The Course of a Successful Self-Matchmaking (abridged)

Xeii · February 2017

Never knew a log could be so long, but since this did take a few hours to rp I guess it's to be expected. Fun times.

*Movement, d/c, enter/exit, beast emotes, random denizen fights/experimental glyph flinging/usage of Hallifax's garden have been omitted*

It all happened on a day much like the ones that came before, in the shining city of Hallifax, where for the Symphonium, intra-guild communication was going in a particularly harmonious direction of late.

A twinkle in her eyes, you say, "Perhaps I am a different lucidian than the rest. Or perhaps I am merely more open when it comes to expressing emotions that all beings, regardless of races, hold. Nevertheless, I am honored to be the one that has led you to a greater understanding."

Nelras smiles as the winds wrap around him. He listens intently as you speak, and then softly replies "I think I would still have some difficulty with other lucidians, but not you. If it had come to me over time, I might know how I understand you with so much more clarity, but it did not. Ever since I have met you, I have had none of that usual difficulty."

Solemn, staid voices can be heard from somewhere outdoors, rising and falling in emotionless, precise monotone.

Xeii looks down at your entwined hands, then back into your eyes. "I think I had some idea, myself, of which direction our relationship might go from the earlier moments in our acquaintance. So many things about you were intriguing to me, and before I knew it, I found myself hoping..."

The chime of silver hooves heralds the arrival of a noble unicorn, who shakes his horn vigorously until he manages to dislodge a small pouch containing a gem of cloaking, which drops into Nelras's hands, before trotting back along the path he came.

You blink.

The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across Nelras's lips.

You say, "Was that...my Mother's?"

(clan): You say, "Pocket sand?"

Sublime Opus Nelras says, "Oh, it would appear so. Um..."

(clan): Aramel says, "Of course, now I expect an inquiry as to why I am doing this."

(clan): Aramel says, ":>."

(clan): You say, "You want it you got it."

You tell Wildeflower Aramel Shevat, "Mother...?"

Aramel tells you, "Yes, dear?"

You tell Wildeflower Aramel Shevat, "A thoughtful gift, of course, but I cannot help but be curious as to why you were suddenly led to sending it now."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to you, "Before it returns with an invitation to a tea party, we must discuss something. How much do we tell them?"

The sound of quiet, muffled conversation drifts through the air.

Aramel tells you, "To enable this Sublime Opus of yours to undertake his amorous endeavours in greater privacy, of course."

In mock surprise, Xeii says, "I wonder why she would bother. It is natural that the Opus would spend time with his student, a guild leader has much to do." Her expression grows more serious as she considers this last. "Our honors do not show us being officially promised to each other. Perhaps..."

You tell Wildeflower Aramel Shevat, "We have our guild teacher standing right in front of us, Mother."

Aramel tells you, "It's a voice. It has no eyes. Good enough."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to you, "I suspect we should wait at least until we talk to them. To make it official, I mean."

Nelras blinks.

You tell Wildeflower Aramel Shevat, "What--" The aether trails off into silence as she tries to come up with something to say. "Mother, have you even seen the--Oh, no matter."

You say to Nelras, "Has the Dread Lordess Aramel Shevat contacted you...?"

Nelras shakes his head.

A series of chiming notes, distinctly crystalline, ring out in the distance in a slow, descending scale.

Xeii's expression, which has been deteriorating into flustered desperation with every moment, clears somewhat at Nelras's answer.

You tell Wildeflower Aramel Shevat, "We are doing nothing suspect, I assure you."

Sublime Opus Nelras says, "No, Tremula Nitraedes has. She requires an escort to be in the city, and her husband needs to step away for a time."

Nelras mutters discontentedly.

Aramel tells you, "Your cousin Ymuli would be sorely disappointed in you."

You tell Wildeflower Aramel Shevat, "...Although I will admit the presence of a gem in Nelras's hands disappoints me somewhat since it will be harder for me to find him if I wish to speak to him."

You say to Nelras, "Duty calls, I see."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to you, "I am sorry. She could not have done this at a worse time."

Nelras folds his wings around your body, wrapping you in a feathered embrace.

Aramel tells you, "Ah, poor dear. This is a most unjust state of affairs. I'll try to rectify it."

The sound of buffeting wings is briefly audible.

Xeii reluctantly relinquishes Nelras, body pulsing a brief amber.

Sublime Opus Nelras whispers to you, "If you tell me to stay, I will. I am sure someone else could do it..."

Nelras gives a pained sigh.

Sublime Opus Nelras whispers, "I am sorry, love."

Tracing her fingers along your jawline gently, you say, "No, it is all right."

Nelras's head falls back as he smiles softly at nothing in particular. The faint outline of numinous angel wings grows around him.

Zooming up to you, a companionable cube chirps an efficient greeting before speedily rearranging its cuboidal units. An aperture in the side opens, a mechanical arm emerging to offer upon a silver disc a tantalising slice of delicious cake. With a series of chirps that sounds suspiciously like cackling, the arm retracts, taking the cake with it, before reaching out again to instead deposit a gem of cloaking into your hands.

Nelras is consumed in a flurry of sweet-smelling wings.

Falmiis tells you, "Your mother said you needed a gem."

Aramel tells you, "There. Now he can't find you either. Not the ideal solution, perhaps... should I provide you with a scrying enchantment?"

You tell Wildeflower Aramel Shevat, "Ah....Well. I suppose this is a bit better. At least, our reputations will not be in as great a danger."

The sound of quiet, muffled conversation drifts through the air.

You tell Wildeflower Aramel Shevat, "Thank you...Mother. Scry rings I can find. Perhaps I shall find an enchanter to do it for me."

