CW:

Mental strain. Murber by accident. LITTLE CUTIES RISING FROM ASHES OF THE MIND TO SNUGGLE! Also really ow wounds after a battle. And a gerl gets her head nibbled on!

Madness. Perhaps that's my innermost Truth. Just the simple madness of a weapon who would rather be a girl... A Mother, instead of a monster. Alas monstrosity is part of motherhood, I think.

I rend the space between myself and Warden, stepping through with haste. "Do you think the adversary is still present?"

Warden trills in the negative. <No. I believe whatever happened is over already but I am unsure of my ability to detect what occurred. This adversary hid from me almost perfectly.>

"Understood. Then let's take a quick look at Lynette before leaving her be. No sense in causing her further distress if she doesn't need or want our assistance right now."

I carefully take flight with Warden, my ability to use my wings still lacking but quieter and less noticeable than any other means of travel.

We come across a garden of twitching mangled messy growths like what can often be found growing amidst shifting ashes of a freshly scoured forest, that oddly seems to be consuming all life around it. 'natural growths' and even the odd animal that wanders into the garden.

In the center, I see a crater. A rent and ruined hole that seems as though some great beast laid a talon down digging and burrowing into the ashes to rake at the heart of the garden.

Pulsing so very quietly from it, in Miasma Cant, is sheer nonsense. Yet it feels like a furious and even hysterical argument between a thousand voiceless creatures.

And all of them feel like Lynette.

My love feels like a mirror of myself in so many ways, and… I cannot help the unspeakable agony that crushes me. The Division that burns within her won't truly kill her but it could unmake all that she is, rendered down into something new.

With Warden, I race back to the Rend I made and leave this cursed place where my love suffers and my presence will only be a burden to her. I seal the wound behind us and allow myself to fall to my knees before my Mate.

"Elevar. What use is power if I cannot protect those I love? I need help. Please. Just tell me what to do to make it better. Please, my Ancora."

She kneels to sit in front of me. Just like the first time did all those weeks ago, despite it feeling years past. Legs crossed and hands resting palm up on her knees in gentle offer when I might need them.

"Honestly? The worst thing imaginable." She offers softly. "Nothing but healing yourself. My twin is broken and fraying and might... might get worse. But whatever you saw out there is simply a reflection. A Muppet. Perhaps, at worst, a shell. And if she's taking to my old habit of seeking fools to try their luck at killing or hurting her to drown all else? It's... not good. But it's her choice. You'll need to hook and drag her back eventually, but not now. Later. When you've rested and healed and found steadier songs to match Quills to."

I hold her tightly and… Let myself go, screaming all my rage and anguish and confusion until my body demands I stop to breathe.

This isn't fair. It isn't right. I don't want life to be this way anymore.

It's hard to tell how long passes. Especially because when the without world starts making sense, our Pack is there, save Krahe, wrapped around us. Quills echoing and shrouding my everything in a song that feels like both a quilt around, but also endless rivers giving paths for it all to flow.

A song it took all of them to both contain and steady. Lest it lash out and cause evermore pain than I'm starting to feel it already has.

Verbess, like the trunk of some great tree holding up the impossible weight of the songs.

Schatzi, the roots that help us drink in the water and nutrients.

Warden, our branches that curl both upwards but also around. Almost a secondary life of its own to help bear the weight.

Adaline, the leaves and sprouts and even leaves. Ever fighting to keep us tilted toward the tumbling sun's light.

Even Elevar, our Mistress, with her silly little head noodles' clicks chirp of helping keep our melodies free of parasitic tunes that could burrow into and infest our health.

And... Me. As everything else. Adapting to be whatever this songtree in this analogy needs. The soil that holds things upright and can shake everything to knock uneeded things loose. The bugs that prune and nibble and lure evermore birbs and sneks to rest happily within our embrace. Even the roaring winds when the season calls for it.

But... then the song is softening. And my Mate's voice is bubbling up above the fury and pain.

"... Taking turns." Elevar is stating. "Watching for only more world shaking emergencies. Otherwise we need to rest and regather ourselves. So. Schatzi first. Containing Crux's mess if you can, but setting her loose if she prefers that. Then Warden. And after that Adaline or myself, depending on things. Alright?"

I slowly rise out of my Mates lap with a crooked smile. "Thank you, love."

But... she's having none of that. Gathers me up in her arms like I weigh nothing. Carries me toward her lower bedroom chamber. "Of course. Now, Adaline. Come help me force some good rest upon our gerl." Then looks to Schatzi. "The Spire is going to be... half sealed. Trying to keep out errant nonsense so Xafra's extra senses won't catch them. But the Bond and Quills should reach us still. Let anyone that might prod know that, and insist they wait or allow you or another Pack Sister to aid them instead. Use the tunnels to traverse between. I'll trust you to wake myself first if things get dire?"

"Yes Mistress." Schatzi says with a nod, and heads back outside where I can sense my little sister waits.

"Once um… Once Lynette returns, we need to learn what attacked her. And... I need to talk to Sekrhús soon." I offer small protests while settling more comfortably into Elevar's arms.

"Yes yes. A foe that can puncture that frame of hers and avoid our Warden's pointed perceptions needs to be accounted for. Especially if it's an old thing that enjoys holding grudges or wants second bites of my twin. As for your niece... Well, it's probably for the best that I need to see to your health. Else my temper would get the best of me." She agrees as we descend the steps. Hopping up to flop herself upon the bed with me clutched close. Head noodles reaching out to nuzzle and caress my hair and shoulders. "It was going to be a mess regardless. But one for tomorrow."

"I want the rest of your twin freed, and... I'll offer a lot to her to do it. I need to know my loves are safe." I murmur softly before I reach out to my Grakler frame and slip myself inside and crawl back into my Elevars arms.

"I know we can do it. Especially with Augusta's help now that the gerl trusts her more than before. Can find something Sekrhús wants that we can give." She agrees as Adaline settles on the opposite side of me. Then Warden floats to slip into the sheath on our Mistress' hip. "We just... have to be clever about this. Haggle with her. Make sure we can live with the costs."

