"Fear is a powerful force indeed."

<-- me just sitting there in Glom getting ready for work irl

(Veiled): Mysrai says, "How curious..."

(Veiled): Lenara says, "What's that Most Beloved?"

(Veiled): Tonatiuh says, "Greetings Most Beloved."

(Veiled): Mysrai says, "Tell Me, Beloved, what one might call a once-thief, lost and found in a mired haze?"

(Veiled): Tonatiuh says, "Might depend how he happen to find himself there."

(Veiled): Tonatiuh says, "Was it his own will or the imposition of someone else's?"

You think to yourself: *suddenly* ...ah.

You have emoted: Gurashi lifts their head, suddenly frowning.

(Veiled): Mysrai says, "Indeed, such a question may prove the crux of all the problem. I wonder if any Mine have something they wish to tell us?"

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

A hot blush creeps over your cheeks as you feel the intimate, alien presence of the Scarlet Courtesan pressing close to your mind.

You have emoted: Gurashi's head bows slightly, their shoulders bunching as they stare down at their folded hands.

(Veiled): Lenara says, "Not I... I don't think."

(Veiled): You say, "... do not know what would ... call them, no, but."

You fidget impatiently.

You think to yourself: The rightest.

You think to yourself: Must do rightest.

(Veiled): Alary (from the Aetherways) says, "That would depend upon why the thief has been called such, and by which means such a thief found themselves found."

You think to yourself: *a recollection of the kitchens - of the fear felt when the crutch came clattering to the ground--*.

(Veiled): Mysrai says, "Indeed. I find Myself quite...vexed. Surely Mine would not dare hesitate to divulge were one once so precious to Me were to be ensnared within the vicious machinations of Another?"

You think to yourself: *--scared, must have been even more scared than me--*.

You slump down dejectedly.

(Veiled): You say, ".... yes - or. No."

(Veiled): You say, "Sorry - words, confused, I --."

Tonatiuh hisses sibilantly into the corner of your mind, "You said you prayed..."

Your melodic voice sings into Soothsayer Tonatiuh al-Saaoud's mind, "I-I-I thought I did - I -did- I don't know if it was..."

(Veiled): You say, "... I am sorry Most Beloved, and, Beloved, and..."

You think to yourself: Need help.

(Veiled): Alary (from the Aetherways) says, "Gurashi, one so young and innocent and hesitant. What exactly are you trying to speak of? Know that secrets are dangerous things, but they can hurt those who hold them the most."

You have emoted: Gurashi sits, dazed, within their spot.

(Veiled): Tonatiuh says, "The longer they are held, the harder they will bite.."

(Veiled): Aschwar says, "...please?"

(Veiled): You say, "Ah - I ... yes - just - I never expected anybody to be -hurt- or -changed- or anything -bad- to happen--."

(Veiled): You say, "--I know where Akuuko is, and, I--."

(Veiled): Mysrai says, "Yes?"

You have emoted: Gurashi's shoulders bunch further, their hands wringing together.

You have emoted: Gurashi does little to calm their trembling form, mandibles clicking anxiously against their face.

(Veiled): You say, "Everyone said would be -O-K- and I just wanted to be Beloved AND stay in my home in the Glomdorings and so I kept secret but oh -gosh- I should not--- Akuuko - is awake, and, livings, and--."

Midnight shadows coalesce around a new day, and Mother Night embraces the land in utter darkness.
It is now the 5th of Dvarsh, 567 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 18 days until the New Moon

(Veiled): You say, "He is ... in ... the Lady of Roses's realm... now..."

(Veiled): Drastrath says, "Do we need to extract him?"

(Veiled): You say, "... I am sorry - I should have ..."

(Veiled): You say, "Akuuko did not want to be found before, but then the spiders came, and then didn't know what to -do- and I am -sorry- I ..."

A wave of stunned silence slams into your chest, shock and despair hanging heavy about you with the overwhelming scent of honey for just a few moments.

(Veiled): You say, "I am sorry I did not tell you, Beloved Aschwar. Am sorry. So so so sorry."

(Veiled): Aschwar says, "But...you're my bestest friend..."

You have emoted: Gurashi's mandibles stop clicking, their eyes wide.

(Veiled): You say, ".... he did not want you to see him before, when he was hurt ...."

(Veiled): Alary (from the Aetherways) says, "Gurashi, secrets like these can ... prove terribly harmful. That is why ourselves, Aschwar and Shulamit exist. If you ever have concerns, or questions, we are here for you. Something like this, loyalty to one's home or not, should be brought to someone to mull over. Loyalties can tear and hurt, but there must exist trust and an openness within the Beloved."

(Veiled): You say, "....I think he thought would make you sad, or .... and I did not want him to go away for-ever, so I did not tell you - even then...."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks again over the forest for a time. Then, their entire body bends forward, allowing them to rock where they sit in an attempt to self soothe.

(Veiled): Mysrai says, "Fear is a powerful force indeed, yet in inaction it is only made all the more powerful. Such is a lesson of Ebony. Of Voidcopper. Of Scarlet."

You think to yourself: Unforgivable.

You think to yourself: I was slothful I was -slothful-.

You think to yourself: I was a -bad- Beloved, yes.

(Veiled): Drastrath says, "Can I clarify if he is wounded or dead?"

(Veiled): You say, "N-no! He's not dead! Or, wounded, anymore!"

(Veiled): Mysrai says, "Perhaps, then. I shall have to investigate."

(Veiled): You say, "H-he only just woke up, uhm - he... sounds like himself and acts like himself ..."

(Veiled): You say, "And I was going to let him heal and then bring him -back- as a surprise... at least - was the plan.... and once everything was .... O-K then...."

(Veiled): Drastrath says, "He was attacked by spiders?"

(Veiled): You say, "... oh - you... want to see him?"


(Veiled): You say, "Er - You, yes."

You fidget impatiently.

(Veiled): Drastrath says, "In Glomdoring?"

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

You glance askance.

(Veiled): Alary (from the Aetherways) says, "Gurashi, if you had concerns you should have brought them to our attention. We exist to help all of the Beloved. Secrets and deceit, even done with the noblest intentions, can bring ruinous harm and burn bridges you so painstakingly built."

You have emoted: Gurashi pushes themselves to their feet, swaying where they stand.

A great plume of scarlet erupts from Mount Zoaka, shooting skyward and colouring the horizon so many vibrant shades of pink and red. Dancing tendrils snake through cloud and sky alike, seething in a hungry, serpentine fashion as it discolours all beneath it in their ecstatic rush.

You have emoted: Gurashi's hands ball into fists. "Shofets..."