You tell Falmiis Shevat, "Well, in a matter of speaking, yes." She trails off, clearly befuddled and flustered. "Thank you...Father."

Falmiis tells you, "You are welcome."

You tell Wildeflower Aramel Shevat, "Hmm..." A note of mischief somehow manages to pierce the fog of befuddlement as she adds, "We shall have to go find an enchanter together, Nelras and I, since we already have suitable items to cast the spell on."

Aramel tells you, "Tch. Don't tell your poor mother half a thing."

Solemn, staid voices can be heard from somewhere outdoors, rising and falling in emotionless, precise monotone.

You tell Wildeflower Aramel Shevat, "Either full or none, hmm?"

Aramel tells you, "Indeed. Such terrible habits."

You tell Wildeflower Aramel Shevat, "How would it be if we wrapped it up in a surprise, for later? Whether the surprise will hold full or none even I cannot be sure of."

Aramel tells you, "Ha. Of course." After an ominous pause, she continues, "In the meantime, I shall of course try to give whatever help I can."

Xeii · February 2017

No longer needing to worry about rumors now that she and the Opus were no longer occupying the same room for far too long. Xeii sought her parents with the intent of returning the cloaking gem they had so generously lent her. Fate, however, does not always give out easy tasks. Before she knew it the lucidian found herself at the Transcendantal Aviary, passing time with her parents until the impromptu meeting between her superior and her parents came to be--which it did in the end.

With a welcoming smile, Falmiis Shevat says, "Ah, Sublime Opus."

Xeii stands somewhat more formally and tucks a crystalline lock behind her ear, clearly nervous.

"My wife has been looking forward to this meeting," Falmiis says to Nelras lightly. In a graver tone, he adds, "She is just preparing a few things. I hope you are prepared."

Returning Falmiis's smile, Nelras says "Greetings," before glancing around the Aviary.

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Falmiis, "Preparing a few things? That does sound unfortunate. I hope I am prepared as well."

Wryly, Falmiis Shevat says, "It could be quite unfortunate, for you."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Falmiis, "That is what had me concerned."

Xeii walks to stand beside Nelras, though the most she does is give him a reassuring smile.

Dull chiming noises echo in the distance at regular intervals, the sound of hammers on crystal.

Nelras's expression lightens as you approaches, although he does not say anything.

Cheerily, Falmiis Shevat says, "At least you do not have to worry about me too much. I am just grateful for any reprieve for myself."

You smile wryly at Falmiis.

You murmur to Nelras, "If only you could have seen Mother's predatory actions at the last gathering..."

A series of chiming notes, distinctly crystalline, ring out in the distance in a slow, descending scale.

Grinning, you say, "You would resonate with Father's words, from the bottom of your heart."

Falmiis bursts into laughter. "Predatory," he repeats. "What a fitting description."

Quietly, Sublime Opus Nelras says, "Ah, no doubt. Still, do I need to hear this before meeting her?"

Nervously, Falmiis Shevat says, "One I wouldn't repeat in front of her."

Falmiis Shevat smiles impishly and says to Nelras, "I am helping you prepare."

Solemnly, you say, "I wish to do my best to help you prepare."

Falmiis beams broadly at you.

You say to Falmiis, "A much needed ally!"

Falmiis Shevat says to you, "Ah, you are learning fast!"

Xeii beams back at Falmiis, eyes wide and liquid and her smile equally endearing.

With innocent fervor, you say, "I trust you will help us both through this, Father. I have faith in you."

Falmiis Shevat says to you, "Your mother is terrifyingly good at turning my allies against me."

Xeii turns to Nelras, laughter in his eyes. "Would you abandon Father if the goings start to look rough for him?" she asks teasingly.

Falmiis peers at you unscrupulously.

Solemn, staid voices can be heard from somewhere outdoors, rising and falling in emotionless, precise monotone.

Calmly, Falmiis Shevat says, "Today is not about me."

You say, "I wonder if today we could score a victory against Mother's relentless attacks. For once."

Slowly, Falmiis Shevat says, "I am not hopeful."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to you, "From the sound of it, that might depend on if your mother is involved."

"Heh heh heh" Nelras chuckles.

Falmiis smiles wryly at Nelras.

Glowing a deeper amethyst and standing a bit taller, you say to Falmiis, "The key seems to be unrufflable confidence."

You say, "Then again, I have not known her as much as you have, Father. If that approach has proved futile in your experience..."

Dull chiming noises echo in the distance at regular intervals, the sound of hammers on crystal.

Falmiis seemingly smiles with an inner warmth. "She affects me in a specific way," he explains breezily. "The way she smiles when she claims her victories in these verbal exchanges shreds any semblance of confidence in being able to defeat her that I may have begun with."

The sound of buffeting wings is briefly audible.

Xeii's expression grows gentle at this, for a moment. "Then it seems it is me and Nelras only against her if we should continue with this plan of a verbal victory."

The sound of buffeting wings is briefly audible.

Falmiis chuckles softly. "How confident are you?"

Xeii hesitates before whispering, "Not much." She smiles helplessly at Nelras. "I am still at that stage where even mentions of what I have with you are enough to fluster me entirely."

Falmiis Shevat says, "I should probably assist our allies. They seem to be struggling against the enemies."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to you, "I shall at least talk to her. I have to do that much."

Falmiis Shevat says, "I will leave you two to, um, 'prepare' further."

Worried, you say to Falmiis, "Be safe, Father."

Falmiis Shevat smiles impishly and says, "I won't be long."

Falmiis unravels into ribbons of colour that dart off to the southwest in a trail of glittering light.

