Springtime Flourishes

[rogueinladysclothing]

Spring is, without a doubt, Amelia's least favorite time of year. The start of it is, at least. With so many painful memories related to it, it's hard to separate them from current events for the rogue.

But this year, she's determined to ignore all the pain and offer happiness to others instead.

It had started out as something planned for her closest friends and quickly scaled into something that would benefit from strangers partaking of it as well. A gathering for any who needed relief from the cold of Winter and a reminder that Spring, while often born of painful struggles and unhappiness, could bring with it a simple beauty that should never be taken for granted.

Tucked away along the paved path street to the Grand Library is a small path, one barely visible between the chest high grasses and low-hanging branches of a large willow tree. At its head stands a small sign that reads This way to add flourish to your Spring.

As one traverses the tiny path, so narrow not even a child could walk shoulder-to-shoulder with another person on it, the grass grows taller and begins to arch overhead. The path itself winds aimlessly, its destination obscured for a short while until the grasses suddenly part to reveal their hidden treasure. Laid out before anyone stepping out from the grasses stands a Japanese style garden, complete with colorful trees and an arched bridge over a koi pond. With Spring now fully settled into the Nexus, everything is in bloom, filling the air with scents that match the vibrancy of life in the secluded garden.

It might take someone a few moments to notice the tables set up on the hill under some of the larger trees. Here in the shade, one can take a respite from the steadily warming sun and enjoy a number of activities. One table is set up with supplies and instructions for hair braiding. Another is adorned with all the materials for wreaths or flower crowns. A last has a few baskets of fresh fruits and pitchers of lemonade for anyone who wanders in to enjoy.

Once anyone is within earshot, Amelia looks up and opens her arms to gesture welcome. She’s dressed perfectly for Spring, if the equally well-manicured and suited tailor at her side has anything to say about it. Alex waves a hello in the direction of any newcomers as well, though his attention is mainly on the stockpile of ribbons, twine, beads, and crystals he has set up on two of the tables. He was told not to go overboard when he brought his wares to help, but no man as Extra as himself could do less than he has today.

"Good day and welcome," the rogue calls brightly as she approaches. Her hair flows in the light breeze behind her, kept down in preparation for teaching others to braid their hair. "Please, come join us. I can help direct you to a table based on a single question: Are you here to celebrate the coming of Spring, or to try something new?"



(OOC: This little get together is being hosted semi-jointly by two of my characters: Amelia (rogueinladysclothing) and Alex (lecouturier). It’s not an official event of any sort, just a way for Amelia to give back a little something to the Nexus at large. Feel free to interact with either of them as they’ll both be involved all the way through, but be ready for some slowness as a result. ;) Feel free to thread hop with folks as y'all like and backtag to your heart's content!)

Comments

[slayers_desire]

A menagerie of small children suddenly show up at the garden. The first to arrive are the three oldest, a dark-haired boy who seems curious but cautious, a blond-haired girl who is ohhing and ahhing everything in sight, and a blond-haired boy who seems shyer than the other two.

The youngest three are with their mother, which includes two dark-haired twins (an adventurous boy toddler, and a very nervous girl toddler), and a red-haired toddler who is babbling to herself about the sights and sounds around her.

All the children are dressed fashionably. They match their mother, who is wearing one of her own designs today. The girls are wearing similar dresses, while the boys have shirts in the same fabric.

April grins when she recognizes Amelia. And watches as some of her children crowd around Alex to watch him work.

"Both. We love spring. And we love trying something new."

[rogueinladysclothing]

Before Amelia's had time to greet the first three arrivals, there's suddenly more children running about than the rogue can count on one hand. She laughs brightly as she watches Alex get crowded by a few of the children while his back is turned to them, his attention completely focused on getting together the supplies for a wreath for himself. He'll need a little more encouragement to look up from his very important work before he can help them with their own projects.