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

(Veiled): You say, "I am sorry."

(Veiled): You say, "I am so sorry."

(Veiled): Lenara (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "So, clearly we understand that things didn't happen as they perhaps should have. How do we fix it?"

As though they were bathed in the setting sun, you find your surroundings washed in a haze of scarlet tinged through with magenta. Comfortable, sultry heat rises and brings a blush to your cheeks as an unfathomable, alien mind washes over you.

(Veiled): You say, "You do not have to forgive me and I would not ask you to - am trying to -fix-, I swear."

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

Faintly buzzing, you whisper, "Shofets..."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks out over the forest fretfully.

Tendrils of scarlet streak down from the sky, moving like miniature stormspouts as they race over the canopy of the wyrden forst, hungrily searching and snaking. Disturbing and disrupting the treeline without ever breaching it, washing over the woods in a seductive, ecstatic heat that rises in an almost misted haze.

(Shadowlight): Ashira says, "I'll keep watch at the Master Ravenwood."

(Trasto): Inkh says, "And then that one."

(Shadowlight): Aeldra says, "That does look rather troublesome."

(Shadowlight): You say, "...am here, too."

(Shadowlight): Inkh says, "May I....?"

Then, abruptly, the colour dissipates with speed that is almost sickening to bear witness to, replaced at once with the burgeoning gold of sunrise. The heat lingers for but a moment more before fading, and taking with it the uncomfortable sense of being known.

(Shadowlight): Ashira says, "How odd..."

(Shadowlight): Ashira says, "Gurashi, Afollia, can you sense anything changed?"

You have emoted: Gurashi does not move, gazing still over the forest with a pensive expression.

(Shadowlight): You say, "... no ..."

(Shadowlight): You say, "... not yet ...."

(Veiled): Mysrai says, "Within My Kin's halls, you say?"

(Shadowlight): Afollia says, "Nothing immediate, the skies above the forest are quite clear. I do lack Gurashi's mental...abilities...however. Perhaps he sensed something from this powerful emanation?"

(Veiled): You say, "*a buzz of affirmation*."

(Veiled): You say, "... mm ... uh... he is still sleeping ..."

You have emoted: Gurashi's entire body chatters nervously, and they exhale forcibly, calming themselves.

(Veiled): Mysrai says, "Hear My Will, Beloved. You are not to breach the sacred halls of Viravain, no more than you would wish Hers to breach Mine. Lay offering and prayer unto Her, a sign of respect, that She may know of My intent."

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

You think to yourself: But... what about Akuuko?

You fidget impatiently.

You think to yourself: Need to see him - or ...

You think to yourself: .... do even deserve to?

You have emoted: Gurashi sways, dazed.

(Veiled): Mysrai says, "Know that My Will may yet be enacted, and all shall be made right once more. What is broken may yet be made whole, and what is lost may be turned to greater purpose."

(Veiled): Mysrai says, "And should She resist?"

You have emoted: Gurashi listens, wringing their hands together.

A stabbing, ecstatic pain shoots through your mind as a vision unfolds in the centre of your forehead. Black sand struck crimson with the metallic tang of blood flows through blackened, skeletal canopies as flame surges on all sides. An enormous jackal looms on the horizon, dwarfing even Avechna as it bays with a maddening bloodlust.

(Veiled): Mysrai says, "Then I shall have some fun."

(Shadowlight): Ashira says, "I'll return to Hallifax for now, but if I'm needed I will come back."

You blanch suddenly.

(Veiled): Alary (from the Realm of the Scarlet Courtesan) says, "Your Will be done, Most Beloved."

(Veiled): Tonatiuh says, "Prayers and offerings shall be placed at Her shrines until told otherwise, as Your Will is ours, Most Beloved."

(Veiled): Mysrai says, "Tonatiuh, My sweet dreamer."

(Veiled): Mysrai says, "Attend Me in My fulcrux."

(Veiled): Tonatiuh says, "Yes, Most Beloved."

You think to yourself: *an empty feeling*.

(Shadowlight): Enero says, "Was anything out of the ordinary in Mt. Zoaka, Lady Ashira?"

(Shadowlight): Ashira says, "Not that I could tell. I am about to go do a more thorough investigation though."

Quiet, solemn contemplation reaches you but for a moment before you realise that you can no longer feel Aschwar through the link in your chest to Mysrai.

You stare ahead, looking utterly wounded.

(Shadowlight): Enero says, "Thank you, I would join, but alas, I don't think I remember what Mt. Zoaka looks like normally, so I would be of little help, to discern if anything is amiss."

You think to yourself: Am sorry.

You think to yourself: I am so sorry.

You think to yourself: Do not know how to make it better.

(Shadowlight): Ashira says, "I thought it may have something to do with Mysrai, and I entered Their realm but could not sense anything odd there."

You think to yourself: I did not want to tell you like this - I should have said something day one - I should have done any of the things different.

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "Little bug, where are you? Would you speak with us?"

(Shadowlight): Aeldra says, "Whatever that presence was, the focus definitely was drawn towards the Glomdoring, more, at least from a distance, is hard to ascertain."

(Shadowlight): Ashira says, "All appears normal in Zoaka. I believe Luce is correct in his assessment of the situation."

(Shadowlight): Enero says, "If They have anything to be displeased about, They should look no further than the City They reside in, that ally themselves with that Taint-hole in the east."

Your melodic voice sings into Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye's mind, "*silence .... after a time - assent*."

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "Where would you prefer to meet?"

Your melodic voice sings into Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye's mind, "Allies of Shadowlights are all confused by what is going on so they keep going into Their realm to look for disturbances... uhm..."

Your melodic voice sings into Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye's mind, ".... *finally, a heavy feeling* does not matter."

Your melodic voice sings into Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye's mind, "*quieter* ... can find."

<-- wait wait wait

Your melodic voice sings into Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye's mind, "E...everything O-K.....?"

With harsh, grating tones that stab through your mind, Alary whispers, "Meet us by the entrance to Their City, as we must now evidently sit watch for those who do not belong entering."

Ascending a fluttering spiral of veils.
Throughout the location, small dancing flames flicker and spark. Claustrophobic and smelling heavily of burnt resins, this spiraling ascent is tiled in ivory and copper. From above, the sound of laughter, the sound of whispers, the sound of cries of joy and passion echo out, murmuring down through the stone. To either side, lengths of gossamer indigo and copper play, rustling against each other in a play of murmurs: the air is hot and thick with presence, the walls shining with inlay of coppery energies. Oilslick patterns ripple across the silken folds of this veil as it flutters between two paradigms. Surrounded by an aura of brilliant hues and searing heat, Ankaa perches here on one leg. A lithe, ebon veiled dancer wreathed in black stars poises gracefully here.
You see exits leading up and through a fluttering veil.

