that random baker dude

@some-anonymous-cook

62 posts

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

[Pyper finishes up her prayer, and by the time she's done she realises she can smell something good coming from the temple's kitchen.]

[Curious, Pyper stands up, pulls the curtain back, and nagivates her way to the kitchen by running her hand against the wall.]

[It takes a bit of time, and bumping into one of the chapel's benches, before she found the kitchen.]

"Mmm.. That smells good." [Pyper says, sniffing the air.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The smell is that of warm bread and cinnamon, the baker having made a batch of cinnamon rolls.-

Glad they do, here's hoping I don't accidentally burn them, don't exactly have the same things for cooking as i do in the kitchen i usually use.

I got a rough idea for the timing, so it should only be say, 15-20 minutes?

"I can wait."

[Pyper smiled and felt around for something to sit down on. She eventually found a stool, and pulled it closer to sit down on it.]

[She waited patiently while the baker cooked, occasionally tapping her fingers against her thighs.]

some-anonymous-cook

Luckily for me, it's mostly just watching at this point, all the actual work goes into the dough.

I do hope my occasional, shall i say, 'less that polite' actions aren't too much of an annoyance, it's somewhat in my nature to try and get reactions outta people.

You asked what i was doing here, and the more straightforward answer is that Mrs Imora asked me to bring her old family cookbook to Somnia for her.

The same one i was surprised about earlier when you mentioned how long Imora's been a god, I'm amazed it lasted two thousand years without deteriorating into uselessness.

"Ah. No need to worry about being annoying with me. I'm used to it."

[Pyper chuckles at her words.]

"I agree. To think that a book could survive that long.. I wonder what journey it's been on during this time. Did someone else own it before it was found? Have other people added recipes into it? Who knows!"

some-anonymous-cook

I have myself a translated copy of it, though I've yet to spend enough time checking it to see just how many people had written in it, though I can tell a lot of the recipes were from Imora's grandmother.

she'd left many, many notes on the recipes she added, little stories about where she got the recipe, a few tips for the best results, and... little messages.

-The baker pauses for a moment, looking over to the rolls to make sure they're not burning.-

You seem a lot more accepting of what most would see as surprising and unusual.

When i told Aster that Mrs Imora asked me to come to the temple, he was flabbergasted, but then again i had just hopped the little fence around Mackenzie's grave to tend to it.

"When you accept the fact that most, if not all, gods were mortal once, you don't get as surprised when they show mortal habits."

[Pyper shrugs, then blinked at the Baker's next words.]

"I'm surprised he was only flabbergasted." [She deadpanned.] "Aster usually throws something at people's heads if they touch that grave. It's sacred."

"And I heard the old bastard has good aim.."

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, he was could very well have been about to chuck something at the back of my head honestly, i was paying more attention to the fact someone who wasn't me had touched the graves before i even got here.

Well, "Someone", I know exactly who did it, but there hasn't really been a good time to tell Imora about it.

And, honestly, I'm not sure if telling her would do any good, I already undid what they had done to the grave, so...

If they pull something like that again, I'm making like the others like me and snitching faster than you can say worcestershire, which gives me a decent minute or two.

[Pyper doesn't know what to say about that, so she just nods along and hums.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker looks over to the buns, which still need a bit more time.-

Do you have any other instruments you enjoy playing, besides what I heard you playing earlier?

"Well.."

[Pyper smiles.]

"I can play the fiddle, a classic, but I can also play the flute, and the guitar!"

[Pyper lights up, and her tail starts flicking with excitement.]

"Oh, have you ever heard of a Hurdy-Gurdy?"

some-anonymous-cook

Hmm.. I can't say i ever have heard of that, but quite a peculiar name for an instrument it is.

I assume it's one you quite like?

"I heard it once. I was one of the most beautiful sounds I've ever heard."

[Pyper smiled wistfully as she said this.]

"But I don't have one myself. I keep asking Ivan to get one for me, but he hasn't been able to find one yet.."

some-anonymous-cook

Well, if I ever find one in my travels, I'll see about picking it up to bring back.

Any type of songs you prefer over others? I know someone who's rather talented with the guitar, and they always liked playing the types of songs you'd hear around a campfire during an adventure, or in a crowded tavern with a round of drinks.

Shame they won't be staying with my group for any more adventures , but they doing good, so that's fine with me.

"I like songs that tell a story over everything else. That's where I get most of my inspiration from."

some-anonymous-cook

Then perhaps I'll have to share some of the songs i know of with you, many have little stories in them, and some are even entire stories in of themselves!

-Looking to the rolls again, the baker heads over to take them off heat-

But before then, the cinnamon rolls are done!

[Pyper inhales deeply, perking up when she smells the cinnamon aroma in the air.]

"Ooh, they smell divine!" [She says while flicking her tail.] "I would love to try one, if you'll let me."

some-anonymous-cook

oh, of course you're welcome to have some, I've made a whole pan of them!

and, i wouldn't quite say they're divine, i could have done much more had i my usual impliments and full pantry, but I'd wager a certain divine may find herself a little jealous if she heard none are coming up to her.

-The baker snickers at his own teasing remark again, while cutting out and plating a roll for Pyper, which is shortly placed infront of her.-

I will warn, just took it out, so it will be hot, and it's got a sugary glaze all atop it, which will be both sticky and hot, so try and take care to burn neither your hands nor your mouth.

"Thank you for the warning."

[Pyper smiled and held her hand out to feel for the buns, and grabs one when they touch her fingers.]

[Pyper is careful handling them, and blows before eating it.]

"Mm..mmh! These are good!" [Pyper exclaims in excitement.]

some-anonymous-cook

glad you like em, cinnamon rolls are one of my favorites. Cinnamon in general, is a flavor I greatly enjoy, the scent too is warm and homely.

-they take one of the rolls, pulling down the cloth covering their face, and bite into it, caring slightly less to hide the way they eat, as there hadn't appeared to be many others about.-

mmm, nothing quite like a freshly baked cinnamon roll.

"'The smell of home' - or af least that's wgat I've heard."

some-anonymous-cook

Certainly a smell of home, in a most literal sense for myself.

The home where my heart lies always had a scent of sweet baked goods about it, often times with a hearty amount of cinnamon added.

How I miss the time spent there, sat by a fire with a fresh slice of pie...

-The baker lets out a wistful sigh, before continuing to eat their roll.-

[Pyper smiled, then her ears twitched when she heard the sound of a bell ringing put throughout the temple.]

"Oh! Forgive me, I must go now!" [Pyper said in a hurry, turning around and feeling for the doorway.] "Thank you for the treats! You're a very talented cook!"

some-anonymous-cook

Ah, no worries, and I'm glad you enjoyed them.

-As pyper leaves, the baker looks to the pan, wondering what to do with the other ten or so cinnamon rolls.-

-They decide to put them on a plate, leaving a small 'please take one' sign on a folded piece of paper, before promptly disappearing from the temple.-

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

[Pyper finishes up her prayer, and by the time she's done she realises she can smell something good coming from the temple's kitchen.]

[Curious, Pyper stands up, pulls the curtain back, and nagivates her way to the kitchen by running her hand against the wall.]

[It takes a bit of time, and bumping into one of the chapel's benches, before she found the kitchen.]

"Mmm.. That smells good." [Pyper says, sniffing the air.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The smell is that of warm bread and cinnamon, the baker having made a batch of cinnamon rolls.-

Glad they do, here's hoping I don't accidentally burn them, don't exactly have the same things for cooking as i do in the kitchen i usually use.

I got a rough idea for the timing, so it should only be say, 15-20 minutes?

"I can wait."

[Pyper smiled and felt around for something to sit down on. She eventually found a stool, and pulled it closer to sit down on it.]

[She waited patiently while the baker cooked, occasionally tapping her fingers against her thighs.]

some-anonymous-cook

Luckily for me, it's mostly just watching at this point, all the actual work goes into the dough.

I do hope my occasional, shall i say, 'less that polite' actions aren't too much of an annoyance, it's somewhat in my nature to try and get reactions outta people.

You asked what i was doing here, and the more straightforward answer is that Mrs Imora asked me to bring her old family cookbook to Somnia for her.

The same one i was surprised about earlier when you mentioned how long Imora's been a god, I'm amazed it lasted two thousand years without deteriorating into uselessness.

"Ah. No need to worry about being annoying with me. I'm used to it."

[Pyper chuckles at her words.]

"I agree. To think that a book could survive that long.. I wonder what journey it's been on during this time. Did someone else own it before it was found? Have other people added recipes into it? Who knows!"

some-anonymous-cook

I have myself a translated copy of it, though I've yet to spend enough time checking it to see just how many people had written in it, though I can tell a lot of the recipes were from Imora's grandmother.

she'd left many, many notes on the recipes she added, little stories about where she got the recipe, a few tips for the best results, and... little messages.

-The baker pauses for a moment, looking over to the rolls to make sure they're not burning.-

You seem a lot more accepting of what most would see as surprising and unusual.

When i told Aster that Mrs Imora asked me to come to the temple, he was flabbergasted, but then again i had just hopped the little fence around Mackenzie's grave to tend to it.

"When you accept the fact that most, if not all, gods were mortal once, you don't get as surprised when they show mortal habits."

[Pyper shrugs, then blinked at the Baker's next words.]

"I'm surprised he was only flabbergasted." [She deadpanned.] "Aster usually throws something at people's heads if they touch that grave. It's sacred."

"And I heard the old bastard has good aim.."

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, he was could very well have been about to chuck something at the back of my head honestly, i was paying more attention to the fact someone who wasn't me had touched the graves before i even got here.

Well, "Someone", I know exactly who did it, but there hasn't really been a good time to tell Imora about it.

And, honestly, I'm not sure if telling her would do any good, I already undid what they had done to the grave, so...

If they pull something like that again, I'm making like the others like me and snitching faster than you can say worcestershire, which gives me a decent minute or two.

[Pyper doesn't know what to say about that, so she just nods along and hums.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker looks over to the buns, which still need a bit more time.-

Do you have any other instruments you enjoy playing, besides what I heard you playing earlier?

"Well.."

[Pyper smiles.]

"I can play the fiddle, a classic, but I can also play the flute, and the guitar!"

[Pyper lights up, and her tail starts flicking with excitement.]

"Oh, have you ever heard of a Hurdy-Gurdy?"

some-anonymous-cook

Hmm.. I can't say i ever have heard of that, but quite a peculiar name for an instrument it is.

I assume it's one you quite like?

"I heard it once. I was one of the most beautiful sounds I've ever heard."

[Pyper smiled wistfully as she said this.]

"But I don't have one myself. I keep asking Ivan to get one for me, but he hasn't been able to find one yet.."

some-anonymous-cook

Well, if I ever find one in my travels, I'll see about picking it up to bring back.

Any type of songs you prefer over others? I know someone who's rather talented with the guitar, and they always liked playing the types of songs you'd hear around a campfire during an adventure, or in a crowded tavern with a round of drinks.

Shame they won't be staying with my group for any more adventures , but they doing good, so that's fine with me.

"I like songs that tell a story over everything else. That's where I get most of my inspiration from."

some-anonymous-cook

Then perhaps I'll have to share some of the songs i know of with you, many have little stories in them, and some are even entire stories in of themselves!

-Looking to the rolls again, the baker heads over to take them off heat-

But before then, the cinnamon rolls are done!

[Pyper inhales deeply, perking up when she smells the cinnamon aroma in the air.]

"Ooh, they smell divine!" [She says while flicking her tail.] "I would love to try one, if you'll let me."

some-anonymous-cook

oh, of course you're welcome to have some, I've made a whole pan of them!

and, i wouldn't quite say they're divine, i could have done much more had i my usual impliments and full pantry, but I'd wager a certain divine may find herself a little jealous if she heard none are coming up to her.

-The baker snickers at his own teasing remark again, while cutting out and plating a roll for Pyper, which is shortly placed infront of her.-

I will warn, just took it out, so it will be hot, and it's got a sugary glaze all atop it, which will be both sticky and hot, so try and take care to burn neither your hands nor your mouth.

"Thank you for the warning."

[Pyper smiled and held her hand out to feel for the buns, and grabs one when they touch her fingers.]

[Pyper is careful handling them, and blows before eating it.]

"Mm..mmh! These are good!" [Pyper exclaims in excitement.]

some-anonymous-cook

glad you like em, cinnamon rolls are one of my favorites. Cinnamon in general, is a flavor I greatly enjoy, the scent too is warm and homely.

-they take one of the rolls, pulling down the cloth covering their face, and bite into it, caring slightly less to hide the way they eat, as there hadn't appeared to be many others about.-

mmm, nothing quite like a freshly baked cinnamon roll.

"'The smell of home' - or af least that's wgat I've heard."

some-anonymous-cook

Certainly a smell of home, in a most literal sense for myself.

The home where my heart lies always had a scent of sweet baked goods about it, often times with a hearty amount of cinnamon added.

How I miss the time spent there, sat by a fire with a fresh slice of pie...

-The baker lets out a wistful sigh, before continuing to eat their roll.-

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

[Pyper finishes up her prayer, and by the time she's done she realises she can smell something good coming from the temple's kitchen.]

[Curious, Pyper stands up, pulls the curtain back, and nagivates her way to the kitchen by running her hand against the wall.]

[It takes a bit of time, and bumping into one of the chapel's benches, before she found the kitchen.]

"Mmm.. That smells good." [Pyper says, sniffing the air.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The smell is that of warm bread and cinnamon, the baker having made a batch of cinnamon rolls.-

Glad they do, here's hoping I don't accidentally burn them, don't exactly have the same things for cooking as i do in the kitchen i usually use.

I got a rough idea for the timing, so it should only be say, 15-20 minutes?

"I can wait."

[Pyper smiled and felt around for something to sit down on. She eventually found a stool, and pulled it closer to sit down on it.]

[She waited patiently while the baker cooked, occasionally tapping her fingers against her thighs.]

some-anonymous-cook

Luckily for me, it's mostly just watching at this point, all the actual work goes into the dough.

I do hope my occasional, shall i say, 'less that polite' actions aren't too much of an annoyance, it's somewhat in my nature to try and get reactions outta people.

You asked what i was doing here, and the more straightforward answer is that Mrs Imora asked me to bring her old family cookbook to Somnia for her.

The same one i was surprised about earlier when you mentioned how long Imora's been a god, I'm amazed it lasted two thousand years without deteriorating into uselessness.

"Ah. No need to worry about being annoying with me. I'm used to it."

[Pyper chuckles at her words.]

"I agree. To think that a book could survive that long.. I wonder what journey it's been on during this time. Did someone else own it before it was found? Have other people added recipes into it? Who knows!"

some-anonymous-cook

I have myself a translated copy of it, though I've yet to spend enough time checking it to see just how many people had written in it, though I can tell a lot of the recipes were from Imora's grandmother.

she'd left many, many notes on the recipes she added, little stories about where she got the recipe, a few tips for the best results, and... little messages.

-The baker pauses for a moment, looking over to the rolls to make sure they're not burning.-

You seem a lot more accepting of what most would see as surprising and unusual.