"You've come to the right place," Amelia informs April with a smile. "I'm set up to help braid and teach others to braid hair, and my friend Alex," she gestures to the tailor, who is slowly realizing he's being watched, "can help with spring accessories. We can take some of his ribbon for hair braiding as well, of course. He brought far more than necessary for his projects alone."

[chiaro_oscuro]

Ben's getting a little better at attending these events. He's not social, exactly, and probably never will be a party animal, but he's decided to do something a little more than awkwardly hunch against a wall and drink a glass. He already came out for the truth-or-dare party, and this can't be any more awkward than that.

So he followed the trail with relatively few reservations and approached Amelia when he caught sight of her.

"That's a difficult question. Celebrating spring or trying something new." Honestly, he's conflicted. Again. But at least it's over something pleasant this time. "If I have to choose one...I'll go with trying something new. Spring is the season of rebirth, you know. I didn't hate winter, but I can't say I miss it, either."

He promised himself to try and be more out-and-about this season. Spring is the season of change, growth, and rebirth, things that he takes to heart. He's determined to make that mean something for him.

Ben introduces himself to the stranger with a short and polite nod. "Ben Solo. It's a pleasure."

[rogueinladysclothing]

Ben's awkwardness can be forgiven easily. Not everyone is good at mingling and as an experienced (if slightly out of practice) host, Amelia understands that very well. She's not expecting anyone to have trouble with the question, given how often people tell her that Spring is simply better than Winter, but it makes it easier for her to smile warmly at the newcomer. This is definitely something she understands well.

"Amelia Ronsam." She answers his introduction with a small curtsy, as that fits best with her current garb. "I'm glad to make your acquaintance, Ben. I've prepared a few things that could be new for people to try today, so I'll ask you to make a choice before I lead you one way or another. Though I admit neither option may be the sort of thing you're looking for." She laughs softly to herself at the inside joke and then steps aside to gesture at each of the tables in turn.

"I've set up a table to teach people hair braiding, decorations included, and a second for creating and decorating wreaths to celebrate Spring." Given his reluctance with her question, she wouldn't be surprised if neither of these options were particularly appealing. Amelia gestures to the last table as she adds, "I have one other for snacks and socializing, but the gardens are available for wandering if you'd like a little more space."

As she lets the man think over his options, she clasps her hands in front of her and offers him a smile. "What sounds best to you? I'll happily show you around to whatever you'd prefer."

[silverseamariner]

skekSa the Mariner is new to Nexus parties, but she's happy to pay this one a visit. She figures that's what this one is. She doesn't recognize either of the people running it, but the pirate is happy to meet and interact with new people. She's taken off her boots, walking with her clawed feet exposed. Now the weather's warmer, there's no need to protect herself from frostbite.

The Mariner approaches Alex, resplendent in her scarlet longcoat and her blue-purple feathers. The Skeksis's plumage seems to have become more vibrant with the spring. She's in her element. Not the ocean, but the fresh air and sunshine.

"I'm here to celebrate the Spring," she says to Alex, the musical trill at the back of her throat. Now that the snow and ice has melted, the landscape is more of her style. She's able to explore and wander the open Nexus freely, even without her ship. There must be all manner of wonders in a place like this for an old salt like herself to see. She can't wait to start soon.

[lecouturier]

Alex is more than a little surprised to have someone come straight to him with Amelia handling all the greetings, but he's comfortable enough as a co-host and business owner to switch over to answering the call for help. He looks skekSa over with a curious eyes, a grin on his face as a picture of this new individual starting to form in his mind.

"You've got a better start on it than most," he notes with a laugh. "Amelia's set up a lot of entertaining activities for people to partake in, but left me conveniently in charge of accessorizing everyone who comes through. Are you looking to make a wreath with me, then?" He gestures to all of his supplies. "We can make other things with my supplies as well, or we can jazz up your already fabulous outfit."

Without his endless supply of fabrics, he can't promise to make something for someone right now, but that's not about to stop him from making someone shine! This is what he does for a living and he's not about to turn off his creativity even for a bit of socializing and fun.

