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[Solanaceae]

---

The fist sized black and green spider clambered over the rocks and into the gypsy camp, a miniature scroll case tied to her back, right leg. She searched the tents carefully, the instructions of her mistress clear in the spider’s mind. She must find the gypsy, Merrique, the image was clear, must find her and deliver the message.

To the gypsy, Lady Merrique,

I have recently come into position of several items that I believe may belong to you and your people. The items themselves do not appear to be of any obvious value, but as one in particular bears your name, I thought you might like them returned to you. Please send your answer back with Athena, she is very smart and has been instructed not to harm you or anyone in the camp. Be gentle, as she is delicate and may in defense bite if threatened. Her venom is most deadly and I would prefer to avoid any unfortunate accidents.

Solanaceae, Seer of the Kalja'jukal xa Magarun, Apprentice to the Herald of Oblivion and Warden of Umbra.

[gypsy_merrique]

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It was quite a surprise to be approached by the spider; it was also a reminder that a person should never believe to 'have seen it all'. Merrique held out her hand in a gentle beckoning motion, and was approached. After a little fussing, Merrique was able to extract the message from its case, and read it over. For a moment her heart pounded in her chest--could these items be related to one of her lost boys? Quickly, she told herself not to get too excited. 'Your people' could, of course, be a very broad statement, It could be property of any of the many folks that made up the gypsy clans. Telling the spider she would return quickly, she went inside and penned a hasty response on a shred of parchment that seemed as if it would fit into the container.

Upon returning, she told the spider she would need to come near, to affix the note in the container. The thing sat there without movement, and this was taken to be consent. Doing her best not to touch the strange creature she slipped the note into the spider's carry case.

Solanaceae, Seer of the Kalja'jukal xa Magarun, Apprentice to the Herald of Oblivion and Warden of Umbra,

Your message came as quite a surprise. Generally we are aware of missing items of any importance. I am intrigued as to what these things could possibly be, especially something showing my name yet I must confess feeling some trepidation. Please accept my thanks in your seeking me in this matter, along with my compliments in having such a fascinating courier. Its timing was uncanny, as I have only just hours ago gotten to my home. I shall consider this as a sign.

In thanks and appreciation,
Merrique

Speaking to Athena, she said, "I imagine you know how to find your way home. Thank you."

Thinking to herself how odd it felt, and how strange it would seem to be seen, talking to a spider, Merrique nodded to the thing and returned her attention to the campfire.
_________________


. . . But the dark is very trustworthy.
It's always as dark as you thought it was.
And you don't have to work at staying there.
All you have to do is survive it.
And I've been doing that forever.
from the novel "Dark Debts" by Karen Hall

[Solanaceae]

---

Solanaceae stirred as Athena clambered across her pillow. She opened her eyes to see the spider waiting expectantly. Softly clicking her tongue in praise of the messenger’s successfully delivery and swift return she gingerly removed the letter from its case and smiled.

Her smile faded as she held the parchment in her hand. It was not the words that troubled her, but the feeling that hung over the parchment, a sad hopefulness, pain echoing with longing and expectancy. There was no mention of a meeting time, so as she penned her response Solanaceae considered her words carefully.

Lady Merrique,

I am pleased to find my missive reached you and would ask that you consider what times it might be convenient for me to come to your camp to drop off the box. I also wish to discuss another matter, if it pleases you. The Herald values his friendship with the gypsies greatly and I myself have a history with your kind that does connect to certain sentimentalities. As I held your letter I was overcome with a heaviness of heart, and wonder if our gypsy friends have trouble within their families that my gifts could be of some assistance with. I do understand your people have soothsayers among you, and like to handle their own matters, but if in any way I could be of assistance I am certain the Herald would be willing to lend my services to you. We can speak more of the matter when I arrive to return you possessions to you if that is your wish.

Awaiting your reply

Solanaceae

Seer of the Kalja'jukal xa Magarun, Apprentice to the Herald of Oblivion and Warden of Umbra.

[gypsy_merrique]

---

Merrique frowned as she read the response from Umbra. It bothered her that her aura clung so easily to such things as a letter, especially one that went into the city. The ability to write a reply took a while, but it did come.

Solanaceae, Seer of the Kalja'jukal xa Magarun, Apprentice to the Herald of Oblivion and Warden of Umbra,

Your kind words regarding what you perceived from my letter are received with gratitude. Perhaps we can indeed speak more at another time.

I suspect your fine small courier will be able to locate my home and lead you there, though just in case:

(a crude map of the road out of Umbra to Merrique's home is drawn)

Again, I thank you.

~Merrique
_________________


. . . But the dark is very trustworthy.
It's always as dark as you thought it was.
And you don't have to work at staying there.
All you have to do is survive it.
And I've been doing that forever.
from the novel "Dark Debts" by Karen Hall