When i told Aster that Mrs Imora asked me to come to the temple, he was flabbergasted, but then again i had just hopped the little fence around Mackenzie's grave to tend to it.

"When you accept the fact that most, if not all, gods were mortal once, you don't get as surprised when they show mortal habits."

[Pyper shrugs, then blinked at the Baker's next words.]

"I'm surprised he was only flabbergasted." [She deadpanned.] "Aster usually throws something at people's heads if they touch that grave. It's sacred."

"And I heard the old bastard has good aim.."

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, he was could very well have been about to chuck something at the back of my head honestly, i was paying more attention to the fact someone who wasn't me had touched the graves before i even got here.

Well, "Someone", I know exactly who did it, but there hasn't really been a good time to tell Imora about it.

And, honestly, I'm not sure if telling her would do any good, I already undid what they had done to the grave, so...

If they pull something like that again, I'm making like the others like me and snitching faster than you can say worcestershire, which gives me a decent minute or two.

[Pyper doesn't know what to say about that, so she just nods along and hums.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker looks over to the buns, which still need a bit more time.-

Do you have any other instruments you enjoy playing, besides what I heard you playing earlier?

"Well.."

[Pyper smiles.]

"I can play the fiddle, a classic, but I can also play the flute, and the guitar!"

[Pyper lights up, and her tail starts flicking with excitement.]

"Oh, have you ever heard of a Hurdy-Gurdy?"

some-anonymous-cook

Hmm.. I can't say i ever have heard of that, but quite a peculiar name for an instrument it is.

I assume it's one you quite like?

"I heard it once. I was one of the most beautiful sounds I've ever heard."

[Pyper smiled wistfully as she said this.]

"But I don't have one myself. I keep asking Ivan to get one for me, but he hasn't been able to find one yet.."

some-anonymous-cook

Well, if I ever find one in my travels, I'll see about picking it up to bring back.

Any type of songs you prefer over others? I know someone who's rather talented with the guitar, and they always liked playing the types of songs you'd hear around a campfire during an adventure, or in a crowded tavern with a round of drinks.

Shame they won't be staying with my group for any more adventures , but they doing good, so that's fine with me.

"I like songs that tell a story over everything else. That's where I get most of my inspiration from."

some-anonymous-cook

Then perhaps I'll have to share some of the songs i know of with you, many have little stories in them, and some are even entire stories in of themselves!

-Looking to the rolls again, the baker heads over to take them off heat-

But before then, the cinnamon rolls are done!

[Pyper inhales deeply, perking up when she smells the cinnamon aroma in the air.]

"Ooh, they smell divine!" [She says while flicking her tail.] "I would love to try one, if you'll let me."

some-anonymous-cook

oh, of course you're welcome to have some, I've made a whole pan of them!

and, i wouldn't quite say they're divine, i could have done much more had i my usual impliments and full pantry, but I'd wager a certain divine may find herself a little jealous if she heard none are coming up to her.

-The baker snickers at his own teasing remark again, while cutting out and plating a roll for Pyper, which is shortly placed infront of her.-

I will warn, just took it out, so it will be hot, and it's got a sugary glaze all atop it, which will be both sticky and hot, so try and take care to burn neither your hands nor your mouth.

"Thank you for the warning."

[Pyper smiled and held her hand out to feel for the buns, and grabs one when they touch her fingers.]

[Pyper is careful handling them, and blows before eating it.]

"Mm..mmh! These are good!" [Pyper exclaims in excitement.]

some-anonymous-cook

glad you like em, cinnamon rolls are one of my favorites. Cinnamon in general, is a flavor I greatly enjoy, the scent too is warm and homely.

-they take one of the rolls, pulling down the cloth covering their face, and bite into it, caring slightly less to hide the way they eat, as there hadn't appeared to be many others about.-

mmm, nothing quite like a freshly baked cinnamon roll.

#sorry i fell asleep #'for over a week?' yea basically #family interactions and other such things left me tired and unable to figure out a response

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

[Pyper finishes up her prayer, and by the time she's done she realises she can smell something good coming from the temple's kitchen.]

[Curious, Pyper stands up, pulls the curtain back, and nagivates her way to the kitchen by running her hand against the wall.]

[It takes a bit of time, and bumping into one of the chapel's benches, before she found the kitchen.]

"Mmm.. That smells good." [Pyper says, sniffing the air.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The smell is that of warm bread and cinnamon, the baker having made a batch of cinnamon rolls.-

Glad they do, here's hoping I don't accidentally burn them, don't exactly have the same things for cooking as i do in the kitchen i usually use.

I got a rough idea for the timing, so it should only be say, 15-20 minutes?

"I can wait."

[Pyper smiled and felt around for something to sit down on. She eventually found a stool, and pulled it closer to sit down on it.]

[She waited patiently while the baker cooked, occasionally tapping her fingers against her thighs.]

some-anonymous-cook

Luckily for me, it's mostly just watching at this point, all the actual work goes into the dough.

I do hope my occasional, shall i say, 'less that polite' actions aren't too much of an annoyance, it's somewhat in my nature to try and get reactions outta people.

You asked what i was doing here, and the more straightforward answer is that Mrs Imora asked me to bring her old family cookbook to Somnia for her.

The same one i was surprised about earlier when you mentioned how long Imora's been a god, I'm amazed it lasted two thousand years without deteriorating into uselessness.

"Ah. No need to worry about being annoying with me. I'm used to it."

[Pyper chuckles at her words.]

"I agree. To think that a book could survive that long.. I wonder what journey it's been on during this time. Did someone else own it before it was found? Have other people added recipes into it? Who knows!"

some-anonymous-cook

I have myself a translated copy of it, though I've yet to spend enough time checking it to see just how many people had written in it, though I can tell a lot of the recipes were from Imora's grandmother.

she'd left many, many notes on the recipes she added, little stories about where she got the recipe, a few tips for the best results, and... little messages.

-The baker pauses for a moment, looking over to the rolls to make sure they're not burning.-

You seem a lot more accepting of what most would see as surprising and unusual.

When i told Aster that Mrs Imora asked me to come to the temple, he was flabbergasted, but then again i had just hopped the little fence around Mackenzie's grave to tend to it.

"When you accept the fact that most, if not all, gods were mortal once, you don't get as surprised when they show mortal habits."

[Pyper shrugs, then blinked at the Baker's next words.]

"I'm surprised he was only flabbergasted." [She deadpanned.] "Aster usually throws something at people's heads if they touch that grave. It's sacred."

"And I heard the old bastard has good aim.."

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, he was could very well have been about to chuck something at the back of my head honestly, i was paying more attention to the fact someone who wasn't me had touched the graves before i even got here.

Well, "Someone", I know exactly who did it, but there hasn't really been a good time to tell Imora about it.

And, honestly, I'm not sure if telling her would do any good, I already undid what they had done to the grave, so...

If they pull something like that again, I'm making like the others like me and snitching faster than you can say worcestershire, which gives me a decent minute or two.

[Pyper doesn't know what to say about that, so she just nods along and hums.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker looks over to the buns, which still need a bit more time.-

Do you have any other instruments you enjoy playing, besides what I heard you playing earlier?

"Well.."

[Pyper smiles.]

"I can play the fiddle, a classic, but I can also play the flute, and the guitar!"

[Pyper lights up, and her tail starts flicking with excitement.]

"Oh, have you ever heard of a Hurdy-Gurdy?"

some-anonymous-cook

Hmm.. I can't say i ever have heard of that, but quite a peculiar name for an instrument it is.

I assume it's one you quite like?

"I heard it once. I was one of the most beautiful sounds I've ever heard."

[Pyper smiled wistfully as she said this.]

"But I don't have one myself. I keep asking Ivan to get one for me, but he hasn't been able to find one yet.."

some-anonymous-cook

Well, if I ever find one in my travels, I'll see about picking it up to bring back.

Any type of songs you prefer over others? I know someone who's rather talented with the guitar, and they always liked playing the types of songs you'd hear around a campfire during an adventure, or in a crowded tavern with a round of drinks.

Shame they won't be staying with my group for any more adventures , but they doing good, so that's fine with me.

"I like songs that tell a story over everything else. That's where I get most of my inspiration from."

some-anonymous-cook

Then perhaps I'll have to share some of the songs i know of with you, many have little stories in them, and some are even entire stories in of themselves!

-Looking to the rolls again, the baker heads over to take them off heat-

But before then, the cinnamon rolls are done!

[Pyper inhales deeply, perking up when she smells the cinnamon aroma in the air.]

"Ooh, they smell divine!" [She says while flicking her tail.] "I would love to try one, if you'll let me."

some-anonymous-cook

oh, of course you're welcome to have some, I've made a whole pan of them!

and, i wouldn't quite say they're divine, i could have done much more had i my usual impliments and full pantry, but I'd wager a certain divine may find herself a little jealous if she heard none are coming up to her.

-The baker snickers at his own teasing remark again, while cutting out and plating a roll for Pyper, which is shortly placed infront of her.-

I will warn, just took it out, so it will be hot, and it's got a sugary glaze all atop it, which will be both sticky and hot, so try and take care to burn neither your hands nor your mouth.

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

[Pyper finishes up her prayer, and by the time she's done she realises she can smell something good coming from the temple's kitchen.]

[Curious, Pyper stands up, pulls the curtain back, and nagivates her way to the kitchen by running her hand against the wall.]

[It takes a bit of time, and bumping into one of the chapel's benches, before she found the kitchen.]

"Mmm.. That smells good." [Pyper says, sniffing the air.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The smell is that of warm bread and cinnamon, the baker having made a batch of cinnamon rolls.-

Glad they do, here's hoping I don't accidentally burn them, don't exactly have the same things for cooking as i do in the kitchen i usually use.

I got a rough idea for the timing, so it should only be say, 15-20 minutes?

"I can wait."

[Pyper smiled and felt around for something to sit down on. She eventually found a stool, and pulled it closer to sit down on it.]

[She waited patiently while the baker cooked, occasionally tapping her fingers against her thighs.]

some-anonymous-cook

Luckily for me, it's mostly just watching at this point, all the actual work goes into the dough.

I do hope my occasional, shall i say, 'less that polite' actions aren't too much of an annoyance, it's somewhat in my nature to try and get reactions outta people.

You asked what i was doing here, and the more straightforward answer is that Mrs Imora asked me to bring her old family cookbook to Somnia for her.

The same one i was surprised about earlier when you mentioned how long Imora's been a god, I'm amazed it lasted two thousand years without deteriorating into uselessness.

"Ah. No need to worry about being annoying with me. I'm used to it."

[Pyper chuckles at her words.]

"I agree. To think that a book could survive that long.. I wonder what journey it's been on during this time. Did someone else own it before it was found? Have other people added recipes into it? Who knows!"

some-anonymous-cook

I have myself a translated copy of it, though I've yet to spend enough time checking it to see just how many people had written in it, though I can tell a lot of the recipes were from Imora's grandmother.

she'd left many, many notes on the recipes she added, little stories about where she got the recipe, a few tips for the best results, and... little messages.

-The baker pauses for a moment, looking over to the rolls to make sure they're not burning.-

You seem a lot more accepting of what most would see as surprising and unusual.

When i told Aster that Mrs Imora asked me to come to the temple, he was flabbergasted, but then again i had just hopped the little fence around Mackenzie's grave to tend to it.

"When you accept the fact that most, if not all, gods were mortal once, you don't get as surprised when they show mortal habits."

[Pyper shrugs, then blinked at the Baker's next words.]

"I'm surprised he was only flabbergasted." [She deadpanned.] "Aster usually throws something at people's heads if they touch that grave. It's sacred."

"And I heard the old bastard has good aim.."

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, he was could very well have been about to chuck something at the back of my head honestly, i was paying more attention to the fact someone who wasn't me had touched the graves before i even got here.

Well, "Someone", I know exactly who did it, but there hasn't really been a good time to tell Imora about it.

And, honestly, I'm not sure if telling her would do any good, I already undid what they had done to the grave, so...

If they pull something like that again, I'm making like the others like me and snitching faster than you can say worcestershire, which gives me a decent minute or two.

[Pyper doesn't know what to say about that, so she just nods along and hums.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker looks over to the buns, which still need a bit more time.-

Do you have any other instruments you enjoy playing, besides what I heard you playing earlier?

"Well.."

[Pyper smiles.]

"I can play the fiddle, a classic, but I can also play the flute, and the guitar!"

[Pyper lights up, and her tail starts flicking with excitement.]

"Oh, have you ever heard of a Hurdy-Gurdy?"

some-anonymous-cook

Hmm.. I can't say i ever have heard of that, but quite a peculiar name for an instrument it is.

I assume it's one you quite like?

"I heard it once. I was one of the most beautiful sounds I've ever heard."

[Pyper smiled wistfully as she said this.]

"But I don't have one myself. I keep asking Ivan to get one for me, but he hasn't been able to find one yet.."

some-anonymous-cook

Well, if I ever find one in my travels, I'll see about picking it up to bring back.

Any type of songs you prefer over others? I know someone who's rather talented with the guitar, and they always liked playing the types of songs you'd hear around a campfire during an adventure, or in a crowded tavern with a round of drinks.

Shame they won't be staying with my group for any more adventures , but they doing good, so that's fine with me.

"I like songs that tell a story over everything else. That's where I get most of my inspiration from."

some-anonymous-cook

Then perhaps I'll have to share some of the songs i know of with you, many have little stories in them, and some are even entire stories in of themselves!

-Looking to the rolls again, the baker heads over to take them off heat-

But before then, the cinnamon rolls are done!

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

[Pyper finishes up her prayer, and by the time she's done she realises she can smell something good coming from the temple's kitchen.]

[Curious, Pyper stands up, pulls the curtain back, and nagivates her way to the kitchen by running her hand against the wall.]

[It takes a bit of time, and bumping into one of the chapel's benches, before she found the kitchen.]

"Mmm.. That smells good." [Pyper says, sniffing the air.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The smell is that of warm bread and cinnamon, the baker having made a batch of cinnamon rolls.-

Glad they do, here's hoping I don't accidentally burn them, don't exactly have the same things for cooking as i do in the kitchen i usually use.

I got a rough idea for the timing, so it should only be say, 15-20 minutes?

"I can wait."

[Pyper smiled and felt around for something to sit down on. She eventually found a stool, and pulled it closer to sit down on it.]

[She waited patiently while the baker cooked, occasionally tapping her fingers against her thighs.]

some-anonymous-cook

Luckily for me, it's mostly just watching at this point, all the actual work goes into the dough.

I do hope my occasional, shall i say, 'less that polite' actions aren't too much of an annoyance, it's somewhat in my nature to try and get reactions outta people.

You asked what i was doing here, and the more straightforward answer is that Mrs Imora asked me to bring her old family cookbook to Somnia for her.

The same one i was surprised about earlier when you mentioned how long Imora's been a god, I'm amazed it lasted two thousand years without deteriorating into uselessness.

"Ah. No need to worry about being annoying with me. I'm used to it."

[Pyper chuckles at her words.]