Smoothly shifting its cuboids so that a beam generator peeks through an aperture on one side, a companionable cube zaps the ground to the southwest, creating a blue-rimmed portal. Beeping good-bye, the cube sails through the portal and disappears, the gateway vanishing abruptly.

Nelras smiles softly at you.

It is now the 4th of Estar, 466 years after the Coming of Estarra.

Sublime Opus Nelras says to you, "Do you have any advice?"

Ignoring the entering and leaving bureucrats as easily as one would take air for granted, Xeii slips her hand in Nelras's in a more active gesture of reassurance. "What I said. Be confident. Try not to show it if you grow flustered, though periods of vulnerability may soften her."

Squeezing your hand gently, Sublime Opus Nelras says, "Alright, I will try. Are there any particular things she might say which I should watch out for?"

Shifting her eyes from side to side, you say, "She may poke fun at the amount of time we spend in each other's company and perhaps inquire about it."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to you, "How do you think we should approach that? Should I try to divert her or should we just be honest about it?"

The corners of your mouth turn up as you grin mischievously.

Cold, clean breezes eddy through the air, driven indoors by the constant winds that buffet the city.

You say, "Honest."

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

Sublime Opus Nelras says, "I did hope you would say that."

Haughtily, you say, "We have done nothing inappropriate."

Nelras nods his head.

You say, "...If holding hands do not count as an excessive display of affection, that is."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to you, "Of course it does not. Now, how much have you told her?"

Solemn, staid voices can be heard from somewhere outdoors, rising and falling in emotionless, precise monotone.

You say, "Thankfully, the last meeting, as well as the one we had before she had to leave, did not yield too much information for her. All she is certain of is my certainty in our future together."

The Drums of the Dead begin to thump, their pounding and erratic beats raising a black mist that hangs eerily over the Glomdoring Forest.

Smiling, you say, "How thankful I was for Cousin Ymuli's presence, her questions--which were directed to her soon-to-be son as well as me--were a great distraction."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to you, "I shall try to keep that in mind if she shows up. I am glad that her presence helped you."

Looking around, you say, "No other allies to guard us, anymore."

You weave a glamour of sparkling motes and release them.

* * *

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| POOF! |

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* * *

You smile impishly and say, "Perhaps some illusion distractions are in order."

Grinning, Sublime Opus Nelras whispers, "Would allies have helped us anyway?"

In feigned exasperation, you say, "It is clear Father would have been ineffective."

You say, "I had no idea how many Hallifaxians--and non-Hallifaxians--enjoyed the embarrassment of their fellow citizens. Likely we are on our own."

As if he has just thought of it, Sublime Opus Nelras says, "Hrm. Is it likely that she will choose for us to remain in this location?"

Falmiis's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Nelras bows respectfully to Falmiis.

Comprehension flashes across your face.

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Falmiis, "Preparing, as instructed."

You say, "I am happy to see you are back safely, Father."

The sound of buffeting wings is briefly audible.

You say to Nelras, "I think so, though we could move somewhere else and notify her of this."

Falmiis Shevat asks, "Where do you intend on moving to?"

Sublime Opus Nelras says, "I do not believe we need to. I was simply asking if she would have planned to."

Xeii seems to consider resuming a more formal stance, but in the end offers an airy smile at her father, her hand still in Nelras's.

Falmiis Shevat asks, "What do you expect to get out of this meeting?"

The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across Nelras's lips.

Cold, clean breezes eddy through the air, driven indoors by the constant winds that buffet the city.

Simply, you say to Falmiis, "Approval."

You say, "Formal approval."

Amused, Falmiis Shevat says, "Your mother already approves."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Falmiis, "Would that be the case if I had spoken those words?"

Xeii's eyes glint with silent mirth.

Falmiis Shevat asks Nelras, "Why would it matter?"

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Falmiis, "Would it not?"

The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across Nelras's lips.

Falmiis Shevat smiles impishly and says, "I do not know. You'll have to ask her."

A series of chiming notes, distinctly crystalline, ring out in the distance in a slow, descending scale.

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Falmiis, "And that is what I seek to get out of this."

You say, "If truth be told, I will say that I am expecting some entertainment factors from this meeting."

Pausing, you say, "Even if it should be provided by myself."

You say, "What can I say, I am Mother's daughter."

A wry smile spreads across Falmiis's face.

Xeii · February 2017

Aramel arrives from the southeast.

Nelras turns to face Aramel as she arrives. "Greetings, lady Shevat," he says, accompanying his words with a respectful bow. "I hope you are well this day."

Aramel beams broadly.

Falmiis flashes Aramel a joyous smile.

You greet Aramel with a sincere smile.

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Nelras, "Ah, my wayward object. I was trying to go find you, but I seem to have gotten lost in Hallifax. Again."

The Guardian Drachou rises up out of the city of Gaudiguch, his great, prismatic wings raining motes of energy down upon the city.

Amused, Falmiis Shevat says to Aramel, "Still easier than trees."

You say to Aramel, "I thought you would be able to navigate it more easily with a specific target somewhere within it."

Your eyes sparkle with amusement.

Dull chiming noises echo in the distance at regular intervals, the sound of hammers on crystal.

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Aramel, "I was detained by my dear sister, serving to escort her as she would not have been allowed to visit otherwise. Still, at least now we can meet."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Aramel, "Otherwise, I might have come and showed you the way."

You whisper, "Always the gentleman."

Aramel smiles wryly at you.

You become visible once more.

Briskly, Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says, "So! Fill me in. What have we been talking about so far?"