[One sister is murdering our world, and another is a feral sadistic child. There's much I have to live with already, without even counting my own past actions. One more atrocity to add to my tally is worth it.] I intone to her as I close my eyes and settle into sleep.

⚉⚉⚉

I wake up with a massive stretch, my front paws planted firmly on Adalines face and my tail flopped into Elevars face and tangling with her head noodles. [Blep. Did you both manage to rest at all?]

My mate reaches up to run fingers along my side and across rippling scales as her tendrils click and nip and nuzzle at my tail. "It's... barely been any span of time. Love. And I doubt a small grackler's nap is anything like the pause you need."

[I actually feel a lot better. Just let myself sleep without even entering the Driftdream.] I insist. [Not... Sane again, or even stable, but less likely to collapse in a heap of tears or go on a killing spree.]

"If you get all that from just this, think of what you'd find after thrice the rest." She yawns while blearily sitting up. Taking to scrutch me just that perfect way between the ears while another hand moves to brush and caress at Adaline's hair. Whispering gently. "But... alright. We can take stock. Has anything shifted? Your little feral sister started chewing holes in the Spire or are she and Schatiz getting along alright?"

"Schatzi has taken her out to the closest settlement to find a new body, then she's planning on showing Crux the Driftdream as she's confirmed there's a few of the Geists and Dolls that can connect to it that are interested in Crux's sort of fun, especially since it won't be actually fatal." Adaline explains.

"Oh, thank the old Dead Hag for the wonderful gerls who know how to charm others so quickly." Elevar sighs with a relieved smile and shifts to stand. Cracking her neck back and glancing around. "I expected to need to keep our Xafra smushed here for at least half a day. Anything else?"

"Primrose and Nettle claim they're still working on their project and would prefer not to be disturbed yet. Also Envii has been doing some scouting as she works to schedule more appointments for Augusta and has confirmed that the Spires do seem to still be connected through the tunnels which somehow aren't any longer than they were before." Adaline adds.

My Mate nods, "Suspected that last bit. Fold between the Roots nonsense, of course. And if my theory is correct... well, let's hope it isn't. We'd not like a world that is all part of Sekrhús' Estate and within her sway." Looks between us. "The Primrose situation worries me. That she somehow tumbled into an odd spot and seems very happy to perform a task she can't or won't explain. But... One problem at a time. She's being watched over. My twin still is as quiet as before to me, but that means very little. Has she moved or reached out to a Pack Sister while we were asleep?"

"Mmhm. She's down with the little ones right now." Adaline explains.

[Good, that's one less worry for me.] I intone with a sigh as I get myself comfortable again.

"I was worried she might go chasing problems if no others arrived to take a swing at her." Elevar half chuckles and half winces, moving to sit at the edge of the bed. "But yes, her being in literally the safest spot she knows is a relief. Although... she may not stay there long. Will feel too much like hiding."

[Reach out gently to her and see if she'd like company? If not... maybe I should go back to sleep.] I offer, knowing that I desperately need more rest even if everything is still in danger of collapsing around me.

"I don't even need to ask to know her answer." Elevar crawls over to kiss my scaley forehead. "You know why she basically ran off, don't you? It wasn't because she didn't want Adaline or Warden or you with her, but because she didn't trust herself not to lash out. To hurt someone she loves with a careless snarl or bite. Despite how much she probably aches for... well, the lover than we could never hurt more than she could wound us. If I'm being honest. But her being below? With the little ones? Shows she's confident she can handle good company. The real question, the one she's asking by being here, is does our Xafra need more rest before talking with her?"

I flop over and manifest my Doll form. "No, I don't think so. It would be easier to rest after checking in with her, I think."

She nods, taking up my hand, then looks to Adaline. "C'mon. Let's see for ourselves if we can spot any oddness on the way as well. See if the tunnels feel odd after the shifts."

We head down through the tunnels to the sanctuary, noting that they feel somehow cleaner than before despite looking the exact same.

Lynette on the other hand.... She is a mess. Cut, scraped, and bruised, with a large part of her left arm missing including two fingers and a crater in her chest just below her heart. Despite all that, she looks more regal and potent than ever with the remains of the silver dress Schatzi made her converted into a shawl over her pitched ashen scales and torn up outfit.

"You know, I've never met a woman who looks better nearly falling apart." I joke to her as we enter, trying to maintain a bit of levity.

Taking in our daughter's demeners. All worried. But… seeming reassured by words their mother shared while checking over the egg Krahe holds close with almost all her tails. Except, well…

Looks like our dear Snek Doll isn't quite able to recognize her properly right now. Lynette must be shielding her from the brunt of the damage. Looks past and around with ears and eyes like her mother is simply an odd stranger she hasn't the energy to talk to.

"You think so?" Lynette chuckles, adjusting to rise and turn to face us. Eyes... totally devoid of iris. Glazed over like storm clouds with little hints of violet lightning sparking behind. "I'm glad of that. Hopefully leaving memories of a mother carrying her wounds well with our little ones. Despite them all being clever enough to see past that."

"I do." I reach out with my senses to our children, noting the worry on Sia, the way Sikkina's egg rocks slightly, and the confusion on their sister's face. "They're worried about you. As am I. But we all believe in you enough to not try and coddle you. Can you tell us anything about this adversary who attacked you?"

Lynette sways in thought, and as she does the spaces around her begin to shift. Just a little. That same garden that Warden and I saw before starting to sprout in the shadows beneath her.

"More than a few things, actually. Firstly, It was... some kind of spell more than anything else. Fury and Spite given form. As if you were to discover how to split off one of your manifested selves and send it hunting. Took the shape of some... big hollowed-out lizard."

Lynette hesitates between throughs, and as she does the little garden leaks out from her shadow. Solid root floor seeming to be covered in soft ashes. Crawling out beneath nearly everyone here. Like a little sea to press between our toes.

And my love seems totally oblivious to the change.

"Did it say anything?" Elevar asks gently, looking between her twin's frame and the floor.

Lynette doesn't seem to pull from her thoughts when answering. "No. Not a word."