"I agree. To think that a book could survive that long.. I wonder what journey it's been on during this time. Did someone else own it before it was found? Have other people added recipes into it? Who knows!"

some-anonymous-cook

I have myself a translated copy of it, though I've yet to spend enough time checking it to see just how many people had written in it, though I can tell a lot of the recipes were from Imora's grandmother.

she'd left many, many notes on the recipes she added, little stories about where she got the recipe, a few tips for the best results, and... little messages.

-The baker pauses for a moment, looking over to the rolls to make sure they're not burning.-

You seem a lot more accepting of what most would see as surprising and unusual.

When i told Aster that Mrs Imora asked me to come to the temple, he was flabbergasted, but then again i had just hopped the little fence around Mackenzie's grave to tend to it.

"When you accept the fact that most, if not all, gods were mortal once, you don't get as surprised when they show mortal habits."

[Pyper shrugs, then blinked at the Baker's next words.]

"I'm surprised he was only flabbergasted." [She deadpanned.] "Aster usually throws something at people's heads if they touch that grave. It's sacred."

"And I heard the old bastard has good aim.."

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, he was could very well have been about to chuck something at the back of my head honestly, i was paying more attention to the fact someone who wasn't me had touched the graves before i even got here.

Well, "Someone", I know exactly who did it, but there hasn't really been a good time to tell Imora about it.

And, honestly, I'm not sure if telling her would do any good, I already undid what they had done to the grave, so...

If they pull something like that again, I'm making like the others like me and snitching faster than you can say worcestershire, which gives me a decent minute or two.

[Pyper doesn't know what to say about that, so she just nods along and hums.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker looks over to the buns, which still need a bit more time.-

Do you have any other instruments you enjoy playing, besides what I heard you playing earlier?

"Well.."

[Pyper smiles.]

"I can play the fiddle, a classic, but I can also play the flute, and the guitar!"

[Pyper lights up, and her tail starts flicking with excitement.]

"Oh, have you ever heard of a Hurdy-Gurdy?"

some-anonymous-cook

Hmm.. I can't say i ever have heard of that, but quite a peculiar name for an instrument it is.

I assume it's one you quite like?

"I heard it once. I was one of the most beautiful sounds I've ever heard."

[Pyper smiled wistfully as she said this.]

"But I don't have one myself. I keep asking Ivan to get one for me, but he hasn't been able to find one yet.."

some-anonymous-cook

Well, if I ever find one in my travels, I'll see about picking it up to bring back.

Any type of songs you prefer over others? I know someone who's rather talented with the guitar, and they always liked playing the types of songs you'd hear around a campfire during an adventure, or in a crowded tavern with a round of drinks.

Shame they won't be staying with my group for any more adventures , but they doing good, so that's fine with me.

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

[Pyper finishes up her prayer, and by the time she's done she realises she can smell something good coming from the temple's kitchen.]

[Curious, Pyper stands up, pulls the curtain back, and nagivates her way to the kitchen by running her hand against the wall.]

[It takes a bit of time, and bumping into one of the chapel's benches, before she found the kitchen.]

"Mmm.. That smells good." [Pyper says, sniffing the air.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The smell is that of warm bread and cinnamon, the baker having made a batch of cinnamon rolls.-

Glad they do, here's hoping I don't accidentally burn them, don't exactly have the same things for cooking as i do in the kitchen i usually use.

I got a rough idea for the timing, so it should only be say, 15-20 minutes?

"I can wait."

[Pyper smiled and felt around for something to sit down on. She eventually found a stool, and pulled it closer to sit down on it.]

[She waited patiently while the baker cooked, occasionally tapping her fingers against her thighs.]

some-anonymous-cook

Luckily for me, it's mostly just watching at this point, all the actual work goes into the dough.

I do hope my occasional, shall i say, 'less that polite' actions aren't too much of an annoyance, it's somewhat in my nature to try and get reactions outta people.

You asked what i was doing here, and the more straightforward answer is that Mrs Imora asked me to bring her old family cookbook to Somnia for her.

The same one i was surprised about earlier when you mentioned how long Imora's been a god, I'm amazed it lasted two thousand years without deteriorating into uselessness.

"Ah. No need to worry about being annoying with me. I'm used to it."

[Pyper chuckles at her words.]

"I agree. To think that a book could survive that long.. I wonder what journey it's been on during this time. Did someone else own it before it was found? Have other people added recipes into it? Who knows!"

some-anonymous-cook

I have myself a translated copy of it, though I've yet to spend enough time checking it to see just how many people had written in it, though I can tell a lot of the recipes were from Imora's grandmother.

she'd left many, many notes on the recipes she added, little stories about where she got the recipe, a few tips for the best results, and... little messages.

-The baker pauses for a moment, looking over to the rolls to make sure they're not burning.-

You seem a lot more accepting of what most would see as surprising and unusual.

When i told Aster that Mrs Imora asked me to come to the temple, he was flabbergasted, but then again i had just hopped the little fence around Mackenzie's grave to tend to it.

"When you accept the fact that most, if not all, gods were mortal once, you don't get as surprised when they show mortal habits."

[Pyper shrugs, then blinked at the Baker's next words.]

"I'm surprised he was only flabbergasted." [She deadpanned.] "Aster usually throws something at people's heads if they touch that grave. It's sacred."

"And I heard the old bastard has good aim.."

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, he was could very well have been about to chuck something at the back of my head honestly, i was paying more attention to the fact someone who wasn't me had touched the graves before i even got here.

Well, "Someone", I know exactly who did it, but there hasn't really been a good time to tell Imora about it.

And, honestly, I'm not sure if telling her would do any good, I already undid what they had done to the grave, so...

If they pull something like that again, I'm making like the others like me and snitching faster than you can say worcestershire, which gives me a decent minute or two.

[Pyper doesn't know what to say about that, so she just nods along and hums.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker looks over to the buns, which still need a bit more time.-

Do you have any other instruments you enjoy playing, besides what I heard you playing earlier?

"Well.."

[Pyper smiles.]

"I can play the fiddle, a classic, but I can also play the flute, and the guitar!"

[Pyper lights up, and her tail starts flicking with excitement.]

"Oh, have you ever heard of a Hurdy-Gurdy?"

some-anonymous-cook

Hmm.. I can't say i ever have heard of that, but quite a peculiar name for an instrument it is.

I assume it's one you quite like?

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

[Pyper finishes up her prayer, and by the time she's done she realises she can smell something good coming from the temple's kitchen.]

[Curious, Pyper stands up, pulls the curtain back, and nagivates her way to the kitchen by running her hand against the wall.]

[It takes a bit of time, and bumping into one of the chapel's benches, before she found the kitchen.]

"Mmm.. That smells good." [Pyper says, sniffing the air.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The smell is that of warm bread and cinnamon, the baker having made a batch of cinnamon rolls.-

Glad they do, here's hoping I don't accidentally burn them, don't exactly have the same things for cooking as i do in the kitchen i usually use.

I got a rough idea for the timing, so it should only be say, 15-20 minutes?

"I can wait."

[Pyper smiled and felt around for something to sit down on. She eventually found a stool, and pulled it closer to sit down on it.]

[She waited patiently while the baker cooked, occasionally tapping her fingers against her thighs.]

some-anonymous-cook

Luckily for me, it's mostly just watching at this point, all the actual work goes into the dough.

I do hope my occasional, shall i say, 'less that polite' actions aren't too much of an annoyance, it's somewhat in my nature to try and get reactions outta people.

You asked what i was doing here, and the more straightforward answer is that Mrs Imora asked me to bring her old family cookbook to Somnia for her.

The same one i was surprised about earlier when you mentioned how long Imora's been a god, I'm amazed it lasted two thousand years without deteriorating into uselessness.

"Ah. No need to worry about being annoying with me. I'm used to it."

[Pyper chuckles at her words.]

"I agree. To think that a book could survive that long.. I wonder what journey it's been on during this time. Did someone else own it before it was found? Have other people added recipes into it? Who knows!"

some-anonymous-cook

I have myself a translated copy of it, though I've yet to spend enough time checking it to see just how many people had written in it, though I can tell a lot of the recipes were from Imora's grandmother.

she'd left many, many notes on the recipes she added, little stories about where she got the recipe, a few tips for the best results, and... little messages.

-The baker pauses for a moment, looking over to the rolls to make sure they're not burning.-

You seem a lot more accepting of what most would see as surprising and unusual.

When i told Aster that Mrs Imora asked me to come to the temple, he was flabbergasted, but then again i had just hopped the little fence around Mackenzie's grave to tend to it.

"When you accept the fact that most, if not all, gods were mortal once, you don't get as surprised when they show mortal habits."

[Pyper shrugs, then blinked at the Baker's next words.]

"I'm surprised he was only flabbergasted." [She deadpanned.] "Aster usually throws something at people's heads if they touch that grave. It's sacred."

"And I heard the old bastard has good aim.."

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, he was could very well have been about to chuck something at the back of my head honestly, i was paying more attention to the fact someone who wasn't me had touched the graves before i even got here.

Well, "Someone", I know exactly who did it, but there hasn't really been a good time to tell Imora about it.

And, honestly, I'm not sure if telling her would do any good, I already undid what they had done to the grave, so...

If they pull something like that again, I'm making like the others like me and snitching faster than you can say worcestershire, which gives me a decent minute or two.

[Pyper doesn't know what to say about that, so she just nods along and hums.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker looks over to the buns, which still need a bit more time.-

Do you have any other instruments you enjoy playing, besides what I heard you playing earlier?

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

[Pyper finishes up her prayer, and by the time she's done she realises she can smell something good coming from the temple's kitchen.]

[Curious, Pyper stands up, pulls the curtain back, and nagivates her way to the kitchen by running her hand against the wall.]

[It takes a bit of time, and bumping into one of the chapel's benches, before she found the kitchen.]

"Mmm.. That smells good." [Pyper says, sniffing the air.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The smell is that of warm bread and cinnamon, the baker having made a batch of cinnamon rolls.-

Glad they do, here's hoping I don't accidentally burn them, don't exactly have the same things for cooking as i do in the kitchen i usually use.

I got a rough idea for the timing, so it should only be say, 15-20 minutes?

"I can wait."

[Pyper smiled and felt around for something to sit down on. She eventually found a stool, and pulled it closer to sit down on it.]

[She waited patiently while the baker cooked, occasionally tapping her fingers against her thighs.]

some-anonymous-cook

Luckily for me, it's mostly just watching at this point, all the actual work goes into the dough.

I do hope my occasional, shall i say, 'less that polite' actions aren't too much of an annoyance, it's somewhat in my nature to try and get reactions outta people.

You asked what i was doing here, and the more straightforward answer is that Mrs Imora asked me to bring her old family cookbook to Somnia for her.

The same one i was surprised about earlier when you mentioned how long Imora's been a god, I'm amazed it lasted two thousand years without deteriorating into uselessness.

"Ah. No need to worry about being annoying with me. I'm used to it."

[Pyper chuckles at her words.]

"I agree. To think that a book could survive that long.. I wonder what journey it's been on during this time. Did someone else own it before it was found? Have other people added recipes into it? Who knows!"

some-anonymous-cook

I have myself a translated copy of it, though I've yet to spend enough time checking it to see just how many people had written in it, though I can tell a lot of the recipes were from Imora's grandmother.

she'd left many, many notes on the recipes she added, little stories about where she got the recipe, a few tips for the best results, and... little messages.

-The baker pauses for a moment, looking over to the rolls to make sure they're not burning.-

You seem a lot more accepting of what most would see as surprising and unusual.

When i told Aster that Mrs Imora asked me to come to the temple, he was flabbergasted, but then again i had just hopped the little fence around Mackenzie's grave to tend to it.

"When you accept the fact that most, if not all, gods were mortal once, you don't get as surprised when they show mortal habits."

[Pyper shrugs, then blinked at the Baker's next words.]

"I'm surprised he was only flabbergasted." [She deadpanned.] "Aster usually throws something at people's heads if they touch that grave. It's sacred."

"And I heard the old bastard has good aim.."

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, he was could very well have been about to chuck something at the back of my head honestly, i was paying more attention to the fact someone who wasn't me had touched the graves before i even got here.

Well, "Someone", I know exactly who did it, but there hasn't really been a good time to tell Imora about it.

And, honestly, I'm not sure if telling her would do any good, I already undid what they had done to the grave, so...

If they pull something like that again, I'm making like the others like me and snitching faster than you can say worcestershire, which gives me a decent minute or two.

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

[Pyper finishes up her prayer, and by the time she's done she realises she can smell something good coming from the temple's kitchen.]

[Curious, Pyper stands up, pulls the curtain back, and nagivates her way to the kitchen by running her hand against the wall.]

[It takes a bit of time, and bumping into one of the chapel's benches, before she found the kitchen.]

"Mmm.. That smells good." [Pyper says, sniffing the air.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The smell is that of warm bread and cinnamon, the baker having made a batch of cinnamon rolls.-

Glad they do, here's hoping I don't accidentally burn them, don't exactly have the same things for cooking as i do in the kitchen i usually use.

I got a rough idea for the timing, so it should only be say, 15-20 minutes?

"I can wait."

[Pyper smiled and felt around for something to sit down on. She eventually found a stool, and pulled it closer to sit down on it.]

[She waited patiently while the baker cooked, occasionally tapping her fingers against her thighs.]

some-anonymous-cook

Luckily for me, it's mostly just watching at this point, all the actual work goes into the dough.

I do hope my occasional, shall i say, 'less that polite' actions aren't too much of an annoyance, it's somewhat in my nature to try and get reactions outta people.

You asked what i was doing here, and the more straightforward answer is that Mrs Imora asked me to bring her old family cookbook to Somnia for her.

The same one i was surprised about earlier when you mentioned how long Imora's been a god, I'm amazed it lasted two thousand years without deteriorating into uselessness.

"Ah. No need to worry about being annoying with me. I'm used to it."

[Pyper chuckles at her words.]

"I agree. To think that a book could survive that long.. I wonder what journey it's been on during this time. Did someone else own it before it was found? Have other people added recipes into it? Who knows!"

some-anonymous-cook

I have myself a translated copy of it, though I've yet to spend enough time checking it to see just how many people had written in it, though I can tell a lot of the recipes were from Imora's grandmother.

she'd left many, many notes on the recipes she added, little stories about where she got the recipe, a few tips for the best results, and... little messages.

-The baker pauses for a moment, looking over to the rolls to make sure they're not burning.-

You seem a lot more accepting of what most would see as surprising and unusual.

When i told Aster that Mrs Imora asked me to come to the temple, he was flabbergasted, but then again i had just hopped the little fence around Mackenzie's grave to tend to it.

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

[Pyper finishes up her prayer, and by the time she's done she realises she can smell something good coming from the temple's kitchen.]

[Curious, Pyper stands up, pulls the curtain back, and nagivates her way to the kitchen by running her hand against the wall.]

[It takes a bit of time, and bumping into one of the chapel's benches, before she found the kitchen.]

"Mmm.. That smells good." [Pyper says, sniffing the air.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The smell is that of warm bread and cinnamon, the baker having made a batch of cinnamon rolls.-

Glad they do, here's hoping I don't accidentally burn them, don't exactly have the same things for cooking as i do in the kitchen i usually use.

