Orlando
"It is quite alright... I understand... But you must not confuse a crush with love... Less you become obsessive."

*Esme's tone remains soft as she wishes to avoid sounding as though she is scolding him. But it is all too well that men and women have succumbed to this fate. Some simply laid eyes on her and became smitten immediately. A trait that was once shared between her and all of her sisters of the coven... Well maybe not all but the more trained and cultivated ones. To capture and embody beauty was to pay respect, for magic is beautiful and those wielding it shouldn't be anything less. So maybe the witches have a boon she was just never made aware. But she is no succubus and not every soul that sets their eyes on her falls. There's just been a few incidents.*

"And a witch I am, indeed. I would like to believe myself to be great at magic." *She responds with a chuckle as she gestures her head for Valac to get closer. The question is a bit silly but she dare not shame him for it.*

"As for fun, I play the flute and lyre. I dance too and heal things- though I guess the last part is more so my purpose and job. But what harm can it be to enjoy your work?" *She then answers honestly, now standing beside the tree as Sweet Tooth quickly scampers up.*

*The wood is still torn, sad even. Esme and the spirit can feel it and as her palm touches against it. The area around her hand glows a soft blue. A sign that the tree is receptive to her magic.*
"I sometimes adventure too, help adventurers who wander into these woods. I met a man named Noctis who wished to pass the trials here. Also, I am going to need your help."

*In truth, Esme can just heal this tree herself but she's going to let Valac experience the sensation of repairing something rather than breaking it. With her hand extended out. Esme gives a nod as her smile beams, beckoning him to take it and stand by her side. He sees himself a demon and perhaps it is true, there is a darkness that surrounds him. Yet Esme believes as quickly as someone or something can break something. They can also create and remake. Every living being is capable of that and Valac will learn in time. At least she hopes he will. But for now, she will have to just channel her magic through him to allow the tree to repair.*
Michael
*He understood that what he had developed was a crush, yet his eagerness to make something of it was shrouded under a charade, maintaining a conserved look. Not exuding any sense that he wanted to expand on it. With her gesture to approach closer, Valac was hesitant at first, and finally jogging over. He was by her side, close enough where he can hold her hand, but made no attempts to do so.* 

"Can... You teach me? Maybe later..." 

*He requested, since not only would he be-able to improve his control, and maintain a level headed manner in his true form, he would get to see her face more often. Hearing what she did for fun, he rubbed his chin thinking for a moment. With their approach of the tree, hearing her mention Noctis, he raised an eyebrow, his lips forming a smile upon hearing his comrade's name.* 

"You've met my comrade?" 

*With her hand extended out, he speculated that he had to take hold of it. His grin changed to that of awkwardness, that lingering feeling still remained within his heart. He slowly brought his hand out, it trembled slightly. His face made apparent that he was growing slightly flustered, a pinkish rose hue slowly developing over his cheeks. He then grabbed it, breaking through his hesitation, and his own humility. It was a tender grasp.* 

"I... I would like to hear your music sometime..." 

*His voice was quiet, but audible. It was enough to be heard, but he can't help but feel that sensation grow in his heart. Quickly pacifying himself, looking determined rather than a flushed mess of embarrassment. He awaited for what may happen, his magic was of darkness. He may understand the feeling of healing, but he didn't know if it was possible with his abilities. He understood to an extent that there was healing capabilities with his magic, but it was self afflicted, rather than healing those. His body was a vessel, and growing used to such power, which allowed for the accelerated speed of regeneration, yet it came with a price.*
Orlando
"I can teach you now."

*Esme words come out like a song and even when Valac hesitates, she dares to act bold enough to grab hold of his hand even before he can truly commit. Her smile doesn't fade and her gaze is enchanting. It isn't a surprise that many believe that with just a single look, that the witch can cast spells and enchant those who are unsuspecting. Yet Esme would never be so cruel and as she lets out a girlish giggle, she gently tugs for Valac to get closer.*

"You know of him?" *She quietly asks as her soft touch moves upwards so that her hand may be placed on top of Valac's own. Letting out a small chuckle, Esme nods to the memory of their encounter and the trouble they had faced.*
"I met him when I was in town selling potions. He had come to take the trials- oh, well I already told you that, didn't I?"

