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Nine Roads Alani	There's a thrumming in the air in Great Forks. An undercurrent of excitement is almost visibly shaking the city as laborers, merchants, peasants, and nobles alike hurriedly finish their workday on this, the last day of the work week, to hurry and get a good seat in the Arena tonight. In a city full of festivals and celebrations great and small, it takes a lot more than normal to really put the city in an uproar. The Congregation of Victory is poised to deliver. Over the course of the next several weeks, several -hundred- competitors from all across the Scavenger Lands and even beyond will fight each other. Singly and in small groups, the fights will run every day and into the night in a constant quest for glory. Powerful healers are on hand after every match, herbs and prayers arrayed alongside the chirurgeons in the hopes of minimizing losses. A few die every tournament, of course, but the Nine Sheaves Consortium who own the tournament series want to see glory, not an abattoir. Better for business, they say, never mind what the butchers of Nexus might claim. Right now, it's still several hours away from the Opening Battle, but the Arena is still full of people milling about, staking down their seats, buying food at the innumerable refreshment stands, and...well, congregating.
Misa	For all that she might be one of the most noteworthy fighters here, Misa... sure doesn't have many friends in the martial arts community or beyond, where combat is concerned. Which may explain why she is walking into the place alone. For those few that do know of her, it might be odd that she bears no weapon today, as perpetually armed as she tends to be. Then again, those who really know her might suspect experimentation is the order of the day, all this considered. But then, for those less in the know... she might even appear to be a simple spectator, young unarmed person that she is, if not paying too much mind to the easy measure of her stride.
Black Pearl	Black Pearl, the Scandalous Cynis, has made her way into the crowds, seeing who is already there. For the moment, as there are no fights, yet, she contents herself with obtaining food and drink, and speaking amiably with patrons now and again, as she looks for those she knows...or who stand out as worth knowing.
Amethyst	Amethyst has not seen this many excited people in a long time. Donning finely crafted armor made from some strange color shifting metal covered in the sort of markings as her tattoos, she's showing off the strength and prowess of her sorcery and alchemy and her many gifts. Her blood lash is neatly coiled in a bracer that seems to have been explicitly designed for it, stowing it out of the way for the moment as the Dragon does not need her weapon here and now. The fae-dragon wears her human guise today, though her scales live underneath her armored exterior, neatly hidden beneath. And she's amped more than ever, excited to see what exactly she'll be up against, and for the chance to truly show off in front of the crowd.
Tepet Makara	Makara has never seen a duel in the arena before but this is a great opportunity for him to see the combat prowess of various "exigents" in battle. Although he is a martial artist himself, he is still a learner so he is only a part of the audience for now. He is currently still clad in his "Shogunate era black jade" armor as he had no time to change for he is preoccupied with stuff in Greyfalls. Before any duels can start, he buys some snacks for him to gorge on while he watches.
Fudou the Mountain	A vast shadow rolls across Misa and anyone that happens to be around her. She may have arrived alone but the newcomer by her side certainly counts for a good..four or five people at least. "Aren't you missing something?" rumbles Fudou's deep voice, vibrating through the pits of the stomaches of any near him. Eyes that turn towards him would find the gargantuan man dressed not too different from his usual garb. Either he doesn't intend to fight this evening - or - he's planning on doing so with all the dedication of an evenings bar room brawl in some distant Scavenger land hovel. Hardly the outfit of a champion.. But thus far none here possess arms sporting biceps bigger around then some boulders and legs charitably as massive and as sturdy as a rooted swamp tree. "I thought you a swordswoman. Have you come to surprise us as much as entertain us?" His eyes squint at her from behind his eyewear and then he looks away to take a good look over the area in search of any standout participants.
Misa	Looking up and over her shoulder, Misa inclines her head to the side slightly at the awkward angle of looking at the man. She turns a moment after, taking a step back to ease the strain on her neck. "I am given to understand, from what I have been told, that it is typically preferred that one not kill one's opponent. A tall order, given the competition I expect and the quality of my actual blades," she explains, shrugging slightly. "Besides, the odds suggest that the first few rounds will be... simple. I have recently come into familiarity with a new style that does not necessitate the weapons. I thought it prudent to use the opportunity to try." She looks out over the crowd again, head tilting the other way now, simply pensively. "Not to be overly pessimistic, but I suspect you may struggle to find worthwhile challenges yourself- and due to sheer... matters of scale, may not proverbially pull punches so well. Perhaps more here for prize purposes?"