I got a rough idea for the timing, so it should only be say, 15-20 minutes?

"I can wait."

[Pyper smiled and felt around for something to sit down on. She eventually found a stool, and pulled it closer to sit down on it.]

[She waited patiently while the baker cooked, occasionally tapping her fingers against her thighs.]

some-anonymous-cook

Luckily for me, it's mostly just watching at this point, all the actual work goes into the dough.

I do hope my occasional, shall i say, 'less that polite' actions aren't too much of an annoyance, it's somewhat in my nature to try and get reactions outta people.

You asked what i was doing here, and the more straightforward answer is that Mrs Imora asked me to bring her old family cookbook to Somnia for her.

The same one i was surprised about earlier when you mentioned how long Imora's been a god, I'm amazed it lasted two thousand years without deteriorating into uselessness.

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

[Pyper finishes up her prayer, and by the time she's done she realises she can smell something good coming from the temple's kitchen.]

[Curious, Pyper stands up, pulls the curtain back, and nagivates her way to the kitchen by running her hand against the wall.]

[It takes a bit of time, and bumping into one of the chapel's benches, before she found the kitchen.]

"Mmm.. That smells good." [Pyper says, sniffing the air.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The smell is that of warm bread and cinnamon, the baker having made a batch of cinnamon rolls.-

Glad they do, here's hoping I don't accidentally burn them, don't exactly have the same things for cooking as i do in the kitchen i usually use.

I got a rough idea for the timing, so it should only be say, 15-20 minutes?

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

some-anonymous-cook

-After not finding any landmarks they recognize, the baker takes out their notebook to check the little map imora made for them some time ago...- -before shortly putting it back in their bag, as the only landmark beside the graves was the village she used to live in, and this town looked neither old nor ruined, so SURELY that's not where he was-

I appear to be... very lost.

-Having accepted they haven't a clue where they are, he walks around the little town, looking for anyone who does, or will, live here, to perhaps get some knowledge on where he is.-

[A lot of people were busy. Perhaps a little too busy to talk, as they were moving building supplies to building that were a work in progress, and walked past the baker.]

[However, at the edge of the town, there was someone unloading stuff from a ship with a small crew in tow. A buffalo, to be exact, who was currently talking to someone]

"That should be the last of it... yeah, just make sure this gets to... of course be gentle with it, it's precious cargo!.."

some-anonymous-cook

-Seeing the group from some ways away, he feels they might be able to help guide him to Imora's temple, and while they do seem rather busy, decides to go and ask anyways.-

-Approaching with a wave, the baker heads towards the buffalo-

I do apologize if you're busy, but would you have some time for a few questions? I've managed to get myself a little lost, and I'm in need of a little guidance to my destination.

[The buffalo turned briefly, and for a moment it looked like he might actually help before someone else calls to him.]

[The buffalo gives the baker an apologetic look.]

"Sorry. Got a lot of cargo to unload. But I hope you can find someone to help you!"

[And with that, the bufflo turns and walks away.]

some-anonymous-cook

Ah, no worries, thank you anyways!

-Still lost, and down one potential lead, the baker too turns to walk away, once again looking to see if anyone else might be less busy.-

-Surely there's at least ONE person in the town who isn't busy, right?-

[While walking, you see a snow leopard busking outside what looks like a newly-renovated tavern. Their back is turned to you.]

some-anonymous-cook

-Seeing the leopard in the distance, and slightly hearing the music, the baker decides to walk over, and waits for them to finish their song before taking a step forward.-

Apologies for interrupting, but do you think I could ask a few questions?

[You are immediately acquainted with the snow leopard's fist, as she whirls around to deck you hard in the face.]

[She looks startled; as evident by her raised hackles and thrashing tail.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker, having not even a moment to register a fist coming for him, reels back, putting a hand to face, and saying several things in a tongue entirely foreign, which are all no doubt swears as he did just get punched.-

-After a few moments, he mostly recovers, and looks towards her with confusion and annoyance-

And for WHAT was that for?? I just asked if you had a moment to spare, and the response you give is a fist to my face!?

[The snow leopard blinked. She didn't recognize the voice, but she visiblt relaxed now that she knew someone was there.]

"Oh- I'm sorry!" [She replied, lowering her now achey fist and wiping it on her tunic.] "I didn't hear you coming. Are you okay?"

some-anonymous-cook

Yes, I should be more than fine, you've got a strong punch, but I'm of a sturdy sort, so it'd take quite a bit to wound me.

I am sorry if I had startled you, But that does not answer my question of why your first thought was that of violence, instead of perhaps looking behind you to check if there's someone?

-...- -now, it should be noted, that our dear baker has somehow yet to notice Pyper's faded eyes, and hasn't the faintest of clues that she's entirely blind.-

[Pyper now looks entirely uncomfortable, and she taps her fingers against her fiddle while her eyes shift to the side.]

"Oh... well.. you see I would.. if I could see.."

[She shifts her eyes back and forth, and that's when her faded whires can be seen a bit more clearly in the light.]

some-anonymous-cook

-Gears turn in the baker's head, and after a moment the reality of what he just said dawns on him-

OhmygodI'msosorryIdidn'trealizeyouwereblindIdidn'tmeananythingI'mjustabitannoyedatthemomentbecauseI'mentirelylostandIhaven'tanyideawhereImora'stempleisfromhereand-

-Only a few of the words from that flurry of apology can be made out, and at this point the baker just puts their face in their hands and sighs.- -Though Pyper swears she heard mention of Imora's temple from him...-

[Pyper's face blanks as she hesrs a flurry of what she thinks is an apology??]

[She chuckles and puts her hands up in an attempt to calm the baker down.]

"Haha.. hey it's fine! An honest mistake, really..!"

[But when her ears caught the word's 'Imora's temple' her instantly perked up.]

"Oh! Are you looking for the Dream Mother's temple?" [She asked, cutting off the baker from apologizing further.] "It's to the North of here. If you'll help me not run in to anything, I can take you there!"

some-anonymous-cook

That, yes that I can do, thank you.

-The baker goes to put his hands in one of his pockets and...- -is suddenly patting down all his pockets, having noticed something missing.-

... Do you know which way north is, because I uh... I appear to have forgotten my compass...

Normally my sense of direction is fairly alright, but I've gotten a bit turned around while wandering the town...

[Pyper smiles and reaches into her own pocket to pull out her own compass. This one is more tactile; custom-made with the coordinates written in braille that she can feel with her fingers.]

[Pyper gives the needle a moment to settle before she runs her fingers over the needle and the braille. Then, she points to her left.]

"It's that way." [She says, then she holds her hand out.]

some-anonymous-cook

Alright, off we are then.

-The baker takes her hand, and leads the both of them north, off towards Imora's temple.-

Your playing was quite good, something alone that's fairly impressive, doubly so with being blind. You must have spent quite a long time practicing to become so skilled.

[Pyper nodded.]

"It sure did. A lot of practicing, memorizing, readjusting when I made a mistake.."

[There was a pile of stones up ahead as they walked.]

"My name's Pyper by the way. I'm one of Imora's disciples."

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, one of her disciples? Well, it's nice to meet another.

I don't exactly have a name to share, it hasn't been relevant in quite a long time. though Mrs. Imora usually just calls me 'little baker'

-He guides Pyper a little to the side, around the rocks.-

A bit funny to me, given what happened to the last person she regarded with a similar nickname.

[Pyper stepped around the rocks and let out a curious hum.]

"I don't even wanna know who'd be dumb enough to scorn the goddess of sleep." [She said in a uneasy tone.]

"People have starved to death because she's kept them in perpetual sleep before."

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker chuckles a little, seemingly taking the topic of Imora's wrath much more lightly than Pyper does.-

Then you might be surprised that not only did he earn a great scorn from Imora, but he's... Well, I wouldn't call his current condition 'alive and well', but Imora didn't do anything to harm him, if I recall correctly.

[Pyper hummed in thought.]

"Well." [She said.] "I think I'll count him lucky then."

[As the walked out of town, there were small stepping stones protruding out from the snow that made a path.]

some-anonymous-cook

Well, I'm not sure if I'd call him lucky, but he's alive. Technically

-The baker's silent for a bit while they leave the town, and Pyper could hear their steps having changed to a more heavy, flat footed step than what accidentally snuck up on her earlier.-

Has Aster recently mentioned any odd or unusual travelers that came through here recently?

[Pyper thought for a moment, then shook her head.]

"No. But I think he's too busy.. 'mingling' at the moment. If he did see anyone; he didn't tell me."

[Pyoer could also feel the smooth stepping stones under her feet.]

"We're almost there"

some-anonymous-cook

Kinda thought he'd have mentioned all that, huh...

-Their surprise of aster not mentioning them is kept under breath-

Curious, with you being one of Imora's disciples, how much do you know about her?

I've personally learned a fair amount about her, though I'm not often at the temple.

[Pyper lit up at the mention of her goddess.]

"I know that she's the goddess of sleep, that she rules Somnia and is responsible for all dreams- including nightmares."

[She stops and thinks for a moment as they walk.]

"I know.. that this is her ancestral home. I know that she's over 2,000 years old, but not her exact age, and I know that she really likes sweet food because she grants a blessing upon me everytime I offer them to her."

[Pyper hums.]

"Oh! And I know that she either has, or has had children before."

some-anonymous-cook

Two THOUSAND? By the gods how did that cookbook not disintegrate when i picked it up!?

-Somehow the baker never learned exactly how long Imora had been a god, and never bothered to ask, because it felt a little rude to ask her age.-

-They clear their throat after the sudden surprise, and continue as if nothing had happened.-

And she both has, and had, children. there's a grave for her first child, Mackenzie, front and center in the temple, and she currently has two lovely little daughters, they're both adorable.

Who the father is, may be a little surprising, not someone you'd first think of.

"Quite a surprise when you hear her age, hmm?"

[Pyper giggled in amusement.]

"The Mother Dream never had a proper congregation or following before Aster established one."

[Pyper was careful not to use the word 'cult.' And tapped her chin with a thoughtdul hum at what the baker said.]

"I was aware of Mackenzie. But I didn't know she had other children! Perhaps they were kept a secret?"

[She hums.]

"The children of gods qould make a great target for rival gods.. it would make sense."

some-anonymous-cook

A little surprise, yes, given she looks very young compared to that. Probably a benefit of being a crown bearer, I wouldn't know.

She does also have a tendency to remind me more of a young lady on her sweet sixteenth, than a god who's thousands of years old.

-He chuckles at both his statement, and the idea of another god trying to get at the twins.-

I'd love to see a god try and get to Asha and Olivia, given they're currently in somnia, and have been for their whole lives. Which, granted, has only really been about a year and a half or so, but still.

[Pyper narrows her eyes. She's mildly offended that her goddess was compared to a teenager of all things, but she doesn't voice it.]

"I see.."

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker doesn't notice Pyper's annoyance at their comment, and thinks for a moment.-

Though, she usually only shows that demeanor after I've brought out, or told her I'm bringing, some food I've made. Last I commented on it, she jokingly pouted and said something like, "what's wrong with a lady enjoying the idea of good food?"

You're also quite right on her sweet tooth, I've made cakes that where big enough to be "normal" for her godly form, and she's devoured them all on her own some of the times!

Honestly rather impressive, I don't think I could stomach eating an entire cake in one sitting.

[The temple finally comes into view as the path of stones ends. The front entrance is open; and from where the baker was standing a low light from a torch glowed.]

[Pyper hummed.]

"I've heard she is.. big in her divine form. Not that I could see.. is this true?"

some-anonymous-cook

Without a doubt, yes, her godly form is...

I'd say about four times the size she is in her usual form.

Combine that with her already being on the taller side compared to mortal standards, and well.

-The baker spies the temple in the distance, and slightly perks up.-

Seems the temple was much closer than i had thought, we're nearly there.

Hmm.. If you're hungry, i'd bet i could probably borrow the Temple's kitchen for a bit, assuming it's not in use, and whip something up fairly quick.

"Before you do.. could you take me to the shrine room?"

"It's right next to the chapel- which is also connected to the kitchen. I would like to pray privately."

[When they were standing directly in front of the temple entrance, something clicked in Pyper's expression, and she stepped inside and immediately turned right.]

[There was a long hallway that looked like it spiralled. It was lit by ornate metal sconces on the wall.]

[It also looked like the inner wall was in the process of being decorated with a mosaic; as there were pieces of coloured glass that were smashed up and attached to it.]

some-anonymous-cook

yea, i can do that, you'll probably hear me in the kitchen before long, shouldn't take too long to do what i came for.

-The baker leads the two of them through the ornately decorated hall, spending more time observing the walls than where he walked.-

You know, last i was here, i paid little attention to this curious entrance the temple has.

"Are you talking about the mosaic?"

[Pyper asked curiously as their footsteps echo through the hallway. A part of the mosaic was finished, and it depicted Imora inside a dark cave, with her crown shining brightly.]

"It's a collaborative piece depicting our Goddess' entire lifetime. It's supposed to go all the way to the inner temple. A kind of.. community idea, if you will."

some-anonymous-cook

Well, the mosaic is no doubt part of the curiosities, but I'm more so curious about the layout.

Most entrances I've ever been don't circle round the entire edge of the building!

-The baker looks around, properly observing the temple this time around while they speak.-

Do you have any preferance for what i might make? I should have the ingredients on me for a sweet something, but it probably wouldn't be long to gather what i need for something more savory if you'd prefer that.

"Sweet is fine."

"And the entrance is built like this to keep intruders out. You know; confuse them, make it seem like they're walking in circles."

[Pyper smiles as she says this and reaches out to run her fingers over the stone wall.]

"Don't tell anyone.. but this entire hallway is booby trapped with hallucination-inducing bombs. I won't say what triggers them.. but just be sure that you won't trigger them."

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker snickers.- Well I'd assume it'd do a good job at making it seem like they're walking in circles, given that's exactly what they're doing!

-His gaze sits on the wall- Hallucinogenic bombs is certainly one way to protect a temple, and given the apparent effects of the somnian nightshade, I'm not exactly surprised that's what aster's used for defenses.

[Pyper rolls her eyes.]

"I swear, that old man is addicted to the stuff. Can't get enough of it!"

[Then she shrugs.]

"Personally, I don't see the appeal. But if the Dream Mother allows it, I suppose it's fine.."

some-anonymous-cook

I couldn't say if there's anything special to the flowers compared to any similar plants.

I do have a few, though i keep forgetting to do anything with them, but I'll probably add them into a herbal tea.

I'd try using them to make a mean pan of brownies, but I'm not sure how strong they are, and i wouldn't want to over do it with them.

"I'd ask Aster if you wanna try anything with them."

[Finally, the end of the spiral hallway comes into view. There was a decorative fountain at the end of the hallway, and to their left was the archway that led into the inner sanctum.]

[It was quiet, save for a few people in the main room who were in prayer or quietly meditating to themselves.]