[to_the_wolves]

[Spring is a season that Marie feels very neutral about, given it's that time of rebirth and life arising from the ashes. It's also a time for necessary change. Thus she's not expecting the sudden surprise of a sign giving directions to a garden hidden deep into a hidden pathway. She was honestly just heading to the Grand Library for a moment, but now this new adventure has taken up her time, leading her down the almost magical route to the Japanese garden.]

It's a break-taking sight, seeing the beauty of Japan here, from the flowers to the koi ponds: so much to see that she almost misses the two people standing at the entrance. Amelia is not a familiar face, but the person next to her causes her heart to skip for a moment. Recalling the first time she met Alex, he was the definition of a creative and personable man. His kindness in advising her, and even providing, a new fashion was simply entrancing. And now she's standing here in this wonderful Japanese-inspired locale, resting her gaze on him curiously.]

And then Amelia's questions come up. Marie pauses, frozen on what to say or what answer would be correct. Her attention is simply locked onto the tailor, before managing to pry her gaze off him to address Amelia. The answer she gives is full of flaws, nervously standing there, her mind trying to process everything at once. ]

"I..." [She looks over at Alex again, feeling her body grow warm.] "I will go with whatever suggestion he offers." [It's not the best answer, but she's hoping to strike up another conversation with the tailor.]

[lecouturier]

Well now! There's a face he's seen far too little of lately when it's not attached to his co-host. Alex grins as he steps up next to Amelia as the woman simply stares at this newcomer and turns his attention to Marie. "My dear, you could always use something new, whether from my hands or someone else's. And today, it'll be a combination of both that we work with."

He lifts a hand to gesture to his table of wreath making supplies when he notices Amelia still gaping in surprise at Marie. Gently, he nudges the rogue with a hand. "Are you there enough for an introduction, oh great hostess?"

The rogue blinks a few times and then flushes brightly when Alex grins at her. "Ah, yes. Sorry." She turns to Marie and inclines her head and shoulders in a small bow. "I'm Amelia Ronsam. It's... it's... nice to meet you." Or something like that. Her mind is struggling a little with all of this. Meeting multiple people with the same face that aren't the same person hasn't ever bothered her, but it's really different when it's her face staring back at her.

"See? That wasn't hard, was it?" Alex grins at the rogue when the woman rolls her eyes at him and then returns his gaze to Marie. "It's wonderful to see you again. I hope my last work of art held up to any scrutiny so I can convince you to let me dress you in something else equally amazing in the future."

[delphicbooksandbaubles]

Aal blinks several times, her eyebrows go up as she pads toward the sign. Ooh, lovely. She tries to soak the atmosphere up.

"Ah..well..celebrating spring has always been a favorite of mine." She murmurs warmly after listening raptly to the question with a small friendly smile.

[rogueinladysclothing]

"You'll find many options for doing so here," Amelia offers, her smile warm as she gestures to the table filled with craft supplies behind her. "If the beauty of the gardens isn't enough on its own, perhaps it can inspire you to create something to decorate the place where you live. I have everything you could need to create a Spring wreath, though they're meant to last longer than one made simply of flowers. Those can be made, of course, but you'll have to pick the flowers from what you see around you. I didn't want to strip the garden completely for such a project."

[chiron_survivor]

Adia is familiar with the path she treads, having walked it many times before after being introduced to this tucked away garden by Amelia. She arrives, along with Caspar, and a third companion: their kneazle, Anastasia. Caspar has been a little more lenient about letting the cinnamon-swirled tabby join them on their visits to the Nexus, and this seemed as pleasant an event as any.

The couple spares a moment to greet Alex. Adia has not asked for any new pieces since her wedding dress, but Caspar visits his shop regularly. Then Anastasia spots the bounty of ribbons on the table, and Caspar has to actively keep her from absconding with one, which means that when Amelia greets them, it's Adia who responds.

