"Is not cowardly to want to leave if are so unhappy."

(Shadowlight): Alarin (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "Greetings, Alliance. I will be recording my very first stage production at the stage in New Celest if anyone is interested."
(Shadowlight): Alarin (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "Please let me know if you're on your way. I will begin recording shortly."

(Shadowlight): Gyorn (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "Can teleport to me if you aren't sure where the stage is."

---> zoom zoom zoom to theater

A grand stage beneath a crystal canopy.
This location is flooded with shallow, crystal clear water. It is uncomfortably hot. A thin pathway leads centrally down towards a vast wooden platform, at the back of which rest vibrant red curtains which obfuscate the interior from view. Ten neat rows of seats rest in front of the stage, each comfortably partitioned to seat five separate beings. The smooth gravel that glides in from the north changes to a fine, misty golden sand that bears the footprints of many individuals. Immediately in front of the viewing area is a massive stage roughly fifteen feet deep and thirty feet wide. Embedded deep within the crystal roof is a small globe of multi-faceted glass that reflects precise beams of light down on to the stage, a few of the smooth sides tinted in a variety of colours. Embedded in the wood on the right-hand side of the stage is a small crystal globe that holds a pale light. There are 2 cushioned crystalline benches here. A milestone of white marble rests here upon a low dais. Fluttering gently in the breeze, curled streamers of oceanic hues decorate the street in festive array, rippling as if in an underwater current. A silver dragon turtle with crimson wings rests here, an air of majesty on her features. Yvai, the battle sheep dwells here, antler-bearing head raised proudly. Eddies of soft white snow swirl around the graceful form of a grand snow phoenix with wings of amethyst frost. Imperial Mage Valluin La'Saet lingers nearby, the air about him singing with the rush of the ocean. He wields a celestial aegis shield in his left hand and a coral staff in his right hand. Head bowed, an anointed urn-bearer of water and light holds aloft the blessed vessel here with a reverent, stoic grace. Surveying her surroundings imperiously, a remarkably perfect merian priestess' eyes blaze with untold power. Starlight shrouds a wanderer in the mist here within a twinkling mantle of sidereal radiance. Gyorn La'Saet shelters beneath the arch of an ever-cresting wave, the sound of distant surf lingering in the air. He wields a coral staff in his left hand and a coral broadsword in his right hand.

You see exits leading north and south.

You greet everyone present with a respectful nod, your frills puffed.

"I was never mean!" Thaldorn interjects, clearly offended. Alarin simply rolls their eyes.
"...moving on!" Alarin cuts in. "For those unaware, there exists a certain cookie that Thaldorn loathes with a great passion... the sugar-less oatmeal cookie--"

Alaula snickers softly to herself.

"THOSE BLOODY THINGS ARE A POX ON MORTALITY! Seriously... sugar-less! Who DOES that?!" Thaldorn bellows indignantly, speaking directly to the audience for the first time.

You sit yourself down on a cushioned crystalline bench and make yourself comfortable.

With a sigh, Alarin says, "Aye, I know. Calm down."

---> watch the play! Is a funny one.

The curtains draw to a close on an exquisite pine stage, signaling the conclusion of the performance of 'Who DOES That?!'.
You have two minutes to express your rating for 'Who DOES That?!'.
Syntax: STAGE RATE <stars>  (0 to 5 stars).

Xedrik claps his hands together merrily.

A cascading veil of water and light gently rains in from the south as Alarin steps through it, parting the starry curtain in a shimmer of sparkling white mist.
The distant clanking of metal on metal is heard as a giant silverback gorilla clad in a shimmering suit of golden armour strides in from the south.

Valluin gives up a round of applause.

Alaula giggles happily.

Alarin's mouth turns up as their face breaks into a smile.

Alaula gives up a round of applause.

With a flourish of their arm, Alarin bows deeply.

With a flourish of his arm, Thaldorn Thornfist, the White bows deeply.

Gyorn utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

Aeldra gives a trillingly melodic laugh.
Aeldra's eyes sparkle with amusement at Thaldorn Thornfist, the White.

Gyorn La'Saet says, "That was great."

Aeldra's eyes sparkle with amusement at Alarin.

Imperial Mage Valluin La'Saet says to Alarin, "Best play I've ever seen."

Aeldra nods her head at Gyorn, showing her acceptance.

Xedrik nods his head emphatically.

You rate the production 5 stars.

Faithful Supplicant, Xedrik Vivalde says, "Sugarless cookies."

You giggle happily.

Xedrik chuckles long and heartily.

You nod your head sagely.

"Heh heh heh" Valluin chuckles.

Alaula Ladyn says, "Very nice you two."

Alarin Stormcrow says, "Thank you all for coming!"

Pale gold in hue, the wreath about Aeldra's brow shimmers in a steady pattern, like unto a heartbeat in its gentle pulsations, and crowns Aeldra in a flickering halo before settling still once more.

Valluin suddenly loses focus in his eyes and shudders, then looks curiously refreshed.

You lay out a spread of your finest cuisine and delicacies before your guests. Enjoying the food yourself, you delight even more at the sight of everyone indulging themselves in this epicurian feast, eating and drinking until utterly satiated. The fine meal not only lifts your spirits, but enhances your body as well.

Valluin eats a lemon and powderfruit cookie dappled with sugary stars with obvious gusto.

Alarin thanks you profusely.
Gyorn thanks you profusely.

The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across your lips as you glance at Alarin.

Gyorn's eyes pop open wide, drool falls down the side of his mouth and he screams, "COOKIE!"
Gyorn looks up into the air for divine inspiration.
Gyorn coughs softly.

Valluin snickers softly to himself.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "It was a goodly production. A nice thing to wake up to, yes."

Alarin Stormcrow says, "That's actually just part one of a bunch of stories we're planning to share."

Alaula's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile.

Gyorn La'Saet says, "That is awesome."