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, i have asked, i believe he mentioned that smoking gets the "most" out of the flower, and steeping in a tea would lessen the effects, but that's fine for a first time trying it.

-Once they enter the main temple, the baker quickly leads Pyper over to the Shrine room, glancing into the kitchen while they pass, to see if it's in use.-

My main task here shouldn't take long, so more likely than not, you'll probably hear me back down here in the kitchen before long.

-His metion of a 'main task' make have Pyper note that they never once mentioned why they were coming to the temple in the first place.-

[Pyper whispers a 'thank you as she reaches out to feel for the curtain. Then, she steps into the room itself.]

[Pyper tilted her head at the Baker's words.]

"Where.. are you gonna go before you use the kitchen?" [She asks.]

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, there is a book I need to collect from the library, and to aster's great annoyance, He's more likely than not hid it away in the restricted section since my last visit, not that a sign can actually stop me, given who's asked me to collect it.

-Before Pyper is able to make much of a reply, the baker walks off, chuckling to himself, his footsteps suddenly deathly quiet, as they had been before they started guiding her.-

-Of course, if she's confident in her knowledge of the temple's layout, she could try and follow him, as she knows where he's headed now.-

[While Pyper was familliar with the layout of the different rooms within the temple, the areas to travel between them, she was not.]

[Pyper opened her mouth to say something, but stopped when she realised she couldn't hear the baker anymore.]

[Feeling unsure, Pyper reluctantly pulled the curtain to the shrine room closed, and walked a little deeper into the room to begin praying.]

[Pyper knelt before Imora's shrine, clasped her hands together, and started to pray.]

"O' Mother of Dreams, heed my plea.."

[The rest of the prayer was indiscernible, as Pyper started whispering her prayer.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker likely hears none of Pyper prayer, having headed straight for the stairs.-

-Once upstairs, they quickly head towards the the library, and it's restricted section, to collect Imora's old cookbook, as they're certain that's where Aster's shoved it.-

-Once they have the book, they head back downstairs, taking a more thorough look into the kitchen, hoping it's not in use.-

[Luckily, the kitchen is empty, but the fire in the kitchen's Hearth is still very much lit, and tyere was the faint smell of onions.]

[Perhaps it was used recently?]

some-anonymous-cook

-Seeing the kitchen empty, He quickly starts work, avoiding any areas that may lead to cross contamination, pulling out bowls and pans from their bag as they need.-

-The prep would only take them about 25 minutes, likely more than enough time for Pyper to finish her prayer and hear them messing about in the kitchen, though he only gets it done this fast with a little bit of magical cheating when his recipe calls for hours of rest.-

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

some-anonymous-cook

-After not finding any landmarks they recognize, the baker takes out their notebook to check the little map imora made for them some time ago...- -before shortly putting it back in their bag, as the only landmark beside the graves was the village she used to live in, and this town looked neither old nor ruined, so SURELY that's not where he was-

I appear to be... very lost.

-Having accepted they haven't a clue where they are, he walks around the little town, looking for anyone who does, or will, live here, to perhaps get some knowledge on where he is.-

[A lot of people were busy. Perhaps a little too busy to talk, as they were moving building supplies to building that were a work in progress, and walked past the baker.]

[However, at the edge of the town, there was someone unloading stuff from a ship with a small crew in tow. A buffalo, to be exact, who was currently talking to someone]

"That should be the last of it... yeah, just make sure this gets to... of course be gentle with it, it's precious cargo!.."

some-anonymous-cook

-Seeing the group from some ways away, he feels they might be able to help guide him to Imora's temple, and while they do seem rather busy, decides to go and ask anyways.-

-Approaching with a wave, the baker heads towards the buffalo-

I do apologize if you're busy, but would you have some time for a few questions? I've managed to get myself a little lost, and I'm in need of a little guidance to my destination.

[The buffalo turned briefly, and for a moment it looked like he might actually help before someone else calls to him.]

[The buffalo gives the baker an apologetic look.]

"Sorry. Got a lot of cargo to unload. But I hope you can find someone to help you!"

[And with that, the bufflo turns and walks away.]

some-anonymous-cook

Ah, no worries, thank you anyways!

-Still lost, and down one potential lead, the baker too turns to walk away, once again looking to see if anyone else might be less busy.-

-Surely there's at least ONE person in the town who isn't busy, right?-

[While walking, you see a snow leopard busking outside what looks like a newly-renovated tavern. Their back is turned to you.]

some-anonymous-cook

-Seeing the leopard in the distance, and slightly hearing the music, the baker decides to walk over, and waits for them to finish their song before taking a step forward.-

Apologies for interrupting, but do you think I could ask a few questions?

[You are immediately acquainted with the snow leopard's fist, as she whirls around to deck you hard in the face.]

[She looks startled; as evident by her raised hackles and thrashing tail.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker, having not even a moment to register a fist coming for him, reels back, putting a hand to face, and saying several things in a tongue entirely foreign, which are all no doubt swears as he did just get punched.-

-After a few moments, he mostly recovers, and looks towards her with confusion and annoyance-

And for WHAT was that for?? I just asked if you had a moment to spare, and the response you give is a fist to my face!?

[The snow leopard blinked. She didn't recognize the voice, but she visiblt relaxed now that she knew someone was there.]

"Oh- I'm sorry!" [She replied, lowering her now achey fist and wiping it on her tunic.] "I didn't hear you coming. Are you okay?"

some-anonymous-cook

Yes, I should be more than fine, you've got a strong punch, but I'm of a sturdy sort, so it'd take quite a bit to wound me.

I am sorry if I had startled you, But that does not answer my question of why your first thought was that of violence, instead of perhaps looking behind you to check if there's someone?

-...- -now, it should be noted, that our dear baker has somehow yet to notice Pyper's faded eyes, and hasn't the faintest of clues that she's entirely blind.-

[Pyper now looks entirely uncomfortable, and she taps her fingers against her fiddle while her eyes shift to the side.]

"Oh... well.. you see I would.. if I could see.."

[She shifts her eyes back and forth, and that's when her faded whires can be seen a bit more clearly in the light.]

some-anonymous-cook

-Gears turn in the baker's head, and after a moment the reality of what he just said dawns on him-

OhmygodI'msosorryIdidn'trealizeyouwereblindIdidn'tmeananythingI'mjustabitannoyedatthemomentbecauseI'mentirelylostandIhaven'tanyideawhereImora'stempleisfromhereand-

-Only a few of the words from that flurry of apology can be made out, and at this point the baker just puts their face in their hands and sighs.- -Though Pyper swears she heard mention of Imora's temple from him...-

[Pyper's face blanks as she hesrs a flurry of what she thinks is an apology??]

[She chuckles and puts her hands up in an attempt to calm the baker down.]

"Haha.. hey it's fine! An honest mistake, really..!"

[But when her ears caught the word's 'Imora's temple' her instantly perked up.]

"Oh! Are you looking for the Dream Mother's temple?" [She asked, cutting off the baker from apologizing further.] "It's to the North of here. If you'll help me not run in to anything, I can take you there!"

some-anonymous-cook

That, yes that I can do, thank you.

-The baker goes to put his hands in one of his pockets and...- -is suddenly patting down all his pockets, having noticed something missing.-

... Do you know which way north is, because I uh... I appear to have forgotten my compass...

Normally my sense of direction is fairly alright, but I've gotten a bit turned around while wandering the town...

[Pyper smiles and reaches into her own pocket to pull out her own compass. This one is more tactile; custom-made with the coordinates written in braille that she can feel with her fingers.]

[Pyper gives the needle a moment to settle before she runs her fingers over the needle and the braille. Then, she points to her left.]

"It's that way." [She says, then she holds her hand out.]

some-anonymous-cook

Alright, off we are then.

-The baker takes her hand, and leads the both of them north, off towards Imora's temple.-

Your playing was quite good, something alone that's fairly impressive, doubly so with being blind. You must have spent quite a long time practicing to become so skilled.

[Pyper nodded.]

"It sure did. A lot of practicing, memorizing, readjusting when I made a mistake.."

[There was a pile of stones up ahead as they walked.]

"My name's Pyper by the way. I'm one of Imora's disciples."

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, one of her disciples? Well, it's nice to meet another.

I don't exactly have a name to share, it hasn't been relevant in quite a long time. though Mrs. Imora usually just calls me 'little baker'

-He guides Pyper a little to the side, around the rocks.-

A bit funny to me, given what happened to the last person she regarded with a similar nickname.

[Pyper stepped around the rocks and let out a curious hum.]

"I don't even wanna know who'd be dumb enough to scorn the goddess of sleep." [She said in a uneasy tone.]

"People have starved to death because she's kept them in perpetual sleep before."

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker chuckles a little, seemingly taking the topic of Imora's wrath much more lightly than Pyper does.-

Then you might be surprised that not only did he earn a great scorn from Imora, but he's... Well, I wouldn't call his current condition 'alive and well', but Imora didn't do anything to harm him, if I recall correctly.

[Pyper hummed in thought.]

"Well." [She said.] "I think I'll count him lucky then."

[As the walked out of town, there were small stepping stones protruding out from the snow that made a path.]

some-anonymous-cook

Well, I'm not sure if I'd call him lucky, but he's alive. Technically

-The baker's silent for a bit while they leave the town, and Pyper could hear their steps having changed to a more heavy, flat footed step than what accidentally snuck up on her earlier.-

Has Aster recently mentioned any odd or unusual travelers that came through here recently?

[Pyper thought for a moment, then shook her head.]

"No. But I think he's too busy.. 'mingling' at the moment. If he did see anyone; he didn't tell me."

[Pyoer could also feel the smooth stepping stones under her feet.]

"We're almost there"

some-anonymous-cook

Kinda thought he'd have mentioned all that, huh...

-Their surprise of aster not mentioning them is kept under breath-

Curious, with you being one of Imora's disciples, how much do you know about her?

I've personally learned a fair amount about her, though I'm not often at the temple.

[Pyper lit up at the mention of her goddess.]

"I know that she's the goddess of sleep, that she rules Somnia and is responsible for all dreams- including nightmares."

[She stops and thinks for a moment as they walk.]

"I know.. that this is her ancestral home. I know that she's over 2,000 years old, but not her exact age, and I know that she really likes sweet food because she grants a blessing upon me everytime I offer them to her."

[Pyper hums.]

"Oh! And I know that she either has, or has had children before."

some-anonymous-cook

Two THOUSAND? By the gods how did that cookbook not disintegrate when i picked it up!?

-Somehow the baker never learned exactly how long Imora had been a god, and never bothered to ask, because it felt a little rude to ask her age.-

-They clear their throat after the sudden surprise, and continue as if nothing had happened.-

And she both has, and had, children. there's a grave for her first child, Mackenzie, front and center in the temple, and she currently has two lovely little daughters, they're both adorable.

Who the father is, may be a little surprising, not someone you'd first think of.

"Quite a surprise when you hear her age, hmm?"

[Pyper giggled in amusement.]

"The Mother Dream never had a proper congregation or following before Aster established one."

[Pyper was careful not to use the word 'cult.' And tapped her chin with a thoughtdul hum at what the baker said.]

"I was aware of Mackenzie. But I didn't know she had other children! Perhaps they were kept a secret?"

[She hums.]

"The children of gods qould make a great target for rival gods.. it would make sense."

some-anonymous-cook

A little surprise, yes, given she looks very young compared to that. Probably a benefit of being a crown bearer, I wouldn't know.

She does also have a tendency to remind me more of a young lady on her sweet sixteenth, than a god who's thousands of years old.

-He chuckles at both his statement, and the idea of another god trying to get at the twins.-

I'd love to see a god try and get to Asha and Olivia, given they're currently in somnia, and have been for their whole lives. Which, granted, has only really been about a year and a half or so, but still.

[Pyper narrows her eyes. She's mildly offended that her goddess was compared to a teenager of all things, but she doesn't voice it.]

"I see.."

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker doesn't notice Pyper's annoyance at their comment, and thinks for a moment.-

Though, she usually only shows that demeanor after I've brought out, or told her I'm bringing, some food I've made. Last I commented on it, she jokingly pouted and said something like, "what's wrong with a lady enjoying the idea of good food?"

You're also quite right on her sweet tooth, I've made cakes that where big enough to be "normal" for her godly form, and she's devoured them all on her own some of the times!

Honestly rather impressive, I don't think I could stomach eating an entire cake in one sitting.

[The temple finally comes into view as the path of stones ends. The front entrance is open; and from where the baker was standing a low light from a torch glowed.]

[Pyper hummed.]

"I've heard she is.. big in her divine form. Not that I could see.. is this true?"

some-anonymous-cook

Without a doubt, yes, her godly form is...

I'd say about four times the size she is in her usual form.

Combine that with her already being on the taller side compared to mortal standards, and well.

-The baker spies the temple in the distance, and slightly perks up.-

Seems the temple was much closer than i had thought, we're nearly there.

Hmm.. If you're hungry, i'd bet i could probably borrow the Temple's kitchen for a bit, assuming it's not in use, and whip something up fairly quick.

"Before you do.. could you take me to the shrine room?"

"It's right next to the chapel- which is also connected to the kitchen. I would like to pray privately."

[When they were standing directly in front of the temple entrance, something clicked in Pyper's expression, and she stepped inside and immediately turned right.]

[There was a long hallway that looked like it spiralled. It was lit by ornate metal sconces on the wall.]

[It also looked like the inner wall was in the process of being decorated with a mosaic; as there were pieces of coloured glass that were smashed up and attached to it.]

some-anonymous-cook

yea, i can do that, you'll probably hear me in the kitchen before long, shouldn't take too long to do what i came for.

-The baker leads the two of them through the ornately decorated hall, spending more time observing the walls than where he walked.-

You know, last i was here, i paid little attention to this curious entrance the temple has.

"Are you talking about the mosaic?"

[Pyper asked curiously as their footsteps echo through the hallway. A part of the mosaic was finished, and it depicted Imora inside a dark cave, with her crown shining brightly.]

"It's a collaborative piece depicting our Goddess' entire lifetime. It's supposed to go all the way to the inner temple. A kind of.. community idea, if you will."

some-anonymous-cook

Well, the mosaic is no doubt part of the curiosities, but I'm more so curious about the layout.

Most entrances I've ever been don't circle round the entire edge of the building!

-The baker looks around, properly observing the temple this time around while they speak.-

Do you have any preferance for what i might make? I should have the ingredients on me for a sweet something, but it probably wouldn't be long to gather what i need for something more savory if you'd prefer that.

"Sweet is fine."

"And the entrance is built like this to keep intruders out. You know; confuse them, make it seem like they're walking in circles."

[Pyper smiles as she says this and reaches out to run her fingers over the stone wall.]

"Don't tell anyone.. but this entire hallway is booby trapped with hallucination-inducing bombs. I won't say what triggers them.. but just be sure that you won't trigger them."

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker snickers.- Well I'd assume it'd do a good job at making it seem like they're walking in circles, given that's exactly what they're doing!

-His gaze sits on the wall- Hallucinogenic bombs is certainly one way to protect a temple, and given the apparent effects of the somnian nightshade, I'm not exactly surprised that's what aster's used for defenses.