"We're here to see you!" she replies cheerfully. "And try something new, too, if that involves more braiding ideas?" Her hair is in a half-braid currently, worn loose and long enough to drape over her shoulder, as she's been letting her hair grow out.

[rogueinladysclothing]

Amelia's friends get a bright smile as they approach. It's been far too long since they've spent time together and the rogue is very glad to see them again. She opens her arms to Adia when the woman is close enough, offering a hug if it's wanted.

"I'm glad you both could make it. And with a little someone extra," she notes with a laugh. Alex will have his hands full with the kneazle today. As for Adia's question, the rogue looks over her friend's hair and nods. "With how long your hair has gotten, I have several new styles I could teach you. Caspar, too, if he can make it over to the table where I have my supplies."

Alex is not particularly fond of small paws trying to take away his ribbons, but he's glad to see Caspar. He offers the Cylon a smile, even as he very obviously starts tucking in the ends of any ribbons as he can find them. "Good to see you Caspar, Adia. Good of you both to come out and visit me again, and together no less!" The tailor glances over at Amelia in time to see her rolling her eyes at his antics. Oh yes, he'll be having much fun with that particular part of today. Grinning, he turns back to Caspar. "Even without my fabrics, we all know I'm the most exciting person here today."

[pirateangelbaby]

It seems strange that spending time outside would help his mental health, but as the weather turns and Thor makes himself go out, it does seem to improve his mood once he's actually out and about. It helps, too, that he has several charges of his own to look after in the meantime: not only the fledgling ravens that are currently nestled in the hood of his sweatshirt against his back, but also Loki's children with their own needs and desires, and looking after them all means he must spend more time outside of his own head. It's difficult some days, especially as he waits for word from his absent brother, worrying what might be happening worlds away.

Today is a good day for most of them, fortunately. Better still that there is an activity for them to do, and that Thor does not need to struggle in coming up with something sufficiently entertaining to keep them occupied. "Now, hold hands," he tells them, forming a little chain of people as they traverse the narrow path, Eindrid held in his other arm.

The hand-holding lasts long enough to get them into the garden before Una spies the ribbons and beads, her eyes lighting up in interest as she pulls at Agnarr's hand. He tugs in turn at Thor's, and though his hands are too full to sign, it takes very little for Thor to understand what he wants. "Oh! Yes, all right, just stick together and stay where I can see you." It feels oddly like play-acting at being a parent, but so far nothing too disastrous has happened, so he must be doing something correctly. "Sigrid, do you want to go with them?"

The three older children wander over to the tables, peering curiously at the decorations and craft supplies. Eindrid seems content to stay where he is, the toddler tucked up against Thor's chest, blinking sleepily. It feels almost manageable as the thunderer finally gets around to approaching Amelia, a harried but friendly smile on his face. "Little of both, I think."

[rogueinladysclothing]

The sight of more children pouring into the garden quickly gets Amelia's attention. She recognizes them instantly but is a little surprised when Thor appears at the head of the path rather than Loki. Surprise aside, she's glad to see him on a day she isn't spending in Asvera. Hopefully he can find a little relief from looking after the children while he's here with both herself and Alex available to lead activities.

"Then a little of both is what you'll get," she promises. She gestures for Thor to take a seat at her hair braiding table and then takes a seat in front of him. Her smile is warm as she looks over both Thor and Eindrid. "I'm offering to teach others to braid their hair or do so for them, if they'd prefer. What can I do for you while Alex entertains the other children with Spring accessory making?"

Alex would know Loki's charges anywhere, too, having dressed them often enough over the past year. They're not close, but the tailor feels he knows them pretty well from all the outfits he's made for them, both when they've stopped by the shop or when Loki's requested something on his own. He smiles brightly as they approach the tables and motions for them to come over. "Hello, children!" he says brightly. "Have you come to play with me today? You can help me make something pretty rather than having to wait for me to do it all for you." He winks and pulls out a few chairs for them. "Hop up. I can teach you to make spring wreaths. How does that sound?"