"Alright. Is there anything I can do or offer to assist in your recovery?" I ask while thinking about this spellform and if I would be able to do such a thing.

The ground beneath us moves and shifts. Ripples like something is burrowing and swimming through it like a fish through water. Circling and twisting closer and closer to the surface.

And the sounds like we heard before, the wordless hysterical arguments thrumming from below.

"Not until I'm prepared to end the one responsible for today's mess." She huffs and moves to sit. "And all else I'd want is simply... unbecoming indulgence. Honestly, I should be asking you that question. Is there something I can offer to you, dear one, that my twin and your Pack cannot? You've suffered a rivening blow yourself."

"Indulgence I can grant without question. As for me, I... I'm not sure. I think... I think I understand what Augusta was getting at when she talked about needing a different Name to stop herself from being controlled by her Divinity instead of the other way around. I'm finding it hard to keep a level head, to avoid pulling us into more confrontations. I... Think I need to find a way to change, so I can actually be a mother instead of just... A weapon."

"I agree. But It will need to be a deft act. Not the messy nonsense Augusta found below." She agrees, tip tapping nails across a leg. "Should be a... Not a trade or exchange. A blossoming of a Name into something new. The old simply... shedding skin and fur being happily set aside?"

Elevar nods, "Won't be like her freeing and ascension. Easier in some ways, harder in others."

"Yes yes. We should see if we can't pester these Moon Witches you say visited just before you returned." Lynette adds. "If they're living on and in the body of your mother they might have quite the trove of knowledge on the nature of Names. Even... maybe..."

She trails off, obviously falling into a thought.

And right when she does the ash bubbles just against my left leg. And... such an odd thing appears to poke its head up.

Hard to see all the details. But it's long like a snek the size of a small person, albeit scaleless and furless. The color of the ash it swims through. Has no eyes but instead a series of nose like holes that I recognize as heat sensing. Half a dozen twisting antennae, and too many little limbs beneath that must act as fins to help it swim through the ash.

And it's full focus is on me as it makes soft mumbling sounds. Shuffles like it wants to move closer, but is hesitating.

Without pause, I slowly kneel down beside this little creature and offer it my hand.

It chitters silently, and the distressed mumbling quiets. Then presses the top of its head against the offered palm. Slithers up to let its long back brush against me.

"If this place was grown from established schema, the moon itself might house better Glyphs and such for our use." Lynette continues, seeming totally unaware of this. Even as she looks right at me. "Chambers that aren't the stuff of a feral beast mulching a meal. But ones with only medical use. Places like you and your mother used, if we're so very lucky."

"That... would make some degree of sense." Elevar says carefully. Glancing between myself and this creature in confusion. "My question would be, how we offer such a request?"

"I could probably... Open a Goreway to one of the moon shards…?" I murmur, focused on the critter.

The creature growls, but... it seems a happy sound as it nuzzles and presses to shift close. Those antennae twitching in obvious enjoyment.

Is so warm. And soft. Also seems to buzz without even the hint of a beating heart? Long form twists like a bug while writhing more akin to a snek. And amidst this odd Miasma woven garden it simply glows with the same energy.

"And risk a probable incident? No, you should not set a standard of tossing oneself into other's homes or territories without invitation." She refutes, but it's with a grin that sings with nothing but real amusement. "It's rude. And unbecoming of the Moon's Firstbrewn daughter. Also doesn't allow you to secure promises and oaths of protection and hospitality. Or gain some idea of the sorts you might need to eat should they violate said words. So... How did you draw out one of these bothersome Moon Witches before? Trying to bite the meat of a Goreway or... something?"

"Fair enough. Yeah. I was about to take a big bite of the inside of the Goreway. I uhm… could pray to my mother? Sín I mean. Jezrial would probably just shake her head and make me do chores." I giggle a little bit as I let the thing that's probably part of my love climb into my arms.

It chirps softly and crawls up. Its lower half remains buried in the ash while the upper parts snuggle about me. Those little flipper tipped limbs grip and knead at the parts of me they cling to. Lots of little feelers testing the feel of fabric and flesh.

"That seems a good first step." Elevar agrees, offering her own hand toward the creature.

It makes a sort of... snorting, sound. Billowing out a bit of ash from what I think is a mouth or nose. Then wraps a few antennae around her wrist. Let's her pet it too.

"And... I'd recommend getting your flesh and bone mother to help. She was raised by a Coven that worshiped Sín, and might have some insight we don't." Lynette adds, then a touch of confusion crosses her face as a second creature pops its head up near Adaline.

This one smaller and tinted darker. Clicking gently in what feels like curiosity. Or something close?

Adaline also crouches down and follows my lead, offering her hand as well while saying, "I can go get your mother if you wish. To give her some time to get ready and such, I mean. Would also let her meet Prevoriis, since they're supposed to be working with your mother's charges."

That one growls like this first one did, a happy odd sound that rolls out of it while the creature ignores Adaline's hand at first. Slithers forward and around to tangle itself about her ankles before returning and settling to nuzzle that palm. As many antennae that can reach wrapping about wrist and fingers securely.

Anchoring her in place. Those wriggly limbs gripping tightly at her feet and toes.

Adaline adds before I can respond. "So uhhh, Lynette, is this your subconscious in some way or a different sort of thing."

Lynette blinks, And... such a silence falls over the garden. Growths and ash and both creatures going very still and quiet.

Like they've heard a predator roaming close.

And all the calm collective focus my love wears like armor... cracks. And real fear twists across her face.

Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.

"I... What sort of nonsense is this frame leaking?" She asks quietly. "The garden it liked to melt me into when asleep was soft enough, I trust whatever prickly things are sprouting aren't too wretched? I'd hate to scare our little ones."

"They're quite cute, I think. Love... Are you able to see currently?" I ask as calmly as I can manage.

"Too much. Actually. And too well. Can taste the way Adaline's Glyphs and Frame glow with her Will and inspirations. And... and know the weight of your gaze by how the Waking World holds a breath when you so much as glance its way. Thoughts and Ousia echoing and softening the glimmering edges of even the worst things about. Was able to filter it all down before... before the Command." She replies in a burst of words. Offering them before they could be edited or parsed to smaller things.