Amethyst	Amethyst grins as she spots Fudou--how could she not? And Misa's there too! And she can feel Salara somewhere among this crowd, she'll need to catch up with her in a bit. Excited and bounding, Amethyst weaves through the crowd like it's some sort of training exercise, "Hey Fudou!" She calls out to him as she approaches to draw his attention. And the moment his gaze falls upon her, she vanishes! And reappears right next to him, leaning against his massive leg. "And Misa! Nice to see you both. You two know each other?"
Black Pearl	Fudou is easily recognizable, but perhaps later. For now, well, the black jade armor is quite a draw, so Salara makes her way over to Makara, and speaks in High Realm, "An honor to see you, Scion of House Tepet. Will you join in the bouts to show to all what you can do?" She grins, "Should I place wagers on your success?"
Fudou the Mountain	"Hands can kill." Fudou confirms her words with a nod and that grin of his. He raises a fist, clenching it and producing a sound like boulders cracking as his knuckles crack and his sinews tense. "No doubt you know this well. Many are the martial art styles deadlier then a simple blade, no? Sword against isn't unlikely in a tournament like this but..you may have a point. I need to see what's...feasible. My intention was to participate but.. There are certain factors to consider. I do wonder about the pri-oh hello!" There is an Amethyst there. There was certainly not one there before. He looks on with some astonishment before looking back to Misa, "You see? Strange things are afoot in this tournament. I wouldn't worry about holding back any!"
Nine Roads Alani	While Fudou is indubitably a landmark of sorts among the sea of fine, powerful-looking warriors and martial artists, there are some who feel more of a pull to the well-connected than the obviously strong. Some who have a nose, as it were, for connections, contacts, and jade. Not necessarily in that order. So it is with a middle-aged man in a well-appointed robe who's currently meandering the area around the more expensive seats. His carefully arranged hair bobs a bit as he looks around in thought, and a genuine smile touches the crow's feet just beginning to form around his eyes as he bustles with a fairly quick stride towards Makara and Salara. Hands clasped before him, he offers a pleasant, if bland smile, and walks right to a respectful speaking distance--just a few feet--of both Salara and Makara. "Well, well, esteemed patrons," he starts, not necessarily waiting for Makara to answer Salara before beginning. "How wonderful to run across you both! I am Steady Kalio, and it's my job to greet people like yourselves. I realize the festivities are yet to truly begin, but it's my hope that we can be of service to you." He touches the badge worn prominently on his robe, a bundle of nine sheaves of various crops--tobacco, poppy, qat. "We do believe in making our most esteemed patrons comfortable, I assure you."
Misa	"And I think you know that I do not quite practice a 'simple blade'," answers Misa, a light smirk playing about her lips for a moment as she inclines her head to Amethyst. "And besides, it was more the novelty than the weaponry that caused the decision. Good afternoon to you as well, Amethyst. We have met... once or twice? But certainly the man does leave an impression, for more reasons than one." She shrugs it off at that. "But, after all, it is but the first day. Perhaps I will come armed with a dulled blade of some sort next- or two?"
Tepet Makara	Makara then gulps and then answers. "I am merely an observer for now although I do know Water Dragon Style that goes well with my "black jade" tiger claw weapons." He has some doubts whether this tournament will accidentally reveal his secret to the public but thankfully he has the means to cover up his true capabilities.
Amethyst	Amethyst is widely grinning in her new suit of armor, and she nods at Fudou. "Indeed! I'm one of them." She chuckles and does a little bow. "He definitely leaves more than just an impression, you should hear some of the stories I've been told about him and his massive hammer." THere's this devilish little grin on her face. "I presume you're both going to be partaking in the tournament then?" She asks, "I know I'm sure excited. Gotta wonder what folks are out there stranger than us three tho."
Black Pearl	Salara beams warmly, "Well thank you, Kalio. Perhaps I will indulge in something...exotic later, but for the moment, tea and wine is sufficient. And depending on your wares, we might discuss business other than the Tournament--but I would not preseume to be so gauche as to deal with /business/ at such an early time." She smiles and looks almost appraisingly at Kalio, "Do you have an interest in the tournament? Anyone you or your organization is sponsored? Or are you simply providing refreshments?"