[slayers_desire]

The Kent children who are already at the table look up at interest at the arrival of other children. Except for the ones who are school-aged, the children don't have a lot of interaction with other kids. And they are fascinated to find others in the Nexus... since it might mean that they can be more open about themselves.

Jonathan takes the lead of his younger siblings. "Hello. I'm Jonathan."

"This is Laura..." A playful young blond girl waves excited. Already hoping that she will be able to braid the hair of the princess-looking Una.

"Will..." More reserved and shy, the young blonde stays close to his brother, observing silently for now.

"Drake and Dru..." Drake is very excited about everything on the craft table, and seems anxious to get started on a new task. Dru on the other hand is much more reserved, and sticks close to her twin brother. But she watches silently.

"And our baby sister Martha is with our mom...." Jonathan points to where April stands talking with Amelia.

[silverseamariner]

skekSa catches sight of Eindrid in the stranger's arms, remembering him from Loki's visit to her tavern, and her feathers fluff with recognition. The young sailor lad, who so admired her fish and the sailors' shanties playing there. She simply has to greet the two of them. There's no sign of Loki, and for a moment the Mariner wonders if something's going on. But it isn't her business either way.

"Hello. skekSa the Mariner, but I prefer Captain." She introduces herself to Thor with a tip of her hat and a sweeping bow. "I met Eindrid a while back when he and Loki came to visit The Scarlet Hooyim, the tavern I run downtown. He's a good boy, and with the spirit of a sailor in him. I'm happy to see that he's doing well."

The Skeksis smiles and waves to the child, trying to seem as nonthreatening as a large Skeksis can. "Hello, lad. Good to see you again. It's the Captain."

[sweetcandygirl]

It is a difficult task to navigate the tiny path in roller skates, but somehow Harley Quinn manages. She is dressed very flashy today, with a silvery coat, striped pants, and a tank top that has big stars over her breasts. Her hair is up, and there is glitter in her make-up styling... including her eyebrows.

If Alex thought he had problems watching over a kneazle trying to capture his ribbons... he won't be prepared for Harley just skidding to a stop at his table. And starting to pick up everything sparkly or glittery in sight. "Ohhhh! I want this! And this! And this! And this!"

A half beat after Harley shows up, and definitely less obvious, is Pamela Isley. She has recovered enough of her abilities that as she walks little flowers spring up at her step. And with a warm smile, she heads to greet Amelia, while her best friend is distracted by all the shiny-things.

"I am quite fond of spring. It is my favorite season." Red answers with a smile.

[rogueinladysclothing]

Harley certainly attracts attention with her outfit. Alex is so nonplussed by all the glitter and sequins that he completely misses that she's starting to stockpile all of his supplies.

"Oh my gods! Harley!" His eyes are wide as he rushes over to her, his hands outstretched but not actually touching the... very bright... coat she's wearing. "What in the multiverse are you wearing? Who made that for you? You should have come to me for an outfit and I'd have made you something so bright the stars would scarcely dare to look at you." How in the world did this happen? Who took his beautiful fashionista and let her dress like this?!

Amelia's sighing at her tailor's antics when Red makes her entrance. The rogue smiles at her, a bit entranced by the way flowers bloom behind her. "I'm glad you enjoy it so much. That others enjoy it the way they do helps break away from the harshness of previous seasons." And, in the rogue's case, from the sharp pain that still lives in her chest every time Spring begins.

"Can I interest you in some hair braiding while Alex has Harley otherwise occupied?" she asks, her smile taking on a devious hint. "I could weave flowers into the braids, if you'd like."

[thebluedevil]

Sonic had been zipping around town as he usually did while enjoying the nice weather, when he spotted the sign by the willow tree. Curious, he came to a stop, eyeing the small barely noticeable path in the tall grass. Shrugging, he blurred into motion and careened down the path, curious to see where it ended up. The grass was way taller than his head, but it didn't deter him any. It merely waved in his wake as he streaked along. He was excited to see the weather warming up now that Spring was here. It amazed him that it was only a week or two ago when it was still chilly and snowy. It was hard to really judge time in the Nexus.