"Can you see how adorable these little ashen creatures are?" I ask with relief and amusement.

She shakes her head. "I've needed to avoid looking at any part of me to... stave off problems. Conflict. This Frame should contain anything I tell it to, but with the damage that thing caused? It must be leaking. But... Ashen creatures? That shouldn't be possible... She shouldn't have the reach to... But wait, what are they doing? Just swimming about, yes? Nothing else?"

"This one seems pretty determined to keep me from leaving, and they both want to be held, but otherwise they're just being cute." Adaline answers.

Lynette's expression nearly darkens at that, but... she hesitates. Seems to try and shift something within herself.

And as she does, a third one bubbles up from the ash. One with more greenish skin and visible wounds all across its back. Waits at a far edge that is just out of reach of the little ones and Krahe. Bubbling soft grumbles as its antennae twitch in soft swaying patterns.

"I... To answer your question then. As honestly as possible." My love whispers, eyes falling to face the ash beneath her. "I don't know. Best case? These are subconscious manifestations refracting my love, fear and simplest softest desires. Shaped like the Sun-Scorched below was over her many lives before... before she came here."

"Then I'm not worried." Adaline replies, then moves slowly, bringing the critter with her as she approaches Lynette to embrace her. "Lynette, I need you to know that you aren't the woman that hurt me. She's long gone. You're a prickle-badger of a woman who cares more than you're ever willing to let on, and we trust you. We love every wiggly weird part of you and that includes the parts buried or forgotten. None of our hands are clean, but that doesn't mean we have to forever be marked and judged by our worst selves."

Lynette's fingers dig into the ash as Adaline approaches. Anchoring my love from recoiling. Not at her approach, or even touch. But those words.

More fear than I've ever seen on Lynette sparks as her gaze jerks up to stare.

"I was, and am still, made to be worse than them both. The only reason I'm not is because I..."

All the creatures are shivering and whispering quiet wordless whimpers at her stammering. Clutching tighter to myself, Elevar and Adaline.

"... Because of the Garrote. Kinder words were cheaper than harsh ones. Charming you all was just... my only option. But I've been charmed right back. And now I... I can't... I've just made things worse. Endlessly. Even when I truly wanted nothing but good things for this Pack I love."

"I'm going to bargain with Sekrhús. End this ridiculous farce entirely." I declare after a long pause, and Adaline begins to pull back. "Tomorrow. No later than that. In the meantime, we will talk with my mother, with Augusta, and the Pack, we will make plans for this and fixing me and figuring out what attacked you and how to minimize the harms of the end of the bloody world but you need to understand me clearly Lynette. My sister is not the bigger monster despite her actions against you. If I have to burn every Grove to the ground and hand over every other bloody Witch to Sekrhús in trade for you, I'll do it and not hesitate at the cost. Death may make a pretense at kindness but Strife? Everything I do is tainted with suffering."

"You do not need fixing." Lynette snarls, twisting from Adaline to stand and stalk toward me, "Healing, to be sure. Shedding of the old barbs for softer things you choose, certainly. But..." Then she's kneeling and glaring. Empty eyes locked on mine, the creature in my arms taking to hissing and snorting in warning at her. "... I've never met a monster that was anything but made. And I urge you to speak with even one of the Dolls you claimed if you think yourself the source or cultivator of suffering. Re-read all those letters they left you. Because IF you want to change. Consume and grow past these Names. You will start there. Let them teach you that the mother you think you want to be is already most of who you are right now."

My hesitation passes as i take a careful moment to gather my will and thoughts. Then offer what I've slowly come to feel as I've woken up and walked down here.

"I had a breakdown a few hours ago." I start somberly. "Four hundred and twenty three people died because of it, when my voice itself tore reality enough to bore holes in their minds. I am a weapon regardless of if I wish it. I will change but I will not pretend that my actions are harmless. I say fixing perhaps… incorrectly. I'm sorry, Healing is a better term. For you as well. We will help you heal, if you are willing to let us."

Elevar sighs, lays her free hand on one of mine. Offers gently. "It's... not as bad as it could have been. Our Pack caught and rewove the worst bits, and I gently asked Augusta to see what she couldn't do to help the ones struck."

Lynette tilts her head in acknowledgement to her twin. "And the Beast Roused and Hunting gleefully drank up some excess to suffer in other's stead. My point, dear one, is that you did not choose to hurt them. You tumbled and they were like... small critters caught beneath a cracking Root way. That's what needs to be corrected. You should be allowed to fall all to pieces whenever you wish without fear of that. As for me... After I kill the one responsible for today's strife and suffering, sure. I'll let this Pack have whatever is left of me."

"Not good enough and you know it. We will resolve this issue together, because your enemies are mine and otherwise you'd be leaving me and your twin to raise our children without you. This much harm from a spellform? What if they can do it multiple times? I don't want to lose you. Please."

"I know, and it probably can. But won't. This feels... like we always imagined a Thresher's Hook would lay around the neck? It'll come hunting to test mine and this Estate's shell again." She shrugs, then smiles as she chews on a thought between words.

And as Lynette shifts the scarf adjusts enough for me to spot a wound she's not proudly displaying. A thin line of faintly glowing twine that matches the Threads of Sekrhús wrapped multiple times around the neck.

A refraction of the Command that didn't end when she finished her spell. But one that still demands her to follow its Directive.

"But alright, you're sweeter than the sea and have a point sharper than the edges of a broken heart." Lynette finally relents and offers me in gentle but firm Witch Tone. "I promise to pointedly try to draw you into all future conflicts and talks with this or any Sun-Blessed that come hunting. Regardless of how much I'd adore finding... well, as I implied. Indulgences. I don't mean to be stupid again. But it seems one seeking vengeance for my part in things has quite big teeth. And I'll even let you try to haggle with your niece over me. Only so long as Elevar, myself, or Schatzi is there. Of course. If that pleases you?"

