Timothy
*Through the greenery of the edge of the woods, late afternoon light dappled the ground with spots of yellow warmth. The spring was bountiful, full of greenery and blooming life. What a blessing, the spring was. Through this scenery wandered a wood elf, making her way in the world the only way she knew how: trekking through the natural world. Aylera had decided to camp in the area for the night, resting in a comfortable place before she began to head to more developed settlements. She meandered through the underbrush, her steps light. She carried a light pack, equipped with only the essentials. Hopping over a fallen log, Aylera turned her attention to the trees above. Using her spear as a walking stick, the woman made her way along a worn deer path, eyes flicking between the beauty of the natural world and the shadows where her senses always seemed to need to double-check.*

*Out here, there was no need for anything else. Foraging for food was the least of her worries at this time of year. On her way to find a formidable tree to set up in, the elf had collected a variety of wild fruits, nuts, and vegetables. A promising oak appeared at the edge of the tree line, and Aylera made her way to it. A swift unpacking allowed the elven woman extra time to patrol for game before lighting a fire. Her setup was simple, consisting of only a hammock constructed of woven cloth and leather ropes, with a leather cover to make it into a small tent if the weather demanded. Today, it did not. That leather was instead left in a roll as a pillow, resting with a gentle sway in the soft spring breeze. Once she completed her minimal work, Aylera set out once more.*
.

*Wandering into the nearby forest, the woman paused to fill her waterskin in a small stream. The gentle burble was a soothing sound, one that she associated with peace. She glanced about, the shadows of the canopy beginning to grow long with the descending sun. The sky turned rich and golden, glinting off the cool rushing water. Aylera took this moment to pause, allowing herself a moment to praise Alynthi, for creating such a magnificent scene. She also praised the natural world itself, for it was the plants and creatures within it that allowed it to persist and thrive. As she clasped her hands together for prayer, a slight movement caught her eye. It came from a shadow deeper into the forest, but she could make out no sign of the creature other than her instincts coming alive. The elf observed and decided it was nothing more than a trick of the light.*
*On her way back to her small camp she managed to catch an unfortunate hare, as well as gather a bit of wood for a fire. As much as she disliked taking lives, the hare population this spring seemed to have exploded, and she would make sure it was honored for its sacrifice. By the time the sun had set, she had her dinner roasting over a small fire, accompanied by a few herbs and the produce she had accumulated on her way. She had excess, which was slightly irritating- given the teachings of the House of Elk to never take more than one needs, but she could leave an offering to the forest, thanking it for its bounty. She occupied her hands and mind by preparing the skin of the hare to save its fur, weaving a small basket of grass for these offerings, and periodically checking on her dinner's progress. By no means was she a perfect chef, but she was not one to waste resources by burning them.*
.

*Again, out of the corner of her eye, Aylera could have sworn that she had seen another slight movement. She paused and turned her head. The nighttime sounds of crickets and crackling fire soothed her nerves and after staring into the forest shrouded in shadow, barely illuminated by the waning moon, she decided again that it was nothing. She returned to her work, attempting to keep her mind free of unnecessary worry. Either way, she kept her spear close, her bow and quiver resting on the hammock. There was no mistake as grave as being unprepared, after all.*
May
*Dulcinea had been traveling through the forest most of the day. Having gotten lost more than they wished to admit once again as it was just a common thing for them at this point. Not knowing the area good enough caused its problems for easily getting lost or turned around and just simply wasting time. With the now setting sun coming Dulcinea was unable to find a village to stay in for the night and would have to make camp in the forest. They weren't exactly happy with having to do this but decided it could be okay as well since they would be able to observe the stars a bit if they climbed up into a tree high enough.

Having no way of easily seeing the map anymore and having lost all type of direction they would simply walk through the forest. One of the plus sides for being a scathis was not having to need food as a othet species did. Dulcinea didn't really know how that even worked but it did work in their favor in nights like this as they didn't need to stop to eat or go foraging for food. Though they did know a few things about plants to help out if needed to when having company with a guide. Trying to act normal was usually best because no one asked if you had food and seemed like you were eating it.

As it got darker Dulcinea would decide to let the hood of their cloak be down. As far as they knew no one else was around so they felt safe enough to not be hiding under the cloak. Letting their dark purple to black hair get caught up in the cool night breeze. It was nice getting to enjoy the cool breeze and feel less like someone would find them. It was always something that made them feel on guard always since there been too many times they been told the stories of what could happen to a scathis that revealing what they were became something they wouldn't do ever. Only one person knew what they really were but that was far back in another town so it didn't matter now.*

*Dulcinea looked around a bit as they continued to walk. Trying to find a good tree to climb was becoming a bit difficult. They wanted to see the stars as being a constellation type they felt more connected to the stars and galaxy than anywhere else. Maybe it was just because of how they looked. They didn't really know, they wouldn't be paying too much around them as they explored as they were wanting to find that perfect place to see the stars. Not realizing they were not alone in this area of the woods.*
Timothy
*Minutes passed before the telltale sounds of an individual walking through the woods peaked Aylera's attention once more. The elven woman had been calmly praying over her meal, sitting peacefully beside the dwindling flames. She opened her eyes to glance about, surveying the periphery of her vision to distinguish the source without giving herself away- assuming it was a threat. The coals crackled, sending a small cascade of sparks flying up into the cool nighttime air. There was nothing she could see, but nevertheless, Aylera stood, grabbing her bow and quiver as she moved. She took soft steps, moving carefully through the dim firelight, peering into the shadows of the forest.*

*Through the foliage, she spotted the figure in question. Aylera couldn't tell who nor what it was, but the individual was close enough to hear. Processing what she saw, the elven woman narrowed her eyes. They did not seem to carry a weapon, nor did they seem to be following a trail. Were they... Looking up? She couldn't tell what their intentions were, nor a possible reason as to why they were here, but either way they were indeed close- despite not having noticed her yet.*

"Who moves under the moonlight?"