Thaldorn Thornfist, the White nods his head emphatically.

Valluin's mouth turns up as his face breaks into a smile.

Alaula Ladyn says, "I'd love to see more."

Xedrik nods his head emphatically.

Gyorn La'Saet says, "Really looking forward to that."

Valluin nods his head in agreement.

Alarin nods their head emphatically.

Tridemon arrives, following Gurashi, The Heart's Friend.
A soft, angelic hymn precedes the arrival of Gurashi, riding Bizirik, the leothin, from the north, the air itself alive with warmth and light.
Bizirik slinks in from the north, clicking and thrumming softly.

Valluin grins mischievously at Gurashi.

Gurashi politely bows their head as they enter, frowning.

Alarin Stormcrow says, "Aww... you guys missed it."

Faithful Supplicant, Xedrik Vivalde says, "Oh and maybe people would like to participate as actors!"

Alaula Ladyn says, "Ooh yes."

Alaula Ladyn says, "Maybe."

Alarin Stormcrow says, "It's recorded, though. Production eight fifty-five."

With a little shake of their head, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to Alarin, "Am sorry. Er. Well, saw a little before invited peoples because was dropping off bards..."

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks Alarin, "Thank you for making a play. What was about?"

Alarin nods their head emphatically.

Alaula hugs Gurashi compassionately.

Gurashi turns their attention towards you, face lighting up.
Gurashi reaches out, pulling Alaula into a tight embrace.

Alarin Stormcrow says, "It was based off of a book I wrote, actually."

Alaula Ladyn says, "Who DOES that?"

There is a shimmering flicker in the air above an exquisite pine stage, as it readies itself to replay a recorded performance of 'Who DOES That?!'.

Alarin nods their head emphatically.

Aeldra's eyes sparkle with amusement.

The curtains part on an exquisite pine stage, heralding the start of the performance of 'Who DOES That?!'.

Gurashi blinks.
Gurashi blinks.

Alaula's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile.

As the curtains open, an enormous office can be seen. Upon the walls are several paintings, masterfully brushed in vivid and vibrant colours. The domed ceiling boasts artistic depictions of the Holy Supernals of Celestia and the Tide Lords that reside upon the Elemental Plane of Water. Upon the floor is a pristine white carpet made of mammoth fur that covers the entire area, the emblem of a black and white tae'dae flanked by two silverback gorillas carefully stitched into the center. An elegant desk crafted of fine oak sits near the wall directly ahead of the audience, a large throne-like chair situated directly behind it. Leaning against the desk is the same tae'dae depicted in the emblem on the carpet, a welcome smile upon their face. A few feet away, one of the two silverback gorillas depicted in the carpet's emblem is sprawled on the floor, snoring rather loudly.

Gyorn La'Saet says, "Encore."

You have emoted: Cheliyi smiles, hopping over to Gurashi to give them a tight hug.

Gyorn La'Saet gives a wild cheer in the direction of an exquisite pine stage!

Gurashi reaches out and gently grabs you, pulling you into a tight embrace.
Gurashi gives you a friendly squeeze.

Gyorn ponders for a moment and says "Hrm..."
Gyorn La'Saet says, "What the heck."

Smiling broadly, Alarin Stormcrow says, "Why hello there! I am Alarin Stormcrow. This here is Thaldorn. Say hello Thal-- oi!"

"Ahah!" Gyorn exclaims triumphantly.

You think to yourself: **-tired-, but at least your Dads are here.**.

Alarin glances over at Thaldorn, who is still sprawled on the floor, snoring away. Rolling their eyes exasperatedly, they thump him with a paw.

Lady Aeldra Ladyn, of Cerulean Waters says, "Huh."

Gurashi tilts their head curiously.

You give Tridemon a friendly squeeze.

Glancing down at the sleeping silverback, Alarin says, "Wake up, Thaldorn! I swear, of all the times to fall asleep!"

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "Why are we what the heck-ing?"

The sleeping gorilla's snoring continues, increasing in volume. Alarin thwaps him this time, the sound echoing across the stage.

"What, you bloody anoying panda?!" the silverback gorilla snarls, opening one eye. Alarin shoots him a side glance before looking back out at the audience.

Gurashi looks up towards the stage, then down at you, then back at the stage, blinking in confusion.

Pointing out at the audience, Alarin says, "We have company, you big oaf. We're supposed to be telling a story!"

Growling as he rises to his feet, he scowls irritably at the smiling panda. "What're you grinnin' at. ugly?!" he grumps. The jovial panda ignores him.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Gurashi, The Heart's Friend, "**faint amusement** He probably means watching it a second time."

"Don't mind him, folks. He's just grumpy. Anywho, say hello Thaldorn!" Alarin says with a wave of a hand, turning towards the gorilla.
Thaldorn grunts once at the audience.

Giving Thaldorn another sideward glance, Alarin says, "...that's it? You can do better than that. Say hello, Thaldorn!"

Alaula Ladyn whispers, "No idea."

Gurashi's melodic voice sings into your mind, "... * slow understanding *."

Aeldra looks about in confusion.

The giant silverback grunts twice this time before glaring once more at Alarin.

Gurashi shrugs helplessly.

Alarin thrusts a paw towards their forehead and hit it with a resounding *smack*!

---> zoom zoom more play, sadly logger didn't catch this part

You give an exquisite pine stage a wild cheer!

The stage lights dim as the panda and the silverback now begin bickering with each other.

Alaula Ladyn says to you, "Who DOES that?!"

The curtains draw to a close on an exquisite pine stage, signaling the conclusion of the performance of 'Who DOES That?!'.

Gyorn La'Saet gives a wild cheer in the direction of an exquisite pine stage!

You stare blankly at Alaula.

Alarin chuckles long and heartily.

Aeldra's eyes sparkle with amusement.

The air above an exquisite pine stage flickers one last time and clears, as the recorded performance of 'Who DOES That?!' concludes.