The glittering dome of light surrounding New Celest shimmers with power as the star high above sparkles ever brighter.

The sound of buffeting wings is briefly audible.

Falmiis Shevat says, "Allies and things like that."

Falmiis gives you and Nelras a knowing grin.

Aramel pauses, and turns suspiciously towards Falmiis, a small frown on her face. "Allies?" she echoes.

Solemn, staid voices can be heard from somewhere outdoors, rising and falling in emotionless, precise monotone.

Xeii smiles easily at Aramel, though her grip on Nelras's hand tightens somewhat as a faint grey haze enters her body.

Falmiis nods at Aramel with a wide grin, confirming, "Yes, allies." After a moment, he innocently adds, "Like how I went to help our allies defend against enemies."

You tell Sublime Opus Nelras, "Best not to mention my dream of verbal victory, it seems?"

Aramel raises one eyebrow at Falmiis. "Was the prospect of having to talk to our daughter alone without my fortifying presence too much for you?" she asks, innocently.

Nelras tells you, "It seems that your Father is doing everything he can to prevent it, I am afraid."

Falmiis Shevat laughingly says, "No. We talked about other sorts of allies, too."

Xeii waves her other hand airily, though her skin still pulses with a pale light. "Such as the fortifying bond between a trill and his son-in-law. Family bonds."

You tell Falmiis Shevat, "I heretorfore abort my plans to achieve verbal victory."

Falmiis glances wryly at you and hides a grin behind his hand.

Solemn, staid voices can be heard from somewhere outdoors, rising and falling in emotionless, precise monotone.

Silk swaying about her lithesome crystal body, a city comptroller enters from the southeast.

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

Silk swaying in gentle wisps about her arms, a city comptroller leaves to the northwest.

You ponder the situation.

You weave an illusory wall to the northwest.

Thoughtfully, Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says, "So what, precisely, are the fortifying bonds between a trill and his son-in-law?"

You weave an illusory wall to the northeast.

The sound of buffeting wings is briefly audible.

You weave an illusory wall to the southeast.

Xeii innocently goes on casting her illusions, busying herself with blocking obstructive bureaucrats from entering the area.

You weave an illusory wall to the southwest.

Calmly, Sublime Opus Nelras says, "They would be the bonds of family, surely? Of the desire to support each-other. I take it you can see how this stemmed from our discussion of allies."

You weave an illusory wall to the up.

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to you, "It's all right, dear. The bureaucrats have long trained themselves not to pay attention to what anyone might do in this garden."

Falmiis smiles wryly at Aramel.

Aramel looks down briefly, a faint smile crossing her face, her gaze distant as if remembering.

Widening her eyes, you ask, "Have there been any particular happenings occurring in this area of late?"

Falmiis takes a long drag off his pipe.

You suddenly perceive the vague outline of an aura of rebounding around Falmiis.

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says, "Well, tentacles."

Nodding sagely, you say, "Besides them."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to you, "Define 'of late'."

Falmiis Shevat frowns and says, "I can't help it."

Holding up a hand to her forehead, you say, "So many clones of Commissar Windwhisper going about lately."

Serenely, Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says, "I haven't been in this garden in... what, five years?"

Falmiis Shevat says, "You don't like the flowers here as much as the natural flowers, so I don't take you here."

Aramel gives a trillingly melodic laugh.

Nodding once more, you say, "I did sense that you would prefer untouched flowers better."

Shaking her head, Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Falmiis, "Did I ever mention how I first discovered our daughter? She was going around the Basin, cataloguing all the flowers that she could find. I, ah, briefly mentioned that there were crystal flowers, and she insisted she had to see them."

Thoughtfully, you say, "Come to think of it, perhaps I should have visited here more often. I have not come to see its specimens for some time myself."

Aramel says wryly, "And so I brought her here. And then of course I had to demonstrate how it was done... so easily do the pleading gazes of our children cause us to abandon what we previously insisted on." With an impish smile, she says, "But that's the, ah, 'higher emotions', isn't it?"

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat laughingly says to you, "Be proud of yourself, dear. You accomplished in almost our first meeting what your father never managed."

Raising her chin a fraction, you say, "You could not have brought up a subject more familiar to us Symphonists than that, Mother." She offers a mischievous grin. "I do have that effect on people, do I not?""

Falmiis says, "Pssshhhh..."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Falmiis, "'Psh' is not an adequate response."

(Hallifax): Mendeisa says, "Greetings Collective."

Falmiis clears his throat. "I believe this meeting was about Nelras."

(Hallifax): Vivet (from an Unknown Plane) says, "Greetings, Mendeisa."

(Hallifax): Yarith (from the Aetherways) says, "Hello!"

(Hallifax): You say, "Greetings, Citizen Mendeisa."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Falmiis, "I believe you were speaking about how you and Nelras became allies. Enduring everything together, and so on."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Aramel, "It appears that your husband wishes to redirect your attention onto me. Shall we speak for a time that he may recover?"

Xeii gives Nelras a small, secret smile that is nevertheless tinged with worry.

Aramel shakes her head. "That is why I have all the allies," she informs Falmiis matter-of-factly.

Nelras gives a quick glance towards you but says nothing.

You tell Sublime Opus Nelras, "Brave man, you are."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Nelras, "But very well! I am charged to bear you a message from my cousin Ymuli."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Nelras, "'Are you pretty?'"

Xeii's mouth falls open in horror.

You say, "No need to repeat it...!"

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Aramel, "I already gave her an answer. Did she not receive it?"

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Nelras, "I do not know. For the sake of posterity, please repeat your answer so that I may document it."

Aramel ceases wielding the Blossoming Orb of Nature in her left hand.