*Then her gaze turns upwards to look into Valac's eyes. She is serenity itself and as her fingers weave their way inbetween his. Pushing her palm against Valac's, he would feel the wood of the old tree. It's rough back, the feeling of nature itself in contrast to her own smooth touch. A heat produced from her own hands as it courses partially through Valac's. Esme is casting magic and now that the link is created, she can have Valac properly assist her in healing to tree. Which is what she intends to do now as her gaze returns to the tree itself.*

"Perhaps I can play the lyre for you sometime. But for now I must ask you to focus."

*Oh how cruel the witch is to make such a demand. Focus when she is just inches from him, holding onto his hand with a touch so intimate that it is likely to steal his breath away. Do not give into obsessive emotions she had claimed. Yet the smell of rosemary swirls around them and Esme is so close, Valac may even be able to hear or at least feel her soft thumping heart. As she stands behind him, guiding him all the way so that the tree may recover.*
Michael
"Interesting!" 

*He was enthusiastic hearing that she had met Noctis. He never thought his comrade would be acquainted with her, after all they were travelled to the Eternal City, but it was more for Noctis rather than for himself. As he felt his desire for wanting to discover what he was fading, due to his awakened power, and in addition to meeting Esme. Trying his best to disregard the sensations he was getting. He prioritized his focus as she demanded, and remained concentrated at the task at hand. Her tug to bring him closer... Made his heart quickly race. He tried his best to ignore that "Infatuation", yet he can't help but want more, to do more. He maintained his focus, her distracting scent, and the soft thumping of her heart, he wanted this to last forever, yet he had to overcome this sensation. Even if it was temporary that he would isolate himself from thinking that. His mind now devoid of thought, and darkness began to swell from within him. 

His mana began to emanate from his body, and retained a keen sense in order to follow her instructions. His clasp on her hand, though tender, would tighten slightly. He didn't want to let go of her. Cracks of darkness would soon form on his hand, creating a demonic, and wicked design. It seemed that small tendrils of darkness would slowly develop and wrap around her palm. It wasn't crushing, rather just a grip. Not uncomfortable, yet not enough to remove the grasp. What he emitted felt wicked, but it had hints of contrasting sensations. Warmth, and softness, flexibility. It was unusual that something wicked would emit something that wasn't destructive... Yet clingy.*
Orlando
"Good."

*Perhaps to Valac's surprise, Esme does not seem afraid or even averse to the darkness that forms. She is a twilight witch, they are raised to balance light and the dark. At least that is the idea. They are the embodiment of contrast for equilibrium is truth. Which is why as her hand remains wrapped around his, that very light begins to appear. At first it is like a blue flicker of a flame. Warm but not hot as if to burn. It slowly inches its way into the darkness, as if to quell it. It doesn't serve to hate it, rather, it tries to dance with it. For life is both light and dark, the tree must know such.*

"Let it flow through you and as you close your eyes, see what the tree should be... See it as it was, see it as... Better."

*Her words are in a whisper, a deep yet soothing tone that tickles the ears. Guiding him through the process, step by step. As she does, that blue light begins to spread across the wood of the tree as energy that once coursed through Esme and Valac, is now coursing through the tree. Moss starting to grow, small sprouts of white blossoms growing at their feet. The roots of the tree itself now glowing gold.*

"And most importantly, have confidence in your ability. If you wish it to heal, then it shall be healed. Do not sway in this thought... Imagine... The sweetest thing you can, the desire to hold onto it and never let it go."