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

Softly, you say, ".... Friend Alary ...."

Standing at a meagre height of six feet they are a regal aslaran eccentric demigod changeling. Their body lends to no particular gender, feminine charm mixed with boyish enthusiasm. They stand slumped slightly, curving forward as if in earnest toward something unseen. Their body is horribly thin, sickly in how their bones jut out from beneath thick fur. Long arms hang by their sides, their hands stubbly and more feline in appearance. Each stubby finger and toe is tipped with a deadly black claw that retracts when they wish. Bright pink pads grace their hands and feet, peeking beneath the shaggy fur. Their fur is varying in colouration and pattern, a uniqueness that sets their, perhaps, slightly apart. Their body is a dull rustic red in colour, shaggy but well groomed so that it hangs in sleek layers. From their bottom paws to their digitigrade knees are a deep obsidian, hanging even shaggier than their body fur. This pattern also repeats from their hands to their elbows. Across their back and wrapping around their front, stopping at their stomach and chest, are uniform stripes, a shockingly bright orange, in contrast with their muted colour tone. The fur on these stripes is slightly shorter, and finer in composition. Dragging along the floor behind their is a shaggy tail, thick and bushy. Bright orange rings round the tail in a uniform pattern, the fur still shorter and finer, until the tip of their tail, where it's an extra shaggy black in colour. A bright crimson mane graces their head and neck, cropped short and groomed to look like hair. One golden eye peers out at the world, wide and always looking with interest at something. Their other eye is covered by a bloodied bandage, fabric haphazardly around their head. Their snout is almost canid in appearance, a moist black nose dotting the end of it and sharp canines peeking out below. Obsidian whiskers hang about their face, detracting from their almost regal appearance. At the tip of their tail is an ever-wavering bundle of orange flame, flickering between existences. A chaos butterfly is resting on their shoulder.

You glance askance.

Alary smiles softly at you.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Beloved Gurashi."

Alary carefully lights a burning Censer of the Sacred Flames, sending its intoxicating incense swirling through the air as it sways from side to side. The pungent scent tickles your senses, filling you with a deep, blooming warmth accompanied by the scent of acrid smoke.

Quiet, you say, "... hi."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Hold on a moment."

Alary inhales deeply before breathing a fierce fire into being. They laughs as it spreads, sending out hot embers and sweet-smelling smoke.

Alary nods their head sagely.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "...am still ..."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "We found one wanderer, we would prefer to be warned of other meddlers."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks around. "Holding."

You nod your head emphatically.

Faintly buzzing, you ask, "Mm... Miss Ashira?"

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Now we may find a suitable place to speak."

Alary nods their head emphatically.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "She no longer belongs here."

Softly, you say, "Right..."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "And should not waltz about as if she owns the place, and then rudely dissolve a friendship that has long been since dissolved."

Alary shrugs helplessly.

You have emoted: Gurashi merely nods, watching Alary with a difficult to read expression.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "....are O-K...?"

You follow Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye up to an antechamber at the descent.
With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "We're okay, yes."
Alary caresses a pair of broad copper doors gently.

You caress a pair of broad copper doors gently.
As you stroke the door it grows warm under your fingers and malleable. A fever creeps through your veins, a slow-growing conflagration. Strange, foreign songs rise in twining voices, and the metal melts away into nothing more than silken veils that draw you forth into the beyond.

You think to yourself: *swirling color - an ugly, ruddy mess*.

<-- walkies

You follow Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye southwest to an underground jungle.

You have emoted: Gurashi says nothing as they trail along behind Alary.

Alary exhales slowly, allowing a long fluid breath to creep from their lungs.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Here is fine, yes?"

You have emoted: Gurashi nods once.

Bizirik, the leothin lets out a snuffling little huff, tossing its head and staring up at Alary.

The jungle seems to grow more alive as you pass, plants dancing on an unfelt breeze and the sound of wild insects singing their disturbed melodies from places unseen.

Alary smiles softly at you, their single eye radiating warmth as they settle down upon an alcove and nod at you to do the same.

You have emoted: Gurashi remains almost perfectly still, their usual fidgeting and flailing gone. They do not even react as insects within the room begin to gather around their head like a flapping, inconsistent halo.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Sit, Gurashi. You are not in trouble."

You have emoted: Gurashi's form sinks in one fluid motion, resting upon their knees, their hands in their lap, still unable to meet Alary's gaze with their own.

You think to yourself: *a kaleidoscope of color - too many - so many they all become the same ugly shade of sickly brown and gray - unease - worst - the worst, the -worst--*.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "We're not here to lecture you, nor mete out any punishment. We understand why you kept that secret, so we see beyond your mistake and we understand your intentions."

You think to yourself: *seeking out that connection - that familiar honeyed presence... but it isn't there*.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Why we've brought you here is simply to ... offer our support and assurances, to help you come to grips with it, as we can see you are deeply trouble. You made a mistake, yes. You have hurt people with this mistake, but we know your mistake was not made out of malice, but naivety and ignorance."

Finally, voice crackling, you whisper, "... they... must be so upset..."

You think to yourself: * aschwar *.

Alary smiles softly.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Yes, they are."

You have emoted: Gurashi's hands find one another, chitin grating as their fingers close together tightly.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "They do not understand why you did this, only that you did it. Others understand that you did something wrong, but do not understand why or how it is wrong, only that they've been given a missive to complete."

You shiver violently.

You have emoted: Gurashi nods again, shutting their eyes as they listen, antennae sagged.

You think to yourself: *-- the worst, the worst - was supposed to wait? or no - waiting was wrong - but was it? now has leggies - but is Hers? is Theirs? is anything that could have done different--*.

Alary reaches out a single paw, palm facing upwards, to you in an attempt to offer support.

You have emoted: Gurashi's eyes open as they glance at Alary's offered hand, frowning deeper. They do not take it, their own hands trembling lightly in their exertion to stay clasped together. "....what do ... I do, now?"

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "We have made similar mistakes, Gurashi. We know you did this out of a need to protect. From what or whom, we can only infer. But we are here, Gurashi. For you, for the Beloved, and we know you are hurt as well, We can see it, and we want to make sure that you know that this is a moment of growth for you, and for others. How you grow from this is your choice to make."

Alary smiles softly.

You have emoted: Gurashi finally looks up to meet Alary's gaze, their own haunted.

