."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods slowly in understanding. "...understand why have not."

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a little noise, wringing his hands together. "It is too risky, think." He scratches at his circlet. "I am a little bit too afraid to try."

Ilistala, an enormous leopard inches bashfully over to you and nuzzles you tenderly.

His cheek in his hand, you say, "I do not want to be the one to hurt someone by not waking up someday."

You have emoted: Gurashi turns his attention to Ilistala, an enormous leopard, canting his head.

You pet Ilistala, an enormous leopard ingratiatingly.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist looks skeptical and says to you, "It is a difficult decision- and a deeply personal one. But it is not always a decision you make."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Sometimes it just... happens."

You look at Xenthos, expression filled with concern as you frown.

You have emoted: Gurashi's cheeks and ears flush in unison, and he shifts where he sits, awkwardly look at the ground near his feet.

Speaking quietly, you ask, "...thought really liked Ishra?? At one point - because, everybody always seemed to think that, because we were together, that we should be together?"

Speaking quietly, you say, "...but, then it turned out she was already seeing someone - so, that was a little..."

You have emoted: Gurashi bobs his head side to side, turning an even deeper shade of red. "Awkward."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "Being together may sometimes just mean close friends, too. It is not always romance- some bonds can exist without that, and are just as strong."

You nod your head emphatically.

Speaking quietly, you say, "Mm ..."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "But sometimes you are with someone a lot, and you realize that there is more there."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "And they do, too."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down awkwardly, nodding.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "And then, despite what you believed... there you are."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "It is not a guaranteed thing. It may not always happen. But I know very well that it -can-."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods again, slower.

Speaking quietly, you say, "..... mm, well, thought felt that way about Miss Duet, too - but, then, she turned out to be married - and is maybe still married."

Speaking quietly, you say, "...awkward luck."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "It is not something to push. It will either come, or not."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods, sighing finally, letting his head rest against the back of the bench.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard rubs up against you, purring like a cat.

Confessing quietly, you say to Xenthos, "Lady Rancoura's letter has ..." He hesitates, "filled me with lots of doubt."

Speaking quietly, you say, "...or maybe it hurt me - or, maybe both."

Speaking quietly, you say, "...it hurt a lot more when thought it was from all of you but it still..."

You glance askance at Ilistala, an enormous leopard.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "What can you do do assauge your doubts then? Her letter was... very strongly worded, but obviously something about it is resonating within you if it affects you so."

Suddenly, you say to Xenthos, "She made it sound like it was wrong to be me, but I am unsure how to be any other me than me."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "I've never asked you to be other than you. I asked you to be part of my family- not someone else, but you."

Fretfully, you say to Xenthos, "But what if I only keep letting the Lady of Roses down? Or Lord Silence - He already does not think very highly of me - and I know you said She would get over it in time, maybe, but."

You fret over everything that might go wrong.

Speaking quietly, you ask, "What if I cannot stop caring about peoples, and it gets me in trouble, and They make me go?"

As if their very heart has become audible, the pulsing beat of the Drums of the Dead thrums through Xenthos's form.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks at Ilistala, an enormous leopard with wide, worried eyes. "Would you make me go too?"

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "It is thus your burden to bear- to ensure that you do not let your caring for those not of the Glomdoring overtake your care of the Glomdoring and those who live here. As long as you abide by your words, there is nothing to worry about."

You look at Xenthos, expression filled with concern as you frown.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard ponders you thoughtfully, looking you up and down.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard rubs up against you, purring like a cat.

You have emoted: Gurashi returns his hands to his lap, staring worriedly up at a grand stage of stygian marble.

You lean on Ilistala, an enormous leopard seeking consolation.

You have emoted: Gurashi quietly pets Ilistala, an enormous leopard, resting his forehead against the leopard's neck and falling silent.

You think to yourself: * nothing matters *.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard closes her eyes, leaning close to you as she very softly rumbles against you.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts softly, stomping its front right, then front left foot, looking like the epitome of neglect.

You have emoted: Gurashi turns, tiredly staring at Xenthos. "Would like to hear a secret?"

Xenthos tilts his head and listens intently to you.

Resting the side of his head against Ilistala's neck still, you say, "I grew up in the Neferti Hive..."

Speaking quietly, you say, "Is kind of funny - is the hive that feeds all the others."

Speaking quietly, you say, "...guess some things the Portal does not erase."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "Though they do so upon order- and will quite happily feed all the hives clearly poisoned food simply because such are their orders."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "I'm not sure you would be willing to hand out poisoned food."