*It is clear she is passionate about this topic and is ready to make up for any lost magic if Valac falters. Her heart rate increases as the winds around them begin to increase. A second sign of the weave being called upon, answering to their plea. Nature is healing, thriving with Esme's presence and there is nothing but the faint feeling of... Well as if the season of spring has been captured and put into their palm. The freshness, the luke-warm feeling pressed against their skin.*
Michael
*He understood the objective, and imagined for the tree to its former self, how he saw it in its previous state. Not tainted, yet just as the object of non-hostility. A regular tree. He channeled his magic, with his imagination thinking of the tree to be better, but when she had stared to imagine the sweetest thing he can... He only had one thought in mind. One that caused him to focus entirely into. He thought of Esme, yet his concentration did not falter. The darkness within began to spin, swirl, and pulsate. His focus was maintained, only thinking about the restoration of the tree, and how it originally looked, along with thoughts of Esme flooding in his mind. 

Feeling his mana slowly sap from him, with his patience beginning to dwindle, maintaining his contact with Esme, it proved to be far more challenging that he had initially anticipated. Not because the task at hand was much of a challenge, rather to maintain focus. Her voice, her speech, her touch, all soothing, wanting him to falter, his liking of her growing within his chest. He approached slightly closer, bringing her hand up to his chest. As if clasping onto it, and holding onto it, never letting go just as she instructed.

His mana began to rush out intensely, and created a shade of darkness around him, an aura of which that seemed to be distorting around his very being. Following her instruction, and the longer this would last, this trial, the more challenging it would be to maintain focus. Though, no mana was expended or dispersed as waste. He had practiced a lot, and that was thanks to Noctis that he was able to achieve this feat without much difficulty. His breathe maintained a shallow calm, and he kept his eyes closed, not completely shut. Relaxed. Maintaining a coolheaded demeanor even if his hearts raced, pounded from the sensations he was feeling. She can even feel it, that he had many hearts, all with multiple beats, as if he wasn't just a single being. Proof that he wasn't a human.*
Orlando
*As a bolt of energy sways its way through the grooves of the wood, filling in the cracks and raising to the drop of the tree. Where the slash had been made, green flourishes outwards, leaves swaying in the wind as they are taken to the heavens. The tree itself repairing as its foliage above spans greater than any tree present in the area. Small flowers cover around its roots, creating a seabed of beauty. As if the tree itself is breathing, the leaves on it shimmy and one could dare say believe it is giving gratitude... But in it's own plant-y way.*

*Was the job is done, Esme is remaining in her smiling state. She slowly begins to pull her hand away from Valac, taking a step back and her warmth around him fades. Her magic no longer coursing through him and the smell of rosemary lessening. As her golden gaze opens, she sees a proud sight. Very few to care about a living organism that is made of plant matter. But it is her job to oversee all here, not just those who can sprout legs and walk. Small white puffs now float in the air, pods produced by nearby dandelions.*

"You have done well." *Esme chirps at Valac while her spirit flies up and begins celebrating the recovery of the tree.*
"Your heart was pounding, I do hope you were not nervous."

*In truth, Esme still isn't sure what to make of Valac. He obviously isn't human but it is truly hard to understand creatures that she is not. Even with the fae, it has taken her over a hundred years to grasp them. Yet even now she dare not say she knows every intricate detail about them. Multiple hearts? She would know better than to assume it were just her imagination. But she dares not comment on it either.*

"If anything, I do hope that you can rid yourself of guilt."
Michael
*With the tree now restored, the dark like tendrils would began to remove themselves off of her hand with her trying to pull away. He lets go of her hand, as much as he wanted to maintain that touch. Holding hands. His eyes opened up, some tinge of melancholy in his eyes, not in concern for the tree rather... That the touch was temporary. There was a lot he wanted to spill, a lot that had welled within, but suppressed it deep within him.* 

"I am glad that I was able to do something... Yet, I wanna do more for you." 