*Her voice reverberated through the trees, the smooth syntax of the forest's dialect of elvish befitting its surroundings. Aylera lowered her bow, not wishing to instigate aggression, but continuing to anticipate it. It was unlikely to be another member of the House of Elk- there was no reason for patrols or travel at this time. She took a breath before speaking again.*

"I mean not to harm- unless that is your intention"

*There was no avoiding confrontation, it seemed. The figure seemed as well-intentioned as a mysterious individual wandering the woods alone at night could. The coals of the fire continued to pop and sparks now backlit Aylera's own shadow. A chill seemed to rush through her, a light cascade of cortisol that one could've sworn sharpened the vision.*

.
*There was no way around it, so she switched her language to common, albeit with a distinct accent that disrupted her attempt at sounding more sincere.*

"Traveller, the moon is bright, I see from afar you appear to mean not to harm. Neither do I."

*Her time spent studying common was long, yet she still felt the unfamiliar bluntness of its dictation bite her tongue. Aylera had honestly no inclination to practice until she had found herself summoned by Alynthi to travel. Then, she had regretted not doing so far sooner. If she had learned one thing from this journey already, it would be that communication truly is a talent worth honing, and she was far from perfect. Despite that, a bit of conversation from a kind stranger would do her good- if they were as kind as she was praying they were.*
May
*Dulcinea would be just enjoying the night till hearing someone speak. At first since it wasn't common they simply thought it was just the forest playing tricks on them. It wouldn't be a first time that they thought they had heard something and it was nothing at all. Though at hearing the voice once again but in common, Dulcinea would freeze up. Someone was there and they had their hood down. This would freak them out as they didn't want anyone to figure out what they were.

Could Dulcinea run? If they did would they get away? The stranger could be armed and probably easily attack. Dulcinea really felt on edge as they now felt trapped. They would decide to take a run for it though it quickly ended as Dulcinea would trip and fall down.

So much for a night under the stars. It just seemed to just keep going down hill. Dulcinea would just try to at the point hide their eyes. The darkness might be enough to hide them but they had forgotten about their horns and the glow that came from them just as their eyes did.*
Timothy
*Peering into the darkness, Alyera began to step forward, cautious not to offhandly cause any more harm than good. She blinked, eyes fixated on the figure- they seemed somewhat suspicious, but not to any grave extent. Apprehensive was a better word to describe them. Either way, the elven woman didn't feel they posed a threat. Now more than ever, she felt curious about them.*

"I mean you no harm- darkness feels oppressive yet, never does it lie. I assure you, there is nothing here that intends any ill will. At least- not that the moonlight touches"

*Her common felt clumsy, heavy with the intricacies of elvish flow rather than its intended efficiency. Hopefully, her point was made, she truly meant well. Perhaps this foreigner was here on some noble quest, a shadow of mystery amidst the nighttime soundtrack of the forest. Aylera lowered her bow, her vision adjusting to see more clearly. She didn't recognize the form, even through the darkness. It didn't seem elvish, let alone like those of her brethren, which automatically raised some questions.*

*As she surveyed, Aylera caught a glimpse of the eyes that lay beneath the figure's hood, softly glowing against their shadowed background. She narrowed her eyes, almost confused at the sight. She had heard of spells and potions that had the effect of illumination, but nothing such as this. Truthfully, she knew not of a race of creatures that resembled that either, at least ones that didn't hail from the mythos of the outside world. She really did need to travel more, but, it was her first time on her own since birth, the young elf barely had finished her training and had decided it best to leave, entirely alone, under the guidance and instruction of Alynthi. Surely this had something to do with her journey from the goddess, even if it were a simple conversation. Dropping her bow, she spoke again, raising her hands as the words left her lips.*

"I am unarmed, I assure you."
May
*Dulcinea kept down as they would try to control their breathing. This was bad, very very bad. They couldn't easily hide here. Not when the strange knew they were there. What were they going to do? They didn't know how to handle the situation as they were a but embarrassed and yet on edge with it all. Maybe they could still make a run for it? Sure they were on the ground at the moment but didn't mean they couldn't run. It honestly just didn't seem like it was their night at all.

Dulcinea would try and cover their horns after realizing that they would be showing up. They really did hate how their horns did that. It's why they usually kept then covered so as not to deal with that, yet here they were forgetting about such a thing. It all just was too much at the moment it felt like. They didn't believe they could trust the words of this strange. It could easily just be a ploy to make them put their guard down, and they weren't about to do that.

Dulcinea signed as they would try to get up slowly. If they were slow maybe they could just leave? Maybe they could go unnoticed. Wait! What were they thinking they could just use a rock or something to make a noise in a different direction! No, they were too panicked to do that... Dulcinea would just sit up and rub their head at this point as nothing was logical going on inside their brain. Too much worry was just a bad mix for someone like them. They couldn't keep their cool when they felt they had been discovered.*
Timothy
*Aylera continued to approach. She was cautious, speaking gently in the face of someone who was clearly distressed. The closer the elf got to the stranger, the more apparent it was that they were very much not a native resident of the area. In fact, she's never seen anyone who looked like they did- not even in her limited memory of childhood tales of mythos. Glowing... That was a new one. Aylera knew of bioluminescence, as well as a few magical sources of natural beings glowing, but none of which would look like this. It was simultaneously fascinating and intimidating. Still, they seemed too fearful to be a threat, right?*

"It's alright- are you lost? I know this place very well. I will not harm you."