Aramel begins to wield a feathery quill in her left hand.

Falmiis utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

You whisper, "If you were curious, Mother, you only had to ask."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says, "Or perhaps I should ask Xeii instead, as I find her judgment on these matters impeccable."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to you, "Is he pretty?"

You blush furiously.

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Aramel, "I shall repeat it for you, so long as you do not seek a further answer. Is this acceptable?"

Falmiis Shevat says to Aramel, "Dear, she is hardly going to say no."

The sound of quiet, muffled conversation drifts through the air.

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Falmiis, "True. She may be biased in her opinion, as she informs me she is highly partial."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Nelras, "Certainly."

Xeii tries her best to regain an air of superior composure, though it is obvious she is experiencing trouble.

With a faint smile, Sublime Opus Nelras says, "Very well. My answer was that it is surely not for me to decide, as it is a matter of opinion. Instead, it would be for one looking at me to decide for themselves."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Nelras, "Then we are in agreement."

Aramel waits expectantly.

Quietly, Sublime Opus Nelras says, "We are, and you did agree not to seek another answer."

Falmiis Shevat says to you, "Remember what I said about her turning all of my allies against me? It appears she has that effect on everyone."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Nelras, "That is true, though the circumstances are a little blurred considering that my inquiry predated your answer."

Raising her chin, you say, "Although pretty is not exactly the word I would use, I would say, yes, Nelras is a highly appealing individual for me to look upon."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Falmiis, "I do not turn all your allies against you."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Aramel, "It did, however you had not received the answer you look for. However, it would appear that Xeii has decided to give one voluntarily."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Falmiis, "They choose of their own will to do so, because you make it highly entertaining with your speechlessness."

It is now the 5th of Estar, 466 years after the Coming of Estarra.

Xeii · February 2017

Xeii leans against Nelras for good measure and wraps an arm around him with a proud expression.

You say, "You have my answer, Mother."

Aramel nods her head sagely.

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to you, "Oh, regarding that scry enchant you spoke of earlier that you wanted to put on those rings you spoke of - you are surely aware, are you not, that wedding bands are not enchantable?"

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

Confidently, you say, "It is not a wedding band yet. After all, we have not gone through official procedures yet."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Falmiis, "Is this where you preach to them the merits of small amounts of practical bureaucracy?"

Falmiis Shevat says, "That sounds like a technicality that would be simple enough to fix."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Falmiis, "And so it is."

Falmiis Shevat says to Aramel, "Dear, no amount of bureaucracy is practical."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat smiles impishly and says to Falmiis, "That's not what you said that time you had to file papers at the Hall of Records."

Xeii watches her parents with a slightly wary expression. "I never can tell how a conversation will change with you two leading it, especially you, Mother."

Waving a hand dismissively, Falmiis Shevat says to Aramel, "Technicalities."

Falmiis Shevat says to Aramel, "Also, this meeting is about our daughter and her beloved. Please stay on topic."

Tilting her head, Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says, "I wasn't aware it had a pre-set agenda. Very well. Who will take notes?"

You laughingly say, "I was half expecting you to frogmarch us to the Hall of Records."

Amused, Falmiis Shevat says to Aramel, "You are the one holding the quill."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to you, "Oh, you don't need to go to the Hall of Records for some things."

Aramel peers at Falmiis unscrupulously.

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Aramel, "From what you said when asking me that question, I had assumed you were."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Nelras, "I only note items of interest to me."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Nelras, "Such as the appearance of my daughter's suitor."

Eyeing Aramel suspiciously, you say, "Perhaps it would be safer for a current bookbinder to keep the records?"

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Aramel, "Sensible, to save yourself all of that extra writing."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Nelras, "But really, you could use some colour on you. Grey, brown, black. Tch."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Nelras, "You need some multi-coloured adornments. My daughter on your arm does not count."

You say to Aramel, "The role of the colourful counterpart I have already taken, Mother."

A storm-coloured greyhound pants heavily, his tail wagging enthusiastically.

The spires of Hallifax crackle with energy as it flows out of the generators and throughout the city.

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Aramel, "If I had dressed more brightly, it still would have been overshadowed."

The sound of quiet, muffled conversation drifts through the air.

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Nelras, "I believe you find that a pleasant fate."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Aramel, "And why do you believe that? It might be an outcome of my being in present company, but it does not mean that being overshadowed is the goal I have in mind."

Brightly, Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Nelras, "Oh good. That's always fun."

A series of chiming notes, distinctly crystalline, ring out in the distance in a slow, descending scale.

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to you, "I applaud your selection, my dear. It's so much more satisfying this way."

Coolly, you say, "In a way he has conquered me already, Mother. You have seen plenty of time how I react when you bring him up."

You say to Nelras, "Overshadowed you clearly are not."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to you, "Indeed. If we placed you along the shore of the Inner Sea, ships could use you to avoid the cliffs."

"Nobody is safe from the Dread Lordess," Falmiis quietly murmurs.

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to you, "I believe what your father is saying is that a certain... mischief and bafflement is the righteous domain of all the Shevat women."

Importantly, you say, "You flatter me, Mother, to say that the strength of my love is such."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat murmurs, "Shockingly pink."

Lightly, Falmiis Shevat says to Aramel, "Is this why you chose to marry into my family?"

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Falmiis, "You were labouring under it long before I was a Shevat, dear."

Xeii stands on tiptoe to whisper someting to Nelras.

You tell Sublime Opus Nelras, "Worry not about mischief and bafflement...At least, not always!"

A series of chiming notes, distinctly crystalline, ring out in the distance in a slow, descending scale.

