[ This conversation is not going as well as Rutile had hoped it would, but perhaps that's to be expected. On the surface, of course, the exchange is polite as one could dream; it's Rutile whose pride is slighted by the subtle barb of Padparadscha's words, and who hears what goes unsaid.

Still, they did not come here seeking Padparadscha's blessing, they remind themselves. They have lived without it for centuries now, and can go on a little longer. ]

Another Dreamfolk called Aly, who I gather has some experience with strange occurrences like this. We plan to leave in a couple of weeks, and are preparing now.