Midnight shadows coalesce around a new day, and Mother Night embraces the land in utter darkness.
It is now the 6th of Dvarsh, 567 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 17 days until the New Moon

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "You begin to mend, little bug. You begin to mend yourself, you've suffered so much. You begin to mend what has been broken, your ties and friendships. You understand what you've done was wrong, and now you should meditate upon how you would have approached it with what you know now."

You stare blankly at Alary.

You have emoted: Gurashi opens their beak as if they are about to speak, but utter no sound. Eventually they reclose their mouth and sink a bit where they are seated, letting out a breath they never realized they were holding.

Alary takes their hand and cups the side of your head softly, gazing at them with nothing but warmth and love. "We exist to help all of the Beloved, in whatever manner they need, Gurashi. We are Their Eye because we choose to see beyond what is or has been, into what can and could be."

You have emoted: Gurashi returns the aslaran's gaze once more, their mandibles clicking against their face. ".... what should I do... about Akuuko, though?" They whisper. "...he is just... waking up, and I think..."

You glance askance.

You have emoted: Gurashi's voice halts again, and they let out a strange thrum instead, before returning to speech: "...She gave him back his leggies and She gave him a choice to stay - in Glomdoring... or come home, here.." They trail off. "...to the Shofets and Shifting City, and Aschwar... and..."

You think to yourself: * remembering the inside of the cocoon - such fear - why didn't I SAY anything *.

Alary exhales slowly, allowing a long fluid breath to creep from their lungs.

Windchimes echo in your ears, singing together in soft minor notes.

You think to yourself: * but did - but did - Xenthos, and Evette, and Aleyah, smiling reassuringly even as you plead with them how scared he is *.

You have emoted: Gurashi stares off at a point beyond Alary's left shoulder, looking like they're finding their words, or lost in some thought.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Right now? Ask the Lady of Thorns to return him home. He belongs in the City, even if he may not understand why. The Most Beloved wishes him home, and as Beloved we must beseech that this wrong be righted."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "But that will develop in it's own time, we are here to help you, here in this moment."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "N-no, She SAID he CAN go home whenever wants ...h ...e ..."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Did he express a wish to stay there, then?"

You have emoted: Gurashi glances over their shoulder, as if listening before they look again at Alary. "...n-no, he had just woken up and was so -tired-."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "He ..."

Alary tilts their head and listens intently to you.

You have emoted: Gurashi trails off again, as if recalling. "...he was meeting my friends, and my family ... my cousin Aleyah was with him..... whole time he was asleep...."

You think to yourself: *happy - She is treating him so good...*.

You think to yourself: *like how Shofets treated ME ... *.

You think to yourself: Eye for an eye.

Alary smiles softly.

You have emoted: Gurashi bunches their shoulders, shaking their head. "He can do other magics now too.... Because the Lady of Roses remade him. The parts that were missing." They say this quietly, sounding as if it has been recited to them and they are reading it back.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Then we must wait to hear what he wishes, though, we hope that whatever was done to him has not ... affected his mind or his Will."

Alary murmurs softly to themself.

You shiver violently.

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly covers their face with both primary hands.

You think to yourself: * should have said something *.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "We've been given task by the Most Beloved. Perhaps speaking to Akuuko would help us understand what has been done, or you speaking to him."

Voice muffled by their hands, you say, "He is in Her temple."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "The Shofets said we cannot go in."

Suddenly dropping their hands, you ask, "That is me too, yes? I am not allowed to go in?"

You fret over everything that might go wrong.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "There is a danger with interfering with what has been done, even by Divine hand. There is much we do not know about this, and much we can only fear from it."

Alary shrugs helplessly.

Eerie, distant chanting eddies through the halls of the temple, a solemn girl's voice rising and falling in the odd glottals and stops of some long-dead tongue.

Suddenly quite worried, you say, "Live in the Glomdoring - and, have been trying for MONTHS to see him - w-what if peoples notice I suddenly don't...want to go inside? Ahh - am confused, am confusion."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "If you're welcomed in, then you go in."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "You go about as if everything is normal, and if an opportunity arises, then go."

You have emoted: Gurashi sways in their spot, staring at Alary. It feels as if they've aged a year in the short time they've been seated.

Deflating, you say, "Oh...."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "The missive was for those of us who would look out of place there, we believe."

In the depths of the shifting fog, vast wings stir the sky with shifting patterns of nightmares. Darker shadows follow beyond, a flotilla of moths soaring through the billowing clouds.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Like, if we were to waltz in there, it would not look good, no?"

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "But, that will develop in time. If you're comfortable with it, we are here to listen and advise with anything new that arises."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "However, we are here to speak with you on how to help YOU, not Akuuko, in this very moment."

You have emoted: With wide eyes, Gurashi listens to Alary's explanation of the Temple conundrum, again sagging in their spot. "Oh..."

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

Weakly, you ask, "Me?"

Faintly buzzing, you say, "I do ... not need help - is Aschwar who is going to need -so- many hugs because--."

Sudden and high-pitched, breaking up, you say, "--must hate me so muchly right now."

You fret over everything that might go wrong.

Alary recalls their hand, reaching forward to tap on your forehead. "Little bug, you have been hurtm you ARE hurting, and we want to help."

You think to yourself: * oh - ohhhh - imagining what they must feel - cannot - no - how could -*.

You think to yourself: ** suddenly remembering the feeling when learning Khepqet was the one all along **.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "We cannot speak for Aschwar, their words and actions are their own. What we can do is help you."

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

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Would it help you to know that Aschwar asked us to go to you, to make sure you are alright?"

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly stares at Alary, eyes still wide. Finally, they chirp: "...what?"

Alary smiles softly.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Aye."

You think to yourself: ... how can they be so good .....

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "But, we know you are hurting. We know you've been hurt, though the hows and whys we do not know. What we do know is what we can do to help. We can listen, we can offer comfort or advice or simply be. We are here for you, Gurashi."

Alary pulls their hand back before leaning forward, both hands reaching out to gently lay upon your shoulders. "We may not be the best at everything, but we want you to know that we will help you however we can."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "At the end of the day, we cannot fix what has been done. But much like an old piece of clothing, we can mend the tears and create something new from it."

You have emoted: Despite the news, Gurashi seems far from comforted, reaching up and covering their face again with their hands. "... I do not know what will help anymore." They finally thrum, mandibles clicking once. "...all of the times think am doing right thing is not? Or ...."

Alary exhales slowly, allowing a long fluid breath to creep from their lungs.

Weakly, you say, "Feels like all things tied to me end up in disasters, or peoples getting hurts, for one reason, or, another -- I do not want that."