The path suddenly ends and Sonic comes to a halt, eyes huge as he takes in the sight of the beautiful garden; briefly overwhelmed by the wonderful smells of nature. A few moments later, the teenager burst into a joyful laugh - erupting into motion as he blew around the gardens so fast he nearly made after-images of himself in his bid to try and see everything at once. "Oh wow! This place is awesome!" He exclaimed, pausing to bury his face into fragrant smelling flowers. Next he zipped over the bridge, stopping a moment to check out the Koi and wave at his them from where he perched on the rail.

It was too bad Tom and Maddie weren't here to enjoy this with him. They would love it!

It was when he was joyfully summersaulting in the grass and enjoying the sunshine when he saw the tables under the larger trees. Oh, there were people here!! Wondering if it was some kind of party, Sonic zipped on over, just in time to hear the woman ask a question.

"Both!" He spread his arms - beaming a huge grin. He had a couple pieces of grass sticking out of his bright blue quills from rolling around, but paid it no mind.

[to_the_wolves]

[Marie catches sight of the blue hedgehog as he's stopped off to wave and say hi to the koi in the koi pong. It's pretty relaxing seeing all the different fish swimming along, while leaning up against the bridge calmly. She's seen her fair share of different non-human people, but there's a unique aura around Sonic that compels her to speak to him.]

"Looks like you and the fish share a nice color scheme." [She looks down at his vibrant red shoes, then back to the swimming fish.] "Are you having a fun time so far?"

[rogueinladysclothing]

The blur of motion that makes its way too and fro around the garden is a strange sight even for someone as used to the strangeness of the Nexus as Amelia. She turns to Alex for explanation, but the tailor merely shrugs and offers a "I don't know, it just happens sometimes?" before going back to his organizing of supplies. Apparently he's even more used to all the Nexus oddities than the rogue.

When Sonic finally makes his way over, Amelia can't help but laugh brightly. He's certainly unlike anyone she's ever seen or met before, but it's endearing the way grass is poking out of his fur from all of his romping. It reminds her a little of her youngest sibling and the way she always seemed oblivious to the outward results of her frolicking.

"Well, I think you've seen most of the new things in the garden already," she teases with a light laugh, "but I can try to offer something else new to try if you'd like. How do you feel about braiding or wreath making? Or perhaps you'd like something to eat or drink before trying either of those?" She vaguely wonders if what treats she has on offer will be ones Sonic is interested in, but she won't know until he takes a look at them.

[silverseamariner]

"Well - it's a little surprising to see you here, Sonic, but it's good to see you out and about."

skekSa's startled to see Sonic at the party, but she recognizes him more-or-less immediately, and the blue hedgehog is under her protection at this point. She steps aside to give him space, curling her tail so he doesn't accidentally tread on it. While Sonic seems to be in good control of his speed, he's young and the Mariner doesn't want to risk an accident.

"Hello, dear!" She waves when she sees him. "How are you doing? I see you're enjoying yourself at the party. Those blades on your quills are from the grass." She wouldn't necessarily object to sitting on the ground if it didn't mean messing up her clothes, and she takes dressing for events like this seriously. They serve a diplomatic purpose, a chance to make new business connections and alliances. But you don't become a pirate like her if you aren't willing to get dirty at least sometimes, in battle or on the ground.

[the_rebel_son]

She hadn't intended for a party. She hadn't really felt like socializing since the weather had the first hints of warmth and the green began to return. A creator so long separated from the seasons of her own world she found this one's an alluring substitute. The path had caught her attention, and she took it, but it narrowed, pulling at her wings and feathers. Branches keeping her from retreating, and not enough space to turn. The only way is forward.