Xeii lands lightly back on her feet, nodding emphatically at the conversation unfolding before her.

Falmiis considers a response for a moment before murmuring, "Maybe." He falls silent again after.

Nelras gives you a quick smile.

Aramel folds her hands before her, turning back to Nelras and you with a smile. "So," she says conversationally, "What are your plans next?"

Xeii glances at Nelras briefly, a question in her eyes.

Turning his attention back to Aramel, Nelras replies "I believe that is traditionally viewed to rest on the outcome of this meeting, is it not?" He glances back to Xeii.

Aramel smiles wryly. "I don't think that is really a question. As I mentioned when telling the story of how Xeii and I met in this Aviary earlier - we never were good at resisting the pleading gazes of our children."

With a knowing grin, Falmiis Shevat says, "I told you she already approved."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Falmiis, "And I told you that I still had to ask."

The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across Nelras's lips.

Solemn, staid voices can be heard from somewhere outdoors, rising and falling in emotionless, precise monotone.

Xeii raises her and Nelras's entwined hands slightly, allowing the birthstone rings on each to sparkle gently in the light.

Dull chiming noises echo in the distance at regular intervals, the sound of hammers on crystal.

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Aramel, "I am glad that you say it is not really a question. That said, I hope I have at least met with a measure of your approval also, and that you are not saying that only because your daughter has asked it of you."

Aramel says, quite seriously, "You seem to be a person of good sense and wit, who cares for my daughter. I certainly do approve. One wishes to see one's children well settled, you know."

Xeii smiles, a glowing affair that seems to light up her whole being with sunset hues.

Aramel throws back her head and howls like a wolf.

You blink incredulously at Aramel.

The sound of quiet, muffled conversation drifts through the air.

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to you, "I'm afraid I have a cold. The sneezing can be a problem sometimes."

Nelras whispers something to Xeii, a faint grin on his face as he does so.

Nelras tells you, "Is that something that she does often?"

You tell Sublime Opus Nelras, "Sometimes! And that is most definitely not a sneeze."

After this brief moment of levity, however, followed a question that would lead the two Symphonists onto the perilous, but rewarding path of improvisation.

Xeii · February 2017

Falmiis Shevat says, "I believe you still need to answer Aramel's original question. What are your plans next?"

Aramel grins mischievously at Falmiis.

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says to Falmiis, "I was about to say that."

Aramel lays her head gently on Falmiis's shoulder, entwining her fingers with his.

Dull chiming noises echo in the distance at regular intervals, the sound of hammers on crystal.

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Falmiis, "I had thought that it had been quite clearly answered, but very well."

Falmiis smiles brightly at Aramel before turning back to Nelras and giving him a gentle nod.

Cold, clean breezes eddy through the air, driven indoors by the constant winds that buffet the city.

Sublime Opus Nelras says, "We have already discussed things, and there will be no pointless hesitation, unlike what I am given to understand can happen in other cases. After all, we have discussed things."

Nelras smiles softly at you.

Softly, you murmur, "Indeed we have. Words spoken, resolve embolstered."

An illusory wall disappears, revealing an exit to the northwest.

An illusory wall disappears, revealing an exit to the northeast.

An illusory wall disappears, revealing an exit to the southeast.

Aramel sits up slightly, as if suddenly recalling something. "Oh!" she says. "Before I forget - you should make entertaining paintings of each other." She beams brightly. "Family tradition," she explains.

Falmiis peers at Aramel unscrupulously.

An illusory wall disappears, revealing an exit to the southwest.

As the walls vanish around them, Xeii steps forward to take both Nelras' hands in hers.

An illusory wall disappears, revealing an exit to the up.

Particles of light rain down upon Xeii's and Nelras' head as the last wall disintegrates, though it is clear this barely registers to her.

Aramel ponders the situation.

Aramel releases a swirling stream of sparkling essence into the air above her.

* * *

-----------

| POOF! |

-----------

* * *

Lightly, Falmiis Shevat says to Aramel, "In a colourful mood?"

Nelras smiles softly at you, seemingly unaware of his surroundings until Aramel weaves her illusion.

The sound of buffeting wings is briefly audible.

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says, "I'm just helping the light show."

You say to Aramel, "We are aware you are still in need of an answer. Well, I shall be the one to provide it."

Solemn, staid voices can be heard from somewhere outdoors, rising and falling in emotionless, precise monotone.

Softly, you say to Nelras, "The last time we spoke of this, my soul left me before I could reply."

Nelras smiles softly.

You say, The last time I spoke of it, I was the one to bring the subject around to our future."

Falmiis Shevat frowns and says, "One moment."

(Hallifax): Falmiis says, "Air Lords."

Nelras pays every bit of attention to you as you speak.

Xeii releases Nelras' hands for a moment to step back. silently. She glows rosy quartz, a pure, clear hue. "Nelras. My friend. My Opus. My intended."

Drawing a deep breath, you say, "I asked you this before, now I am asking again."

A series of chiming notes, distinctly crystalline, ring out in the distance in a slow, descending scale.

Aramel smiles wryly at Falmiis.

Falmiis Shevat asks, "I, uh, didn't miss anything did I?"

(clan): You say, "Help what's the syntax."
(clan): Aramel says, "Propose to nelras with object."

(clan): You say, "I have no object

(((."

Completely annoyed, Aramel glowers darkly at Falmiis.

(clan): Falmiis says, "I have a tentacle :>."

(clan): Falmiis says, "Or a tongue."

(clan): Aramel says, "..."

The sound of buffeting wings is briefly audible.

Aramel gives 20,000 gold soveriegns to you.