I expect at first for the Tone to wrack me with madness and pleasure in equal measure, the first time I can recall it being used directly on me since I murdered the last who did, yet it feels... Good. Reassurance and comfort in equal measure as Lynette promises me caution. With a content smile I thump my head softly against hers. "Thank you Lynette. That means much to me. I agree to your terms."

"Of course. Now, you and yours need to rest, and I've ten more Spires to track down and map out still." She whispers back, broken mangled hand reaching up to caress my right ear with what fingers it still has. "I'll use the tunnels this time. Avoid running into any more big angry lizards. We can scheme next steps when you've stolen the biggest nap you can find this side of Death's visitations. But from what I understand she's resting right now anyway as well."

"Good to hear. I'll get back to resting while Adaline or one of the other Pack members gets Jezrial over here." I murmur, giving her a kiss before standing once more.

"Her Spires is one of the ones I need to visit, actually. I can tell her head over when she finds the free time. Avoid pulling Schatzi away from her tasks or our dear Adaline from the cuddle pile." Lynette offers, rising with me. And... as she does all the little creatures let out chirps of protest and fear.

A hesitation, and my love winces as even a single step toward the exit seems a challenge.

"I... Are the odd ashen pests doing anything strange at the moment?" She asks cautiously. "I feel more stuck than seems reasonable."

"They seem a bit scared and unhappy to be separating from us. May I try using my Voice a smidge?" I request.

She glances to me, nods slowly. "We never did get to test that. I'm curious if yours can reach past this Frame's fractured Warded Shells. Go ahead."

I focus my will and concentrate before speaking in— Wait... What if the Witch Tone and the Warlord Voice are both dilutions of Divine speech? I should just... "Little ashen loves, we must leave for now but we will reunite shortly. Be calm and at peace, for you are of my beloved and will not be abandoned."

The one in my arms purrs and clicks and... and just holds tighter. Soon I feel that third one that was watching the children swim over to curl about my legs while the one Adaline holds slithers to wrap about her torso.

Elevar can't contain a small huff of a laugh as she's tugged closer by the antennae that grip her wrist.

"Hmmm... Close. I actually felt that." Lynette muses as she absorbs our reactions. "But this is a thing of Absolution, not... the flailing Tone Witches learn to try and order Dolls around. Do not ask them, me, for this. Be as sweet as you like, of course. But demand it. Pointedly. Also loosen your pitch a touch this next time. Find that lovely balance you did when I found you singing for our eldest daughter. It seems perfect for this."

I laugh and try again, "Hm hmmm hm hmmmm... Return to Lynette and sleep within."

The creatures shiver and grumble, even let out a few snorts. But... then they're releasing hold to slither down and away. Burrowing back into the ash all around.

"Okay, Nearly perfect. That seems to have done... something? I assume." She considers, then states. "Now, If the garden is still here, demand I fold it back away behind them. I'd hate to have something crawl up and cause me to trip."

Mostly following her instructions, I continue. "Fold fold away the sprawling expression, garb yourself in your grace, hidden from those who would harm you."

Lynette purrs, eyes sparking with more of that violet lightning as they flutter half closed. "Thereeee it is..."

And the garden roils and flows toward her. Twists back into her shadow, then away. Followed by her form shifting. The wounds remain, but seem... cleaner? Like they've been tended to. And while the clothes are still a torn mess, they gain a less than disheveled appearance.

And the threads of the Garrote that were hidden beneath the scarf crack across her scaled skin. Fractures sliding down arms and chest to glow with a deep green light.

"Bold, deft, and gentle as the last winds of a Summer Storm." She hums happily, turning to actually give me something that is almost a bow. Voice and posture more steady than it has been in nearly a week. "This Nameless Corpse thanks you, Treasured Radiance hidden just beyond the Horizon's Edge."

"You're welcome." I nod as my mind races. "See you soon."

Leading the way back through the tunnels to Elevar's Spire, I murmur softly, "Add researching more about the Exclave Ideal Horizon to our to do list, as well as prioritizing that visit to the priest in Lysgarthe. I have a feeling both are going to be very important."

"Oh? Why's that?" Elevar asks, then offers, "But it should be easy enough. Especially with a mapping of the Spires and their locations to be finished before we wake up. Can explore the wider World at our leisure."

"That title the other part of Lynette just called me. It feels related to the ones who created the Pack, and if I am to overcome my issues with Divinity, a priest seems like a good source of information. Especially since... Well, when was the last time you ever heard of a priest in and amongst the Groves? Adze is one thing, and Kizurra's clan practiced mostly a form of ancestor veneration, but an actual priest in this age seems... unusual."

"Good point. The Groves in large despise the idea of the Divine. But the Sun-Blessed abound outside them and are happy to share their truths with all willing to listen. Other places probably have a touch more reverence about the idea." She agrees as we reach the steps leading up to her lower bedchambers. "Could be a topic you bring up with your newest sister as well. I think Crux probably has quite the perspective from the little she's gnashed at the topic in my presence."

"Oh. That's smart. We can definitely ask when her and Schatzi get back... I suspect we'll probably want to keep at least one of the Pack with her at all times or at least watching her." I say with a yawn.

Elevar scoops me back up again and pulls Adaline to tumble with us onto the bed. "Not the worse scheme, will just need to make sure she doesn't feel that we're ensuring she has a keeper. Else I suspect she'll be the type to make a game of slipping from their gaze and causing problems just to prod at us."

"Ideally we'll be able to find a Doll that matches her proclivities somewhat to be a companion more than a keeper. It's... A remote possibility but maybe Presephona would get along with her." I muse, curling between my loves.

"What an odd idea, hmm... We'll have to let your mother meet Crux and see if she thinks temperaments will match the former Matron's." My mate murmurs back. Settling into what should be a much longer rest.

⚉⚉⚉

I wake up once more with a grumble and grabby hands reaching out for anyone within reach which happens to be Verbess this time. "Heya cutie."