You flail about helplessly.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "We all make mistakes, Gurashi. To err is to be mortal. We are allowed that luxury. What matters isn't the mistake, but how we grow from it. How we can learn and do better in the future. What you've done, what you've always done, has been to put others first. To protect and to love, and that leaves a terrible burden on the soul. Your heart has always been in the right place."

Faintly buzzing, you exclaim, "But I did not this time!"

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "But you did."

Alary taps their nose knowingly.

Loud and terrified, you exclaim, "I wanted to be Beloved! I picked the Beloved...!"

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Tell us, truthfully, why you kept this secret."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "I mean - I got asked, but it was something -I- wanted even though the ones dearest and nearest to me did -not- and now -this-."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "You were trying to protect him, though, correct?"

You have emoted: Gurashi folds their arms across their chest, cradling themselves until they have returned to quiet. They buzz softly, every so often letting out a crackling thrum. Self-soothing. "... the Beloveds... are..."

Squeezing tight, you whisper, "... wanted to learn... how to be an even... better friend - wanted to protect Aschwar - because they were new, and good, and goodly... and, my friends..."

Dazed, you whisper, "...when Friend Akuuko accidentally revealed Aschwar's name... it made the Shofets really mad... They were REAL mad ...and punished him - do ... remember?"

You have emoted: Gurashi looks up to gaze about the jungle, antennae slowly rising. "...was with Friend Shulamit... and Esei ... when it happened..."

With a wry smile, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Your heart has always been in the right place, Gurashi. We doubt that will ever change. You are one of the kindest souls we've ever met, and though your choices may end up in mistakes, you've never made them out of pride or selfishness. Gurashi, you grow from each misstep. You learn from each fall. But you must forgive yourself, too."

Muffled laughter rings out in far galleries, echoing weirdly off the stone.

You think to yourself: * no *.

You think to yourself: * this was not kind. *.

You glance askance.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "We recall, aye. But, we all grow from our punishments, and we yet remain. Gurashi, some mistakes require a heavy hand to learn from, others do not. It is something we all accept."

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

Weakly, you say to Alary, "I found Akuuko after - was still alive..."

Faintly buzzing, you say to Alary, "Had seen? Is Once-Thief, because... needed... needed a crutch, and so could not be a ... thief-thief...."

You stare blankly into space.

You stare blankly at a crutch-staff bearing praises to the Lord, Lady, and Neither, covered in webs.

You have emoted: Gurashi hangs their head, suddenly pulling a crutch-staff bearing praises to the Lord, Lady, and Neither, covered in webs from where it has been safely attached to their pack. They hold it tightly, offering it out. "Is his..."

Comprehension flashes across Alary's face.

You think to yourself: *a deeply protective instinct - suddenly, do not want to part with it, have been keeping safe for him for so long-*.

P STAFF
Carved from simple palm wood and sanded to a fine point, delicate carvings filled in with the bled remnants of golden ink spout praises to the Lord, Lady, and Neither Mysrai in many tongues, from common and igasho to tauren and those that are too alien to begin understanding. Able to serve as a staff, the main purpose of this crutch is obvious by the worn, flat head at its top, allowing one to lean heavily upon it should they require assistance in movement. It is covered in thick, sticky webbing.
It weighs about 5 pounds.
It has the following aliases: staff.

Somewhat reluctantly, you give a crutch-staff bearing praises to the Lord, Lady, and Neither, covered in webs to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Yes, did Akuuko denounce the Most Beloved, or understand his actions led to consequences?"

Faintly buzzing, you say, "I-I don't think... he stopped loving the Shofets? I-I don't..."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "I don't think he did ... I just..."

You fidget impatiently.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Would he have wanted to have been plucked from his home without a choice?"

You blanch suddenly.

You have emoted: Gurashi withers again in their spot.

Alary smiles softly.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "This was not your doing, Gurashi."

Weakly, you say, "But is my fault."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "No, it is not."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "She took him because I am Beloved."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "If She did, then Her own jealousy has clouded Her actions."

More firmly, looking at Alary, you say, "She took him because I am Beloved."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "And yet being Beloved is YOUR choice, not Hers."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Does She so jealously guard what doesn't belong to Her that she would interfere with the Will of another?"

Alary murmurs softly to themself.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "This is not your fault, Gurashi."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "This is a failing in the Lady of Thorns perception of a reality that is not Hers to command."

In a frantic outburst, you exclaim to Alary, "But I did not tell the Beloved because I wanted to trust my family because they told me it was going to be O-K!"

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "You were trying to protect everyone by hiding this information, Gurashi."

Fretfully, you say to Alary, "They BEGGED me not to tell because - because -- I ... don't -know-- maybe to avoid conflict? To see what the Lady of Roses wanted to do? I-it's been so long I don't even--."

You fret over everything that might go wrong.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "We can see your true motivations, you hold onto guilt that is not yours."

Starting to lose some of their steam, you say to Alary, "Peoples get hurt when I -do- stuff - that is the -opposite- of what I want - I swear."

Alary huffs suddenly, single eye briefly rolling before they grab your shoulders and pull him into a hug, holding on tightly to the kephera. "You can be so stubborn, little bug. Stop holding on to guilt that is not yours."

You have emoted: Gurashi inhales sharply and emits a high-pitched whistle of surprise as they are pulled against Alary, their wings snapping open and shut.

Staring off at some point in the jungle beyond, you say to Alary, "... just want to make it better."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Then you learn from what was done, and vow to do better next time. You learn to grow, you begin to mend, and you try your best. That is all any of us can do, Gurashi. Mistakes happen, people get hurt, but we must move on and grow from it. We must protect who we've hurt, and we must learn to be better."

Their own arms limp at their sides as they continue to stare off past you, you say to Alary, "... being in a cocoon is... unpleasant experience..."

You sniffle softly.

You lean against Alary, eyes half-closing.

Morose, you say, "I do not feel him anymore..."

Alary hugs you tightly, their chest rumbling with what can only be perceived as a deep purr. "We can only imagine. Yet, what has been done has been done."

Alary huffs a small laugh, still clearly purring. After another moment of embracing you, they pull back, still holding the kephera by their shoulders. "You must vow to do better, but your heart will always be in the right place. That is a fundamental fact about you."

You have emoted: Gurashi says nothing again for a time, their arms still hanging down at their sides. "...only want to do best - really, really."

Quiet, you ask Alary, "... does She think that my loving Shofets means do not love Her?"

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Then keep doing that. You always try your best, and you learn from your mistakes."

Alary shrugs helplessly.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "We cannot speak for what She feels, but perhaps explain to Her that."

Softer, you whisper, "They still do not know..."