[Pyper rolls her eyes.]

"I swear, that old man is addicted to the stuff. Can't get enough of it!"

[Then she shrugs.]

"Personally, I don't see the appeal. But if the Dream Mother allows it, I suppose it's fine.."

some-anonymous-cook

I couldn't say if there's anything special to the flowers compared to any similar plants.

I do have a few, though i keep forgetting to do anything with them, but I'll probably add them into a herbal tea.

I'd try using them to make a mean pan of brownies, but I'm not sure how strong they are, and i wouldn't want to over do it with them.

"I'd ask Aster if you wanna try anything with them."

[Finally, the end of the spiral hallway comes into view. There was a decorative fountain at the end of the hallway, and to their left was the archway that led into the inner sanctum.]

[It was quiet, save for a few people in the main room who were in prayer or quietly meditating to themselves.]

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, i have asked, i believe he mentioned that smoking gets the "most" out of the flower, and steeping in a tea would lessen the effects, but that's fine for a first time trying it.

-Once they enter the main temple, the baker quickly leads Pyper over to the Shrine room, glancing into the kitchen while they pass, to see if it's in use.-

My main task here shouldn't take long, so more likely than not, you'll probably hear me back down here in the kitchen before long.

-His metion of a 'main task' make have Pyper note that they never once mentioned why they were coming to the temple in the first place.-

[Pyper whispers a 'thank you as she reaches out to feel for the curtain. Then, she steps into the room itself.]

[Pyper tilted her head at the Baker's words.]

"Where.. are you gonna go before you use the kitchen?" [She asks.]

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, there is a book I need to collect from the library, and to aster's great annoyance, He's more likely than not hid it away in the restricted section since my last visit, not that a sign can actually stop me, given who's asked me to collect it.

-Before Pyper is able to make much of a reply, the baker walks off, chuckling to himself, his footsteps suddenly deathly quiet, as they had been before they started guiding her.-

-Of course, if she's confident in her knowledge of the temple's layout, she could try and follow him, as she knows where he's headed now.-

[While Pyper was familliar with the layout of the different rooms within the temple, the areas to travel between them, she was not.]

[Pyper opened her mouth to say something, but stopped when she realised she couldn't hear the baker anymore.]

[Feeling unsure, Pyper reluctantly pulled the curtain to the shrine room closed, and walked a little deeper into the room to begin praying.]

[Pyper knelt before Imora's shrine, clasped her hands together, and started to pray.]

"O' Mother of Dreams, heed my plea.."

[The rest of the prayer was indiscernible, as Pyper started whispering her prayer.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker likely hears none of Pyper prayer, having headed straight for the stairs.-

-Once upstairs, they quickly head towards the the library, and it's restricted section, to collect Imora's old cookbook, as they're certain that's where Aster's shoved it.-

-Once they have the book, they head back downstairs, taking a more thorough look into the kitchen, hoping it's not in use.-

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

some-anonymous-cook

-After not finding any landmarks they recognize, the baker takes out their notebook to check the little map imora made for them some time ago...- -before shortly putting it back in their bag, as the only landmark beside the graves was the village she used to live in, and this town looked neither old nor ruined, so SURELY that's not where he was-

I appear to be... very lost.

-Having accepted they haven't a clue where they are, he walks around the little town, looking for anyone who does, or will, live here, to perhaps get some knowledge on where he is.-

[A lot of people were busy. Perhaps a little too busy to talk, as they were moving building supplies to building that were a work in progress, and walked past the baker.]

[However, at the edge of the town, there was someone unloading stuff from a ship with a small crew in tow. A buffalo, to be exact, who was currently talking to someone]

"That should be the last of it... yeah, just make sure this gets to... of course be gentle with it, it's precious cargo!.."

some-anonymous-cook

-Seeing the group from some ways away, he feels they might be able to help guide him to Imora's temple, and while they do seem rather busy, decides to go and ask anyways.-

-Approaching with a wave, the baker heads towards the buffalo-

I do apologize if you're busy, but would you have some time for a few questions? I've managed to get myself a little lost, and I'm in need of a little guidance to my destination.

[The buffalo turned briefly, and for a moment it looked like he might actually help before someone else calls to him.]

[The buffalo gives the baker an apologetic look.]

"Sorry. Got a lot of cargo to unload. But I hope you can find someone to help you!"

[And with that, the bufflo turns and walks away.]

some-anonymous-cook

Ah, no worries, thank you anyways!

-Still lost, and down one potential lead, the baker too turns to walk away, once again looking to see if anyone else might be less busy.-

-Surely there's at least ONE person in the town who isn't busy, right?-

[While walking, you see a snow leopard busking outside what looks like a newly-renovated tavern. Their back is turned to you.]

some-anonymous-cook

-Seeing the leopard in the distance, and slightly hearing the music, the baker decides to walk over, and waits for them to finish their song before taking a step forward.-

Apologies for interrupting, but do you think I could ask a few questions?

[You are immediately acquainted with the snow leopard's fist, as she whirls around to deck you hard in the face.]

[She looks startled; as evident by her raised hackles and thrashing tail.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker, having not even a moment to register a fist coming for him, reels back, putting a hand to face, and saying several things in a tongue entirely foreign, which are all no doubt swears as he did just get punched.-

-After a few moments, he mostly recovers, and looks towards her with confusion and annoyance-

And for WHAT was that for?? I just asked if you had a moment to spare, and the response you give is a fist to my face!?

[The snow leopard blinked. She didn't recognize the voice, but she visiblt relaxed now that she knew someone was there.]

"Oh- I'm sorry!" [She replied, lowering her now achey fist and wiping it on her tunic.] "I didn't hear you coming. Are you okay?"

some-anonymous-cook

Yes, I should be more than fine, you've got a strong punch, but I'm of a sturdy sort, so it'd take quite a bit to wound me.

I am sorry if I had startled you, But that does not answer my question of why your first thought was that of violence, instead of perhaps looking behind you to check if there's someone?

-...- -now, it should be noted, that our dear baker has somehow yet to notice Pyper's faded eyes, and hasn't the faintest of clues that she's entirely blind.-

[Pyper now looks entirely uncomfortable, and she taps her fingers against her fiddle while her eyes shift to the side.]

"Oh... well.. you see I would.. if I could see.."

[She shifts her eyes back and forth, and that's when her faded whires can be seen a bit more clearly in the light.]

some-anonymous-cook

-Gears turn in the baker's head, and after a moment the reality of what he just said dawns on him-

OhmygodI'msosorryIdidn'trealizeyouwereblindIdidn'tmeananythingI'mjustabitannoyedatthemomentbecauseI'mentirelylostandIhaven'tanyideawhereImora'stempleisfromhereand-

-Only a few of the words from that flurry of apology can be made out, and at this point the baker just puts their face in their hands and sighs.- -Though Pyper swears she heard mention of Imora's temple from him...-

[Pyper's face blanks as she hesrs a flurry of what she thinks is an apology??]

[She chuckles and puts her hands up in an attempt to calm the baker down.]

"Haha.. hey it's fine! An honest mistake, really..!"

[But when her ears caught the word's 'Imora's temple' her instantly perked up.]

"Oh! Are you looking for the Dream Mother's temple?" [She asked, cutting off the baker from apologizing further.] "It's to the North of here. If you'll help me not run in to anything, I can take you there!"

some-anonymous-cook

That, yes that I can do, thank you.

-The baker goes to put his hands in one of his pockets and...- -is suddenly patting down all his pockets, having noticed something missing.-

... Do you know which way north is, because I uh... I appear to have forgotten my compass...

Normally my sense of direction is fairly alright, but I've gotten a bit turned around while wandering the town...

[Pyper smiles and reaches into her own pocket to pull out her own compass. This one is more tactile; custom-made with the coordinates written in braille that she can feel with her fingers.]

[Pyper gives the needle a moment to settle before she runs her fingers over the needle and the braille. Then, she points to her left.]

"It's that way." [She says, then she holds her hand out.]

some-anonymous-cook

Alright, off we are then.

-The baker takes her hand, and leads the both of them north, off towards Imora's temple.-

Your playing was quite good, something alone that's fairly impressive, doubly so with being blind. You must have spent quite a long time practicing to become so skilled.

[Pyper nodded.]

"It sure did. A lot of practicing, memorizing, readjusting when I made a mistake.."

[There was a pile of stones up ahead as they walked.]

"My name's Pyper by the way. I'm one of Imora's disciples."

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, one of her disciples? Well, it's nice to meet another.

I don't exactly have a name to share, it hasn't been relevant in quite a long time. though Mrs. Imora usually just calls me 'little baker'

-He guides Pyper a little to the side, around the rocks.-

A bit funny to me, given what happened to the last person she regarded with a similar nickname.

[Pyper stepped around the rocks and let out a curious hum.]

"I don't even wanna know who'd be dumb enough to scorn the goddess of sleep." [She said in a uneasy tone.]

"People have starved to death because she's kept them in perpetual sleep before."

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker chuckles a little, seemingly taking the topic of Imora's wrath much more lightly than Pyper does.-

Then you might be surprised that not only did he earn a great scorn from Imora, but he's... Well, I wouldn't call his current condition 'alive and well', but Imora didn't do anything to harm him, if I recall correctly.

[Pyper hummed in thought.]

"Well." [She said.] "I think I'll count him lucky then."

[As the walked out of town, there were small stepping stones protruding out from the snow that made a path.]

some-anonymous-cook

Well, I'm not sure if I'd call him lucky, but he's alive. Technically

-The baker's silent for a bit while they leave the town, and Pyper could hear their steps having changed to a more heavy, flat footed step than what accidentally snuck up on her earlier.-

Has Aster recently mentioned any odd or unusual travelers that came through here recently?

[Pyper thought for a moment, then shook her head.]

"No. But I think he's too busy.. 'mingling' at the moment. If he did see anyone; he didn't tell me."

[Pyoer could also feel the smooth stepping stones under her feet.]

"We're almost there"

some-anonymous-cook

Kinda thought he'd have mentioned all that, huh...

-Their surprise of aster not mentioning them is kept under breath-

Curious, with you being one of Imora's disciples, how much do you know about her?

I've personally learned a fair amount about her, though I'm not often at the temple.

[Pyper lit up at the mention of her goddess.]

"I know that she's the goddess of sleep, that she rules Somnia and is responsible for all dreams- including nightmares."

[She stops and thinks for a moment as they walk.]

"I know.. that this is her ancestral home. I know that she's over 2,000 years old, but not her exact age, and I know that she really likes sweet food because she grants a blessing upon me everytime I offer them to her."

[Pyper hums.]

"Oh! And I know that she either has, or has had children before."

some-anonymous-cook

Two THOUSAND? By the gods how did that cookbook not disintegrate when i picked it up!?

-Somehow the baker never learned exactly how long Imora had been a god, and never bothered to ask, because it felt a little rude to ask her age.-

-They clear their throat after the sudden surprise, and continue as if nothing had happened.-

And she both has, and had, children. there's a grave for her first child, Mackenzie, front and center in the temple, and she currently has two lovely little daughters, they're both adorable.

Who the father is, may be a little surprising, not someone you'd first think of.

"Quite a surprise when you hear her age, hmm?"

[Pyper giggled in amusement.]

"The Mother Dream never had a proper congregation or following before Aster established one."

[Pyper was careful not to use the word 'cult.' And tapped her chin with a thoughtdul hum at what the baker said.]

"I was aware of Mackenzie. But I didn't know she had other children! Perhaps they were kept a secret?"

[She hums.]

"The children of gods qould make a great target for rival gods.. it would make sense."

some-anonymous-cook

A little surprise, yes, given she looks very young compared to that. Probably a benefit of being a crown bearer, I wouldn't know.

She does also have a tendency to remind me more of a young lady on her sweet sixteenth, than a god who's thousands of years old.

-He chuckles at both his statement, and the idea of another god trying to get at the twins.-

I'd love to see a god try and get to Asha and Olivia, given they're currently in somnia, and have been for their whole lives. Which, granted, has only really been about a year and a half or so, but still.

[Pyper narrows her eyes. She's mildly offended that her goddess was compared to a teenager of all things, but she doesn't voice it.]

"I see.."

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker doesn't notice Pyper's annoyance at their comment, and thinks for a moment.-

Though, she usually only shows that demeanor after I've brought out, or told her I'm bringing, some food I've made. Last I commented on it, she jokingly pouted and said something like, "what's wrong with a lady enjoying the idea of good food?"

You're also quite right on her sweet tooth, I've made cakes that where big enough to be "normal" for her godly form, and she's devoured them all on her own some of the times!

Honestly rather impressive, I don't think I could stomach eating an entire cake in one sitting.

[The temple finally comes into view as the path of stones ends. The front entrance is open; and from where the baker was standing a low light from a torch glowed.]

[Pyper hummed.]

"I've heard she is.. big in her divine form. Not that I could see.. is this true?"

some-anonymous-cook

Without a doubt, yes, her godly form is...

I'd say about four times the size she is in her usual form.

Combine that with her already being on the taller side compared to mortal standards, and well.

-The baker spies the temple in the distance, and slightly perks up.-

Seems the temple was much closer than i had thought, we're nearly there.

Hmm.. If you're hungry, i'd bet i could probably borrow the Temple's kitchen for a bit, assuming it's not in use, and whip something up fairly quick.

"Before you do.. could you take me to the shrine room?"

"It's right next to the chapel- which is also connected to the kitchen. I would like to pray privately."

[When they were standing directly in front of the temple entrance, something clicked in Pyper's expression, and she stepped inside and immediately turned right.]

[There was a long hallway that looked like it spiralled. It was lit by ornate metal sconces on the wall.]

[It also looked like the inner wall was in the process of being decorated with a mosaic; as there were pieces of coloured glass that were smashed up and attached to it.]

some-anonymous-cook

yea, i can do that, you'll probably hear me in the kitchen before long, shouldn't take too long to do what i came for.

-The baker leads the two of them through the ornately decorated hall, spending more time observing the walls than where he walked.-

You know, last i was here, i paid little attention to this curious entrance the temple has.

"Are you talking about the mosaic?"

[Pyper asked curiously as their footsteps echo through the hallway. A part of the mosaic was finished, and it depicted Imora inside a dark cave, with her crown shining brightly.]

"It's a collaborative piece depicting our Goddess' entire lifetime. It's supposed to go all the way to the inner temple. A kind of.. community idea, if you will."

some-anonymous-cook

Well, the mosaic is no doubt part of the curiosities, but I'm more so curious about the layout.

Most entrances I've ever been don't circle round the entire edge of the building!

-The baker looks around, properly observing the temple this time around while they speak.-

Do you have any preferance for what i might make? I should have the ingredients on me for a sweet something, but it probably wouldn't be long to gather what i need for something more savory if you'd prefer that.

"Sweet is fine."

"And the entrance is built like this to keep intruders out. You know; confuse them, make it seem like they're walking in circles."

[Pyper smiles as she says this and reaches out to run her fingers over the stone wall.]