*It is not of guilt that influenced his desire to do more. Rather, it was just the desire to see her, and aid. Regardless of what it maybe. His look was not of guilt, but of joy. Even if there was a lingering sadness it wasn't from anything correlated to the tree, or his mistake. What was done was fixed, yet the dark fae remained. He placed his hands behind his back, looking still slightly bashful... Eager to ask to hold hands again, yet he felt it was too much of a demand on his part.* 

"A-and... Can you teach me?" 

*Referring to magic. He knew that this was a meager first step in concentration, but he knew of it. He wanted to aid her, but also wanted to learn from her. He only had a few thoughts racing in his mind, the first was to help her in whatever she needs, the second was to learn magic from her, and the third was to hold her hand again... Or even obtain an embrace. Even with his suppression, his multiple hearts, and behavior really proved a challenge to retain conservation after holding her hand for a few moments. Swinging his hand from his back all the way up to his face. The same hand he held Esme's with. He opened and closed his hand, he looked with a goofy smile. That filled with slight deliriousness and intense euphoria. It showed that he still had that "Infatuation". He stood before her, and close in front of her, but enough to not be burdensome, or uncomfortably close. He knew that...*

*She probably wanted him to leave, but he really didn't want to. Not yet at least.*
Orlando
*Esme is quiet for a moment as she thinks over his words. There are reasons she goes alone, not that she sees herself as some heroine of the forest. But there are ancient magics here paired with the fact the dangerous tend to spike depending on what part of the maze they're in. That in truth, Esme doesn't want anyone getting hurt. Hell, half of the time she avoids what she can as not even the witch is completely safe from the horrors in the deeper layers. Even if she wanted help, she simply wouldn't allow it.*

"I appreciate your eagerness. But there is no reason to feel owed and aspire to do more."

*In her eyes, Valac likely still holds guilt over what he had done. Her acts are selfless. Healing and watching over him truly means little to her. As long as he is alive and safe, as with the many others she has helped, then the witch is content. Which is why another reassuring smile is shown on her face, her hands clasped together as she offers him a small curtsy out of respect. He need not be obligated anymore. His guilt should fade now as he has done what he can.*

"You have helped repair the tree. This, you have my thanks-"

*Then she is taken aback by the sudden request for just a moment. Esme slightly expected him to take his departure now that the tree is healed. He did ask about magic prior but she didn't know if true learning is what he wanted. A disciple? Esme has never had one and she isn't sure if she is qualified to have one. This causes her to hum, conflicted as she reaches up and rubs the back of her neck. Her gaze flickers over and caution is shown, as if she is aware that he still is moved by infatuation.*

"I can teach you some tricks, sure. But my magic is under the study of the old elves. It would take years to master and while I may heal, I have never truly... Tutored." *She nervously chuckles as a small orb of light appears in her hands.*
"You'll need to be a bit more specific on what you wish to learn if you wish to be taught."
Michael
"... But I wanna..." 

*He cut himself off, almost about to speak what truth lies within. As to why he wanted to help her. His right hand quickly placed onto his shirt, grasping its cotton, and forming wrinkles with his grip. Frowning with an exhale released from his nose. It showed his hesitation to say more, knowing the words she'd repeat. The ones he didn't want to hear. Listening to her, he explained as to what he desired to learn from her.* 

"I want to expand that form that you saw previously... I want to be-able to control my power, mitigate the damage it afflicts onto me... I want to learn how to use it more properly... I want to strengthen my darkness."

*Referring to his darkness, in addition to that form she witnessed, his request was to learn how he can obtain more control over his form to mitigate the damages he slowly gains from maintaining in that form. He didn't know what to make of his infatuation, but he wouldn't discard it. He wouldn't want that... For some reason he wanted to maintain that. Even if considered an infatuation, he wanted to learn every bit of her, everything she liked, everything she did. 

He soon kneeled before her, filled with gratification that she would be willing to teach him, and he hoped she can teach him what he desired to know. Knowing that if this where to occur, it would be easier to protect those he cares for. Mostly, in particular, Esme. Regardless if it was mere infatuation, this obsession drove him to have desires he never felt before.* 

"I am thankful... And I hope to be in your care... But I'd also like to help you out, not because of owing, but... I just want to help. Whether it be a chore, or something in correlation with your duty."