The clouds overhead rumble ominously and bolts of lightning strike the ground, followed closely by peals of furious thunder.

Aquamantic symbols suddenly project themselves upon the very air in dark blue light, fading after a brief moment.

Vaguely horrified, you say, "I hope no one, yes. I-."
You have emoted: Cheliyi blinks, and glances up at the sky.

With a wistful look on his face, Gyorn touches a baton of swords.
Gyorn raises a baton of swords above his head and a fountain of red sparks fly into the air.
An enormous sword rises up into the sky, glittering with silver flecks.
                          :MNOM?:
                         :~7MMM~::M
                          ~=OM=~ +:M
                           =MN~    :~
                           =M8M    ::
                          ++M8Z   I:  :+
                   :+ZM:OMD7N=DID:MMMS+:
                   ~:  I  .?$N?  M:
                       :: .??7: :N
                        :8+MNDMM:
                         :~$O:?:
                          :++ =
                           =+~?
                           =+ +
                           ~Z +
                           ~::7
                           ~+ ~
                           ~.::
                           ~~ ~
                           ~+=~
                           :+~:
                           :$:~
                           :II+
                           :?O~
                           :+Z~
                           :=O:
                           :~Z:
                           :=7.
                           :~$
                           :~I
                           :~?
                           .~=
                            ~=
                            ~+
                            ~~
                            :+

Gurashi beams broadly.

Aeldra blinks incredulously at Gyorn.
Gyorn tilts his head and listens intently to Thaldorn Thornfist, the White.

Gurashi's shoulders bunch as they let out a short giggle.

Gyorn La'Saet says, "Aww."

You have emoted: Cheliyi winces, and then claps.

The clouds overhead rumble ominously and bolts of lightning strike the ground, followed closely by peals of furious thunder.

Gyorn La'Saet says to Thaldorn Thornfist, the White, "Usually you have a comment about that."

Alarin Stormcrow says, "...that's a fir--."

Thaldorn Thornfist, the White exclaims, "My eyes!"

Alaula Ladyn says, "Bad weather."
Alaula gives a pained sigh.

Alarin stares blankly at Thaldorn Thornfist, the White.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "The weather's rough..."

Alarin Stormcrow says, "Your response is a bit late there..."

Aquamantic symbols suddenly project themselves upon the very air in dark blue light, fading after a brief moment.

Alarin psh alarin.

Thaldorn Thornfist, the White says, "...he's flipped."

Alaula smirks.

Thaldorn Thornfist, the White peers at Alarin unscrupulously.

Alarin coughs softly.

Alaula pats Alarin in a friendly manner.

Gurashi gives you another little squeeze, looking out towards the street where the rain pours down.

Alarin Stormcrow says, "All right. I'll be in the tavern, working on the next one."

Alarin's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Tridemon gives Gurashi a friendly cuddle.

Alarin stands at attention and gives a crisp salute with their furry right paw.

Thaldorn Thornfist, the White gives the world a smart salute.

You smile wryly at Alarin.

Gurashi looks at Alarin, face lighting up as they smile brightly at them.

Alaula hugs Alarin compassionately.

You lean on Gurashi seeking consolation.

Alaula hugs Thaldorn Thornfist, the White compassionately.

Alarin hugs Alaula compassionately.

Thaldorn Thornfist, the White hugs Alaula compassionately.

Gyorn, riding a silver dragon turtle with crimson wings, departs to the north, each step sending a ripple of water outwards across the surface.
A silver dragon turtle with crimson wings ponderously leaves to the north.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to Alarin, "Thank you for inviting - am sorry that missed seeing the first time but thank yous for replaying."

Alarin hugs Aeldra compassionately.

Thaldorn Thornfist, the White hugs Aeldra compassionately.

Alaula Ladyn says, "Nicely done."

Aeldra hugs Alarin compassionately.
Aeldra hugs Thaldorn Thornfist, the White compassionately.

Alarin nods their head emphatically.

Gurashi's melodic voice sings into your mind, "* gentle urging *."
Gurashi tugs urgently on your sleeve.

Alarin Stormcrow says, "Of course! Thank you for coming!"

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "We must step out, yus. Am glad could come."

Alarin waves goodbye.

Gurashi nods their head emphatically.
Gurashi nods their head emphatically.

Alaula waves goodbye.

You have emoted: Cheliyi blinks slowly, and takes Gurashi's hand.

Alarin touches their fingertips to their hand, illuminating the temporal tattoo upon it. The air beside them warps, as a clock-like portal manifests.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Mm. Stay goodly and kind, yus."

Murmured prayers rise from the Gardens of Celestial Remembrance, as visitors pay homage to those fallen in service to the Light.

The clock face shimmers as Alarin steps through.
With a sharp salute, Thaldorn Thornfist, the White strides out to the ether. The steady clanking of his armour can still be heard as he departs.

Aeldra inclines her head politely to those around her.

You begin to follow Gurashi.

Gurashi beams broadly.
Gurashi beams broadly at Xedrik.

---> zoom zoom

You follow Gurashi, The Heart's Friend west to before a bejeweled tree.

As their shoes crunch the sand underneath them, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Hi hi, dearly ones. Sorry have been so sleeping."
Gurashi suddenly stops, turning to face you as they approach the bejeweled tree, throwing their arms around the mugwump.

You have emoted: Cheliyi blinks up at the tree before squinting. She hums, and pulls on her spectacles. "Do not be sorry, sleep is important, yes."
You blink.
You slip into a pair of thin spectacles.
You blink.
You hug Gurashi as best as you can, pulling them into a tight embrace.

You think to yourself: **a sudden unsurety, the pain of this entire week crashing down on your limbs, oh gods it was real, wasn't it?**.

Wisps of exotically perfumed air tickle your nostrils, billowing away from Gurashi.

Strained, you say, "Um. How was your sleep?"