*An almost tingle-like sensation called the elven woman's attention to the back of her mind. It felt as if bees were buzzing gently at the back of her mind, humming with charge. She blinked- unsure of what the sensation was. Again, her education had failed her slightly as she was entirely new to whatever this... Magic- or at least that's what she assumed it was- did.*

*As she got closer, Aylera's vision began to adjust better to the darkness, peering carefully under the hood of the stranger. She was within a socially-acceptable distance now, and that buzzing just felt ever-more present.*

"Good evening, ah- are you alright?"

*The fear from the stranger seemed to ooze off of them. It was concerning, really, how strongly they seemed to feel that they were in danger. Aylera did her best to maintain a neutral, if not kind face. Her curiosity was getting the better of her, though, as she continued to look at this odd person. It was her first experience with a race she was unfamiliar with, and she couldn't help but feel fascinated.*
May
*Dulcinea had gone to holding their knees close as they had tried to hide themselves. It was no use of course as they were noticed and approached. The stranger seemed kind but were they kind Dulcinea didn't know. They thought the darkness could be a friend tonight but it didn't seem so.

Dulcinea would try to hide their face, it wouldn't be something the strange would want to see, a void that only wad glowing eyes. No features to even look human. This is what scared others and make them fear the Scathis, especially when there was so few of them. Bad luck and such is what was associated with them. 

Dulcinea would shake their head, they didn't want to say they were lost. Sure they were but it wasn't something they wanted to tell. Speaking was the worst part, it's what really made a scathis seem evil. A voice that sounded like many speaking at once. Dulcinea couldn't write in order to speak and their common was bad a lot worse than this strangers. They had filled a book worth of them trying to speak with others.

Dulcinea would look up though at being asked if they were alright. They were hardly so, terrified was more like it but what could they do about it? It was a normal reaction for them with strangers. Their white eyes was all Aylera could see below the hood of this Scathis*
Timothy
*Aylera paused, taking in the sight before her. They... Didn't have a face- no, they had no features at all aside from their eyes. She was hard-pressed to make a definitive opinion of the stranger, but the sight of them did leave her at a loss for words. What* ***Was*** *She to say to such a person? She couldn't help but feel innately intimidated, albeit everything about this person's body language suggested otherwise.*

"No harm will come to you..."

*She attempted to sound reassuring, observing their responses carefully.*

"If you need help finding your way, I should feel honored to assist. You *Can* Understand me- yes? I- I apologize, if you don't wish to speak- or can't-"

*Aylera stopped herself there, stumbling over her words in a frankly feeble attempt to demonstrate her complicated feelings. She meant what she said, the woman wanted to help- she just wasn't sure how. She kept her distance now, staying still as she continued to observe.*

"I have made a small camp if you would like to join me- or I can point you in the direction you would like to go. I must say I know this area very well."

*As she spoke she gestured to the small, now barely more than coals, fire. Sounds of the night filled the chilled air around them, but Aylera could barely hear them over the sound of her own heart pounding in her chest. Who was she addressing? What were they? The wood-elven woman truly had no idea.*
Jamal
It probably won't be till tomorrow since I'm more tired as fighting off a cold right now
May
*Dulcinea would still be a bit caught up in their own state of fear. They didn't know what to do and it still just felt as if everything was turning into a big mess. Dulcinea would be trying to seem small with their knees up to their chest as they wrapped their arms around them. Maybe this was just how things ended for them. This all was just the spiral of fear talking.*

*Though after a bit they would start to listen and think a little rational. But they still were in a state of panic. Taking in this strangers words of having a camp they could join at and could get some help out of the forest. Maybe such a thing wasn't so bad? Dulcinea would unwrap their arms a bit as they thought it over a bit. The stranger really didn't seem bad but also Dulcinea could tell they didn't know what to make of this situation either.* 

*Dulcinea looked over at the now barely going fire, it didn't deem like much of a camp at this point. Though Dulcinea had also not planned for a fire themselves since they wanted to look at the stars. A fire wasn't really needed for them since their body just seemed to work differently. It also made a lot of normal interactions to not be so easy. What were they kidding? No interactions was ever easy or normal. That was just part of them being a scathis. Though maybe it would be okay for one night. They could leave if something became dangerous and they wouldn't be drugged since they didn't eat. Getting up slowly Dulcinea would look towards the camp. They could hide themselves with the cloak so it would be fine... Just the glowing eyes made it harder for them to hide their was some type of difference in them.*
Shirley
*Gently ushering the stranger over toward the fire, Aylera pulled a fallen log a few feet to make space for them. She dusted it off, and with a satisfied sigh, offered them a place to rest. She took some kindling to the fire speaking as she moved about, to not make them feel any more threatened. She was sure they were, judging by their body language- or, well, what she could make of it.*

"Is there somewhere specific you're trying to go? Or- perhaps a direction?" *Aylera paused and turned to the figure. Seemingly forgetting her manners.* Oh! Pardon my manner- my name is Aylera. I have not seen many others out here, aside from the guard that patrols some mornings and evenings."

*With a bit of help from a few breaths of controlled air, the fire began to bloom forth once again. Still, it was small, but it suited the pair.*

"So, about where you're traveling- ah, here."

*Taking the cover off of the end of her spear, she stepped a good few feet from her new companion for the night. In an open patch of earth, she drew a simple compass, peering quickly at the stars through gaps in the canopy to confirm her writing. She'd need to resharpen its carefully crafted edge again, but it wasn't like she was preoccupied with much else.*

"You can show me which direction you'd like to go. You can write too- if you'd like."

*On that note, the wood-elven woman covered and set her spear down gently, as well as gathering a few sticks. Unsure of which the stranger would like to use, she left them options.*
May
*Dulcinea would follow the stranger. They were still nervous but it would be alright. They just had to calm themselves down. Watching Aylwea pull over a fallen log for them before heading off to fix the dwindling fire. Dulcinea would sit down as they would watch. It was a rare occasion that they would sit with someone by the fire.