*He wanted to change that infatuation into something else. He was eager to expand upon it, discover it, and assess it. A mere crush, he wouldn't abandon that emotion. That feeling. He slowly got up, and seemed to be filled with an intense euphoria.*

*He offered her his aid, and it wasn't of debt, or guilt that he wanted to help her. He just wanted to do this out of kindness. Something that he has yet to do ever, all he had thought of through his entirety was to pay off his debts, and instead he just wanted to do something nice.*
Orlando
"I see..."

*It is evident from Esme's expression that she is uncertain about what to do. As her spirit floats back down towards her shoulder, the two exchange a small glance before looking back at Valac. She has... Been alone for over 150 years. She could easily classify as a hermit if she didn't actually leave for the town from time to time. Potion has been her saving grace in that regard. Otherwise, the witch would have long gone mute. These what-ifs do not help her come to a conclusion though. A disciple is... Well what one would expect. She doesn't have a second room, a dorm for him to stay and faint whispers from the past tend to gnaw at her. Itching at her neck and obnoxiously whispering in her ear.*

*Boys like him... Her coven would...*

"I know not of what it means to truly teach..." *She promptly interrupts the thought, biting the inside of her cheek as she averts her gaze.*
"I mean, of course I can teach some practices on how to cultivate- well I can teach a lot of things but... The correct way of going about it..."

*The witch begins to over think and now she is in her own world, mumbling to herself as she tries to grasp for straws on what to do. This place is dangerous and unlike the coven, where once the witches settled under the protection of the great grove. Esme has a single hut that is a safe haven because... She's there. Valac is not only a stranger but a demon. Such housing would be an insult to the forest whether or not Esme sees him in a positive light.*

"Here..." *Suddenly, she stops as she straightens out her form so that she may retain proper posture.*
"If you are truly adamant about training your magic. Then you must pass three tests. The test of willpower, the test of knowledge, and the test of resistance."

*This way Esme can truly know that the reason for Valac's staying is for learning. How many times have lost souls fallen victim to their own emotions? Setting eyes on the witch and declaring love under the guise of teaching? Esme can never be too careful and given her stance on love as a whole, it is not a pain she wishes for him or anyone else. If he can pass these tests, not only will it prove his capability of training under her. But show her that his head is in the right place... Or at least that is the idea. What will truly drive Valac to complete them is entirely up to him.*

"Understood?"
Michael
"I will do my best, Esme!" 

*He said with pride, he was willing to pass what trials she would hurdle at him. He had endured 200 years of survival, suffering, and endurance. Another trial of such endurance would be nothing to him is what he believed. He wasn't overwhelmed or swelled with an ego, rather, he believe he had the capabilities of passing the test. Not that of flying colors, but of that to be enough to past. He was pessimistic, but he believed that he can do it. His darkness suppressed what was negative emotion, causing some spur in confidence, yet also rationality. 

He would not fall to his emotions, even though he was heavily influence to favorite and have a feeling of endearment toward Esme, he cannot give in. He determination was what drove him to take the three tests. His pessimism grant him speculation of believing it would prove to be a challenge. Yet, through that determination, gave a grin, that fueled with excitement. Not from exuding confidence, rather... He was excited to embark on this challenge. He finally spoke, his tone mellow, and what he wanted clear in his mind.* 

"I apologize for my eagerness, and excitement... I am the kind of person who likes challenges, as throughout my entirety the only thing I've faced was challenge. Even if I'm pessimistic, I will do my best to prove that I am worthy."
Orlando
"Good... Good... Then I implore you to prepare yourself. I know not of where you hail from but at least get supplies at the nearby town."