Gurashi doesn't answer, clutching the mugwump fiercely tight, one hand against her back, the other against the back of her head.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "I let Gurashi know that the trees were being mean to you."

Still holding tight, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Troublesomes."

You have emoted: Cheliyi blinks again at the lack of response, only to boggle at Tridemon. Her lips press thin, and she returns the hug just as fiercely.

Faintly, you say, "They... they weren't... they just care too much. They think they know what's best-."

Eyes squeezed shut, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "Nobody is allowed to be mean to you - especially not the trees."

You think to yourself: **a rumble in response, we're eons older than you, child, we -know- what's best for your growth**.

A little louder, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Caring too much should not make you be -mean-."

At last looking down, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Because then it is not caring, then it is -selfish-."

You have emoted: Cheliyi's frills twitch and flick this way and that, the mugwump finally meeting Gurashi's gaze. Her tight frown crumples into one full of pain, and she shoves her face into their sternum.

Gurashi grabs protectively at you.
Gurashi's posture relaxes as the faint aura surrounding them drains away, those loyal to them suddenly seeming slightly disappointed.
Gurashi lets out a deep breath, and their presence seems to dwindle.

You think to yourself: **indignant anger, whispering traitor, traitor, how dare you choose** It isn't CHOOSING.

Gurashi pets you ingratiatingly.

Quietly, you say, "I... um. Saw Mister Akuuko, too. He's okay. Said he might talk to you soon. I asked him if he was okay or needed a hug, but he could hear my worried thoughts and said I was being silly and weird. So... I guess he's happy in Glomdoring?"

Gurashi glances up towards Tridemon again, holding the mugwump to their chest. Their expression is tired, then immediately concerned at the mention of the dracnari's name, looking down at you.

Gurashi furrows their brow, canting their head. "What do you mean silly and weird?" They ask for clarification, grip tightening the barest amount.

Tridemon reaches out to grip your right hand, sharing his connection to the Pure Waters, an upwelling of elemental energies filling the entire area.

Gurashi glances askance at Tridemon.

Lolling her head to the side, you say, "Well, he said that a normal Glomdoring person would be... excited to 'hear about something freaky' or weird, yes. Which... is fair, I guess. I guess hugs and kindness aren't allowed there. You didn't get to stay. Miss Khasur kept telling me I was in the Forest of No Mercy, so I shouldn't be so worried for him, but..."

You have emoted: Cheliyi blinks slowly, staring down at Tridemon's hand before her gaze flicks up to his.

You think to yourself: **a swell of calmness, washing away some of the ache... it's nice. are your siblings hissing in the background? you don't really know.**.

Gurashi wrinkles their nose, staring down at the mugwump, listening to her speak. "So WHAT if are not normal Glomdoring persons?" They burst suddenly, face flushing. "You give the best hugs and are so caring and kindly! I did not stay because I--" They cut themselves off, puffing their cheeks. "They--! Ooer!"
Gurashi huffs, puffing their cheeks.
Through their lips, which they struggle to keep closed, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "....sorry - am sorry - please talks."

You blink incredulously at Gurashi.
You reach out and touch Gurashi.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend exclaims to you, "Is not weird to worry or care about or be kind to peoples!"
Gurashi flails about helplessly.

Faintly, you say, "Sorry, I did not mean to make you more upset when you just woke up."

Gurashi shakes their head.
Gurashi shakes their head.
Gurashi shakes their head.
Shoulders sagging, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "-No-, it is not -you-."
Gurashi reaches out and gently grabs you, pulling you into a tight embrace.

Swaying in the embrace, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "It is never you."

You have emoted: Cheliyi smiles weakly, and leans into the embrace with a soft sigh.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Caring isn't wrong. And besides... the trees are both smaller and younger than the seas."
Tridemon nods his head sagely.

Light spreads across Gurashi's back in numerous colours and hues, enfolding them like butterfly wings.

Quietly, you say, "My siblings... they thought I chose -you- when I got angry, back then. They didn't even... they didn't even -talk- to me about it. If we had just talked, maybe all of it could have been avoided. But they still won't listen to me."
Frustrated, you say, "I'm not -choosing-."

Aquamantic symbols suddenly project themselves upon the very air in dark blue light, fading after a brief moment.

Almost pleading, you say to Gurashi, "Like you said, I can love lots of people, right? Outside and inside the forest?"

Across the heavens, the stars and moon challenge night's dark reign, revealing familiar constellations that tell the tales of myth and legend.

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

Their eyes glazing over, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "Love for one ...does not mean less loves for another..."
Gently, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "...it is -good- to be kind. And love lots and lots of peoples. No matter where they live. Or might live."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Love is one of those interesting things- the more you share it, the more there is for you."

The Mantle of Starlight shimmers and twinkles as the starlit darkness that it is formed of continues its eternal motion.

Gurashi bends slightly at the knees, leaning down closer to your height. "You are a -wonderful- you. Yes." They glance up at the lucidian, nodding. "It is not something that should wither the more it is given, no."

You have emoted: Cheliyi lets out a great, shuddering exhale, rubbing at her eyes as she nods in agreement.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Hope is another one of those interesting things, too. You can't lose it without giving it up."

The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across your lips as you glance at Tridemon.

Gurashi pets you ingratiatingly.
Gurashi stares at you, gaze softening and frowning at you as their expression fills with concern.

Quietly, you say, "Mm."

Gurashi sets their jaw, gently petting your hair. "You can be goodly and kindly to whomever you want."

Quietly, you say, "Can I, though? Every time I try, it just seems to go against everything the commune wants."

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

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to Gurashi, "Booping Cheli is interesting, by the way."

Tridemon nods his head sagely.

You blink.
You narrow your eyes at Tridemon in an unnerving manner.
Quickly, you say, "Noitsnot."

Quietly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "There will..."

Gurashi starts to say more, but trails off, looking at Tridemon's suggestion, though their arms remain wrapped around the mugwump.