Dulcinea would listen to Aylera going on with the questions on where they might be going. It was a bit overwhelming but they would just sit and listen. It was good knowing that this stranger didn't want to know exactly what they were. After they would get done with the question and the fire was now more back to life Dulcinea would look into the fire. Their eyes glowing with the firelight though the rest was still hidden under the hood. 

They would tilt their head as they watched Aylera start to use their spear to make up a compass? That was just what they thought it was but didn't know. They could now start writing out answers they thought but didn't know if their writing would be very good.

Taking out their notebook to write in probably would work best, yes? Least that is what they thought as they would start to work on it. After a bit they would show their notebook to Aylera.* "I been trying to go to capital. I travel for a long time. Going to the find teacher. I'm Dulcinea. I don't know direction to capital." *Dulcinea hoped it wasn't too broken up to understand though that was also very possible.* "Aylera, pretty name. Sorry so scared."
Shirley
*The elf had continued to busy herself until she noticed the stranger writing. Aylera stepped closer again so that she could read the message. The writing of the stranger- of Dulcinea, was quite understandable. Despite the apparent language barrier, the two had successfully communicated, which caused a soft smile to ripple across Aylera's lips.*

"Ah, I see, thank you. It is a pleasure meeting you, Dulcinea. It is quite alright to be frightened, especially if you have been traveling without seeing a friendly face in a while. I can help you, do not worry."

*With that, the wood-elven woman made her way back to the compass she drew. From there, she peered up at the stars again, recalling the many maps she has memorized during her training.*

"Do you read the stars? I use the constellations to help me orient myself when I get lost. I know it's a bit difficult in the woods, but it can be done. Here-"

*She pointed herself toward the direction of the capital, almost due west from their location. Turning her head, Aylera as she spoke again, gesturing.*

"Just this way west and slightly south, it's a bit farther- perhaps a few miles. It shouldn't take more than a half-day if I'm not mistaken. There will be a paved path once you get closer, taking you right in. If you look at the stars..."

*She paused, turning her attention upwards at a particularly clustered set of stars, glittering in the clear evening air.*

"These- I do not know the colloquial term, but these... Stars point you where you need to go. If you get lost, look at them, as well as the sunset."

*With that, Aylera returned to the fire, sitting on a particularly plush bit of grass nearby. Her eyes remained on Dulcinea, awaiting a response. What a fascinating person to come across- there was certainly no one she had ever met in her feeble wanderings yet that could ever compare. She had a feeling this person was not a common sight either, wherever they had originated from, and she was just happy to help.*
May
*Dulcinea flinched slightly at having the elf get close. They knew they shouldn't be but it was hard not to when it had been a normal thing for them for a long time. At seeing Aylera smile they guessed that the text was understood enough. It wasn't great but it was still able to let them both talk. Least without using telepathy. They were really going to help? This was a bit of a relief as they didn't want to be lost in the forest for too long. It was also good to know a path would come about once they got closer to where they needed to go.

Aylera was very different from others they had met while traveling, she was friendly and also quick? That seemed about the right way to put it. Quick, quick with words and actions. Though maybe it was a normal thing for her race or it was just their personality? Aylera was also very kind, she didn't judge them for seeming to be different, though they also hadn't spoken or used telepathy which was always a change most didn't like because they got scared or thought it was more than just telepathy.

Dulcinea knew the stars quite well, it was something they had done through their years for a past time. They had gotten into trouble quite a few times for vanishing and making their parents worry. Though reading then to find her destination? Way having Dulcinea thought of that before, least they could have headed into the correct direction at least.

Dulcinea started to write once again as they thought of what to say, could they make what they wanted come out clearly? It was so hard when they didn't know any language well, but maybe it was easier just to ask?* "Have read stars, each tell story. Had not thought of using to find way though. Have Aylera done telepath? Talk with mind?" *They hoped the last part would be easy enough to understand. Some didn't get it right away and just jumping into someone head wasn't the best way to deal with it either. Dulcinea horns really were itchy lately, but pulling down their hood wasn't a good.*
Shirley
*The sounds of springtime filled the seemingly reverberating silence that was this one-sided conversation. Aylera didn't find it a bad thing, she was just happy to communicate. The crackle of wood sending sparks soaring was a comforting one, accompanied by a brisk breeze, and bugs beginning to emerge. How interesting was Dulcinea, quite the foreigner to the wood-elven woman. As she read, she nodded along. The stars were filled with quite fascinating mythos, The House of Elk had instilled a great sense of marvel at them in her.*

"They do indeed."

*Now, telepathy was another story. She had heard of it, certainly, but it was so shrouded in mystique it almost sounded like a myth itself. Sure, it was indeed possible, but it was most certainly unexpected. Although thinking about it, this person with glowing eyes* ***And*** *Horns was just as unexpected. Aylera reacted with that surprise, attempting to stifle it slightly to not be abhorrently rude.*

"Telepathy- well, I haven't done it. I know of it, I've heard stories- but it is quite rare I believe. I'm sorry- pardon my surprise."

*She let the awkwardness of her reaction settle with a laugh to offset the distaste.*

"Anyhow- is that how you... Speak? If so I'd be honored to... Hear you? To speak with you would be lovely, this language is not a very lovely one on the tongue, no?" *Aylera joked, but agreed with her own sentiment. Common was not her mother tongue either, but she doubted the two shared the same native language. Despite that, speaking was arguably better than writing, especially with the differences between the characters of various languages.*
May
*Dulcinea wrung their hands a bit after listing to Aylera. They didn't know if they should use telepathy or not. What if it turned out bad and they were scared of Dulcinea worse? Though they decided to just take the plung and tried to talk telepathic.*

*What Aylera would hear was her native language next* "Please don't get scared. I really don't mean any harm... Uh... Yes, this is how I can speak besides writing... It scares others less" *Dulcinea would shake their head as they looked down at their lap, this was now the point of finding out if it was going to be okay or not.

