Welcome to Gaia! ::

[Naga/Fallen Hybrid]'s Name: Raziel
[Baphomet]'s Name: Jocasta

Entry:

The first time Jocasta had found a note in her cubby, she frowned. It was probably her boss complaining about the short sleeve uniform she'd worn that day. It showed off the creeping roses tattoo that covered her left arm and, as her boss liked to say, 'Maids don't have tattoos!' She'd only gotten this job on the condition that she would keep it covered, but all her other uniforms were in the wash with some stain or another and she just didn't have the chance to finish drying one of them. She had explained that as soon as she walked in this morning but apparently it hadn't been enough. Whatever. Time to face the music, she supposed.

With a sigh, Jocasta flipped the paper open...and stared. It wasn't from her boss. After a quick scan, she couldn't tell who it was from at all. But the words written made the dark-skinned Baphomet blush and brought a smile to her face. She just didn't know who ZR was. She was pretty sure no one at the maid cafe had a name that started with a Z. She would have to think about this, and maybe keep an eye out. Then again, did she really want to ruin the mystery?

Fairest Jocasta,

I am not sure you notice me, but I find that your presence is very much the highlight of the days passed here in tireless toil. Your words are quick but kind, even when stress comes to roost.

In adoration,

ZR

Days passed and none of them were very good. She had, in fact, gotten a written warning for wearing her short sleeve uniform the day after she'd worn it. She hated covering the art that graced her skin, but she needed this job if she wanted to even rent a space at a local tattoo shop after she graduated. So Jocasta would put up with their stupid rules, even though she always got compliments on the tattoo when it showed. The next couple days were just a whirlwind of things going wrong but she kept the agitation and worry from her face as she served her customers and worked with her fellow employees. Jocasta kept a smile on her lips and warmth in her voice.

A few days after the first note came the second and she couldn't deny the way her heart raced in curious anticipation. She looked around the break room but she was the only one in there at the moment. Biting her lip, she opened the note and read it. The same blush and smile covered her face as it had when she'd received the first note. Except this time, it felt a little stronger. She really wondered who was writing her these notes...

Fairest Jocasta,

Days go by and still your warmth of heart and merriment fills a soul with joy. Thank you, for being you. <3

In adoration,

ZR

It was only two days after the second note that the third came. Jocasta nearly squealed out loud at the sight of the folded paper and damn near dropped her purse in her haste to shove it in the cubby so she could read the note. She read the words eagerly, gasping as the author thought they might be bothering her with these notes. Well, she damn sure wasn't taping an X anywhere. She wanted these notes to continue. They brightened up her days and gave her something to look forward to at work.

More than that, though, she wanted to know who the author was. Maybe it was silly, but she was beginning to develop a crush and she didn't even know who it was. She slid the note in her purse so she could tape it to the inside of her apartment door where she kept the other two when she got home. They were her daily reminders that not everything would go wrong all the time. Eventually, something was bound to go right.

Fairest Jocasta,

I realize, I am a fool for writing you so often, perhaps, I bother you. I do hope not, I would hate to bring you discomfort through these small communications. If you would prefer I stop, leave a taped x somewhere, and I'll never again bother you.

Respectfully,

ZR


The next letter had a lovely rose, nearly the same color as her tattoo, blooming shyly in the cubby, a sweet scent lingered on the paper.

Jocasta had been running late that morning. Due to a busted charger her phone, which she relied on heavily, died in the middle of the night. Because of that her alarm didn't go off and it wasn't until an hour after she was supposed to wake up that she rose. And promptly freaked out. Throwing her uniform on and thankful she'd braided her hair the night before, she slicked the fly away strands back with some mousse and ran out of her apartment.

She entered through the back door of her workplace apologizing profusely and explaining why she'd been late and why no one had been able to contact her. She stopped dead, breath caught in her throat, when she saw the rose that accompanied today's note. "Oh," she breathed. A sharp word from a coworker made her jump and she quickly pushed her things into her cubby, careful of the rose and the note. She would have to read it later.

Later didn't come until the end of her shift. Jocasta had worked through her break to make up for being late. She flopped into a chair at the break table to rest her poor legs for a moment before stretching to reach the note inside her cubby. Grabbing it with fingertips, she opened it and smiled widely. Whoever the author was, they certainly had a way with words. Plucking the rose from her cubby next, she lay the soft petals over her lips as she breathed in the sweet scent. Her secret admirer was right, the shade of the rose was extremely close to the color of her tattoo. They were so thoughtful...