Fudou the Mountain	"Yes, yes." rumbles Fudou at Misa with a grin once more, "I figured that your ability with the blade is....perhaps more then most of these.." He gestures casually, indicating the gathering of fighters with a wave of his hand. Loosely singling out one and then another and then another. "But still..the confidence to just..dispose of it is pretty telling. I look forward to seeing what you do. Are there betting pools? Perhaps I should get to work.." He then looks down at Amethyst and he actually turns...slightly red. "As for you and those stories.. You were simply waiting for that, weren't you." Well he doesn't mak e an attempt to deny it..though he does add with a hint of humor, "Assuming you're referring to Continent Breaker.. I do not have it on me at the moment. Or do I. Hmm.." He grins once again and waggles his eyebrows at Amethyst in a slightly buffoonish gesture.
Nine Roads Alani	Steady Kalio beams with pride as he clasps his hands and bows--quite polite, but just a bit unnecessary in this situation. "Oh, no, ma'am, I assure you, we do not and cannot support individual fighters. We in fact own the Congregation of Victory itself, and rest assured we avoid even the appearance of favoritism during the competition. While we do indeed offer various ways of indulging, I can also offer top shelf seating or opportunities to meet and connect with your favorite warriors, though the latter requires a bit of time to schedule, and I suspect most will not be available until they've fought at least once and we get into the regular rhythm of the tournament." Kalio folds his hands into the opposite sleeves of his robe and looks curiously at Makara. "And you, my lord? Might you be interested in any of my wares at this point? Or, for both of you, are there any questions about the tournament I can answer? While I may not be on the Nine Sheaves Council, I assure you both I'm well versed in the goings-on, especially concerning today's schedule."
Misa	"I will not pretend I am as skilled without than with," Misa assures, head shaking slightly. "But... well, that is part of the point, is it not? Expand one's repertoire and put it to the test. Take a risk, now and then." She looks back to Amethyst, pausing just a moment. "I think I find the inevitable glut of fighters who have no business competing on such a broad-ranging level perhaps the most 'strange', regardless of all else. I suppose there is something to be said for optimism, and pushing one's self however, else I would be something of a hypocrite." She shrugs it off, looking over the crowd for another moment. "I suspect, in a day or two's time, this group will be... much thinner. I will take more interest then, I think."
Amethyst	"You've told me a few of 'em yourself! Of course I have! You and your Continent Breaker are legendary!" She grins. Amethyst looks to Misa, and in a faux whisper says, "And they say that he can ready it whenever he needs to!" Giggling she shakes her head and gets just a little more serious, "Yeah, I think I could agree with you there Misa. Though no doubt if I'd still been mortal I would've still competed. Who wouldn't want a chance?" "Maybe sometime we'll cross down there on the field." She muses. "Either way, I'm sure once the first rounds are over, this tournament's gonna be something else entirely. I just wanna make a good first impression." She pats her blood lash.
Tepet Makara	"Wares? What kind of stuff do you sell?" He turns his attention to Kalio unaware of what they are. "I don't know what kind but I do need new stuff for my apartment in Greyfalls like fine china cups or other decorations. However something caught his attention regarding the tournament. "since I'm new to the tournament stuff, are there any rules and regulations when fighting? Like are there things that are banned?""
Black Pearl	"Ah, but surely you saw the badge and emblem he wears?" Salara asks Makara. "Drugs and intoxicants prominantly displayed. And surely you have tried them in the Legions, have you not?" "But yes, it is good to know the rules of the tournament. Just in case. After all, they should be followed. Perhaps bent, yes?"
Fudou the Mountain	The behemoth purses his lips as he hears Amethyst and then ... He just gives a helpless shrug towards MIsa. "What can I say. I suppose word spreads." he smiles, both eyebrows raised before settling. "Sadly the 'Continent Breaker' she refers to so gleefully will do me little good here outside of, perhaps, adding to a touch of intimidation. As to the rest of both of your words..it is true. I think that the playing field will level out somewhat swiftly and particular ones will begin to stand out. It is inevitable.. There is quite abit of clout to be had here which is why so many have come. Champions and fools alike. The prize is worth the risk.." He pauses to consider things and then adds slowly, "Some ..risks..."