"Don't tell anyone.. but this entire hallway is booby trapped with hallucination-inducing bombs. I won't say what triggers them.. but just be sure that you won't trigger them."

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker snickers.- Well I'd assume it'd do a good job at making it seem like they're walking in circles, given that's exactly what they're doing!

-His gaze sits on the wall- Hallucinogenic bombs is certainly one way to protect a temple, and given the apparent effects of the somnian nightshade, I'm not exactly surprised that's what aster's used for defenses.

[Pyper rolls her eyes.]

"I swear, that old man is addicted to the stuff. Can't get enough of it!"

[Then she shrugs.]

"Personally, I don't see the appeal. But if the Dream Mother allows it, I suppose it's fine.."

some-anonymous-cook

I couldn't say if there's anything special to the flowers compared to any similar plants.

I do have a few, though i keep forgetting to do anything with them, but I'll probably add them into a herbal tea.

I'd try using them to make a mean pan of brownies, but I'm not sure how strong they are, and i wouldn't want to over do it with them.

"I'd ask Aster if you wanna try anything with them."

[Finally, the end of the spiral hallway comes into view. There was a decorative fountain at the end of the hallway, and to their left was the archway that led into the inner sanctum.]

[It was quiet, save for a few people in the main room who were in prayer or quietly meditating to themselves.]

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, i have asked, i believe he mentioned that smoking gets the "most" out of the flower, and steeping in a tea would lessen the effects, but that's fine for a first time trying it.

-Once they enter the main temple, the baker quickly leads Pyper over to the Shrine room, glancing into the kitchen while they pass, to see if it's in use.-

My main task here shouldn't take long, so more likely than not, you'll probably hear me back down here in the kitchen before long.

-His metion of a 'main task' make have Pyper note that they never once mentioned why they were coming to the temple in the first place.-

[Pyper whispers a 'thank you as she reaches out to feel for the curtain. Then, she steps into the room itself.]

[Pyper tilted her head at the Baker's words.]

"Where.. are you gonna go before you use the kitchen?" [She asks.]

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, there is a book I need to collect from the library, and to aster's great annoyance, He's more likely than not hid it away in the restricted section since my last visit, not that a sign can actually stop me, given who's asked me to collect it.

-Before Pyper is able to make much of a reply, the baker walks off, chuckling to himself, his footsteps suddenly deathly quiet, as they had been before they started guiding her.-

-Of course, if she's confident in her knowledge of the temple's layout, she could try and follow him, as she knows where he's headed now.-

#behold: a cheeky bastard

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

some-anonymous-cook

-After not finding any landmarks they recognize, the baker takes out their notebook to check the little map imora made for them some time ago...- -before shortly putting it back in their bag, as the only landmark beside the graves was the village she used to live in, and this town looked neither old nor ruined, so SURELY that's not where he was-

I appear to be... very lost.

-Having accepted they haven't a clue where they are, he walks around the little town, looking for anyone who does, or will, live here, to perhaps get some knowledge on where he is.-

[A lot of people were busy. Perhaps a little too busy to talk, as they were moving building supplies to building that were a work in progress, and walked past the baker.]

[However, at the edge of the town, there was someone unloading stuff from a ship with a small crew in tow. A buffalo, to be exact, who was currently talking to someone]

"That should be the last of it... yeah, just make sure this gets to... of course be gentle with it, it's precious cargo!.."

some-anonymous-cook

-Seeing the group from some ways away, he feels they might be able to help guide him to Imora's temple, and while they do seem rather busy, decides to go and ask anyways.-

-Approaching with a wave, the baker heads towards the buffalo-

I do apologize if you're busy, but would you have some time for a few questions? I've managed to get myself a little lost, and I'm in need of a little guidance to my destination.

[The buffalo turned briefly, and for a moment it looked like he might actually help before someone else calls to him.]

[The buffalo gives the baker an apologetic look.]

"Sorry. Got a lot of cargo to unload. But I hope you can find someone to help you!"

[And with that, the bufflo turns and walks away.]

some-anonymous-cook

Ah, no worries, thank you anyways!

-Still lost, and down one potential lead, the baker too turns to walk away, once again looking to see if anyone else might be less busy.-

-Surely there's at least ONE person in the town who isn't busy, right?-

[While walking, you see a snow leopard busking outside what looks like a newly-renovated tavern. Their back is turned to you.]

some-anonymous-cook

-Seeing the leopard in the distance, and slightly hearing the music, the baker decides to walk over, and waits for them to finish their song before taking a step forward.-

Apologies for interrupting, but do you think I could ask a few questions?

[You are immediately acquainted with the snow leopard's fist, as she whirls around to deck you hard in the face.]

[She looks startled; as evident by her raised hackles and thrashing tail.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker, having not even a moment to register a fist coming for him, reels back, putting a hand to face, and saying several things in a tongue entirely foreign, which are all no doubt swears as he did just get punched.-

-After a few moments, he mostly recovers, and looks towards her with confusion and annoyance-

And for WHAT was that for?? I just asked if you had a moment to spare, and the response you give is a fist to my face!?

[The snow leopard blinked. She didn't recognize the voice, but she visiblt relaxed now that she knew someone was there.]

"Oh- I'm sorry!" [She replied, lowering her now achey fist and wiping it on her tunic.] "I didn't hear you coming. Are you okay?"

some-anonymous-cook

Yes, I should be more than fine, you've got a strong punch, but I'm of a sturdy sort, so it'd take quite a bit to wound me.

I am sorry if I had startled you, But that does not answer my question of why your first thought was that of violence, instead of perhaps looking behind you to check if there's someone?

-...- -now, it should be noted, that our dear baker has somehow yet to notice Pyper's faded eyes, and hasn't the faintest of clues that she's entirely blind.-

[Pyper now looks entirely uncomfortable, and she taps her fingers against her fiddle while her eyes shift to the side.]

"Oh... well.. you see I would.. if I could see.."

[She shifts her eyes back and forth, and that's when her faded whires can be seen a bit more clearly in the light.]

some-anonymous-cook

-Gears turn in the baker's head, and after a moment the reality of what he just said dawns on him-

OhmygodI'msosorryIdidn'trealizeyouwereblindIdidn'tmeananythingI'mjustabitannoyedatthemomentbecauseI'mentirelylostandIhaven'tanyideawhereImora'stempleisfromhereand-

-Only a few of the words from that flurry of apology can be made out, and at this point the baker just puts their face in their hands and sighs.- -Though Pyper swears she heard mention of Imora's temple from him...-

[Pyper's face blanks as she hesrs a flurry of what she thinks is an apology??]

[She chuckles and puts her hands up in an attempt to calm the baker down.]

"Haha.. hey it's fine! An honest mistake, really..!"

[But when her ears caught the word's 'Imora's temple' her instantly perked up.]

"Oh! Are you looking for the Dream Mother's temple?" [She asked, cutting off the baker from apologizing further.] "It's to the North of here. If you'll help me not run in to anything, I can take you there!"

some-anonymous-cook

That, yes that I can do, thank you.

-The baker goes to put his hands in one of his pockets and...- -is suddenly patting down all his pockets, having noticed something missing.-

... Do you know which way north is, because I uh... I appear to have forgotten my compass...

Normally my sense of direction is fairly alright, but I've gotten a bit turned around while wandering the town...

[Pyper smiles and reaches into her own pocket to pull out her own compass. This one is more tactile; custom-made with the coordinates written in braille that she can feel with her fingers.]

[Pyper gives the needle a moment to settle before she runs her fingers over the needle and the braille. Then, she points to her left.]

"It's that way." [She says, then she holds her hand out.]

some-anonymous-cook

Alright, off we are then.

-The baker takes her hand, and leads the both of them north, off towards Imora's temple.-

Your playing was quite good, something alone that's fairly impressive, doubly so with being blind. You must have spent quite a long time practicing to become so skilled.

[Pyper nodded.]

"It sure did. A lot of practicing, memorizing, readjusting when I made a mistake.."

[There was a pile of stones up ahead as they walked.]

"My name's Pyper by the way. I'm one of Imora's disciples."

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, one of her disciples? Well, it's nice to meet another.

I don't exactly have a name to share, it hasn't been relevant in quite a long time. though Mrs. Imora usually just calls me 'little baker'

-He guides Pyper a little to the side, around the rocks.-

A bit funny to me, given what happened to the last person she regarded with a similar nickname.

[Pyper stepped around the rocks and let out a curious hum.]

"I don't even wanna know who'd be dumb enough to scorn the goddess of sleep." [She said in a uneasy tone.]

"People have starved to death because she's kept them in perpetual sleep before."

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker chuckles a little, seemingly taking the topic of Imora's wrath much more lightly than Pyper does.-

Then you might be surprised that not only did he earn a great scorn from Imora, but he's... Well, I wouldn't call his current condition 'alive and well', but Imora didn't do anything to harm him, if I recall correctly.

[Pyper hummed in thought.]

"Well." [She said.] "I think I'll count him lucky then."

[As the walked out of town, there were small stepping stones protruding out from the snow that made a path.]

some-anonymous-cook

Well, I'm not sure if I'd call him lucky, but he's alive. Technically

-The baker's silent for a bit while they leave the town, and Pyper could hear their steps having changed to a more heavy, flat footed step than what accidentally snuck up on her earlier.-

Has Aster recently mentioned any odd or unusual travelers that came through here recently?

[Pyper thought for a moment, then shook her head.]

"No. But I think he's too busy.. 'mingling' at the moment. If he did see anyone; he didn't tell me."

[Pyoer could also feel the smooth stepping stones under her feet.]

"We're almost there"

some-anonymous-cook

Kinda thought he'd have mentioned all that, huh...

-Their surprise of aster not mentioning them is kept under breath-

Curious, with you being one of Imora's disciples, how much do you know about her?

I've personally learned a fair amount about her, though I'm not often at the temple.

[Pyper lit up at the mention of her goddess.]

"I know that she's the goddess of sleep, that she rules Somnia and is responsible for all dreams- including nightmares."

[She stops and thinks for a moment as they walk.]

"I know.. that this is her ancestral home. I know that she's over 2,000 years old, but not her exact age, and I know that she really likes sweet food because she grants a blessing upon me everytime I offer them to her."

[Pyper hums.]

"Oh! And I know that she either has, or has had children before."

some-anonymous-cook

Two THOUSAND? By the gods how did that cookbook not disintegrate when i picked it up!?

-Somehow the baker never learned exactly how long Imora had been a god, and never bothered to ask, because it felt a little rude to ask her age.-

-They clear their throat after the sudden surprise, and continue as if nothing had happened.-

And she both has, and had, children. there's a grave for her first child, Mackenzie, front and center in the temple, and she currently has two lovely little daughters, they're both adorable.

Who the father is, may be a little surprising, not someone you'd first think of.

"Quite a surprise when you hear her age, hmm?"

[Pyper giggled in amusement.]

"The Mother Dream never had a proper congregation or following before Aster established one."

[Pyper was careful not to use the word 'cult.' And tapped her chin with a thoughtdul hum at what the baker said.]

"I was aware of Mackenzie. But I didn't know she had other children! Perhaps they were kept a secret?"

[She hums.]

"The children of gods qould make a great target for rival gods.. it would make sense."

some-anonymous-cook

A little surprise, yes, given she looks very young compared to that. Probably a benefit of being a crown bearer, I wouldn't know.

She does also have a tendency to remind me more of a young lady on her sweet sixteenth, than a god who's thousands of years old.

-He chuckles at both his statement, and the idea of another god trying to get at the twins.-

I'd love to see a god try and get to Asha and Olivia, given they're currently in somnia, and have been for their whole lives. Which, granted, has only really been about a year and a half or so, but still.

[Pyper narrows her eyes. She's mildly offended that her goddess was compared to a teenager of all things, but she doesn't voice it.]

"I see.."

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker doesn't notice Pyper's annoyance at their comment, and thinks for a moment.-

Though, she usually only shows that demeanor after I've brought out, or told her I'm bringing, some food I've made. Last I commented on it, she jokingly pouted and said something like, "what's wrong with a lady enjoying the idea of good food?"

You're also quite right on her sweet tooth, I've made cakes that where big enough to be "normal" for her godly form, and she's devoured them all on her own some of the times!

Honestly rather impressive, I don't think I could stomach eating an entire cake in one sitting.

[The temple finally comes into view as the path of stones ends. The front entrance is open; and from where the baker was standing a low light from a torch glowed.]

[Pyper hummed.]

"I've heard she is.. big in her divine form. Not that I could see.. is this true?"

some-anonymous-cook

Without a doubt, yes, her godly form is...

I'd say about four times the size she is in her usual form.

Combine that with her already being on the taller side compared to mortal standards, and well.

-The baker spies the temple in the distance, and slightly perks up.-

Seems the temple was much closer than i had thought, we're nearly there.

Hmm.. If you're hungry, i'd bet i could probably borrow the Temple's kitchen for a bit, assuming it's not in use, and whip something up fairly quick.

"Before you do.. could you take me to the shrine room?"

"It's right next to the chapel- which is also connected to the kitchen. I would like to pray privately."

[When they were standing directly in front of the temple entrance, something clicked in Pyper's expression, and she stepped inside and immediately turned right.]

[There was a long hallway that looked like it spiralled. It was lit by ornate metal sconces on the wall.]

[It also looked like the inner wall was in the process of being decorated with a mosaic; as there were pieces of coloured glass that were smashed up and attached to it.]

some-anonymous-cook

yea, i can do that, you'll probably hear me in the kitchen before long, shouldn't take too long to do what i came for.

-The baker leads the two of them through the ornately decorated hall, spending more time observing the walls than where he walked.-

You know, last i was here, i paid little attention to this curious entrance the temple has.

"Are you talking about the mosaic?"

[Pyper asked curiously as their footsteps echo through the hallway. A part of the mosaic was finished, and it depicted Imora inside a dark cave, with her crown shining brightly.]

"It's a collaborative piece depicting our Goddess' entire lifetime. It's supposed to go all the way to the inner temple. A kind of.. community idea, if you will."

some-anonymous-cook

Well, the mosaic is no doubt part of the curiosities, but I'm more so curious about the layout.

Most entrances I've ever been don't circle round the entire edge of the building!

-The baker looks around, properly observing the temple this time around while they speak.-

Do you have any preferance for what i might make? I should have the ingredients on me for a sweet something, but it probably wouldn't be long to gather what i need for something more savory if you'd prefer that.

"Sweet is fine."

"And the entrance is built like this to keep intruders out. You know; confuse them, make it seem like they're walking in circles."

[Pyper smiles as she says this and reaches out to run her fingers over the stone wall.]

"Don't tell anyone.. but this entire hallway is booby trapped with hallucination-inducing bombs. I won't say what triggers them.. but just be sure that you won't trigger them."

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker snickers.- Well I'd assume it'd do a good job at making it seem like they're walking in circles, given that's exactly what they're doing!

-His gaze sits on the wall- Hallucinogenic bombs is certainly one way to protect a temple, and given the apparent effects of the somnian nightshade, I'm not exactly surprised that's what aster's used for defenses.

[Pyper rolls her eyes.]