Fairest Jocasta,

I will take the lack of an x as consent for me to continue this small thing. The rose called to me and spoke that it should be in your possession as it blooms wild as the ink that graces your arm.

In adoration,
ZR


Over the next couple of weeks there had been candies, ribbons and all kinds of cute things, each with a thoughtful note. It was the small things that mattered most, and Raz was pretty good at the small things. They took a deep breath as they placed the final letter. It hadn't really been that many letters, but they figured that perhaps now it was best to come clean, to meet her face to face instead of just letters. Their heart raced as they left one of their feathers with this one.

Jocasta was quite the happy recipient of the cute little gifts her secret admirer left for her, and her door was now practically plastered with the notes that accompanied the gifts. She often wore the ribbons in her hair and the candies were savored instead of eaten immediately.

Today's note was met with extra enthusiasm as, for once, the Baphomet had had a good morning. She woke up early and ate a leisurely breakfast, had a nice relaxing shower. She had even arrived early to work! The day was looking like it would continue in that vein, and she was not disappointed when she reached for the note, reading it eagerly. Her heart pounded in her chest at the sight of the dark rose colored feather. There was only one Nightmare she worked with that had feathers that color.

Her guess was confirmed when she saw the signature this time. Raziel. The adorable hybrid that worked in the back of the cafe. Jocasta had had no idea the Nightmare felt that way about her. She reread the note, her whole body seeming to thrum in anticipation. She would be at that restaurant, come hell or high water.

Fairest Jocasta,

My foolishness knows no bounds, and here I am a fool even more so, I wonder if you would like to perhaps meet for a late dinner at the restaurant a block over. My feather perhaps is a dead give away already, but I would be honored if you graced me with your presence. I shall wait till the last patrons leave, if you prefer not to meet, I understand as I am perhaps not what you would expect.

Ever yours,
ZR....Raziel

They hadn't known what to do with themselves when they'd gotten off work, an hour early as they'd worked through their lunch. They'd wanted to get decently presentable, after all if Jocasta showed up, it would be dinner, and a nice conversation. There had been about six different hairstyles and ten different shirts. Finally they'd simply brushed out their hair and wore a comfortable but kind of flirty top. Was it too cheesy to wear hearts? They headed to the restaurant and waited.

Raziel tried not to allow their tail to shake nervously, but it was exceptionally difficult. They'd picked an outdoor table, namely because it was easier for them to maneuver, and less likely to have their wings or tail trip anyone up. What if she didn't come? What if after knowing who the writer of the letters was, she decided to have them fired? Or worse, what if she quit? They'd always been quiet around her, observing from a far, hiding the fact that her smile would cause them to blush. They were so very horribly smitten with the Baphomet that it was nearly painful for some of their friends to hear them gush about her. It wasn't just her good days, they'd seen the bad days too, and wanted to know even more.

Preparing for a broken heart, because they were after all not exactly on the top of the most attractive list at work, Raziel steadied themselves with a sip of water. Silently hoping that she'd at least want to be friends.

Jocasta was glad that her uniform was one of the cuter ones, and that the apron was detachable. She shoved the apron and her long sleeved cardigan in her purse at the end of her shift and reapplied her lipstick. Taking a deep breath, the Baphomet tried to settle her nerves. It was true that Jocasta had not considered the hybrid as someone to date before, but that had been because Raziel was so shy, they almost seemed to blend in and oh, that made Jocasta sound awful! She winced at her own thoughts and sighed. She wanted this dinner to go well. Even if they ended up as only friends, her life would be richer for the addition.

Finally satisfied with her appearance, Jocasta huffed a quick breath out and slung her purse over her shoulder. Her hooves hit the concrete hard and loud as she made her way to the restaurant quickly. She didn't want to be late and give Raziel the wrong idea! The restaurant they had picked had an outdoor patio and that was where Jocasta spotted her date. Her heart jumped up into her throat as she slowed down.

Sliding into the seat across from Raziel, she smiled. "Hi there," she said, a little breathlessly.