Tepet Makara	"Oh....Haha I didn't notice at first since I was distracted for a bit. I only tried a few intoxicants at my time but nothing strong and potent." Makara then notices Salara once he hears her voice. "Oh and good to see you Cynis Salara" While he waits for Kalio go respond, he does have another question in mind regarding the tournament.
Misa	Misa pauses, sliding right on past the talk of Fudou's anatomy as she considers the situation. "As I consider it, with this discussion thereof... I am not certain what prize I would really care for. An interesting weapon, perhaps? I feel no particular need for a grand return to luxury," she muses aloud, mostly to herself. Then, more properly to the other two; "What do the two of you hope for, anyways- beyond the combat itself? Perhaps I have been too single-minded in my intentions. It cannot do harm to work for multiple goals."
Amethyst	"I'm looking to get me name out there further, getting more renown and as something more than a potent alchemist. Besides that, the money definitely wouldn't be lost on me. I have plans and plans I'm working towards" Amethyst explains, "And money and fame can grease more than a few wheels, yeah?" "Other than that, I just want to see how I truly measure up against, well, I guess everyone at this rate." She gestures, "I wanna know where my own limits are and how far I can press them. Then again I think I've always done that" She muses.
Nine Roads Alani	Kalio offers Makara a wan smile, hands still folded. "As milady says, the Nine Sheaves specializes in intoxicants. Rest assured we have an -excellent- selection here--virtually every grade of every offering we have is here. The Congregation of Victory is...well, I hesitate to call it a 'side venture', with how large and significant it has become over the last decade or so, but it's still not what we primarily do. Originally we were just sponsors, but one year the organizer folded, we had the jade to take it over, and it's been a boon to the business since. Personally, I think it's somewhat ironic how well the two businesses mesh, but I must shamefully admit the whole thing was not my idea. More's the pity." He chuckles a bit. Steady Kalio settles again, his tone becoming a bit more didactic. "Anyway, my lord. As to the rules. Obviously, I am not one of the judges, and their word is law, but in general, very little is banned. Some fight with weapons, many of the best trained fight unarmed. Some few sorcerers inevitably show up, but most of them are in the squad bracket rather than the individual. We strongly prefer warriors fight to unconsciousness rather than death, but tradition dictates we cannot ban edged weapons, so some few deaths do inevitably occur. We do have the very best healers available immediately after every fight." He pauses for a moment, thinking. "An honorable yield or surrender -must- be honored by the winner. That's probably the strongest rule--no 'behead them anyway' nonsense once someone drops their weapon and taps the ground or their thigh. And lastly, there are a few Dragon-Blooded and Exigent Exalted. Needless to say, the greatest hype and biggest bets come from them! Rumor has it there might be even -more- dangerous beings hidden in the ranks of our warriors, but I would not know for sure."
Fudou the Mountain	"The truth..?" FUdou considers the question thoughtfully and then rumbles...quietly.. "I would a chance to be able to call upon The Three and to be able to set terms to my presence here and obtain some..support.." He quiets and glances around.. perhaps the timing of his comment ironic, or maybe even fated, given the discussion nearby with Kalio and Makara. "The Dragonblood and those with the exigence are about.. Some more obvious then others. Likewise I expect other powers to show themselves, even if they don't tip their hands right away. So I think seeing who is here and willing to reveal themselves is going to be a goal of mine as well as who might be watching for them. A tournament in this city with this wide reach? It's impossible that won't happen..."
Misa	"Support? Starting to hurt your waist, is it?" questions Misa in a completely deadpan callback. "I must presume that at the least, a city the size of Great Forks has a loose Architect that might be here, no?" she muses on the subject of who might be present. "But that aside, I do suppose knowing the Three would hardly be a bad thing. I may have to keep that in mind. Then again, perhaps I've little chance, with a literal giant and a rather curious prince of the earth also present," she adds, with a small, wry sort of smile.
Tepet Makara	"Good to see there are only a few restrictions and no "fight to the death" nonsense. Hmm other than that, can I ask another question regarding the tournament" Makara then breathes heavily and finally speaks out the words. "Since there are a few rules, can a person enter it with their identities hidden and use a moniker? Mostly curious about that
Amethyst	"We Exalted are going to make the show." Amethyst calls to Kalio in acknowledgment, grinning as she makes her way over to the man, "And it's good to know that sorcery isn't banned. Though I was unaware of there being squad brackets." She shrugs, "Still, I won't disappoint." She gives a little bow in, ears down and all, "Yim Amethyst, resident alchemist, sorcerer, and duelist." She perks her ears up, "And of course one of the resident Dragon-Blooded." Then she turns back towards Fudou, "Sounds like a plan I can get behind. A meeting with the Three would be a good idea indeed."