My first Pack Sister has basically encircled myself and Adaline with its full Frame. All arms and legs cracked free to create a sort of... shell or cocoon. Quills buzzing too low for anyone outside the Pack to notice. Songs of insistent peaceful rest that have let me not wake up as others have slipped away or been added to this pile.

"Mmmmm..." It thrums, eyes closed but fangs happy to nibble on the hands that found its face. "These ones think you are talking at yourself, Sister. Cute is not a word often knit into its songs."

"Both. Definitely both." I wriggle some more and find Adaline with my other hand. "And you. All of us are cuties. It's like. a divine edict or something. I'm pretty sure I can do that."

Adaline laughs and licks the hand I've pressed against her face.

"Is that the Good Function found within your Divinity?" Verbess clicks and cackles. Follows its chomps on my hands up my arm and to shoulder. Not even needing to tug me close with how much reach it has. Then just... clamps its entire mouth around the top of my head. Gnashing impossibly sharp fangs with perfect precision to never cut or scrape. Only hold tight and nibble.

"These ones think that could be a good use of your Will and Songs." It murmurs into the bite. Quills letting their melodies grow just that little bit louder. Buzzing happily in echo to the bright songs it finds bubbling up from me.

"Definitely. So what did I miss during my rest?" I ask with a giggle.

"It seems our Sisters have become quite endeared to the stray sibling Augusta snared." Verbess' Quills tick and twitch in amusement, then it murmurs between fangs as talons that hold Adaline start to play and tangle amidst her hair. "Especially this one."

"That's good. I was hopeful that she'd be a reasonable sort. Is Jezrial here yet?" I ask with a smile, feeling the echoes of my Sister's words gently titter out from Adaline's Quills.

It chews on that word for a few heartbeats, then answers. "These ones would not know how to measure that. Crux is feral to her first Songs. But seems to enjoy this Pack's company as it is. And yes, your mother, our Mistress, and Warden are upstairs with her."

"If she hasn't attacked or run from the Pack, she's reasonable. That's simple enough I think." I laugh as I start pressing against verbess to get up. "Let's go, loves. Mom hates to be kept waiting."

My Sister lifts Adaline and myself both to set us standing beside the bed. Then slowly begins to fold itself into smaller shapes while quietly cackling, "She did try to run, but only from Schatzi. Mostly curious if this Frame could track her while keeping pace. Which our Sister did. Easily. As Crux is limited by the Corpse she wears. They ended up making a game of it until a new vessel was found and claimed."

"With me she was a fair bit calmer it seems. She definitely considers herself similar to us and Elevar in regards to gender, but is... Suffering due to the uhm... Degrading condition of the corpses she uses." Adaline adds.

"I'm really glad you're all getting along. Hopefully we can help solve her problems as well." I say as we head up to meet with the others.

Mistress Elevar and mother Jezrial sit at the table. Both with drinks and even a small half touched breakfast. Warden manifesting just off to the side.

My youngest sister however, now in a new body and dark comfortable attire that must be Schatzi's work with how well it fits, holds an odd book while flipping through it. Commenting while we top the steps.

"Naw, nope, closest I've found to this is a nasty circle of cunts that live in the coldest parts of the south. The third words you butchered at me are gonna be the best to work from." Then she closes the book shut and tosses it to land on the table between Jezrial and Elevar. "Structure is cousins, at least. Even if everything else is different."

My Mistress curses in a language I don't recognize at my newest sister's words, but not with any anger.

Crux's pale greenish-brown eyes flick up to find us then, first to see as the rest's backs are to the stairs. But she refrains from saying anything or announcing us.

"This is why I stopped even trying once I got a grasp of how stupid and broken my first tongue was. Thank the Watchful Moon for the small mercies that came with..." My mother starts, then follows Crux's gaze.

Stands and steps toward me. "Heya kid. You rest okay?"

I nod and smile at her. "Think so. Having some issues of course, but I'm pretty sure that's mandatory for me at this point. Did anyone grab Prevoriis yet?"

"Gebetshure said they were following up on something. Should be heading this way when time allows." Elevar explains, "Was just getting some idea of what sort of languages the wider world uses, as well as their odd magics from Crux here."

"Huh. Well... there's a shortcut to that if we need a bunch though it would involve a bit of uhhhh... Mass murder." I start to quip before feeling a bit gross about the idea.

"Also is a mess to try and sort through the memories." Crux shrugs and leans against one of the countertops. "Best to just put the time in and figure it out yourselves, unless you're in a vengeful rush about the entire affair. But that's rarely a good reason to chew through the corners."

"True enough." I say with some level of surprise that she's so… familiar and easy spirited about the idea. "I've gotten the technique down to an art but it's not one I'd like to implement without need. Any Geists I create are permitted to stay as long as they want afterwards as part of the process."

"You're girl mentioned that, and this... Driftdream, you keep them in. Fancy stuff. Like eating a little Cursestorm each person leaves behind and stamping them into your... well, whatever you're built from."

Then she hesitates, almost asks carefully.

"Do you eh... Actually, nevermind." But Crux waves that off and looks away. "Like I said. Unless you're in a rush, best to learn new languages like anything else. After three or five you'll start getting the pace of it. And yes, there are some weird magic that only work the way they do because of the patterns the people speak in. It's a funny thing if you enjoy casting."

"Makes sense. Terék is like that. So... Do we want to have this meeting in the Driftdream?" I offer, catching on the hesitation.

"Sure, Am more than a little curious. Closest I've heard of any other group making something like it was a family of Sun-Blessed that enjoy the swampier regions. Used flowers to tug sparks and people into little kinda Dream places." Crux agrees.

"The Lotus Depths. Gebetshure got to experience that a little while ago. Sounds a bit more... terrifying to be honest, considering Girra just randomly killing their bodies with the pressure of his entrance" Adaline adds.

She snaps her fingers and points to our Pack Sister with a grin. "That sounds the one. Wouldn't know myself about the inside. One time they tried to invite me in it... Did not work. Loudly. But if we're built from even some of the same bits this should be compatible. And you've never had anyone not be able to enter. So... Only a moderate risk."