*Esme knows that there are still extreme dangers to all three tests. Anything involving these woods comes with a certain amount of dread that something, at any point, can happen. It may not always be guaranteed but the longer one stays, the higher the risk. Knowing this, Esme has no intentions on just sending Valac off blind. That would be cruel and unfair. She will do what she can to prepare him.*

"In two days time the great spirit tree will be revealed. In here there are three great lakes, each one representing the test." *She continues to speak as she gestures for him to follow her.*
"You will know how to get to them by the moon blossoms that grow at night- which you will want to come at night."

*As she walks, those white flowers continue to sprout under her feet. With one hand in the other, there is still some initial concern on her features. His excitement is good, great even. But she knows not of his temperament and based off of what the spirit had told her. Perhaps Valac could easily lose himself if the conditions are right. This is a worry and not only for him, but for the surrounding forest as well. Even if she wanted to be there, she cannot. If he is to learn magic under her then she will teach him the way she was taught. At least somewhat. Her and her sisters were not even told of the great lakes but simply to find them.*

"Speaking of- where is it that you hail from? Have you no family?" *She asks, her lips turned into a slight frown. He seems alone, lonely to a certain degree and she knows he has mentioned this prior.*
"You even spoke of Noctis, your comrade. Do you not travel with him?"
Michael
"Alright... I will do so." 

*He stated with affirmation. He nodded in compliance that he'd prepare in 2 days. He would prepare himself by then, not only train, but obtain the supplies needed for mandatory survival. He knew that it would take awhile, yet his body was far different than what is human. She had felt his multiple hearts before, knowing that there were more than just one, his survivability, his body had evolved to endure extremely harsh environmental conditions. Her question in regards to his family and where he hailed from, his demeanor and facial expression contorted to that fueled with melancholy. He answered her, knowing that what was in the past was in the past. That he cannot change, and for that he would not be weighed down by such emotion. After a moment of sad expression, his face would retain monotony, and look partially grey in its complexion.* 

"I have no family... I was never really born... I was created, summoned... And in regards to Noctis, I'll return to him later." 

*Her mention of Noctis, he gave an affirmative nod. Each had their own ideas at hand, as much as Noctis was his ally, he had his own desires too. He will return to him later, but at the moment, he wanted to develop himself... Including that of his infatuation with Esme. He wanted to make it more than just a mere crush, expand further than just being that of desire. He longed for wholesomeness, longed for something he had never experienced, and wanted to experience it. Even if he didn't express it with words, nor exuding through his appearance or actions, deep within, that was what he craved.* 

"I do travel with him, but... I can return to him. It isn't too difficult... And even if the trial takes days, even weeks... I am willing to do so. He has his ambitions, and I have mine. I want to aid him, and this is my first step to become stronger, in order to be his equal, and return that favor. No matter how long it takes."

*What he had stated was partially true, first that he wanted to become Noctis's equal, and wanted to return the favor with his own abilities and power. The other part, is that he wanted to see Esme, and wanted to retain her in his life. It may be mere infatuation, but he would not abandon that. Regardless of how many women he meets, his wanting of Esme far surpassed those of others. He wished to work for it, and earn it. Regardless if her duties may come in the way, he wanted that. He was determined, and if someone were to get in the way of his desires, he would either go around that obstacle, or eradicate it completely.*
Orlando
"I see... I can assure you that the trials- well they are timed. So maybe that isn't reassuring."

*Esme finds herself biting her bottom lip as she slowly regrets bringing up these trials. Her heart rate begins to quicken and she isn't sure if having anyone go through them again is... Is right. Her gaze flickers over towards Valac and then dances back towards the path in front of her. Walking alongside him as she has to fight every instinct in her to say never mind. To tell him to leave. It wouldn't be the first time and if she truly willed it. He would never see her again nor would he get the opportunity to actually prove himself. But this is not a choice she gets to make for him.*

"You must finish all three in a night. I am sure you have heard of the haze. It will be present. If you cannot complete them, you could be trapped in-between the lands between... At least that is what we called it."