Gurashi exhales slowly, allowing a long fluid breath to creep from their lungs.
Gurashi reaches out and gently grabs you, pulling you into a tight embrace.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to Tridemon, "And yes - is adorable."
Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.

You have emoted: Cheliyi huffs, but returns the embrace nonetheless.

Tridemon turns to the tree for a moment. "Terrance, you tell her that she's good, okay?"

You stare blankly at Tridemon.

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.
Gurashi stares at Tridemon, eyes wide.
Gurashi pets you ingratiatingly.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say to Gurashi, "What were you saying, yes? Did not mean to cut you off, no."

Gurashi hesitates...then slowly shakes their head, looking momentarily confused. "...ah, just. I do not remember exactly." They pet the mugwump's head again. "...but know is hard."

The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across your lips.

Fluttering as if caught by a breeze, the silver threads of tinsel draped along Gurashi's wreath weave about in a haphazard pattern: conjuring new constellations and shapes as they glow from the sidereal light of the ornament's fine filaments.

Gurashi pets you ingratiatingly.
Quietly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "You are who choose to be before anything else."
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Above what... anyone else expects or says are supposed to be."

The sounds of unseen animals stirring for the coming day are audible behind the gentle whistling of the wind elsewhere in the manse.

Tridemon sits next to the tree with his back against the trunk, settling in and closing his eyes.

Gurashi glances towards Tridemon again, still standing before you, arms wrapped around the mugwump.
Fondly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks Tridemon, "Sleepy, dear one?"

Tridemon gives Gurashi a thumbs up.

You have emoted: Cheliyi watches Tridemon with a fond smile, before adding quietly, "I don't know what to do, anymore. It doesn't make sense. Mister Akuuko is scared, but happy. You both are good and kind and I love you both. My siblings love..." she winces, "... loved? me too, but now they only get annoyed or upset with me." She sighs, and 'thunks' her head against Gurashi's chest.

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, ".... should not have to be scared."

Quieter, you say, "I just want to not feel so bad all the time."

Gurashi suddenly shuts their eyes tight, expression pained. "Nobody deserves to be scared or unhappy. Especially not at their home." They return to their fierce hugging, staring down. "Am sorry you hurt so muchly, Cheli."
Quiet, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Does not feel good at all, no."

You have emoted: Cheliyi melts into the embrace, sagging.

Gurashi shakes their head several times. "You are very loved. And you are -so- goodly. And you are more..." They hesitate. "You are more than the place where... you live. Where you choose to live - where you grew up."
Gurashi glances askance.

You have emoted: Cheliyi blinks, slowly.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "...are a very goodly you..."

You think to yourself: ... more? But my siblings.... my siblings are not me.
You let loose a long breath from your lungs, exhaling slowly.

With a huff, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "A-and is about TIME he said hi! Have sent so many letters...!"
Gurashi suddenly squeezes you fiercely. "Am going to give him words! Akuuko, mean! He is not allowed to call you weird! You are my daughter. And we are friends!" They pout.

You blink.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Me and Akuuko, mean! Well."
Gurashi ponders you thoughtfully, looking you up and down.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "You and me, too..."

You have emoted: Cheliyi lets out a confused giggle, her expression softening into a smile.
Teasingly, you say, "I would hope we are friends, still."

Gurashi nods their head sagely.
Gently, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "We are."
Gurashi leans close to you and gently lays a kiss upon your forehead.
Gurashi's shoulders sag slightly as they sigh.
Gurashi releases you from the embrace at last, taking the mugwump's hands, rubbing their thumbs over the back of both of them. "Am sorry was sleeping so muchly while all was happening... while you were having a hard time... am here, now. Yes - will help fix it, yes."

With a quiet smile, you say, "Do not apologize for sleeping, no. You do not have to be awake -all- the time for me."

Gurashi smiles weakly.
Gurashi reaches over and ruffles your hair with a fond expression.
With a hopeful smile, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks you, "...are -any- nicely things happening? Any goodly newses?"

You hum softly, your frills vibrating with song.

The soft sounds of a zither being played and the cry of a crane in flight echo in from somewhere.

You ponder the situation.

Faintly, you say, "Um... not really, no."

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.
Gurashi's shoulders sag slightly. Suddenly they loop am arm around the mugwump's shoulders, guiding her to sit on the ground beside the now dozing lucidian at the base of the tree.
Gurashi flops down onto the ground.

You flop down onto the ground.

Aquamantic symbols suddenly project themselves upon the very air in dark blue light, fading after a brief moment.

Worriedly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "...is... are other peoples being meanly to you? Or..."

Dazed, you say, "With everything happening, Mister Akuuko, Miss Khasur... me leaving the Order... I guess some of my designs got approved? They're technically not mine, but it was nice to see them through. Tikki is nice. So is Mister Kosuke."

Gurashi blinks.
Gurashi stares blankly into space.
Gurashi's eyes widen as they stare at you.
Gurashi stares at Tridemon, eyes wide.

Absentmindedly, you say, "Oh, apparently Lord Crumkane came to the Basin."

Gurashi stares at Terrance, eyes wide.
Abruptly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks you, "You left His Order?"

You blink.

Unable to mask their surprise, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks, "M-misheard?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi briefly closes her eyes, pained. "No, you didn't mishear, no. I realized... He was not who I thought He was. It's my fault, really. Should not have expected a Divine to be nicely like a mortal, it is almost insulting to Him, yes."

Gurashi stares blankly at you.
Warily, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "B-but ...you were so proud to..."

Glancing away, you say, "I was. Because... because I thought He was 'the kind One,' or something silly like that. Which He is kind, to His children. But I can't... He literally told me I should be more cruel, yes." The mugwump chuckles bitterly, drawing her knees close to her chest. "It is amazing, how blind I can be.""

Gurashi says nothing to this, squeezing your shoulders, brow furrowed.

Bizirik, the leothin sniffs you, trying to decipher just what that smell emanating from you is.
Bizirik, the leothin flops herself into your arms.