What emerges at the other end is a tall, ivory skinned woman, with pale pale strawberry hair pulled up with small red sunflowers. She's wearing a soft Greek Revival dress layered in fluttering sheer fabric over a near boyish frame. Wings shift, shaking out after squeezing through twigs. The large pair like a sunrise fading from white-yellow, through oranges and reds until the tips of flight feathers are a deep twilight blue to match her two toned blue eyes. A second pair rises between them, mottled reds and yellows that shift like the surface of a star.

She is momentarily annoyed before the sight of a garden dispels all the displeasure. Lucifer was intent on heading for the garden before the voice pulls her attention away from the blossoming trees. The question draws her eyes to the woman in festive dress, but the words cause her brows to knit.

"I am a celebration of spring when the mood arises." the words are quiet and confident, spoke with stately grace.

[OOC: Anyone who knows Lucifer can feel free to recognize that this woman is him, or not realize at all.]

[rogueinladysclothing]

Lucifer is a sight to behold as she enters the garden. Both Amelia and Alex gape openly at her, though the rogue recovers after a brief moment. She elbows the tailor at her side in the ribs to get him moving again and he eventually turns back to his table full of crafting supplies. He keeps looking over his shoulder at Lucifer every few seconds, his fingers itching to take a closer look at both her gown and her wings. Inspiration like this needs to be taken in when it's available!

"I hope the atmosphere I've provided suits your mood," Amelia offers with a smile. "Celebrations on offer come in forms of hair braiding and wreath making, though I think only one suits you with your hair already so stylishly done." The rogue laughs warmly and then gestures past Alex and his table to the final one offering fruits and lemonade. "I also have early spring offerings to sate your appetite, if you'd prefer. My aim is to make the transition from Winter to Spring easier for everyone, so don't feel pressured to do any one thing in particular."

[spacetaser]

When Katiri came across the sign and the narrow path through the tall grass, she definitely wasn't expecting on finding a beautiful garden on the other side. She had been enjoying the nice weather and had gone for a walk (though she still called it 'patrolling') around town. Out of her winter gear, the Warlock was wearing something different - and the lighter material flowed around her legs as she walked. The sun glittered on the metallic threads embroidered on the darker material.

As always, she was armed. This time with a side-arm at her hip and her sword strapped to her back. If she had need of anything else, Luce would be able to transmat it to her. The Ghost was cheerfully floating alongside her, investigating anything that caught his interest.

"Well, that was unexpected." He stated, when they entered the garden proper.

"It's beautiful." Katiri murmured, looking around in quiet appreciation. She headed down to the small bridge, spotting the Koi in the pond. Spring was definitely in the air. She could smell the greenery.

"Hey look over there! There's some tables set up under the trees." Luce caught her attention and she looked up. After a moment of quiet deliberation, Katiri started heading over in that direction, intending on seeing what was going on. She could at least say hello, and stick around to enjoy the garden for a bit.

[chiaro_oscuro]

Katiri isn't the only one who sought peace and quiet in the garden, and she's not alone when she goes there. There's a young man standing there with a handful of fruits. He clears his throat when he notices her.

"Didn't see you there for a moment. Are you another Guardian? I hadn't seen one of you under the armor before." Come to think of it, Ben had figured that Saint's armor was part of him, but it somehow seemed impolite to ask whether the Guardian was human.

Ben didn't recognize Katiri as a Guardian right away - he's still not familiar with the various styles of Katiri's home universe, and she's both smaller and not as heavily armored as Saint-14. But her weapon's a familiar make, and the sight of a Ghost confirms it. He thinks for a moment that Katiri is an alien, but all of the alien species in the Guardians' home universe that he knows about are hostile to humans. So she must be human, too, just different somehow. Their universe is confusing, and complicated.

"Ben Solo. I'm a friend of Saint-14." Ben considers Saint an acquaintance and ally, at least, even if they only spoke once. He admires the Guardians, from what he's been told about them by Nike and what he's learned from talking to Saint directly. He offers her a hand to shake. "I recommend trying the fruit."