*The forest of spirits is a peculiar place. Fae are abundant, illusions wild and dreams free. It is a place perfectly pulled from a fairytale. Yet it is also coated in a strange aura, like a land stuck in between time. Never changing, never expanding nor will it shrink. Fitting for Esme to live here but her words describe an idea more so of a limbo. A place of neither life nor death, to eternally roam. Not even a demon can be spared from that and again, she finds herself questioning why she even brought this up in the first place.*

*Carefully ducking her head down as she moves past the hanging vines from above. Where the trees now shimmer in a breath taking indigo color as the light reflects off of the verdant ground underneath them. Esme can see the edge. A walk like this only took minutes yet when Valac first entered, he was in here for a great deal of time. Esme's home... It should be a lot deeper than this yet they have arrived so fast.*

"Magic is a test of the mind and body. I don't think you need me to tell you that you likely cannot brute force your way through the trials." *She finishes with a sigh, now crossing her arms as she leans against a nearby tree.*

"The maze will also work against you Valac. So I will ask you again... Are you sure this is the path you wish to take to learn magic? You need not answer right now, the answer will be given either way should you partake in the trials. It can get you what you want, your desires. But it will be difficult, perhaps near impossible. But being near does not mean that it **Is** Impossible."
Michael
*Her statement that he would be trapped in the lands between, assuming that was within reality, he felt intense hesitation. `The Voice` whisper in his ear, it would speak that fueled with hatred, though Valac remained determined and unwavering:"We shall not be stuck in that state again... You better reject...", even though what it said was heavily influenced on his mind, he had his own choice. He was determined to make it happen. He wanted to ensure success, regardless of the challenge. He began to grin widely, his excitement fully evident at this point. He didn't care what the voice said, and instead he was eager to finish this as quick as possible. Not only to train, but... To see Esme.* 

"I will do whatever it takes... I am willing to take that risk. Even if my chances are to be sealed in a purgatory which seems inescapable, I won't falter... If I can make it, then I can-" 

*He ceased himself, before quite the pink hue would develop across his cheeks. Realizing what he was about to say next, and instead swallowed it down. It cannot let those words escape from his lips. Those were words that had grand weight to it. He was slightly frustrated with himself for having such a desire. That desire is incomprehensible to express, even difficult. If he said it out loud, he knew the situation would flood with awkwardness, and embarrassment. So he kept it within.* 

"I will take my leave now... And prepare... I'll be back... Esme..." 

*He spoke get his tone was filled with endearment when referring to her name. With him now beginning to walk off he only thought of one thing. One impulsive thought that began to beat within his mind:"Must protect, must court". He grew quickly flustered upon his own thought and quickly went from a walk to a run. Utilizing his darkness to amplify his speed to make a hasty way out of the forest, all for preparation and to learn how he would m- develop his magic.* 

**Two days later**

*Upon the moonlight, which outshone even the brightest stars, making itself most apparent in the void of sky, its luminous glow shined over the great woods. That which would complicate, and form a maze that proves difficult to traverse, yet a bat-like creature would be seen throughout the sky, flying over the luscious brush of the forest in order to reach the appropriate location. Holding a large bag, darkness sprouted from the figures back, creating wings similar to that of a grow, yet consuming what light was glazing upon it. 

Similar to a void that would consume all light, even that of the moons. The figure was Valac, and had enough supplies to last him an entire month. His body really needed one thing, and that was energy. A lot of food, which would grant his regeneration, and to sustain a stable mind rather than going berserk like he used to back when he only knew of isolation. When he only endured starvation. He flew over the magical forest in hopes to find where he is required to be, all to complete the trial he was set to do. He seemed slightly nervous, not wanting to make a mistake in his efforts of wanting to achieve great power to protect his allies. In addition to seeing Esme again. Knowing that this would be something he'd have to embark alone. This would be his trial. His challenge. No one else's... He had to utilize the whits and intelligence in order to obtain what he desire. 