Fudou the Mountain	The giant opens his mouth in response to Misa's deadpan quip. He looks stunned. Surprised. He then shakes his head and finger at her, "Hn. Funny. Well played." He grins a little and then ress a hand against said waist while rubbing his jaw with the other in thought. "A tournment win or placement might be enough to get their direct attention." Fudou looks up and glances over to watch as Amethyst moves in the direction of the stands and in doing so he sees Makar aand Kalio. "Mmm..at least one other familiar face..." But he makes no move to follow her yet.
Rishi	A shapely arm slips over Salara's shoulders as Kalio mentions having the very best healers, pulling her into a side hug. A sweet, melodious voice with a thick firetongue accent says "Kalio is being most correct, yes. Salara was being most kind to be helping support my involvement among the healers here." For those who have not already met her, Rishi is a very shapely woman who's clothing leaves little to the imagination. The bat wings, russet fur, paws, fluffy tail, and pointed ears however put some people off. "I am being Rishi, Chosen of the Lady of the Changing Waters. I am being one of the healers for this event."
Nine Roads Alani	Well. Not much disguised, there, and even less being covered. Steady Kalio looks a bit surprised by Rishi's appearance, but with a bit of a cough and a lot of mental self-rearrangement, he manages to recover his aplomb. "Ah. Yes. Indeed. Pardon me, my lady--" He looks at Salara. "--but I had not realized you were involved already with the proceedings. My apologies if I have been at all boorish." Kalio looks ready to keep talking, but he's interrupted by Amethyst's arrival from fairly well exactly behind him. Clearly, he does not have a martial arts master's zanshin, for she completely surprises him. He turns and bows in return, offering the woman in spectacular armor a returning bow. "Ah--a pleasure to meet you as well, my lady. How extraordinary..." Steady Kalio manages to, well, stay steady as Amethyst casuall cals back behind her to the impossibly huge man that she's going to go meet the Three, but his dark-but-slightly-salty eyebrows raise skywards at the mention of the Three. It's one thing to have connections, and quite another to talk so casually about that sort of meeting. If he was looking for influencers to please, well, he's clearly succeeded. He straightens up, adjusts his Nine Sheaves badge unconsciously, and waits for an opportunity.
Misa	"Indeed, the curious faces are coming out in force," Misa muses, looking back up at the sizable fellow a moment. "Not short on energy, that one," she comments of Amethyst before moving on to; "And I see a face I recognize in turn, having just arrived over there. Though by the looks of things, I think this one fellow over there could perhaps use all the reprieve he can get."
Black Pearl	"You have been polite and attentive," Salara tells Kalio, as she leans against Rishi. "And I must admit as well as helping support the healers, I have sponsored a contestent in th tournament." She then smiles to Rishi and gives her a close hug. "I am very glad to see you. I certanly think this will be fun, and I look forward to all the excitement." "As one of the hosts, I am sure yo have many people to see, and I will not delay you, if you have more business to attend to. However, I will be glad to meet another time to speak of possibilities, Steady Kalio."
Fudou the Mountain	The surprise on Fudou's face returns as he sees Rishi..but then something seems to click in him and he nods his head and seems less thrown off. He turns to look Steady Kalio over at Misa's words and gives the poor fellow more ocnsidration before nodding his head in some sympathy. "and tAnd they say 'I' stand out.. Yes I can see that one is somewhat flustered and I don't blame him. Rishi flusters me as well. Quite the dilemma from time to time. But...in a place like this, it's to be expected."
Amethyst	"Ah Makara, I didn't think I'd see you here." Amethyst says, with a tone that clearly indicates she thinks herself superior to him. "Hiding your identity? Do you want to go in with a wooden mask so the city has no idea who the brave fellow is? Or are there other reasons for it, hmm?" She's obviously teasing him. And usually she'd be all over both Rishi and Salara, but right now she's trying to be at least sort of professional, sort of. "Hey Rishi, keeping yourself out of trouble here?" "And Salara! Darling! I heard this contestant is going to be an interesting one. Full of surprises, and rather beautiful too. I'm excited to find out just who it is that you sponsored." She has this big stupid grin on her face. "It's good to see you both, either way," She says addressing Salara and Rishi Amethyst may lack things, especially subtlety, but energy is certainly not one of them.