Faintly, you say, "I still love Him. But it's... a false image of Him, I think. I'll still offer, and do my best, but I'm not a good fit for His teachings."

Bizirik, the leothin writhes a little bit, thrashing happily with its head in your lap.

You blink.
You chuckle softly, your frilled tail flicking idly with amusement.

Gurashi nods their head sagely at you.

You pet Bizirik, the leothin ingratiatingly.
Bizirik, the leothin stares blankly at you. After a moment its tail lifts once then thumps back against the ground with potential delight.

Weakly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "...is a bigly thing, what said. Just now."
Gurashi gives you a friendly squeeze.
Voice lowering further, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "...choosing to be kindly, yes."
Gurashi pets you ingratiatingly.

You have emoted: Cheliyi continues to gently pet Bizirik, the leothin along her flank, leaning against Gurashi.

Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters has left the realm of Lusternia.
Tridemon is enveloped in translucent fire for a moment and is gone, his soul safe until he returns to Lusternia.

Bizirik, the leothin stretches languidly.

Gurashi glances askance.

The call of a cicada welcomes the setting of the sun and the coming night.

Gurashi exhales slowly, allowing a long fluid breath to creep from their lungs.
Gurashi stares at you, gaze softening and frowning at you as their expression fills with concern.
After a dreadfully long pause, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "...Tikki and Kosuke are -very- nice."

You have emoted: Cheliyi smiles weakly, and nods.

Gurashi stares at you, gaze softening and frowning at you as their expression fills with concern.
Gurashi pets you ingratiatingly.
Quietly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "...sorry - am sorry, mine-child. You have had a lot of many not nicely things happen. Many bigly changes." They look off towards the nearby sea, squeezing the mugwump's shoulders. "And am sorry you are feeling so badly about it. I have been there. It is not fun. Not at all."

You hug Gurashi as best as you can, pulling them into a tight embrace.

Quieter, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "...always said would have never left Glomdoring, if was never forced to. And then maybe would be telling you differently things, but, peoples, everyone, EVERYONE deserves to feel safe and h--."
Gurashi grunts as they are hugged, returning it with a frown.

Faintly, you say, "Mm, yeah, that reminds me, I promised to hug you yesterday, so... extra hug."

The corners of Gurashi's mouth turn up as they grin mischievously.
Gurashi gives you a friendly squeeze.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Mmm, O-K, repaid."
Gurashi nods their head sagely.
Gurashi pets you ingratiatingly.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "...sorry, mine-child. Am sorry."

Across the heavens, the stars and moon challenge night's dark reign, revealing familiar constellations that tell the tales of myth and legend.

Gurashi exhales, hugging you tighter, almost painfully so. "Am sorry your insides feel not goodly."


Gurashi gives you a friendly squeeze.

You lean on Gurashi seeking consolation.
You pet Bizirik, the leothin ingratiatingly.
Bizirik, the leothin stares blankly at you. After a moment its tail lifts once then thumps back against the ground with potential delight.

Bizirik, the leothin seems to have forgotten its original cuddly intent, having fallen asleep, the tip of its tongue just barely poking out from its elongated jaws.

A wry smile spreads across your face.
Leaning forward, you gently press a kiss to Bizirik, the leothin's brow.

After a long pause, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "...sometimes, do not feel goodly in Celest, either. But ...it is a different kind of not goodly."

Bizirik's head begins to droop. It opens its great maw and curls back its lips to allow its forked tongue to unfurl as it yawns before snapping its mouth shut.

You give Gurashi a friendly squeeze.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you ask, "What's the matter?"

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "...sometimes is how places can be sometimes."
Gurashi shakes their head.
Gurashi shakes their head.

With a huff, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "No, no, was not expressing to ..." They wave their hands. "Just. Uhm. Hrm."
Gurashi looks up, staring at the manse's sky overhead. "...sorry, mine-child. Words hard. Hmm."
Gurashi glances askance.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "The Glomdoring wanted me to temper my compassions. Maybe even lose it. Because They told me was no room for Mercy or Compassions in Glomdoring. That was what made me not feel good. Because I do not like not..." They wrinkle their nose. "It does not feel good to not care about others. Yes."
Gurashi stares blankly into space.
Quietly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Hurt them lots when I had to go. Because they did not want me to leave. Xenthos, and Miss Evette. Miss Olethea."

You have emoted: Cheliyi listens, watching Gurashi with a frown.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "They -wanted- me, yes. And I wanted them too. But," Their gaze drifts to the poppy on their wrist, "...is why was hard. Because tried to say was what needed, but they knew if I became Beloved, probably could not stay."
You sketch out how your proposed item will appear to a casual observer.
You sketch out how your proposed item will appear when left out of someone's possession.

Gurashi's eyes glaze. "But in New Celest... it feels." Another pause. "Opposite."

You have emoted: Cheliyi squeezes Gurashi's hand, frowning deeper.
You sketch out the proposed smell.

Gurashi gazes now at the driftwood ring upon their middle finger, moving it back and forth, examining the scars left from the old fingerblade. "Is place of compassions and hope. Goodly faiths. Goodly peoples. A kindly hand to all, reaching out." Their expression softens slightly. "...but, get feeling that there are many peoples who live here now, that wish I did not -also- live here. And so, that is hard."

Quiet, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "...is like reversies."

You narrow your eyes to thin slits.
You grab protectively at Gurashi.

Gently, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Peoples - just peoples."

Scowling, you say, "Well, then they are silly peoples."

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Are lots of goodly peoples, too. Promise."
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "But peoples are stupid, by and large, have discovered in my...."
Gurashi stares blankly into space.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks, "AM EIGHTY TWO?"

You stare blankly into space.

Gurashi flops down onto the ground.

You give a trillingly melodic laugh, your frills resonating with joy.