Even if the risk far outweighed the pros of it, he had his own set of ideals that made him believe this to be worth it in the long run. Not only for his desire to expand and change his infatuation, but to learn more, to achieve new heights.*
Orlando
*Two days ago Esme had seen Valac off. Two days ago as the forest closed it's gates to him, in between the cracks of those doors was a gentle woman who held no malice in her eyes. A smile that outshined the sun itself and a soft touch that lay imprinted on his hand. Where they had touch the broken tree, a new light had flourished. Though it was not long ago Esme seems so far out of reach now. Like a long lost memory that can only be clung onto in mind. Small sensory images that resemble her, the smell of rosemary that surrounds her yet... She is not here.*

*No, Valac is alone and this time there is no small spirit to linger around to assist him. No witch, no dark fae and no haze... At least not yet. The moons light cannot even peek past the thick tree canopy above. The air here is thick and the pressure around is dense. The muscles will feel unusually sore even without being engaged with. But not all is completely cast in dark. For as Esme had told, the great spirit tree is revealed though Valac cannot see it quite yet. It's roots span through the woods themselves, indicated by faewood that spirals from the ground. Twisting and coiling through the land itself with bits of blue moss growing on them. But that isn't all for even crystals that produce a light even have managed to grow from the ground.*

*In just two days the landscape has completely shifted. No... Perhaps it has always been this way but the forest just did not want to allow him to see it. Then there is that familiar smell... Rosemary.*

*Her words echo like soft whispers of the wind. Find the three lakes. The* ***Lake of Willpower***, *The* ***Lake of Knowledge***, *And the* ***Lake of Resistance***. *Each one a test in their own way as their names suggest. But Esme never clarified if he needed to go about these tests in a specific order. In fact, she was oddly vague with the exception of mentioning he should look for the blue moon blossoms. It is the only flower that blossoms at night so it shouldn't be too difficult to find.*

*Right?*

*Either way, Valac will need to find them and find them quickly. Should the moon fall and the sun rise, he will fall to a fate worse than death and not even the sweet witch can save him. In front of him are old, worn ruins with small bodies of water next to the rubble. Another secret it seems the forest did not wish to show him. Perhaps there are hints here... Perhaps...*

*On their walls are old elven spirals. Words? No, it is a mural. But it is broken apart and only a small fragment of it remains. Showing a long and slender serpentine beast making its way forwards. Its mouth open, fangs ready to strike... To strike at what? The mural is cut off from here.*
Michael
*As Valac, similar to a small bat within the heights of the night sky, as it had just begun, would soon make his fall impending toward the notable area. In which he believed his trials will begin. He recalled what Esme said, those specified flowers. The ones that only bloomed during the night. His descent became fast, quickening with every moment. Almost becoming a black comet homing within the area. 

From above, if one looked from below. The sound of whistling can be heard, the sound of wind screeching before a loud boom. Air dispersing everywhere with wings expanding breaking the speed. Almost like a parachute which slowed his fall to the ground. Even if it was a loud boom, which even shook the trees, his landing was that of tenderness. He finally spoke, holding a sack beside him. That of supplies required to survive awhile.* 

"I am here, and I am honored to bask in your greatness." 

*He referred to the woods, apparent of the beast. He made no regards to it, and instead focused on the task at hand, unless the serpent proved bothersome. He began to seek for what Esme mentioned. That particular flower. He needed to find it efficiently, as time was of the essence. He knew that the forest rejects him, and would place him in a sort of maze, shifting across to make it a challenge for him, but he maintained his composure, reviewing the area. Yet specifically trying to note if there was that flower Esme has mentioned.* 

"Now... Where is it..." 

*He began to reminisce in his own thoughts, wondering what exactly would be most apparent when she had stated that previously. A flower that only blooms during the moonlight. He knew of the consequences of this failure, and would prove a challenge. He knew that his failure would end with something tragic. Something eternal, and something he cannot hope to release himself from.*