Nine Roads Alani	"Oh! My lord, I apologize--I fear I was quite distracted from your question." Steady Kalio is looking at Makara, hands still tucked in his sleeves. "As far as identity goes, we will announce you in any manner you choose to be announced. I fancy quite a few others have chosen names in such a fashion. But while I can't speak for the Nine Sheaves officials handling the rolls, I think I can be fairly sure they will not lie for you. If, say, someone from the Watch comes to ask your real name they have but to obey." Steady Kalio has good reason to be stady as he remains silent for a long moment, considering everyone who has come together today. Salara's comment was an unambiguous dismissal, but he waits for a long moment before giving the assemblade a deep bow. "You are correct, of course, my lady. I do have other places to be and other people to speak to. I will ensure, however, that each of you will be given the opportunity to partake when next we meet." And with that, Steady Kalio takes his leave, headed towards more of the high-priced seats and the occupants therein.
Rishi	Rishi pulls Salara into an even tighter hug. "It is being most nice to be seeing you too." Rishi looks out at the arena. "...Though, I am doing the hoping that I shall be most of the bored during this event." She grins. "It is actually being most of the difficult to be reattaching the lost limbs." Rishi waves at Ammy as she comes over, hugging Salara tighter as she does. "I am being here to be keeping the everyone else out of the trouble! I am being on the healing staff! So, while it is also good to be seeing you now, I am hoping that I am *not* seeing your during the event." She winks.
Black Pearl	Salara smiles, looking like, well, a Guildsman with all the jade as she has her arm around Rishi. "If you do really well, I'll tell you, Ametis. Otherwise, I'll let it be a surprise." She winks to Amethyst, adn nods. "I'll be in the stands, watching and placing the odd wager. I will make sure I see your bouts if at all possible!"
Misa	A moment's consideration from Misa, and she shrugs a little. "Well, if nothing else... it should be an interesting few days. Many of the most interesting people I have met or encountered seem to have arrived. I must admit, I am impressed- I had been assuming it would be a relatively 'mundane' affair, by certain senses of the word."
Fudou the Mountain	"I will go speak to them now." declares Fudou to Misa..though he does pause to consider her, "Truly so? This is Decadence. One of the great cities of the THreshold and..a bit of a shelter for many as The Three are ...well...I won't say 'open minded' as much as..don't break their things and they dont' care. Reputation and the opportunity to...be seen..is an opportunity at any event like this. The Arena was always here and well in use but a regio wide invite was always bound to attract colorful contestants. Of course these onces stand out but who can say who is yet to arrive or who is simply watching quietly.." His voice dips low at the end as if he were revealing a grand conspiracy. But then he grins at her once more and turns away to start to approach Amethyst, Rishi and the rest. "Follow if you wish. If not..I am sure I will see you soon."
Nine Roads Alani	As conversation and wine both flow, as the sky turns redder and redder in an amazing, portentious sunset, a deep, basso horn echoes throughout the Arena...and to be fair, a good deal of the rest of the city too, at that volume. It is the Calling, the message that everyone who would fight should gather for the beginning of the tournament. Simply put, it's time. The Congregation of Victory is about to begin.
Tepet Makara	"Nothing much, I don't have intentions to do that" Makara says with a bit of sarcasm to Amethyst. "I see, then I'll join the arena tournament but whether I win or lose, I'm ok either way mostly so I can gain experience from it" Seeing as Kalio leaves, he turns his attention to the others. "Hmm I wonder who will participate in this tournament?"
Rishi	As the day ends, and the Moon rises, Rishi looks out over the quiet arena from her spot on the roof. Having seperated herself from the festivities for a few minutes, she simply ...watches. "May the One Who is Many watch over this event and may they guide my hands so that I might do the work that I have chosen as well as I may." she murmurs. "I wish to have no deaths on my conscience from this." Even if she is no longer certain how closely the Ever Changing One watches over her, the ritual does give some comfort as she sits and watches the Moon.