You have emoted: Gurashi pauses, looking at Ilistala again. "At least, that is what Miss Khep has told me." He quickly looks up again, surprised. "Oh. Miss Khep did not tell me -that-."

You think to yourself: / *with a grimace* Do you need to know all the details? /.

You have emoted: Gurashi rolls his eyes in reaction to some unseen commentary.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "I'm rather positive that the Queens would like to overlook those... 'mistakes.' Clearly the fault of some male drone."

A wry smile spreads across Xenthos's face.

You think to yourself: / *her eyes narrow* He thinks us so barbaric? /.

You glance askance.

You have emoted: Gurashi nods quickly at Xenthos's comment, momentarily distracted.

Speaking quietly, you say, "... also - another secret: my old name was, Tiso! Er, That was my old nickname."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Mm. I see."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "I think I prefer your you-name."

Speaking quietly, you whisper, "The whole thing was actually Tisohepsut - but that is super long so."

You nod your head emphatically.

Speaking quietly, you say, "Me too."

Speaking quietly, you say, "Miss Khep is practicing."

Speaking quietly, you say, "She is not great..."

You glance askance.

You think to yourself: / I've made an effort /.

Softer, you say, "True."

You suddenly feel a rough wetness press against your neck. Turning around, you look up -- WAY up -- into the intense eyes of an enormously feline visage. A caliginous leopard hops side to side excitedly as you notice her, depositing a small bloody cup cake she was mouthing into your hands. She yowls exuberantly, flopping to the ground and rolling about in evident delight as she bats her massive paws at you in play. Nimbly rising back to her feet, the black leopard disappears back into the shadows from whence she came.

A caliginous leopard romps towards Xenthos, rolls around batting her massive paws playfully at him before disappearing completely into the nearby shadows as though she were never there at all.

You glance askance at a small bloody cup cake.

Speaking quietly, you say, "Oh..."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Evette D'Rose, The Primordial Scourge, "Many thank yous."

The cold voice of Evette sends chills down your spine, "You're welcome."

Speaking quietly, you say, "...mm - I am not feeling very hungry..."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "You could always save it for later."

Looking between Ilistala and Xenthos, you ask, "...do want mine?"

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Or give it to Bizirik."

Bizirik, the leothin wrinkles her nose in distaste.

Xenthos gives Bizirik, the leothin the once-over, eyeing her suspiciously.

Softly, you say, "She does not like cinnamon."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to Bizirik, the leothin, "They are good."

Speaking quietly, you say, "She does not like the me-cookies either."

Bizirik, the leothin makes a little noise and tosses its head. Then, it sneezes.

Speaking quietly, you say, "I think it is delicious... she is just picky."

Tucking it away, you say, "...will hold onto it."

You have emoted: Gurashi sighs a little, starting to peel away the cup cake's waxen base before putting it back, deciding he is still un-hungry.

You think to yourself: ** another faint, distant cracking noise **.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard inches bashfully over to you and nuzzles you tenderly.

Bizirik, the leothin lets out a little snort, then tosses its head, chattering.

Looking at Bizirik, you say, "I am not keeping you away."

Bizirik, the leothin snorts, staring at the space before Gurashi, primarily occupied by Ilistala.
The heady scent of roses and congealing blood resonates from Xenthos, carried on a light wind.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts again.

You have emoted: Gurashi sits forward on the bench a little, then scoots the barest amount, giving Bizirik room to slip forward should the creature choose.

Bizirik, the leothin gives a short gasp of elation.

(The Shadow Kindred): Xenthos says, "All that bizi needs to be happy: a little room."

Bizirik, the leothin slinks forward, at first with great enthusiasm, then slows just before it reaches Gurashi, letting out a soft, sad little trill. It lays its head on Gurashi's available knee, not minding it's incredibly close proximity to Ilistala.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard ignores Bizirik's presence for the time being, focusing upon you instead.

You pet Ilistala, an enormous leopard ingratiatingly.

You pet Bizirik, the leothin ingratiatingly.

Speaking quietly, you say, "... are any plans for domoths, or, hunts, or, anythings."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "I need to go prepare Tosha."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "And then maybe some hunting after the weave."

You have emoted: Gurashi reaches up, wiping his eyes with his wrist and sliding forward, ushering both Bizirik and Ilistala out of his way. "O-K."

You get up off an indoor bench of twisting vines and tree trunks.

You begin to follow Xenthos.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Mm. Off we go then."