"I swear, that old man is addicted to the stuff. Can't get enough of it!"

[Then she shrugs.]

"Personally, I don't see the appeal. But if the Dream Mother allows it, I suppose it's fine.."

some-anonymous-cook

I couldn't say if there's anything special to the flowers compared to any similar plants.

I do have a few, though i keep forgetting to do anything with them, but I'll probably add them into a herbal tea.

I'd try using them to make a mean pan of brownies, but I'm not sure how strong they are, and i wouldn't want to over do it with them.

"I'd ask Aster if you wanna try anything with them."

[Finally, the end of the spiral hallway comes into view. There was a decorative fountain at the end of the hallway, and to their left was the archway that led into the inner sanctum.]

[It was quiet, save for a few people in the main room who were in prayer or quietly meditating to themselves.]

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, i have asked, i believe he mentioned that smoking gets the "most" out of the flower, and steeping in a tea would lessen the effects, but that's fine for a first time trying it.

-Once they enter the main temple, the baker quickly leads Pyper over to the Shrine room, glancing into the kitchen while they pass, to see if it's in use.-

My main task here shouldn't take long, so more likely than not, you'll probably hear me back down here in the kitchen before long.

-His metion of a 'main task' make have Pyper note that they never once mentioned why they were coming to the temple in the first place.-

-With the fighting having concluded, and the baker having finished some entirely unrelated errands, he returns to the frozen north to collect the original copy of Imora's recipe book...-

-Though he slightly messes up the coordinates, having only been to the temple for a short time, and instead ends up appearing in the middle of lucid hollow.-

-realizing he's not in the right spot, he looks about to get his bearings, and see if there's anything nearby he recognizes from the first trip.-

-He is also, once again, in the outfit he had worn before, to continuing to cover the odd appearance of his form-

[Lucid hollow is quite small at this point in time; with buildings still being under construction, a few houses having been built already, and a town centre made of stone that was in the process of being layered down.]

some-anonymous-cook

-After not finding any landmarks they recognize, the baker takes out their notebook to check the little map imora made for them some time ago...- -before shortly putting it back in their bag, as the only landmark beside the graves was the village she used to live in, and this town looked neither old nor ruined, so SURELY that's not where he was-

I appear to be... very lost.

-Having accepted they haven't a clue where they are, he walks around the little town, looking for anyone who does, or will, live here, to perhaps get some knowledge on where he is.-

[A lot of people were busy. Perhaps a little too busy to talk, as they were moving building supplies to building that were a work in progress, and walked past the baker.]

[However, at the edge of the town, there was someone unloading stuff from a ship with a small crew in tow. A buffalo, to be exact, who was currently talking to someone]

"That should be the last of it... yeah, just make sure this gets to... of course be gentle with it, it's precious cargo!.."

some-anonymous-cook

-Seeing the group from some ways away, he feels they might be able to help guide him to Imora's temple, and while they do seem rather busy, decides to go and ask anyways.-

-Approaching with a wave, the baker heads towards the buffalo-

I do apologize if you're busy, but would you have some time for a few questions? I've managed to get myself a little lost, and I'm in need of a little guidance to my destination.

[The buffalo turned briefly, and for a moment it looked like he might actually help before someone else calls to him.]

[The buffalo gives the baker an apologetic look.]

"Sorry. Got a lot of cargo to unload. But I hope you can find someone to help you!"

[And with that, the bufflo turns and walks away.]

some-anonymous-cook

Ah, no worries, thank you anyways!

-Still lost, and down one potential lead, the baker too turns to walk away, once again looking to see if anyone else might be less busy.-

-Surely there's at least ONE person in the town who isn't busy, right?-

[While walking, you see a snow leopard busking outside what looks like a newly-renovated tavern. Their back is turned to you.]

some-anonymous-cook

-Seeing the leopard in the distance, and slightly hearing the music, the baker decides to walk over, and waits for them to finish their song before taking a step forward.-

Apologies for interrupting, but do you think I could ask a few questions?

[You are immediately acquainted with the snow leopard's fist, as she whirls around to deck you hard in the face.]

[She looks startled; as evident by her raised hackles and thrashing tail.]

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker, having not even a moment to register a fist coming for him, reels back, putting a hand to face, and saying several things in a tongue entirely foreign, which are all no doubt swears as he did just get punched.-

-After a few moments, he mostly recovers, and looks towards her with confusion and annoyance-

And for WHAT was that for?? I just asked if you had a moment to spare, and the response you give is a fist to my face!?

[The snow leopard blinked. She didn't recognize the voice, but she visiblt relaxed now that she knew someone was there.]

"Oh- I'm sorry!" [She replied, lowering her now achey fist and wiping it on her tunic.] "I didn't hear you coming. Are you okay?"

some-anonymous-cook

Yes, I should be more than fine, you've got a strong punch, but I'm of a sturdy sort, so it'd take quite a bit to wound me.

I am sorry if I had startled you, But that does not answer my question of why your first thought was that of violence, instead of perhaps looking behind you to check if there's someone?

-...- -now, it should be noted, that our dear baker has somehow yet to notice Pyper's faded eyes, and hasn't the faintest of clues that she's entirely blind.-

[Pyper now looks entirely uncomfortable, and she taps her fingers against her fiddle while her eyes shift to the side.]

"Oh... well.. you see I would.. if I could see.."

[She shifts her eyes back and forth, and that's when her faded whires can be seen a bit more clearly in the light.]

some-anonymous-cook

-Gears turn in the baker's head, and after a moment the reality of what he just said dawns on him-

OhmygodI'msosorryIdidn'trealizeyouwereblindIdidn'tmeananythingI'mjustabitannoyedatthemomentbecauseI'mentirelylostandIhaven'tanyideawhereImora'stempleisfromhereand-

-Only a few of the words from that flurry of apology can be made out, and at this point the baker just puts their face in their hands and sighs.- -Though Pyper swears she heard mention of Imora's temple from him...-

[Pyper's face blanks as she hesrs a flurry of what she thinks is an apology??]

[She chuckles and puts her hands up in an attempt to calm the baker down.]

"Haha.. hey it's fine! An honest mistake, really..!"

[But when her ears caught the word's 'Imora's temple' her instantly perked up.]

"Oh! Are you looking for the Dream Mother's temple?" [She asked, cutting off the baker from apologizing further.] "It's to the North of here. If you'll help me not run in to anything, I can take you there!"

some-anonymous-cook

That, yes that I can do, thank you.

-The baker goes to put his hands in one of his pockets and...- -is suddenly patting down all his pockets, having noticed something missing.-

... Do you know which way north is, because I uh... I appear to have forgotten my compass...

Normally my sense of direction is fairly alright, but I've gotten a bit turned around while wandering the town...

[Pyper smiles and reaches into her own pocket to pull out her own compass. This one is more tactile; custom-made with the coordinates written in braille that she can feel with her fingers.]

[Pyper gives the needle a moment to settle before she runs her fingers over the needle and the braille. Then, she points to her left.]

"It's that way." [She says, then she holds her hand out.]

some-anonymous-cook

Alright, off we are then.

-The baker takes her hand, and leads the both of them north, off towards Imora's temple.-

Your playing was quite good, something alone that's fairly impressive, doubly so with being blind. You must have spent quite a long time practicing to become so skilled.

[Pyper nodded.]

"It sure did. A lot of practicing, memorizing, readjusting when I made a mistake.."

[There was a pile of stones up ahead as they walked.]

"My name's Pyper by the way. I'm one of Imora's disciples."

some-anonymous-cook

Oh, one of her disciples? Well, it's nice to meet another.

I don't exactly have a name to share, it hasn't been relevant in quite a long time. though Mrs. Imora usually just calls me 'little baker'

-He guides Pyper a little to the side, around the rocks.-

A bit funny to me, given what happened to the last person she regarded with a similar nickname.

[Pyper stepped around the rocks and let out a curious hum.]

"I don't even wanna know who'd be dumb enough to scorn the goddess of sleep." [She said in a uneasy tone.]

"People have starved to death because she's kept them in perpetual sleep before."

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker chuckles a little, seemingly taking the topic of Imora's wrath much more lightly than Pyper does.-

Then you might be surprised that not only did he earn a great scorn from Imora, but he's... Well, I wouldn't call his current condition 'alive and well', but Imora didn't do anything to harm him, if I recall correctly.

[Pyper hummed in thought.]

"Well." [She said.] "I think I'll count him lucky then."

[As the walked out of town, there were small stepping stones protruding out from the snow that made a path.]

some-anonymous-cook

Well, I'm not sure if I'd call him lucky, but he's alive. Technically

-The baker's silent for a bit while they leave the town, and Pyper could hear their steps having changed to a more heavy, flat footed step than what accidentally snuck up on her earlier.-

Has Aster recently mentioned any odd or unusual travelers that came through here recently?

[Pyper thought for a moment, then shook her head.]

"No. But I think he's too busy.. 'mingling' at the moment. If he did see anyone; he didn't tell me."

[Pyoer could also feel the smooth stepping stones under her feet.]

"We're almost there"

some-anonymous-cook

Kinda thought he'd have mentioned all that, huh...

-Their surprise of aster not mentioning them is kept under breath-

Curious, with you being one of Imora's disciples, how much do you know about her?

I've personally learned a fair amount about her, though I'm not often at the temple.

[Pyper lit up at the mention of her goddess.]

"I know that she's the goddess of sleep, that she rules Somnia and is responsible for all dreams- including nightmares."

[She stops and thinks for a moment as they walk.]

"I know.. that this is her ancestral home. I know that she's over 2,000 years old, but not her exact age, and I know that she really likes sweet food because she grants a blessing upon me everytime I offer them to her."

[Pyper hums.]

"Oh! And I know that she either has, or has had children before."

some-anonymous-cook

Two THOUSAND? By the gods how did that cookbook not disintegrate when i picked it up!?

-Somehow the baker never learned exactly how long Imora had been a god, and never bothered to ask, because it felt a little rude to ask her age.-

-They clear their throat after the sudden surprise, and continue as if nothing had happened.-

And she both has, and had, children. there's a grave for her first child, Mackenzie, front and center in the temple, and she currently has two lovely little daughters, they're both adorable.

Who the father is, may be a little surprising, not someone you'd first think of.

"Quite a surprise when you hear her age, hmm?"

[Pyper giggled in amusement.]

"The Mother Dream never had a proper congregation or following before Aster established one."

[Pyper was careful not to use the word 'cult.' And tapped her chin with a thoughtdul hum at what the baker said.]

"I was aware of Mackenzie. But I didn't know she had other children! Perhaps they were kept a secret?"

[She hums.]

"The children of gods qould make a great target for rival gods.. it would make sense."

some-anonymous-cook

A little surprise, yes, given she looks very young compared to that. Probably a benefit of being a crown bearer, I wouldn't know.

She does also have a tendency to remind me more of a young lady on her sweet sixteenth, than a god who's thousands of years old.

-He chuckles at both his statement, and the idea of another god trying to get at the twins.-

I'd love to see a god try and get to Asha and Olivia, given they're currently in somnia, and have been for their whole lives. Which, granted, has only really been about a year and a half or so, but still.

[Pyper narrows her eyes. She's mildly offended that her goddess was compared to a teenager of all things, but she doesn't voice it.]

"I see.."

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker doesn't notice Pyper's annoyance at their comment, and thinks for a moment.-

Though, she usually only shows that demeanor after I've brought out, or told her I'm bringing, some food I've made. Last I commented on it, she jokingly pouted and said something like, "what's wrong with a lady enjoying the idea of good food?"

You're also quite right on her sweet tooth, I've made cakes that where big enough to be "normal" for her godly form, and she's devoured them all on her own some of the times!

Honestly rather impressive, I don't think I could stomach eating an entire cake in one sitting.

[The temple finally comes into view as the path of stones ends. The front entrance is open; and from where the baker was standing a low light from a torch glowed.]

[Pyper hummed.]

"I've heard she is.. big in her divine form. Not that I could see.. is this true?"

some-anonymous-cook

Without a doubt, yes, her godly form is...

I'd say about four times the size she is in her usual form.

Combine that with her already being on the taller side compared to mortal standards, and well.

-The baker spies the temple in the distance, and slightly perks up.-

Seems the temple was much closer than i had thought, we're nearly there.

Hmm.. If you're hungry, i'd bet i could probably borrow the Temple's kitchen for a bit, assuming it's not in use, and whip something up fairly quick.

"Before you do.. could you take me to the shrine room?"

"It's right next to the chapel- which is also connected to the kitchen. I would like to pray privately."

[When they were standing directly in front of the temple entrance, something clicked in Pyper's expression, and she stepped inside and immediately turned right.]

[There was a long hallway that looked like it spiralled. It was lit by ornate metal sconces on the wall.]

[It also looked like the inner wall was in the process of being decorated with a mosaic; as there were pieces of coloured glass that were smashed up and attached to it.]

some-anonymous-cook

yea, i can do that, you'll probably hear me in the kitchen before long, shouldn't take too long to do what i came for.

-The baker leads the two of them through the ornately decorated hall, spending more time observing the walls than where he walked.-

You know, last i was here, i paid little attention to this curious entrance the temple has.

"Are you talking about the mosaic?"

[Pyper asked curiously as their footsteps echo through the hallway. A part of the mosaic was finished, and it depicted Imora inside a dark cave, with her crown shining brightly.]

"It's a collaborative piece depicting our Goddess' entire lifetime. It's supposed to go all the way to the inner temple. A kind of.. community idea, if you will."

some-anonymous-cook

Well, the mosaic is no doubt part of the curiosities, but I'm more so curious about the layout.

Most entrances I've ever been don't circle round the entire edge of the building!

-The baker looks around, properly observing the temple this time around while they speak.-

Do you have any preferance for what i might make? I should have the ingredients on me for a sweet something, but it probably wouldn't be long to gather what i need for something more savory if you'd prefer that.

"Sweet is fine."

"And the entrance is built like this to keep intruders out. You know; confuse them, make it seem like they're walking in circles."

[Pyper smiles as she says this and reaches out to run her fingers over the stone wall.]

"Don't tell anyone.. but this entire hallway is booby trapped with hallucination-inducing bombs. I won't say what triggers them.. but just be sure that you won't trigger them."

some-anonymous-cook

-The baker snickers.- Well I'd assume it'd do a good job at making it seem like they're walking in circles, given that's exactly what they're doing!

-His gaze sits on the wall- Hallucinogenic bombs is certainly one way to protect a temple, and given the apparent effects of the somnian nightshade, I'm not exactly surprised that's what aster's used for defenses.

[Pyper rolls her eyes.]

"I swear, that old man is addicted to the stuff. Can't get enough of it!"

[Then she shrugs.]

"Personally, I don't see the appeal. But if the Dream Mother allows it, I suppose it's fine.."

some-anonymous-cook

I couldn't say if there's anything special to the flowers compared to any similar plants.

I do have a few, though i keep forgetting to do anything with them, but I'll probably add them into a herbal tea.

I'd try using them to make a mean pan of brownies, but I'm not sure how strong they are, and i wouldn't want to over do it with them.

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