Gurashi's shoulders sag slightly as they sigh.
Gurashi leans against the tree with a great sigh. "That is what makes me so tired! Is peoples!"

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "...and musician's block..."

You give Gurashi a friendly squeeze.

Gurashi frets over everything that might go wrong.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "And wanting you to be O-K! At least, in a place where are not so -scared- and miserables."
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "You deserve better."

You have emoted: Cheliyi doesn't respond, simply leaning against their shoulder.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "Am sorry, Cheliyi."
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Am so sorry."

Quietly, you say, "You do not need to be sorry for something you went through too, yes."

Gurashi shakes their head.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "No - am sorry you are going through what you are going through now."
Gurashi pets you ingratiatingly.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Am sorry you are not feeling goodly."
Boggling, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "And am mad that Akuuko called you -weird-! You are not -weird-!"
With a huff, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "And if -you- are weird then I must be -loons- to him."

You think to yourself: **your siblings rustling and rumbling, it just leaves you adrift in their anger.... you're so tired.**.

You have emoted: Cheliyi smiles faintly, closing her eyes as she settles comfortably at Gurashi's side.

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.
Gurashi reaches out and gently grabs you, pulling you into a tight embrace.
Gurashi glances askance.
Gurashi sighs lightly, head thunking lightly against the trunk of the tree behind them.

You think to yourself: **one, always one, sifts through the rest, slipping to the forefront to whisk you away, a raft in the thrashing sea**.

Staring up, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "...have you ever..."
Gurashi trails off, frowning.

Bizirik, the leothin snores loudly.

You think to yourself: **warm green and brown, a sense of quiet guilt that for once, isn't your own as your brother shields you from the rest**.

You have emoted: Cheliyi's frills twitch, and she opens an eye. "Mm?"

Gurashi seems incredibly reluctant. "...if ever gets too unbearable, you do not have to sit and endure it. You know." More hesitance. "Is not cowardly to want to leave if are so unhappy."

Voice wavering, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Being able to admit that are unhappy or hurting is hard - is brave."
Quickly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "A-and, am not... am not telling you to try and make you leave home! No, never, never of course."
Gurashi exhales slowly, allowing a long fluid breath to creep from their lungs.

You have emoted: Cheliyi blinks slowly, sitting up to stare at Gurashi with a furrowed brow. Her expression softens, and she lays back down, this time resting her head in their lap.

Suddenly the human brings their hands together, then pull them apart, creating a small stone statue that looks remarkably like their kepheran form. It hovers above their palm, clearly illusory.

You think to yourself: **frothing frustration from your other siblings, but from your brother... is simply resigned. 'It'll hurt lilypad, but I'll follow you anywhere, yeah?'**.

...slowly, bits of the statue begin to chip away, the stone beginning to bleed the more it is broken down, though the blood never touches their hands...

You have emoted: Cheliyi's eyes fly open, only to pause at the statue.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "...you do not need to let it get to a point ... where ..."

You give Gurashi a friendly squeeze.

... the human brings their hands together gently over the statue, squishing it into non-existence, leaving their hands clean despite the blood and broken stone that was previously there...

Looking down, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "We will support you. Always."

You have emoted: Cheliyi hesitantly reaches up, taking Gurashi's clasped hands in one of her own.

You think to yourself: **a quiet ache**.

You have emoted: Cheliyi watches Gurashi for a long moment, seemingly searching their face for something. Eventually, she smiles faintly, seemingly having found it. "I know."

Gurashi gives you a friendly squeeze.

Quietly, you say, "I... maybe I should."

Gurashi tilts their head and listens intently to you.

Closing her eyes, you say, "I'm... I'm not growing, no. Not in the ways that matter, in Her garden."

The soft sounds of a zither being played and the cry of a crane in flight echo in from somewhere.

Gurashi holds your hand within their own, the other resting atop her head.

You think to yourself: **a fierce, furious roar from the forest, how -dare- you**.

You have emoted: Cheliyi suddenly winces, clapping her hands over her frills as the nearby crystalline tree seems to darken with a shrill, uncomfortable tone.

Gurashi blinks.

You think to yourself: STOP IT.

Gurashi looks up at the tree behind them, confused, one hand still atop your head. Suddenly, their nose wrinkles, and they sit forward, clutching you desperately tight and snapping up at the tree, "Stop it!"

You think to yourself: **the roar fades, ringing in your head as someone pulls you away, whispering quiet, soothing tones, it hurts...**.

You have emoted: Cheliyi exhales shakily, curling into Gurashi as if to hide from the fading tone. The crystalline tree suddenly shudders, as if shaking out it's leaves of some unwanted filth. Then, all is still once more.

A light wind whips the cloying scent of roses and congealed blood into your senses, reminding you fondly of home.

You have emoted: Cheliyi rubs at her brow, exhausted.

Gurashi narrows their eyes to thin slits.

...from the human, a pulse of psionic energy, like an ocean wave crashing into the room, spilling out over the tree and sand but leaving nothing wet in its wake - c a l m...

Continuing the hunt for his dark mate, Father Sun presses forward in his journey, lowering himself in the sky yet still casting even, full light upon the land.

Gurashi glowers up at the tree almost challengingly, grasping you about the shoulders as if preparing to scoop her up and bolt at a moment's notice. When the mugwump begins rubbing at her head, they look down, frowning. "What happened?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi immediately sags, frown shifting into one of relief. "It... um. My siblings yelled. Roared? I'm not sure. They got angry. Brother Rowan pulled me away, though."

Glancing at the tree, you say, "Sorry about that."

Gurashi continues to glower up at the tree, as if waiting for it to come to life or darken again. "Do not apologize," They whisper, puffing their cheeks.

Discontent, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend mutters, "Trees ... .uchly ...e hives."

You have emoted: Cheliyi wobbles back up to a sitting position, leaning against Gurashi with a quiet sigh. 'Terrance' almost seems to sag and sigh in unison with her, shaking out its leaves once more.
Faintly, you say, "Mm, it's not his fault that he's so conductive, yes. I guess it just mean you could hear."