Falmiis gives a delicate iris to you.

Xeii walks toward the garden and gently places a flower in it.

The sound of quiet, muffled conversation drifts through the air.

You take a bird of paradise flower from an aesthetically pleasing Hallifaxian garden.

Xeii's eyes soften at the flower in her hand. She holds it out to Nelras, lowering herself onto one knee--the picture of humility.

You whisper to Nelras, "Will you accept me?"

You get down on one knee and, while holding forth a bird of paradise flower, you declare your eternal love for Nelras, and ask him to marry you.

Nelras, with a look of utter joy on his face, accepts your proposal of marriage.

It is now the 6th of Estar, 466 years after the Coming of Estarra.

Falmiis beams broadly.

Aramel smiles brilliantly, a pleased look on her face. "Oh, excellent," she breathes. "And just think, nobody had to sign anything!"

Sublime Opus Nelras whispers, "Xeii, my love. I have said it before, and will again, I could no more refuse you than my own heart."

Xeii gets to her feet unsteadily before stepping forward and embracing Nelras, her eyes closed and streaming with crystal clear tears.

Falmiis Shevat smiles broadly and says, "Congratulations."

Sublime Opus Nelras says to Falmiis, "Thank you."

Falmiis Shevat says to Aramel, "I don't recall making you sign anything, either."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat smiles impishly and says to Falmiis, "Your father Shonjir threatened to make good that oversight, afterwards."

Falmiis Shevat says to Aramel, "As if you wouldn't have talked your way out of it."

Nelras throws his wings around you, drawing you close.

Drily, Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says, "You overestimate me."

Nelras tells you, "So, my love, that went a lot better than it could have done."

Oblivious to what is happening around her, Xeii leans forward to place a gentle kiss on Nelras's lips. She draws back after a moment, nodding with a smile on her face.

(clan): Aramel says, "PDA in front of your parents

."

(clan): You say, "Toldja she was oblivious."

Aramel ponders the situation.

Xeii · February 2017

Ominously, Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says, "Does this mean we get to plan a wedding?"

(clan): Falmiis says, "Doot doot can't see emotes through dog right?"

(clan): Shedrin says, "Yep."

(clan): Falmiis says, "Rip."

Though she does not turn away from Nelras, Xeii pauses slightly at this.

(clan): Shedrin says, "That'll be my next report."

With a quick glance, Sublime Opus Nelras says, "Xeii?"

(clan): Falmiis says, ""With the rise of using speech within emotes, bond listen has received a major nerf"."

Eyes twinkling, you say to Aramel, "If you are so set upon it..."

Aramel visibly wavers between an affected indifferece and clear eagerness. "Well, it's not -necessary-, of course, but..."

Equally breezily, you say, "As long as our input will be received, evaluated, and used, I see no reason why you should not plan."

With a visible effort, Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says, "Any kind of flowers you wish, dear."

You tell Sublime Opus Nelras, "This was draining, but...I am so happy, love. I know you are tired. I will release you."

Raising an eyebrow, you ask, "Just for flowers?"

Nelras tells you, "I am tired, love, it was draining. But I am so happy also. I did not know how this would turn out, but I am glad it was like this."

With a deep breath, Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says, "And other things too, of course."

(clan): Aramel says, "You're enjoying this too much :P."

With a look of satisfaction, Xeii presses a button on a block of crystal in her palm.

(clan): Aramel says, "But overall we weren't half as embarrassing to Nelras as we could have been."

Xeii then steps back from Nelras, her eyes soft as she leaves his grasp. "Go and rest, Nelras. Thank you for waiting for me."

Sublime Opus Nelras says, "I...am afraid I must depart for a short time, I am sorry."

Nelras smiles softly at you.

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says, "Be well!"

You say to Nelras, "May your rest be sweet."

Sublime Opus Nelras says, "Thank you."

Falmiis Shevat says to Nelras, "Take care."

Nelras grows still and his lips begin to move silently.

You lean into Nelras and kiss him long and tenderly.

Nelras's sould is enveloped in translucent fire for a moment and is gone, his soul safe until he returns to Lusternia.

(clan): Falmiis says, "Lol Xeii."

Falmiis Shevat asks Aramel, "Are we like that?"

Aramel turns to Falmiis, opens her mouth to respond, then shuts it again, utterly speechless.

Satisfied with the way things are turning out, Xeii gives her parents a small grin before stretching with a touch more languidness than normal.

You say, I must be off to rest, myself, but I will return prepared."

Wildeflower Aramel Shevat says, "Be well, dear. I am glad for you."

Aramel gives you a peck on the cheek.

Falmiis Shevat smiles and says to you, "Take care too!"

You say, "Thank you. Truly."

You smile softly.

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

Ad lib proposal and managing to get the best of @Aramel, overall a productive day I'd say :>

Added rave to @my parents and @Nelras, also a rave to the latter for going through with this despite timezone gap being mean

Aramel · February 2017

I just realized that my personality is completely different when making fun of e-children. It's almost as though I've been possessed by the ghost of @Ymuli. Edit: pinging @Sylandra, who will probably spiritually identify with this log.

Highlights:

@Xeii's recording device.
The fact that no tea was drunk (Sorry, @Daraius!)
Getting "lost in Hallifax" for an entire hour while I had to go eat lunch
Laughing forever at @Falmiis having to leave the room to defend in the middle of his own e-daughter's proposal speech. WORST E-DAD.

Aramel · February 2017

Extra: before @Nelras' arrival, we discuss his past.