They really didn't want to have someone scared or hating them right now. It was also hard to fully think with how their horns itched but they knew if Alyers saw their face it would be the end. No one would want to see a void with nothing there at all. Least no one had yet to besides their parents. They wished they weren't such a feared race just because they looked different than others would.*
Shirley
*The wood-elven woman turned her eyes up to the stars, letting her posture relax slightly. She wasn't afraid- more apprehensive. As she heard Dulcinea's voice fill their mind, she looked back at the shadowed stranger. She pursed her lips. The tingle she had felt previously seemed to match with the stranger's communicative abilities. Aylera made little movement with her body now, for fear of scaring them more than they already were.*


"I see. Fear not, I know you mean no harm at all. I assure you, I'm not scared." *Looking back to the stars above, Aylera gently flicked a piece of hair that had managed to come loose around her face.* "It's... Interesting, the way you speak. I must say, I've never met anyone quite like yourself. I suppose that explains why you're concerned about my opinions- and again, rest assured that I don't fault you for it. I surely don't know your story, nor you mine. I'd assume a bit of apprehension is to be expected, no?"

*A small smile touched her lips as she observed the constellations, the flicker of the fire reflected in her gaze. Aylera wasn't sure how impolite it would be to impose herself on the stranger's life. Yet, she couldn't quite fight the temptation of curiosity. If anything, she'd still like to help where she could. In her newfound devotion, being of assistance to others seemed the obvious choice to spend her time. She'd had enough contemplation over her own problems, it seems spring brings with it new prospects after all.* 

"Anyhow- you mentioned looking for a teacher, correct? And you're traveling all the way to the Capitol to do so?"

*The forest was all she knew, it'd be good for Aylera to do some traveling as well. She couldn't help but wonder if the world had treated Dulcinea kindly, given her fear. Clearly not, but she hoped all the same. At the very least, Aylera hoped to be a kinder face.*
May
"My... Voice is hard to understand and it is complicated. It's always been easier for me to talk like this though a lot have been fearfully of the way I talk. I had to write for most of my travels here." *Dulcinea felt a bit more at ease at knowing Aylera didn't seem to be scared of how they talked. It wasn't the most common way to speak but it was better than a voice that sounded like many everytime. If they'd been born differently it wouldn't be a problem, they wouldn't have to fear speaking or showing themselves but they had to do that here. It just made life harder in the end.

Looking up at the stars always made them feel better, they just felt like they were more connected to the stars since how they were born and how their skin took on a slight stary sky. Though no one would usually see this since it wasn't something they shared but hid. 

They hoped to not be asked to have something to eat as that was something they didn't care to explain or try to. It just wasn't possible for them to try food, it was nice they never felt hunger, though they wished some things were still normal for them even just to try something. Shaking their head they'd let such thought go for the time being.*

"I had heard there was good teachers there... Most on my travels have been unwilling to teach me so I just been continuing to go to the capital. I don't have much magic stamina so many don't see me worth the time to teach. I can understand since they would want ones that can grow faster and learn easier. I wouldn't fit in that area is all." 

*Dulcinea would shrug as they looked back down at their hands, they were covered as well to keep their skin a secret. Though they wished it wasn't the case tonight and they could be themselves. That fear just simply stayed to not trust anyone with what they were. They never knew who might be the wrong one to trust.*
Shirley
*They were blessed to have such a clear night above them. Aylera kept her eyes fixated on the stars above, their patterns woven into her mind through hours of study. She knew this forest like the back of her own two hands, it was interwoven- or was supposed to be, with her very soul. At Dulcinea's words, she nodded gently, allowing her eyes to relax and close for a moment. It felt as if it would be awkward to try to make eye contact as they spoke, given their obvious difference in communication. *

"Growth is a matter of time, though. At least, that is what I believe. You see, Dulcinea, I do not know about you, nor you I. But I believe I can say that when it comes to the study of magic, it is in the time you spend dedicated to the craft that you truly perfect it. I can certainly say that the 50 years I spent learning as a child, as well as the 30 I spent in dedicated training still have yet to make me an expert in any subject."

*She laughed lightly, looking back toward the stranger. Aylera was quite curious about their appearance but tried not to pry too harshly, resolving to look at one point of interest at a time- then glancing back to the stars or the woods surrounding them.*

"I'm sure you'll find what you're looking for in due time. You seem magical enough as it is." *She joked, letting another small chuckle escape her lips before realizing how that may come across.* "I mean- well, it's fairly obvious that you're different than I or anyone I've seen in these parts. And that's a lovely thing, truly. But I understand your concern for these differences. I may not be able to speak for others, but I can say that I find you quite fascinating."

*Aylera allowed a reassuring smile to spread across her lips before she moved to stoke the fire a bit.* "So, have you been traveling very long? I imagine a journey such as yours would require a lot of dedication, no?"
May
"I spent my whole life trying to do magic... I only can do this and move small objects. I'm kind of hopeless for learning types of magic I suppose." *Dulcinea would look at the fire as they got a bit more used to being around the new stranger. Aylera seemed kind of uncomfortable around them? Maybe they shouldn't have talked like their were?* "You don't have to avoid looking at me, I know I probably look a bit different with the hood kind of... Covering everything? But I'm still normal to talk with even if I am more comfortable talking this way. It just ends the language barrier since you hear your language when I speak like this." 

*Dulcinea wished that they were able to feel a bit more at ease though at their looks. Their horns were still causing a lot of irritation with the itching feeling. Maybe they should have left so they could deal with the problem.* "I'm pretty much the least magical race out here... So I don't think I can do that. But it would be nice if I could learn something more? I don't know if I will even be able to though."