Embarrassed, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "...I-I could not hear, he just."

Gurashi rubs their head.

... another little pulse of psionic energy, withdrawing, embarrassed ...

The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across your lips.
You give Gurashi a friendly squeeze.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "It's okay. I would be confused too, yes."
Dryly, you say, "He really is nice, once you get past his weird accent."

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "You hear trees and I cannot. And I hear hives, and you cannot."

Gurashi squishes you lightly. "Tridemon is our middle mans."

You chuckle softly, your frilled tail flicking idly with amusement.

Faintly, you say, "Do you think, if I became a kephera, I could hear the hives too?"
You have emoted: Cheliyi hums thoughtfully.

Gurashi blinks.
Gurashi blinks.
Gurashi stares blankly into space.
Gurashi shuts their eyes...then shrugs, nodding. "Do not see why not...Tridemon could hear Miss Khepqet..."

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks you, "Your -mister dad- has a kepheran form, did know? Did ever see?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi gesture vaguely. "I wonder if... I would probably be like.. a monk? Or would I be a nurse? Hm. Would have been weirdly, to live underground."

Gurashi blinks again slowly, staring towards the water again. "Most kephera are monks," They comment, quieting slightly. "Very naturally gifted at acrobatics, yes...aerodynamics..." A pause. "If lived below would have become either a princess or a nurse, yes."

You have emoted: Cheliyi wrinkles her nose. "... I think I like being a mugwump more."
You give Gurashi a friendly squeeze.

Suddenly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Y-you'd be a cute kephera, though."
Gurashi's eyes light up as they smile.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Wonder if would be like Lady Nabithia..."

You smile gently, frills puffing with joy.
Her smile falling, you say, "Ah... sorry if the question was a bad one, by the way."

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks, "Mm?"
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks, "Which question? Bad? What?"
Gurashi blinks incredulously at you.

You shrug helplessly.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I know you don't like talking about the hives. Should have remembered faster."

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Ah! Ah, no no, no no no."
Gurashi shakes their head.
Gurashi shakes their head.
Gurashi shakes their head.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Is O-K. Is O-K to talk about."
Gurashi looks suddenly to you, face lighting up as they smile brightly.
Encouragingly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "You... should consider! What might be like if were one. What might look like. Could be fun. Magics makes it so...."

You glance askance.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Might give Uncle Sutekh a heart attack, though."

With a huff, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "He will be O-K."

Pale gold in hue, the wreath about Gurashi's brow shimmers in a steady pattern, like unto a heartbeat in its gentle pulsations, and crowns Gurashi in a flickering halo before settling still once more.

With a reassuring nod, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "He has been muchly less....aggressive, towards females, have noticed! So. Might startle. But."

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "You should not let him be the reason you do not do the thing."

Gurashi suddenly turns to you, and you watch as they reaches out and lightly boops you on the nose with a finger.

You blink.
You blink.

Teasingly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Oh boy, Tridemon was right."

Inhaling sharply, you sneeze so hard that your frills puff out like balloons.

You narrow your eyes at Gurashi in an unnerving manner.
Dramatically, you exclaim, "BETRAYAL!"

Gurashi's shoulders bunch as they let out a short giggle.

You flop down onto the ground.

Light spreads across Gurashi's back in numerous colours and hues, enfolding them like butterfly wings.

You think to yourself: **a sense of resigned amusement and love, and then suddenly, it fades.**.

You have emoted: Cheliyi blinks, suddenly staring at nothing as she reaches up to touch the center of her chest with a puzzled expression.

Gurashi gives you a friendly squeeze.
Gurashi smiles fondly down at you, canting their head.

Gurashi pets you ingratiatingly.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks you, "...are O-K?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi shakes out her frills, and nods absently. "I have always noticed... that Brother Rowan is fond of me. Like... a lot more than my other siblings. Even now. It's... well, not weirdly, but puzzling." She frowns. "He keeps calling me lilypad."

Gurashi tilts their head and listens intently to you.
Gurashi blinks.
Suddenly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "That is a very cute nickname."
Gurashi boggles at you.

(And Everything Nice): Gurashi says, "Sorry your dad is -INT so he won't piece it together unless he has more evidence LOL."
(And Everything Nice): You say, "<3 pffff omg."

You shrug helplessly.

Gurashi tilts their head and listens intently to you.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I guess. It is nice to know that one of them cares."

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "A very uniquely nickname.... ah."

Gurashi's gaze softens as they smile at you.

You are exhausted and open your mouth in an enormous yawn.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "...Brother Rowan is very nicely. A lot like Miss Khepqet. Well. Nicer than. But."

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks you, "Mm - tired?"

You nod your head sagely.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks you, "Do want to go have a naps inside?"

You nod your head emphatically.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks, "Or are O-K....?" They glance up at the tree warily. "Are sure?"

You chuckle softly, your frilled tail flicking idly with amusement.
You nod your head emphatically.

A light wind whips the cloying scent of roses and congealed blood into your senses, reminding you fondly of home.

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

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "O-K."

Yawning, you say, "Brother Rowan... said he'd keep them busy, I think. Probably with a joke."

Gurashi pets you ingratiatingly.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "...a lot like..."
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Go ahead and get some sleeps, mine-child. May follow." They glance at the impression where Tridemon once was. "Am tired too."
Gurashi looks exhausted and opens their mouth in an enormous yawn.

Leaning forward, you gently press a kiss to Gurashi's brow.

Gently, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "You have a good sleeps. Love you. Most favoritest mine-child."
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "Oh, thank you for the card, yes."

Faintly, you say, "Actually... I'll just... mm. You're welcome."

You grow still and begin to pray silently for preservation of your soul while you are out of the land.

You flop yourself into Gurashi's arms.
You feel your insides clench as your soul is frozen.