Transcendental Aviary.
A soothing chill permeates the area, bringing with it a rime of sparkling frost cast by a healing shrine of Jadice nearby. Banks of clouds roil about here. In the shape of an open palm, a metallic sigil lies here. Arcing fountains suffuse this well-tended garden, its flora marked by perfect symmetry. Shuffling its cuboidal units around at intervals, a companionable cube of brushed silver floats in mid-air, chirping a cheerful little tune. Falmiis Shevat with a Nymph face is here, surrounded by a flurry of white feathers caught in a perfumed breeze. He wields a golden whip of the pious in his left hand and a tower shield of the Matrix in his right. Aficionado Xeii Shevat, Contralto Drammatico is here, shrouded. She wields a baroque violin of antique silver and pearl inlay in her left hand and an antique Hallifaxian shield adorned with silver chimes in her right.
You see exits leading northeast, southeast, southwest, northwest, and up.

You beam broadly.

You say, "All right."

You say to Xeii, "Oh, do you remember the flowers here? What am I saying, of course you do."

Aficionado Xeii Shevat, Contralto Drammatico says, "Of course, this is not my favorite place for nothing."

Xeii smiles softly.

You smile softly.

You say to Xeii, "But truly, dear, do these new developments make you happy?"

Xeii twines her fingers together in her lap, eyes cast low and soft colours coursing through her skin. "More than happy, Mother."

Aficionado Xeii Shevat, Contralto Drammatico says, "I had always hoped for a good friend within the guild, though of course he is much more than just a colleague-- or a superior."

You have emoted: Aramel's lips curve in a soft, surprisingly sweet smile. "Then I am glad that you have found happiness too," she says quietly. Straightening, she resumes her previous brisk demeanor. "Oh. A 'good friend'? I think we've moved past that one."

The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across Xeii's lips.

Aficionado Xeii Shevat, Contralto Drammatico says, "Of course. We have moved past that point too."

You have emoted: Aramel looks thoughtful. "You mentioned last month that you learned something of Nelras' family," she says. "But I think Ymuli interrupted - as she does - before you had a chance to tell us."

Xeii hesitates, clearly trying to find a balance. "Only that his experiences with his family was...not one the Shevats have. Not as accepting, it seems."

Eyes softening, Aficionado Xeii Shevat, Contralto Drammatico says, "I had wondered why he never spoke of them in our conversations. Now, I have an idea why. "

You say, "I believe he mentioned he was a n'Lochli? Or a d'Vanecu, or whatever. These Magnagoran houses... much the same, and all equally hard."

"Magnagorans," Falmiis states, with a certain degree of distaste evident in this tone. "There is no comparison to be made with our family."

Aficionado Xeii Shevat, Contralto Drammatico says, "A d'Vanecu, I think. His mother was briefly of Hallifax, he mentioned."

Falmiis Shevat says, "One's family reflects on oneself. He made the smart decision to renounce his ties to the tainted house."

Calmly, you say, "I believe prior to this he had the Ladyn name."

Falmiis Shevat says, "Only through marriage."

Furrowing her brow, Aficionado Xeii Shevat, Contralto Drammatico says, "I never did learn enough about the taint to judge...Someday." She pauses before replying, "The name suited him, I think."

Lightly, you say, "Yours will suit him better. Whatever it might be."

Xeii glances hesitantly at Falmiis, carefully gauging his reaction to your comment.

"I am obviously still of the belief that House Shevat stands first among all of the Basin's Great Houses," Falmiis says to Xeii with calmness in his voice. Glancing toward you for a moment, he adds, "But, I was willing to leave it if that was what your mother wanted, so who am I to talk?"

Raising her eyebrows, voice softening, Aficionado Xeii Shevat, Contralto Drammatico says, "You were? I...the Higher Emotions must run strong within you, Father."

You have emoted: Aramel smiles at Falmiis, a trace of warm remembrance threading through her expression. "I am content with the way things happened," she says softly.

Smiling faintly, Falmiis Shevat says to Xeii, "Things sometimes happen in life."

You smile impishly and say to Xeii, "Your lover seems to be lingering in the tea house. Shall I go fetch him?"

You say to Xeii, "Or perhaps I shall go prepare some things instead..."

Her eyes far away, Xeii murmurs, "Indeed. In such unforseen ways..." Her eyes snap open and she immediately goes rigid. "Wait! Er...He is discussing things with his sister now."

Briskly, you say, "Nothing ventured, nothing gained."

Vivet · February 2017

Aramel said:
Laughing forever at @Falmiis having to leave the room to defend in the middle of his own e-daughter's proposal speech. WORST E-DAD.

Duty is heavier than a mountain.

Ymuli · February 2017

Pft. Why am I always being named as though I were an evil sprite? I'm a helper, okay.

Nelras · February 2017

Ymuli said:

Pft. Why am I always being named as though I were an evil sprite? I'm a helper, okay.

Wait, you aren't an evil sprite?

Tremula · February 2017

@Nelras had better send me an invitation to the wedding. I want to be the vodka sister-in-law that throws lavish gifts at her daughter's best friend and future aunt.

Ymuli · February 2017

Nelras said:

Ymuli said:

Pft. Why am I always being named as though I were an evil sprite? I'm a helper, okay.

Wait, you aren't an evil sprite?

Are you pretty, Nelras?

Xeii · February 2017

Ymuli said:
Are you pretty, Nelras?

From last-last weave:

Still unable to look Nelras in the eye, Xeii says, "I did not get around to answering her same question when it was directed at me, I was much too flustered by talks of..." She finally looks up again to finish, "Likely she would have expected a, 'Yes, he is the prettiest trill I have ever seen,' or something along that line, from me."

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The Course of a Successful Self-Matchmaking (abridged)

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