*Dulcinea would get tired of their horns and just give up, pulling down their hood to start scratching at the base of their horns. Aylera now getting to see how they really looked, skin that is almost pitch black with dark shades of purple and some lighter shade of purple. Their eyes being complete white, their horns going from a light purple to white. Only a few areas of her skin having specks of white almost like the stars in a night sky.* "Uh... Yes, I been traveling for a very long time. Though I really don't know how long it's been. Lots of well moons of travel?"
Shirley
*Tossing another branch she had gathered into the flames, Aylera found her eyes drawn away from the flickering to Dulcinea. Their words had a particular bite to them that made the wood-elven woman wary of their attitude. She didn't blame them, to feel self-conscious is a shared experience- despite the two's inherent differences. Her eyes softened as she was called out, cheeks flushed a warm hue in the dim light.*

"I apologize- I mean no disrespect. Worry not about your appearance. I admit, you are new to me- but so is the rest of the world outside of this wood" *She paused to smile down at the earth under her feet.* "I know not of much outside this place, and I am sure I know nothing about you, but I can say you at least seem extremely magical. I highly doubt that you are anything less, Dulcinea." *Her accent held onto the vowels of their name, its pronunciation a new taste on her tongue. Aylera simply couldn't believe they* ***Wouldn't*** *Be able to learn more. By their appearance, they seemed practically made for the craft.*

*Finishing off the minor adjustments to the fire, Aylera stood. She stretched to the side gently, earrings and little silver adornments in her hair quietly jingling in the night air. The woman continued to peer at Dulcinea before turning to sit once more, pulling a few blades of grass to weave and keep her hands occupied.* "I see. Then it seems that your time of travel may pause soon. The capital is quite close to here, about a half-day if I am not mistaken. I know some magic, I wonder what variant you wish to learn."

*She paused her weaving as a thought appeared before her eyes. Did this stranger happen to seek faith? Aylera wouldn't push such a prospect so quickly, yet she felt compelled to- just a bit* "Do you take interest in the forest that surrounds us? In the lifeblood of all that it houses. Perhaps? Ah- you must forgive me, that sounds rather foreboding". *With a laugh, she flicked her wrist in a quick dismissal of herself.*
May
*Dulcinea would be still scratching their horns base as was still bothering them. Sure they didn't mean to call out Aylera in a bad way. But they also were not well with emotions or understanding them. One of the problems with being something that just wasn't easily meant to be in the world.*

"You shouldn't worry, I don't take offense. I don't... Understand emotions and such. It's... I don't know how to explain I suppose." *They would look up at the stars at Aylera saying them seemed magical. They were magical but it didn't mean they were able to use magic the same as others to any degree.* "Magical, miracle. Can say I'm a lot of things but able to do magic is not one of them. I'm a sort of... Mistake thought as evil because of how I do not act or seem normal. I'm simply a void that takes in magic and can't produce it."

*Dulcinea liked Aylera's adornments, they were pretty and made pretty sounds. Like the sound of the wind against a small bell.* "I just want to try any, I will never be able to master anything and any I do will be small or be a limit." *Shrugging was all they could in a situation where expressions was not possible for them. It was one thing that again made many think of them as a monster because of the lack of such things.*

"I know of the goddesses and gods. Their ways I was taught as a child. Though believing they mean good is hard to believe when many see me not as good but evil. A child between a aasimar and tiefling, born from love yet is born as a complete void in all ways. How can they mean good when many times if my kind live we die young because others believe us evil or we are killed by our parents out of mercy from the life we will live in fear?" *Dulcinea simply shook their head, there was no real emotion to what they had just said, no sadness, or pain. They just spoke as if it meant nothing.*
Shirley
*Continuing her weaving, Aylera allowed her eyes to relax. Dulcinea truly was a different kind of person, completely foreign in both idea and appearance. It was fascinating, their body of void and illuminated features. She thought about what they were saying, feeling as if they were evil or limited due to their heritage. Aylera understood that, to an extent. She may have been the same race as others in the House of Elk, but she was an outsider in a place very organized in their tradition. Dulcinea was no doubt feeling ostracized- a mix of tiefling and aasimar? Aylera had never heard of such a thing- but that didn't matter, what mattered was how it made them feel- despite their unfeelingness toward it.*

"You know not what you are capable of, Dulcinea. I may not be able to speak for others, but if I may speak on behalf of Alynthi, you are not evil in the Great Mother's eyes. Evil takes hold in those who reject to appreciate the wonder of the natural world and those who reside in its holdings. You have been spared from a tragic fate, which, is arguably a testament to your presence being appreciated in this world."

*Her fingers flicked back and forth with adept skill. Pulling in more blades of grass to weave, she clicked her tongue slightly, having to redo a quick stitch.* "I much dislike those that manipulate the gods' will into something discriminatory. The same can be said for those who do the same with magic. I must say, I am very much under the impression that with enough time and dedication, one without a speck of magical history running through their veins is completely and utterly capable of learning to become a master. Now- it is not easy, that is for certain, but rest assured that it is more than possible".

.
*Aylera began to add a few elements of texture into the design, its small size full of intricate patterning. The elf spent more time than she'd like to admit creating the little trinkets, often spent in meditation over her prayers. Perhaps with this, she would be able to gift the stranger before her with a bit of extra confidence that someone believed in them, if not a touch of luck from the gods. Goodness knows they seemed to deserve it.*

"I'd be happy to teach you some of what I know if you'd like. However, I must say that I am a spiritual soul, and my magical practice happens to revolve around it".
May
*Dulcinea didn't know why they were even bringing up the difference things from their life. They supposed they felt at ease? It all just seemed a bit strange to them but they would try to understand why someone was thought they could do something like magic. They had been trying for a long time and the little magic they could do was from that studies. Two spells or abilities was all they had. They could use telepathy and move small objects a short distance. Anything else had really be frivolous when trying.