The voice sounded like she'd been in a rush to get here, that seemed to be...a good sign. Raziel took a short breath and attempted to speak for a moment. Then decided that a cordial smile was better as they couldn't yet trust their voice. They'd been startled when Jocasta had actually shown up. Who would have expected her to actually pop in for a dinner date with them at all? They were just a shy hybrid, and awkward to boot.

Sipping their water they cleared their throat and finally managed a somewhat quiet, "Hello." Crippling shyness was their worst attribute and it often made for less than stimulating conversation, "Um, the waiter should be back shortly, so you can get what you like," The smile that graced their lips was very sweet, and somewhat demure.

Taking a moment they steadied themselves for what would come after, as they knew they needed to take the plunge, "I realize it's very forward of me to request your time, so feel free to head off whenever you feel like it. I know I may not have been what you pictured when reading my...." they trailed off, they'd almost said feelings, which would be correct, but that was much heavier than most wanted to talk about, particularly during the first official meeting.

"Oh, lovely! I didn't want to miss you, so I um, kind of ran here from work," she said and blushed. She didn't want to seem too eager, she supposed, or even worse. Desperate. She watched Raziel for a moment and was charmed by their shyness. "No no," she was quick to assure the hybrid, "I'm quite happy to be here. Happy that my secret admirer," she blushed at the term, remembering the sweet notes, "is you, Raziel." She fidgeted a little in her seat as she spoke.

"I didn't picture you when I read the notes," she admitted with a small smile. "But I never thought you'd be interested. You're so quiet all the time, I always thought you were cute," she said and smiled shyly. "But I'm glad it was you." She started a bit when the waiter came back and she asked for a sweet tea. Jocasta had a huge sweet tooth, and she adored sweet tea. It wasn't restricted to edible or drinkable things. Jocasta's sweet tooth extended to familiars and Nightmares as well. Particularly adorable hybrids like the one across the table from her.

Raziel flushed with a tinge of pink on their cheeks. The words that echoed in their ears, she wasn't upset that they were the one who'd written the words that seemed to cause joy in her, a thing to look forward to during the less than grand days, and perhaps the icing on the cake when a day went well.

They were beside themselves with joy as they smiled sweetly, trying desperately to think of something to say, flushing a deeper shade of pink, they flustered even more, "I...." a huff, and twitch of their wings, "It would seem that my words are failing me, I am not as eloquent with spoken word as I am with written." They smiled sheepishly under their blush, "Is there anything you wish to ask, or say, now that we've met face to face? Or perhaps you'd prefer to order something to eat? You did just get off your longer shift, so you are likely to be hungry, I would think...." They lapsed into silence, after the sudden burst of babble. Their nerves were apparent, as they tried hard to reign in their excitement and small bit of terror.

Thoughts ran through their mind far too fast for them to voice, a fleeting thought of how annoying they must be, how troublesome this is for Jocasta, how much the lovely Baphomet was smiling, another thought of how this was so ridiculous and a hybrid freak like them could not land anything more than a quick acquaintance with one so lovely as the lady before them. Raziel looked for a moment like they were going to burst, the anxiety of what they were, and how it looked suddenly getting the better of the poor hybrid and causing them to turn somewhat mute for the moment.

Jocasta hid a giggle behind her hand as she watched Raziel get all flustered and cute. "Don't worry so much. I think we'll be just fine," she said with a small blush of her own. She just couldn't get over how cute Raziel was, especially when they were flustered. "I'd love something to eat, though. I was running late today and haven't had a chance to eat," she said with a smile.

She watched the hybrid for a moment while their nerves began to get the better of them. "Hey, Raziel," she said, reaching across the table to lay her hand on the other Nightmare's shoulder. "Relax. Take a breath." Jocasta smiled happily. She really was excited to be here, and to have the chance to get to know Raziel.

"So," she started as she sat back. "Do you have any recommendations for this place? I don't think I've been here before." The Baphomet really hoped that a small start would help the shy Nightmare break out of their shell a little bit.

The hand touching theirs brought the world into a quiet focus. They took a breath, and felt much calmer. That was not something that normally happened with anyone. Usually they'd have to go and freak out at home, scream into a pillow, any number of things, but the world had gone from overwhelming to melting back into a place that was less terrifying.

Raziel picked up their menu and offered a little feed back, "The fries are delightful, I believe sweet potato? Just the right amount of sweetness to them. Other than that, I'd have to know your preferences for food. I know sweets tend to be a go to, but they've a decent selection for meats, veg, and just about anything else you might enjoy." They'd not actually known what Jocasta might enjoy eating, but they'd for sure found a place that had enough of everything that it was bound to have something she'd enjoy.