You take mercurial Mysraian prayer beads from a Rope Belt of Advantage.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks at mercurial Mysraian prayer beads with a guilty expression, shoulders bunching.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "That is your choice on when or if to reveal, Gurashi. The Lady of Thorns must know, maybe speak with Her about it."

Quietly, you say, "...I think... they are starting to suspect... that I have - or - many think I intend to."

You glance askance at Alary.

Faintly buzzing, you whisper, "She knows."

You shiver violently.

Faintly buzzing, you whisper, "So does Lord Silence."

A look of understanding crossing their features, Alary nods their head slowly.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "We suspected it was not something one could keep from the Divine for long."

Alary taps their nose knowingly.

You have emoted: Gurashi shrinks again. "But neither He or ... She ... have not yet said..."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Then, at least in some way, both of Them must respect your choice."

Suddenly, you say, "Hey! I was Beloved for Two Whole Years before She even... said! I saw Her! I spoke to Her! I thought it was fine...!"

You flail about helplessly.

Alary utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "But..."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "The Divine sense things we cannot even begin to perceive."

You slump down dejectedly.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "The world WAS ending..."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "So... was probably distracted..."

You sniffle softly.

Alary smiles softly, reaching one paw up to caress your cheek. "You are who you are, Gurashi. Your Will is your own. When the time is right, you will know. We cannot speak for the why's of othhers, but we can offer advice on how to approach things. Truth is key, and communication can right some of the worst wrongs.

You think to yourself: * a recollection - the Courtesan .... "Soon" ... *.

You sniffle softly.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "...I want to make it right... of course - but ..."

You sway anxiously in your spot.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks about the jungle, wings opening and snapping shut. "...how. Where do begin. I cannot stop thinking about everything."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "One step at a time. Speak with the Lady of the Thorns, try to explain to Her and hopefully get Her to understand."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "One thing before the next, Gurashi."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "... tell Her ... that I joined the Beloved... and ask Her to return Akuuko."

Alary smiles softly.

Clarifying blankly, you ask, "....yes?"

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Perhaps just talk to Her about having joined the Beloved. Ask about Her motivations for taking Akuuko. Let the conversation happen organically."

Alary takes their paw and pats you on the head, every so gently. "And stop taking all of the blame upon yourself, Beloved. Do not carry guilt that is not yours to carry."

You stare blankly at Alary.

Still in somewhat disbelief, you say to Alary, "....oh. Talk... to Her... oh."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "... I-I will."

Faintly buzzing, you say to Alary, "If you think is first step to fixing, I will."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "And remember, we are here for you."

You have emoted: Gurashi sits up a little straighter. "...what should second step be, in case first step goes poorly?"

You stare blankly at Alary.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "The first step is to forgive yourself of blame that is not yours."

Alary shrugs helplessly.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "That, well, we can't tell you. We don't know much about the Lady of Thorns, but perhaps you know someone who is more acquainted with Her."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Offer a prayer explaining your reasoning of joining the Beloved, and ask Her why She took Akuuko and if She would return him at the Most Beloved's request."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "And maybe talk to someone who knows Her better than we do."

Alary glances askance.

You have emoted: Gurashi stares at Alary blankly, their eyes wide. "...O-K... mm. O-K."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Sorry we're not terribly good with other Divine."

You shake your head.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "No - no - you know the Shofets."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "We tend to get smoke pretty quickly."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "And... the Shofets....."

You have emoted: Gurashi sways where they sit. "...and, Aschwar...? Are - are they gonna be O-K? Will you check on -them- for -me-?"

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

Alary smiles softly.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "We can, but perhaps a letter from you will help, as well."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "...I do not want to make Friend Akuuko sound badly."

You glance askance.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "I know why he did not want to be seen..."

Starting to trail off, you say, "....was unfair of me - very unfair....."

You shake your head.

You shake your head.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "When we upset them, we offered gifts and tried to help clean their villa. And then Ankaa got into a fight with them, so that was not great."

Starting to push up, you say, "No. I must make it right."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "And then Aschwar beat Ankaa with a wet mop. It was a terrible disaster."

Alary nods their head sagely.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "So just ... don't do that."

Alary beams broadly at you.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "You'll get it right, you're smart and caring, and very kind."

Alary gives you a peck on the cheek.

You carapace turns a bright shade of red as you blush.

You have emoted: Gurashi bunches their shoulders.

You think to yourself: Love them very muchly.

You think to yourself: ... hope they know - hope...

Faintly buzzing, you say, "...I'll write them a letter... no - some origamis to sing to them."

Alary beams broadly at you.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "We'll keep Ankaa far from the villa, for that."

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles weakly.

Looking down, you say to Alary, "Many thank yous - you are..."

Hesitantly, you ask Alary, "... do think can be forgiven for this?"

Alary suddenly pulls you into a quick hug before releasing them fully. "Most things can be forgiven, and we think this is one of them."

You lean against Alary, eyes half-closing.

Faintly buzzing, you whisper, "...promise will not rest until Akuuko comes home, yes yes...."

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "No, take care of yourself, too, little bug."

Alary taps their nose knowingly.

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

Faintly buzzing, you ask, "... wanna see the soup I made them?"

Faintly buzzing, you say, "...before - they were fixed - knew eating was hard..."

You have emoted: Gurashi shuffles through their things, pulling out a picnic basket which they produce a chilled cantaloupe soup with ginger and lemon from, offering it to the aslaran.

Nodding, you give a chilled cantaloupe soup with ginger and lemon to Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye.

"Oooooooooh!" Alary says, eyes wide with wonder.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "That's nice of you."

Alary tentatively sticks out their tongue and licks a chilled cantaloupe soup with ginger and lemon.

Alary utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Very nice."

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles weakly.

Shyly, you ask, "Is orange - see?"

Faintly buzzing, you say, "So he can steal it and secretly know, is his."

Alary utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Very nice."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down into a chilled cantaloupe soup with ginger and lemon, nodding.

Alary eats a chilled cantaloupe soup with ginger and lemon with obvious gusto.

Alary nods their head enthusiastically.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Very nice, you have such a gift with cooking."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "We're sure he'll love it."

You sway anxiously in your spot.

You sniff softly.

You open your mouth but say nothing.

Nodding shyly, you say, "Mm."

You glance askance.

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

Alary pats you in a friendly manner.

Faintly buzzing, you ask, "...should I say something to the other Beloveds, too...?"

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "If you'd like."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Or you can wait until you're ready."

Alary smiles softly.

You nod your head slowly in understanding.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "No one will hate you, forgiveness is a key aspect to growth."

You nod your head sagely.

You sniffle softly.