Dulcinea looked up at the stars a bit, maybe they were to come here for a reason? The gods were not something they completely followed as they didn't have the same understanding to follow fully but they did know they had to have come from them some. Everyone had come from one or another god so it was only natural yes?* "I think you will find I'm not able to be any master in any art. Just because I'm not evil doesn't mean others have not seen me as do. Being something new makes many uncomfortable? Least that is what I have been told. Though... Understanding any type of emotions doesn't seem to work? I try to understand them since I can't understand them... It's difficult to learn such things when you don't feel them yourself. I know what love looks like but don't feel it?"

*Dulcinea would just shake their head as it was always difficult trying to explain it. How could they explain not understanding most things since they didn't experience them.* "Any magic to learn is helpful, but I can't pay a lot. This is why most don't like the idea of teaching me either since I'm not wealthy? Least that is what some have said as they walk away laughing. My parents said I'm connected to the sky and stars... Constellation mage? I think that was what they called it? I don't remember what but I just feel close with the stars." *Maybe such information could help but Dulcinea really didn't know what was helpful or not. Though they were trying go be a bit helpful on it.*
Shirley
*Pondering Dulcinea's words, Aylera bit her bottom lip gently. It was an old habit she'd tried to kick, but there was no getting rid of it now. Her shadowy new acquaintance was quite the fascinating subject, if not for their appearance alone. The elf had simply never met someone so* ***Different***. *It seems they too struggled with the world around them- but perhaps she should stop comparing them, given these differences. Instead, she nodded along, taking a long moment before replying. Her voice was more quiet than before, as the evening sounds turned into a quiet night.*

"There would be no need for money- at least in my case. I'm not very familiar with celestial magic, but I know enough about the natural world and some to use for self-defense. I can't say I'm very sure of how magical education is conducted outside of the woods, but if you're interested in what I know, I'd be happy to help."

*Finishing off her little weaving project, Aylera set down what was now a tiny basket. She stayed seated, but, with a flick of her hand and a whispered prayer, three little orbs of light popped in the air before them. They hung just underneath the branches of nearby trees, pulsing as if with a heartbeat of their own.*

"I was once taught that if magic is not innate, that it may come from several other places. Devotion, concentration, and of course, intense study. Even when it is innate, those who attempt to use it without proper training are often remiss to do so". *Her eyes flicked back to Dulcinea as she spoke,*"But I found that 'proper training' is subjective, and often distinguished as such because of some bias. In my case, much of what I can do is the result of 30 consecutive years of practice more than the teachings I had".

*She sat back, crossing her legs at the ankles, eyes returning to the lights.* "If you feel a calling to the stars, then I'd consider that a sign from whomever or whatever you may believe in. The gods at fate do not lie about such things".
May
*Dulcinea didn't know what was best. They didn't need to know celestial magic since they could hardly do any that they did already. It didn't bother them to learn other types but could they even learn them? It was just hard to know.* "Uh well I don't have to know celestial magic. Levitation isn't exactly a celestial one so it doesn't bother me learning something well else. I can't say I will do well learning it though."

*Dulcinea would look at the small basket, it seemed interesting. They hasn't seen someone make something like that. It seemed interesting to learning to do actually. Not like it really could help them in any way. Though what really became something interesting was the light orbs that would be formed. Though they did look down as they wanted to cover their face to the light. A reflex to always having to hide before since they feared others seeing them.* 

"I been studying a long time, most of my life to try and learn other types... I only been able to learn though two things so uh... That's probably not something I will be able to do." *Dulcinea would look up slightly as they did think about what Aylera was saying. Maybe she was right? But to what type of fate was it to be something that would die alone? They couldn't have a family of their own and relationships were... Hard to say the least even just a friend was something they never had before.*
Shirley
*Aylera's eyes flicked back to Dulcinea, their words reverberating in her mind- both literally and figuratively. Their life was not an easy one, that much was obvious, but she couldn't help but feel as though they needed a belief in something to continue. Even if it wasn't themself to start, she couldn't imagine a life without some hope- and hers happened to come from the Mother herself. She stayed quiet as the lights she had conjured drifted as if carried by a breeze that didn't exist.*

"Regardless of where you stand now, there is always time for fate to hit you with something new. Truly, we know not what will happen with each passing second, even with the greatest predictions. Fate, gods, the stars, the higher power at play operates without us, yet all depends on our decisions. Hah, quite the conundrum, no?"

*Her voice was notably soft now, mimicking the lights. It was complicated, this self-discovery. Aylera felt it herself and saw it in her new companion. She watched their movements carefully, allowing herself to be at ease.*

"Do you look to the stars when you feel lost? I have many similar practices- although I admit they serve a more devotional function. Nevertheless, I find them all the same, no matter what or whom one believes in. And you are not alone in that experience, no matter how... Different you feel you are. Fate has a funny way of gifting us all this shared feeling in one way or another".

*On that note, she looked to the stars again.* "I stand by what I had said before. Higher powers do not lie about such things. A calling is a calling, no matter how distant it may feel now". *Moving out of the theoretical discussion, she gestured upwards.* "These are not a gift from simply existing, my abilities stem from practice, much the same as what you are doing. It took education from those wiser than I to even begin the process, and I think you are right to seek that".

*Her eyes probed under Dulcinea's hood, softly smiling,* "You know, your eyes remind me a bit of these lights".
May
*Dulcinea took time to look at the orbs, they were really amazing to them. It would be interesting to learn something like that, making light could be fun if they even could make a tiny pebble size.* "Fate doesn't seem very... Happy? With me usually. I think they all just like to play lots see who gets to decide each day for the ones living."

*Dulcinea didn't know why they were willing to be around this new companion. She didn't seem bad but they also knew they were hardly normal. They didn't know the way someone talked could mean differently. Just another problem they seemed to face. This was why they usually were alone anyways. Though they would looke at the new companion when asked about their reasoning with the stars.* "I don't know what lost feels like, but I suppose it would be? I look to them whenever I can, I suppose because of the stories my parents told me about being from them or like them." 

