Zariel

[Anastasia]

Slowly Zariel stands up, "What alternate path do you have?"

We did it, Alicia. Syala's voice sounds in Alicia's mind.

[Ebiris]

We did, Alicia sends back.

"Seira and I have new divine realms that you would be welcome in as you find yourself, if Sulia's home in Brightwater is not to taste," Alicia begins, before she glances at Antenora. "Ah, I misspoke. Antenora and I share a divine realm," she gives the newly risen goddess a smile as she confirms her equal status there. "In any case, the path you take must be a personal one, that rekindles your spark of goodness. We can't do that for you. So... think back, Zariel," she bids. "Think back to your old life, before betrayals and disappointments. Perhaps even before you had such an exalted rank and were but one celestial among many? What did you enjoy doing? What things gave you satisfaction and pride in yourself?"

[Corwin]

"Rediscovering old joys is as valid as seeking out new horizons," Seira agrees. "Rather than choosing for you, Alicia's proposal has the most merit. Spend time with us while thinking about what suits you now, and if you get stuck or want a second opinion, we'll be there."

[Anastasia]

"...long ago, before the ways of war, I was a druid," Zariel says, "Not a true druid, but I studied much of the magic and ways. I studied the natural world, I studied the earth and ground, fire and lava, air and wind." Her gaze is far away, "I enjoyed forests most of all."

[Corwin]

"How about visiting the Beastlands?" Seira offers with a shrug. "It's been ages for me, so that could be nice if you don't mind the company."

And Syala might be interested in coming along, so that could be neat!

[Ebiris]

"Ilmater mentioned a fondness for trees," Alicia looks up at the one Zariel is reposed under. Then she adds, "My wife Syala is a nature goddess. Perhaps you would enjoy talking with her and visiting some places where nature reigns, far from battlefields."

[Anastasia]

"It has been a long time," Zariel murmurs, "The Beastlands. Yes, let's go to the Beastlands."

"Go," Ilmater says, "Go with my hopes and prayers that you become better than you were before, Zariel. Be well."

Empress Sulia smiles to her, "Mine as well. May you have a better future than the tragedies you suffered before."

[Corwin]

"Let's make a trip of it?" Seira muses. "I'll invite Amaryl, and you could see whether Syala is busy?" she offers to Alicia, creating a comfortable robe that she offers to Zariel now that they are going places.

[Ebiris]

"I'll have Syala meet us there," Alicia agrees, preparing to open a gate elsewhere...

[Anastasia]

Where in the Beastlands are y'all aiming, anywhere in particular?

[Ebiris]

Somewhere on the top/daylight layer that's far from anyone's divine realms or the claimed territory of powerful beings. Wild/neutral territory basically. Syala can play tour guide once we're there but that'll do to start with!

[Anastasia]

Forest.

It is eternal wilderness, trees and sunshine dueling together in a realm of green. It is summer warm without being hot or humid, the air fresh and natural. Far away the four of you hear the baying of wolves, a distant sound as you take it all in.

Oh, what's this, ladies? The voice and presence of Chauntea is felt and heard by Alicia and Seira in their minds. Why have you brought a Fallen to the Beastlands?

[Ebiris]

Ahh, this takes her back to having to explain Antenora everywhere she went.

No harm is meant. Zariel can not visit the wild places of the prime, so this was the next best option for helping her reconnect with nature.

[Corwin]

She's renounced Hell, so we're hoping the innocence and purity found here could help show her the way back properly.

[Anastasia]

As Zariel looks around, taking it all in silently?

Zariel lives and you have brought her here? What is the greater purpose of this?