"After food, would you perhaps want to catch a film? If things go well of course." It was a timid question as they glanced upwards from under their bangs, the sight being terribly adorable unbeknownst to the silly hybrid of course.

Jocasta beamed a bright smile as she managed to calm the other Nightmare down a little. She picked her menu up when Raziel did and listened to her choices. She ended up choosing something meaty and savory, with an eye on something that was sure to be sugar filled for dessert. Raziel seemed to know her so well already, having chosen what was practically the perfect place for Jocasta. "A movie after sounds great!"

Their meal continued on nicely, and Jocasta was pleased to have drawn a couple smiles from Raziel. When the meal was finished, Jocasta stretched and stood. "So what kind of movie were you thinking?" she asked, moving closer to Raziel. She really wanted to take the other Nightmare's hand, but she wasn't quite sure yet. She held her hands behind her back for now, making do with leaning closer.

With dinner having gone well, and not blowing up in their face like any other time they'd attempted to get to know someone, Raziel was in good spirits. There was a pause as they thought about what movie might be enjoyable, their mind wandering for a moment as Jocasta leaned closer.

Shaking their head for a moment, they gave a small smile, "Depends on what genre you'd prefer, There's a romcom, a straight bad comedy, a couple of action movies, and I think a kids flick. There might be something else, but those seemed to be the ones most notable, and not likely to have a huge crowd for the showing we're heading to.

Slipping from their chair the hybrid shifted and offered their arm, having paid for the meal, since this was after all their treat. Their evening was turning out to be far more in the positive column than the negative, and Raziel hoped it would stay that way.

"Hmm," she hummed as she thought about the choices she'd been given. Raziel seemed to be the kind of Nightmare who preferred small or no crowds of others and honestly, Jocasta was just fine with that. She enjoyed a crowded rock show every now and then, but she was a mostly laid-back woman. "I'm kind of feeling like a romcom, how about you?" she asked with a smile.

She blushed a little when Raziel offered their arm and slid hers around it. She was quite happy with the closeness and edged a little closer while they walked. It was a nice night for this kind of stroll.

They nodded in agreement to the movie, and grinned, trying not to have their head split in the grin as they walked arm in arm with the object of their affections. Hopefully the night would go in the same direction of hopefulness that it was going now.

-after the movie and a short walk home-

The movie had been at least mildly funny, though the plot was an old and worn out thing, it had served to allowed them a good amount of time hanging about each other.

As they neared Jocasta's apartment Raziel tried to think of the best way for the evening to end, and while they were thinking they ended up right at her door. Caught a little flat footed as the saying goes, Raziel went with instinct and gave a darting kiss to Jocasta's cheek. Then flushed an even brighter shade of crimson than one would have thought possible, as they mumbled a farewell and sweet dreams, then scrambled down the street trying not to have a large freak out over the liberty they'd just taken on a first date.

Jocasta was left staring after the overtly flustered hybrid, with a gentle grin on her face and a light touch to her cheek.

Naga/Fallen Hybrid's Name: Ilan
Baphomet's Name: Kiera

Entry:

[Kid1Race]'s Name: Hadassah
[Kid2Race]'s Name: Zaniyah

Entry:

First Letter-


The hybrid looked back and forth nervously as they pointedly slithered down the hallway, passing row after row of ordinary lockers. They stopped at one that looked no different from any of the others, but they knew from watching that it was THE locker they was looking for. Reaching into the folds of their long shirt, they pulled out a small envelope, plain and unadorned, lest the recipient see it bedecked with hearts and little signs of affection and become repulsed and inclined to throw it away. They wanted to make sure it at least had a chance to be seen.

In one quick motion, they slid the envelope into the slits at the top of the locker and rushed away as though they had someplace to be urgently. Resisting the urge to look back, their lips began to move silently, reciting the words that they had pored over, written and rewritten the entire night before.

At first I wanted to write something simple, like the freshlings do: a little paper that says 'Do you like me; circle yes or no.' It's hard to mess up one of those, after all. But you deserve so much more than that. I can't write amazing poems or speeches; all I can give you is the knowledge that someone out there thinks the world of you, even if that someone is small and shy and unremarkable.