"Whatever risk it is, I'm willing to bear." I hug my mom before taking a seat at the table. "Everyone get comfortable, and we can go?"

They all do. With Crux moving to sit on the floor with her head leaning back against the cabinets. My mom moving to sit beside me as Elevar wraps her fingers through mine. Verbess remaining standing just behind us.

Adaline curls herself up on the floor between us and Crux with a small nod and a thrum of <I'll look after her.>

With deliberate slowness, I pull everyone around me into the Driftdream with myself before standing back up.

Able to split myself in twain. My Divine half anchored within and to the Driftdream, while the physical moves and acts without.

"Well Verbess, shall we find something to occupy ourselves in the meantime?"

It titters Quills in thought and <Assessment>, choosing to be the Sister that remains while Schatzi is with the rest of the group within. "These ones think that is a good plan. If your feet remain steady beneath you in this Division of Will and Names."

"They do. I've found that my third Name is the strongest in this situation. Connection through Severance. I can exist in my Driftdream and the Real simultaneously without issue. It is probably my least problematic name, despite appearances. I'm more concerned about my second name, Strife, more than the others. I'm... Uncertain how I would grow it into a better Name." I answer as we begin walking down into the tunnels.

"You've nearly taken well to our Mistress' thoughts on it. Considering your... nature to aid those you see within the talons of strife, as opposed to thinking you are the source." It thrums, songs clicking through thoughts that chime through our bond as clearly as spoken words.

<Assessing... Referencing Catalog of Names and their effects. Both refracted inward and outward connections. Charting patterns and links to others...>

"In moments of great stress and fury, we are strained. The sounds normally at the edges of our Quills becoming central notes. So tell these ones and yourself something... Why do you consider all you touch tainted with Strife? Why, amidst all this, has the term 'monster' stained your songs?"

"Because I can feel it now. My senses and grasp over my domain has expanded tremendously. I can feel the effect I've had on the Groves, the chaos I left in our wake in Salgize, the suffering family of the caravan I killed to save time. How can I not consider myself a monster when I can see and feel the results of my actions? Every unforeseen consequence is laid bare now the moment after I affect the inertia of existence."

Verbess shifts to a lower buzz as it absorbs my words.

<Assessing... Monster: Term use to designate an entity on the edges of known accepted groups. One or many that act without regard or Function to the systems and customs. Actions often leading to the harm or destruction of said systems and sometimes groups.>

"Hmmm... This seems correct. Our Pack does not serve any but the Mistress. And you, for a long time, served only yourself and whomever held you. Yet... You strike out to help others without our Pack whenever the chance arises. Even at personal cost. Strain under every wound you cause. The Groves have cultivated suffering intentionally for centuries, while you've sought to unweave that."

"Yes. At least since I've regained my freedom." I agree, leading us to the Library Spire.

"Then... Let these ones ask one last question. How different would your life had been in ages past, had those that wielded power over you been immediately aware of your suffering as this Name insists you be?" My first Sister asks as its Quills settle to quieter melodies. "Because perhaps... This is a Name you claimed at your ascension because you felt that those with such influence should also bear the weight of their actions. And now hold yourself to an impossible standard to match the formidable power and influence within your reach."

"Entirely, I think. Especially after meeting Jezrial and Kizurra again and seeing how their thoughts changed upon seeing more. And... That makes sense. Do you think I'd be able to share that... Ability with others?" I ask with a quiet intensity as my sister offers an explanation that might relieve my anguish.

It titters amusement and steps over to wrap itself around me. Thrums gently though us both. <Yes. Because it's already happened, and without your direct action or Will. You're Pack has been helping to carry the song of this Name since it overwhelmed you last night. Organized the disparate melodies while you slept. Tested songs for your talks with Lynette. Then refined them further after.>

"Oh."

"It will take time to refine, Sister." Verbess murmurs into a few careful head nibbles. "But it is your Song. Your Name. Don't let the burr of a note poorly struck cause you to think the entire instrument is flawed. Its tune is a thing these ones think you feel the world has needed for a long time."

"Thank you. Your advice as always soothes my soul." I embrace it gently and pick it up to continue with a laugh. "I do want to have a quick chat with my sister as well, see if she has any advice before I go see Sekrhús, though I won't do that till everyone returns. It's possible that Crux will want to meet her as well."

It purrs, pulling back. "These ones... would recommend caution, with those introductions. This Estate is a place that will prick at your new sibling's fears more than even your Driftdream is."

Check more actively and… yeah. Her fear of being buried and alone and driven to a primal unthinking creature to escape is bubbling. But Adaline and Schatzi are being her Strife. The connection formed in these last hours helping mitigate what could be a problematic panic if ignored.

"Ah. Yes, that tracks. Still, I'll offer, if not recommend. I don't want her to feel as though I'm hiding anything from her, you know?"

Verbess' Quills buzz acknowledgement tuned with agreement, and it falls back to support and soothe my songs while walking along behind me.

We reach the hallway outside of Augusta's suite soon enough and I knock rhythmically on the door.

There is a call from what feels like far away. A pause.

Then the door opens with the tall form of a partially disheveled Prevoriis answering with a crooked tired smirk. "Ah, you're just on time. Or I am. Either way. I was just about to head over to help deal with..."

They wave off the rest of the statement and step back to hold the door open. "Guessin' you and yours got enough shut-eye and our new feral Divine hasn't chewed through the furniture yet?"

"For the most part, I think. She's currently with me and Elevar in the Driftdream trying to figure out ways to improve the complications of my Names. Though she's not actually Divine yet. How are you doing? From my own experience, finding yourself in a world long separated from what you've been accustomed to is quite a stressor." I reply as we enter into the sitting room.

They shrug and shut the door. "Not really, everything's mostly the same as it was to me. And I never could put down roots. So it's just like visiting new places that might be a touch familiar. But that's alright, Spook's work for me has better hauls up front and longer term security than any I took before. Only downside is that everything I've tried to eat tastes... off. But that's probably something to do with my body being dead for as long as it was."

"Hmmm. Can you describe in what manner they taste off? Muted, mixed up, all similarly affected like too salty, or something more bizarre?" I ask with interest.