Quietly, you say to Alary, "Many thank yous for your time..."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down towards their feet, flexing and relaxing their hands one at a time. "...I must go speak to Her, guess. Yes yes."

Alary hugs you compassionately.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Always, we are here for you."

You reach out, wrapping all four arms around Alary as you pull them into a tight hug.

You have emoted: Gurashi sighs heavily as they are hugged this time, returning the embrace in full.

You nod your head emphatically.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "...how do I leave."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "This place is big."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "And I know how to use the doors, but am no good at finding doors."

You stare blankly into space.

Alary utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

Alary makes a beckoning motion to no-one in particular.

You nod your head emphatically.

You follow Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye down to a cliffside pavilion over a roiling abyss.
With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Dzaa."

Faintly buzzing, you whisper, "Dzaa."
The Void reels beneath you, cold stars in black aetherstorms. Beneath your feet, strands of essence stretch in a bridge across the emptiness, and you are propelled forwards into the nothingness, reforming within reality within mere seconds.

An antechamber at the descent.
Throughout the location, small dancing flames flicker and spark. Lengths of silken fabrics and gossamer flutter in the broad, open gallery of this pavilion, dusted with motes of diamond and sapphire no larger than drops of dew. The sky, in the distance, is beginning to turn vivid purple and crimson with a fiery dawn: to either side, and above, a massive cliff without beginning or end stretches. Over the edge of a wrought copper rail adorned with fist-sized rubies enameled with golden labyrinths, a massive city is faintly visible in the depths of the fog-churned bottom of the cliff, descending multiple terraces into silvery nothingness. A pair of broad coppery doors rests here, panels emblazoned with devices of a trey of keys. A lithe, ebon veiled dancer wreathed in black stars poises gracefully here.
You see exits leading north and down.

You flail about helplessly.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "AaaaAAAAAA."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "It WORKED."

You flail about helplessly.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Mhm."

Your eyes bug out as you boggle in amazement.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "A- ahh!"

Faintly buzzing, you say, "W--what."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "The full phrase is."

Faintly buzzing, you ask, "What... IS... dzaa?"

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Dzaa ii szaa."

You tilt your head curiously at Alary.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "A dead tongue."

You have emoted: Gurashi says the word with a natural, pleasant buzz as it emerges from within their beak. "Dead tongue?"

Alary nods their head emphatically.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Many secret rooms and places within the temple and City use phrases from it, though even we don't know what it means."

Faintly buzzing, you ask, "...does the Shofets...?"

You tilt your head curiously at Alary.

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Most likely."

Alary taps their nose knowingly.

You click your mandibles together energetically, chittering to yourself.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "... ah - O-K. I should."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks over their shoulder, then sighs.

Alary gives you a peck on the cheek.

You carapace turns a bright shade of red as you blush.

You flail about helplessly.

You chitter at Alary with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Alary utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "I-I gotta go try and make this better."

With a rumbling undertone, Arch-Preceptor Alary al-Saaoud, Mysrai's Ebon Eye says, "Do you not like being pecked?"

Faintly buzzing, you say, "... I ... mm. It is hard. Am trying to get better about."

Turning a faint shade of pink, you say to Alary, "... I will tell you some time."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "B-but not now - am missions."

You strike a pose.

You give a horrified gasp.

You put your fingers in your mouth and let out a high-pitched whistle, then hope for the best.
Bizirik, the leothin trots in with head high.

Bizirik, the leothin tilts her head curiously.

Bizirik, the leothin looks about in confusion.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Bizirik, the leothin, "How do you -do- that."

Bizirik, the leothin gives a horrified gasp.

Bizirik, the leothin strikes a pose.

You narrow your eyes, peering about suspiciously.

Alary utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Follow me, Bizirik."
Bizirik, the leothin begins to follow closely behind you.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Try again - three, two --."

You strike a pose.
Bizirik, the leothin strikes a pose.

Muffled laughter rings out in far galleries, echoing weirdly off the stone.

Softly, you say to Alary, "Practicing."

Alary utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

You cough softly.

You have emoted: Gurashi offers a sad smile before scuttling off, mandibles clicking.

You think to yourself: Sorry.

You think to yourself: Am sorry Shofets - Aschwar - Beloveds.

<-- WENT TO VIRA'S TEMPLE TO P R A Y

****

PRAYER TIME

****

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

You let loose a long breath from your lungs, exhaling slowly.

Light spreads across your back in numerous colours and hues, enfolding you like butterfly wings.

You have emoted: Gurashi dips down to bow as low as they can without teetering over, buzzing softly. "Hi hi, excuse me," They rise, stepping over some brush. "It is me - Gurashi An'Ryshe. Please pardon interruption if interrupting, yes."

You glance askance.

You have emoted: Gurashi keeps their distance at first, quietly tapping their fingers together. "....uhhhm. Wanted to talk to You. Well. Thank You - for my friend Akuuko. Uhm." They chitter softly. "His new leggies and bits look very nicely, and think he is going to enjoy eating, again, and..."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "...it is nice, to see him walk, again - yes! You did not have to, but You did, and, so, that was nicely and I am -grateful- oh yes." They chitter happily, taking a step closer. "....but."

You look at the master shrine of Viravain, expression filled with concern as you frown.

(Glomdoring): An illithoid youth says, "Someone help me! Please!"

Faintly buzzing, you say, "...mmm - why did do it? I--."

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

(Glomdoring): You say, "Is someone attacking Ixthiaxa??"

You have emoted: Gurashi pauses, momentarily distracted by something unseen, turning their back to the master shrine of Viravain with a gentle chitter. As they receive no response, they turn back forward again, huffing.

(Glomdoring): Solanine says, "I'm not sure. I can go check, if you'd like?"

Faintly buzzing, you whisper, "Anyway ... oh - right. Why? Was reason that fixed?" They wring their hands together. "...or, why had to ...take him so forcibly..."

(Glomdoring): You say, "Residents have quieted. Waiting to see if is more troubles..."

You glance askance.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "...the Beloveds know that he is in the Glomdoring - or, at least in Your Temples. And they want very muchly to ... have him back. And see him again. And, t-they will not enter the temple, no! Not the other Beloved. Not Your temple, because the Shofets asked them not to."

You fidget impatiently.

You have emoted: Gurashi fidgets again, looking very uncertain. "... do know that love You very muchly, yes? And, the Glomdoring. Because it is my home." They look around the Fulcrux, gaze settling on the nearby rosebush. "It has all of my family, and many of my friends."

Quietly, you say, "And... Shadowbeats ... lovely roses... wily thornbeasties..."

You let out a soft, buzzing sigh.

You stare blankly at the master shrine of Viravain.