*Dulcinea would look down at their hands, they didn't feel any calling though. It was just a want to learn and not hide till they died alone? They look at Aylera and blink in confusion. They looked like the lights? Most wouldn't say that, but it seemed nice? Though they hoped it was meant as a good thing they didn't really know.* "Uh... That's a good thing? I believe you mean it as but I don't know if it is."
Shirley
*Aylera let out a soft hum as she reached to stoke the fire once again. It was normal to question what one didn't know. So much was the spice of life, everyone was guilty of it. It was no sin to question what one is told, only a sin not to do so. All are entitled to their beliefs, even if they disagree. Still, the elven woman was hard-pressed not to push her divinity.*

"Mmm, I do mean it as a good thing, and I agree with your parents in your similarity. Like I said, my abilities are a gift, much the same as yours. However, I do not mean to make you question your purpose, that much is certainly in your own hands- and fate, if you choose to believe in it. In my own opinion, I see your resemblance to the heavens".

*She probed the fire gently, sending more sparks into the air as the lights began to dim and flicker out. It was simply their time, a glimmer in the world that fades just as quickly as it sparkles above.*

"Lights may come and go, as will we in time. Yet, for now, we continue to persist. I think it a worthy use of time to pursue something such as you are, a noble one even, given your thoughts on fate".

*A soft laugh came from the elf as she continued to poke at the fire. It was a bit unnecessary, sure, but she enjoyed it- and she wouldn't question that. Their conversation was enlightening, even if it were to end there. Even so, she hoped she had given Dulcinea something to think on, however their mind may work. Two souls entirely different meeting under the stars. That in and of itself sounded like the work of fate to her.*
May
"I don't know, my fate isn't really looking up to being much. I know you say aren't meaning for me to question my purpose. But it's still not... Easy for someone like me to know anything on my fate. I don't exactly do things normally and you can already see I'm not normal. My kind is so rare even I don't have much history on them living long. It's all speculation on most you find about us." 

*Dulcinea would look up at the stars after going on about their thoughts of themselves. None were really something that sounds even positive.* "I'm light and dark, a strange mix that doesn't know where it belongs. I just want to do something that can leave a small history of us in a good light. Though my studies don't seem to be very good for that." *Dulcinea would just shrug as they didn't know what to do with such a predicament.* 

"I just wish to learn anything I guess now. I don't live as long as most types do and it's not going to help to keep looking and spending time looking and not learning." *They would look on at the dying embers as they thought a bit about the end when it might come.* "I never given much thought about doing anything to preserve my history but learning magic and doing something good. But it seems more silly now, when I realize how short of time I really will have in the end. Now I just want to learn whatever I can and be close with the stars. I sound silly I'm sure."
Shirley
*The elf pursed her lips as she listened, staying quiet for a while after Dulcinea spoke. Gods, it seemed everything reminded her of her childhood friend lately. Varis was back with the House for all she knew, there was no point in dwelling on it. Just... She seemed to find traces of him everywhere. In fact, she could've sworn he'd said almost exactly the same thing about anticipating not living very long. Perhaps she should write to him... No. Not after everything. Instinctively, the woman shook her head slightly to release the thought before tuning back into the conversation at hand.*

*When she spoke next, her voice was notably softer, though not exactly gentle. She'd argued many times with her friend who expected to succumb to addiction in an attempt to break him out of his spell. It hadn't worked, it couldn't have. Despite working so hard to rid herself of the frustration, a familiar pang it her stomach. She did her best not to let it cut through her tone, though. This wasn't Dulcinea's affair, they shouldn't feel the heat of it.*

"I assure you, there is nothing silly about it". *She paused again for a while before speaking again, prodding more at the fire in a desperate attempt at keeping herself from dwelling too hard on the past.* "The only thing that sounds silly to me is the assumption that you must do something to earn a place among the stars. To me, we are all going to end up somewhere lovely, and we do not have to prove ourselves to anyone but to what we believe in- and that is done in many ways. The simplicity of living alone can do such a thing".

*A sign escaped Aylera.* "I apologize, that was a bit much. I just... Feel strongly for you, that is all". *With that, she turned to Dulcinea and gave them a small smile.* "I pray that someday you find that none of this is silly at all. I think your pursuit of goodness is admirable. Many could stand to have aspirations such as yours. I'll pray for your success in every endeavor".
May
*Dulcinea would just nod slightly, they still thought it was but what good was it to say differently? It would just be a back and forth again to which they didn't care to do.* "Even if it's just living you still are having to do something. There are plenty of different stories that talk about having to earn your place in the next life just as you would need to here in this life. It's just what I am trying to do even if not well."

*They knew they haven't done anything really worth being called an apprentice, scholar, or anything really. They spent months and months traveling after having hide for most of their life. So they didn't find it silly to want to do something worthy before they would die. They knew their kind didn't live long from books they had read which were rare indeed.*

"Living alone though will making you also forget to this world. Not all of us wish that... I don't want to be forgotten and let my kinds name be told as evil just because we are rare and different." *Dulcinea would look up at the stars as they would think for a moment before speaking again.* "Many fear something that doesn't understand as they do, and we don't understand simple emotions or gestures which make others believe us to be as beasts... But yet also a monster because monsters we have no faces and use energy to live... This and because when we die we don't leave behind a child like others? We simply are but a mystery that scars others."

"You don't need to apologize, you seemed you... Needed to say some things. I doubt I will find anything worth noting though for goodness. It's hard to change the past thoughts of ones kind from others. We are told as monsters under the bed to children or something like that. There is more evil told of us than good." *Dulcinea would look back at her a bit as they thought of it all. It was hard to put into words at times.*