"Depends. Grabbed some bites while I was running around from this little frozen-over village. Food was supposed to be spicy, but instead was just... chalky. Then some fruits from the docks near the Spire you slept in lost all sweetness before I could swallow. Grabbed some salty dried meat next. Felt more gooey than it should. Didn't mind that so much." Prevoriis lists while heading to a shrouded hallway and glancing down the corridor. Waves at someone just out of view. Then turns back to head toward the entrance. "But it's barely been a day since I was dredged up, haven't asked Spooks if its normal yet. And would be obliged if you'd not pester her or others about it. Its a small weirdness I can see about between things. Am actually curious to test it all out. Figure out this whole Revenant swagger before she raises too many more."

"Fair enough, it's something I think Calix could take a look at when he returns. He's... Rather talented in the study of oddities." I reassure them. "Is my sister available? If not, we can go when you're ready."

"I let Gebetshure know when I came running through that someone was here looking for a chat. Spotted them heading this way when I looked back." Then they lean on the door. "I can head that way now, since this seems a family thing, if you'd like. Your mom, Jezrial, was the girl I was looking to see about a couple sweet Dolls? Or something?"

"Sure. That's correct, She's physically in Elevar's Spire currently, but will still be in the Driftdream for about another candlemark."

"Alright, then I'll take a slow walk in that direction." Prevoriis agrees, then heads out.

Leaving us in silence for... about a dozen heartbeats.

Then my sister and Gebesture step from the hallway. Augusta looks well rested and calmer than I expected, walking up to me with a crooked smile. "Hey."

I give her a big hug and squeeze her tightly. "You've been a real fool, sis."

"Not today she hasn't." Gebetshure gently refutes while stepping over to a small cart filled with cups and a few pitchers. Starts to prepare a few drinks. "This one has ensured big choices and talks have been avoided. At least before breakfast was served."

A laugh barks out from Augusta. "That's true, yet I have been a fool recently. I'm trying to break the habit by listening to good advice. How about you? I felt those deaths yesterday."

"Rough. Very rough, but I'm working on it. Lynette had some advice on how to potentially alter the direction that my Names grow. Also... Lynette was attacked. By some sort of spellform shaped like a giant winged lizard."

"While we've rested to regain strength, she has pursued tasks unnamed. Both her own. And those she's obliged to hunt for the one now roused.." Verbess adds from behind.

"That's troubling... And I think I know the source which is a whole new problem too." Augusta states gravely. "Is Lynette... Doing okay?"

Verbess brims with countless emotions it has kept settled and unheard beneath its work keeping this Pack's song steady. "No. It was able to crack the shell and lay wounds beneath her Frame. Something made to resist the meddling of Divines and their kin. Namely yourself, Girra, and Sekrhús"

"Well, that's certainly a problem, because I'm almost certain it's our other sister?" Augusta responds with an edge of panic.

Gebetshure approaches, pushes a mug into Augusta's hands and offers me the other. "The sibling none seem to be able to speak of. Even our guest, Feryudra, seems to offer sparse twisty words about one amidst Sun-Blessed myth that could be this same entity. But did warn of possible attacks from those on Girra's behalf."

"You did not locate this sibling like you did Crux, and Warden only barely spotted this spell-woven adversary." My Sister clicks in annoyance. "It does not know if Lynette could, if her nudge to send its Sister away was to draw it out. But she has gifted Xafra a promise to call her into any conflicts or talks with this adversary, or any Sun-Blessed. If you seek to be included in that oath, you should speak with her."

"I couldn't find her... I believe she exists in a similar manner to how you did, Xafra. As for Lynette, I don't believe I deserve that privilege." Augusta admits.

"Well... I guess the day could in fact get even messier. My fault for thinking otherwise." I say with a bitter laugh. And… Augusta laughs with me, soon enough it turns to genuine humor that I bring to a gentle end. "Let me know before you do something next time, Please?"

She nods in agreement. "Of course. I'll let you get back to it, and bring over any relevant information once I write it up."

My Sister clicks, then asks. "One last question my sister is avoiding. You spoke of wanting to free Lynette, and your sister means to attempt to speak with Sekrhús today about this. Pointedly. Do you mean to stalk your goal separately, or work with your sisters and this Pack to a shared conclusion?"

"I'll contribute whatever I can with few exceptions to the cause. It is vital to be done and working together will be more effective." Augusta says firmly.

I hiss softly in annoyance. "I wasn't avoiding it, I was getting the other topics covered first. That being said, I'd be grateful for your help. Pretty much everyone in our family is a messy bitch so we need to work together to manage ourselves. Heh."

Verbess titters Quills in amusement and agreement, but remains silent otherwise.

I hug Augusta one more time before Verbess and I leave.

Return to Elevar's Spire. "Alright Prevoriis, we should be out momentarily. Is there anything you'd like to drink in the meantime?"

"Naw, but thanks." They decline from where they stand. Eyes carefully turning to us from where they were locked on Crux.

"I trust I don't need to give you the same warning I did Augusta?" I ask dryly as I sit back down.

"Hmm? Can't say Spooks shared anything with me in specific. But I can guess at a few you might have after eh... last night. Was quite the storm to wake up to." Prevoriis huffs, then offers apologetically with a shrug. "Wouldn't have been my first call in her position, working with the Murk that killed me. But... Well, I'm not the boss. What warnings you got for the new hire?"

"That if you try to imprison my little sister I'll ensure you feel all the suffering she does. And yeah. Sekrhús is a bleedin' disaster, but that comes with being a curse in the shape and memory of the girl you were used to murder. Morality is... Challenging for her to say the least."

"Understood. And it seems Spooks has passed her minding into more... patient, hands. So as long as the girl stays out of my work we won't have a problem." They agree with a raised hand in placation. "And that would explain why this place has all the steadiness of a sea-borne grakler turned loose in the jungles."

I laugh and offer a smile as I pull my Grakler frame through a Goreway and set it on the table. "I've been called worse in my day. If you'll give us a moment, I'll get the others."

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