You think to yourself: *grip tightening on their mercurial Mysraian prayer beads beneath their cloak*.

You have emoted: After a dreadfully long silence, Gurashi whispers: "...I have to tell You something, but, You probably already know."

Sadly, you say, "And it will probably disappoint - but, were maybe already disappointed... but."
You fidget impatiently.

Faintly buzzing, you say to the master shrine of Viravain, "I am Beloved too. Or." Their wings open and snap shut. "...I ... joined them....whhhile ago."

You glance askance.

You have emoted: Gurashi wrings their hands together, dazed. "But... it doesn't mean that love You any less? Or, the Glomdorings?" They look about nervously. "I still do my huntings for - and gather essences for, and fight in timequakes, for. Design foods, for. Make friends and direct them to... I LOVE the Glomdoring, yes I do!"

Faintly buzzing, you say to the master shrine of Viravain, "And I love You! And even the Lord Silence! So very muchly."

Rambling nervously, you say, "Am sorry was not more honest. Or, if hurt You or, offended You, and ..."

Shaking their head, you say, "Am not a fly, no. Grew up in Glomdorings - so, am more like a spider. Well, maybe not a spider....more like... Beetle, yes. Good beetle. Is what dear cousin Aleyah said?" They stroke their chin. "Hrm."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "...ah - rambling. Uhm."

You flail about helplessly.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "I-I have some -offerings- and, if You have -questions- for -me- I am -here- always usually...."

Faintly buzzing, you whisper, "... and, hope You know, that... I would not do something, if thought was going to hurt my home, no..."

You shuffle your feet uneasily.

You sniffle softly.

Eerie whispers echo around you from some unknown source, before fading into silence once more.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "... I ... gotta go fix some other things..."

You sway anxiously in your spot.

Looking away, you say, "But I love You - yes, I do, My Lady."

You turn to the master shrine of Viravain, suddenly bending at the waist to offer a polite half-bow.

Shuffling away, you say, "Beloveds will help me love more, yes yes. Will show how love of Shofets benefits Glomdoring - promise."

You sway anxiously in your spot.

<-- LEAVES

****

AND FINALLY, MY APOLOGY ORIGAMI TO ASCHWAR (each one in a separate action origami, because they cannot read, so it is sung to them)

****

Beloved Aschwar. Is me, Gurashi An'Ryshe. Do not have to open the rest. But was wanting to tell something to you. Please let the Shofets also hear my words, because letters do not do goodly enough I do not think. Just got my voice - wanna use it to tell you with my own, real words.


I am sorry about not being honest about Akuuko. Secret secrets are very badly. I know this. And I still kept them because I thought I had to, but was wrong. Very wrong. Bad choice. I know now.


Long time ago, when you were sleeping, Friend Akuuko said your ALMOST FULL REAL NAME to Beloved Shulamit, and me, and Mixter Esei, and the Shofets was mad at him for it, and so he was punished. Took big risky, he did. Paid price. Was back when Shofets was very angry all of the time.


When found Friend Akuuko after, he was recovering. But did not look the same. Was pretty hurt. He said the other Thieves took care of him and gave him food and shelter but now is a Once-Thief, because he cannot do Yu-Ken-Leeps anymore. Not as good, I don't think. But was healthy...ish.


He asked me not to tell you - NOT because he did not want to see you. Think all ever wanted was to be able to see you. But because he wanted to keep injuries secret, because would hurt you. And he said if I told you, he would -go away forevers-.


I could not tell you, because having him near was better than having him gone forevers.


I am sorry. It was not my place. I wanted to respect Akuuko. I did not want to hurt you either. Hoped he would decide eventually with convincing was O-K to see you. But never got chance.


The Shofets of Glomdoring ... Lady of Roses, Mother finally found out that I became Beloved - right after Ascensions. Remember? I had done so ... in secret.... because am apparently -very- good at secrets even though -hate- them. Wowee am hypocripocal bug.


Ah - then I found out She TOOK Akuuko with Her spiders!? The spiders took Akuuko back to Her, back to the Glomdoring and Her followers and My Family. And I did not know right away, but they took him into Her inner temple where -I- cannot go, because -I- am Beloved, and only Her Sacrosanct may go inside.


While She was stealing away Akuuko, Her Spiders came to me when was in Hallifax, and, they threw his crutch at me, and, THEY told me 'eye for an eye' ... She has lots of spiders. They are always following me, yes, all over Basins, reminding me that they are always watching for Her...


But - I BEGGED to see him when found out where he was, but Xenthos, and cousin Aleyah and my friends Miss Kreon and Miss Evette all told me was safe and O-K and that he was already in cocoon and that the Lady of Roses would not have done something like this without plan--


--and, Cousin Aleyah said bugs in cocoons turn into GOO, and if we opened cocoon too early that would KILL him and if we told the Beloved they would break in and cut him out and I was SO scared he would get hurt--


--so I tried to figure out WHY it happened. Why She would take him and what She planned to do. I... did not understand at the time but, think maybe She thinks the Shofets stole ME from the Glomdoring, so She stole Akuuko from the Shofets?? Is what brain is worried about.


He... woke up. And, I could feel him, yes, every step of way, as Glomdoring's Shofets, the Lady of Roses, remade him. And, fixed the parts that were gone. But, with WYRDEN bits. He is still beautiful and green and his eyes are orange, but he is also purple now. He is beautiful. I want you and Shofets to see him very muchly.


Is what was hoping for. That, my family was right, and that waiting proved that My Forest's Shofets loved me too and this was Her scary but firm way of teaching me a lesson - am still... figuring out WHAT lesson, really. But, She said that She gave him new leggies, and that he is free to leave whenever he feels strong and ready enough to.


She also said he was welcome to stay in the Glomdoring, and I know my family and many others really like him. You know Akuuko. He is very charming persons. He is still recovering, though! Because, is all healed, and so has been sleeping very muchly, and......He has been through muchly. The most of us. Secrets made things worse.


I do not want to be dishonest anymore. I am sorry you found out this way, Beloved Aschwar. Shofets. I have also gone to My Lady, to ask Her of intentions for Beloved Akuuko and if She will let him come home and tell Her I am Beloved, because is what Alary suggested, and I should have gone to Alary or Friend Shulamit in the FIRST place.


I love you. And when you are Beloved, you can do anything as long as you do it in Love. I never meant for any of this to happen, and I am sorry it did, and if had super powers like Shofets I would find another reality where I was honest, instead of keeping secrets.


You are goodly, and deserve good things. So is Akuuko. So are all the Beloveds. You are all so good. I wish I was as good as you.


So no more secrets. Am going to fix this.