I share a history class with you. Every time you come in and sit down, it makes the whole world a little more bright. We could be talking about the 50 Year War and it wouldn't make me sad, because I was lucky enough to be here after all of that, sharing the same space as you. I see you smile as someone leans in and says something funny, and I imagine that smile is in my direction instead. I see how confident you are when you walk around the school, and I imagine that if the Empress of The Nine had ever took it upon herself to grace us with a visit, she would be hard pressed to look so regal. You deserve love, happiness, and the gratitude of the hundreds of students whom you choose to interact with every day.

I'm not one of them; I'm too shy to so much as say hello to you, and afraid that you would see nothing worth your time in me. But in case I stand just a tiny bit of a chance, and you might actually like to hear from me again, please come into history class just a little bit early and draw a tiny flower in the corner of the blackboard. If I don't see it, then I'll never bother you again, and thank you for just taking the time to read what I wrote; if anything you can know that someone out there thinks you're the greatest.

Your quiet admirer


First Baph Reaction-


Feeling the freedom of being out of class for the day Zaniyah was deliberately moving slow through the hallways. Her thoughts focusing on her the supplies she needed that day as well as the other projects she had in mind to start since her inspiration had a habit of kicking in when she was already working on a project. One of her classmates had remarked to her about the dress she had worn when she was with a group of friends hanging out and enjoying each other's company. Evidently the classmate saw her and liked her dress and was curious where she got it. Smiling, eyes twinkling she said "Chez Zaniyah" and laughed. The classmate looked confused until she said "I made it myself I want to be a fashion designer when I graduate"

Making her way to her locker to store her books she would not need at her dorm she opened the locker door and began to sort her school books, notebooks and binders to get the one's she would need to complete her assignments. Humming to herself she moved her fashion binder when something white caught her eye as it fell to the bottom of her locker. Picking it up she noticed it was a plain envelope. Looking around she did not see anyone near so she opened it carefully and inside was a neatly written note. Not knowing what to expect she began to read the words and it surprised her so much she dropped the note by accident. Picking it up quickly she took a few deep breaths to calm herself down before re reading it from the beginning. Each word of this sincerely written note made her smile. The words seemed to flow together to express something voicing them would not convey. Each word was like a little zing to the heart, meant to make the one who was lucky enough to receive it feel like they were the only one in the world.

To know that someone thought she was not only beautiful but confident was a welcome surprise to her. Zaniyah was friendly to everyone it was in her nature to be so outgoing. To have someone tell her they were to shy to even say hello to her was a shock, she tried to envision why this quiet admirer would feel this way. Had she inadverently been rude to them or maybe she said something in passing that they felt like she did not like them? They did say they were in her history class so Zaniyah thought about who was in her class. She speaks to everyone so why did they state in their note they are shy to say hello? That got her thinking about a few classmates who hardly speak during class. One was a Fallen/Naiad who seemed to be more interested in the plants that sat in the window sill then the class itself. Another was a Naga/Fallen who seemed quiet but intelligent. Hardly speaking at all. Of course there was the male Baphomet who only cared about the weather and how it worked. He always found a way to work weather into whatever was being taught in his replies. Tapping her finger to her chin she knew it could be anyone in her class.

The note did say if she wanted to continue communicating with them to draw a tiny flower in the corner of the blackboard early before the next class. Her eyes twinkling she knew she would do just that. This admirer had caught her attention, she did have a small crush on someone in that class and she could only hope it would be them!


Second Letter-


The next day, and it’s history lesson, couldn’t come soon enough. Tormented by what-ifs, sleep eluded the hybrid to the point where they knew that there was no worry about attracting too much attention in class; they felt as dull and grey as a pile of ashes, hair mussed and eyes half-closed with fatigue. Even their wing feathers seemed droopy and hung like tattered flags on a windless day. Doubt and worry still clung to their mind like leftover cobwebs; how had the letter been received? They DID put it in the right locker, right? What if it got lost when she opened her locker and someone else had found it? What if she had read the letter and thought it was someone’s idea of a joke, or was repulsed by what they had written to her, or just figured that someone who hid in the shadows wasn’t worth finding out about? What if she had taken it to show her friends and have a good laugh over it? They knew deep down from seeing how kind she was that the last option was beyond remote, but it didn’t stop the thought from burrowing into their head and taking a firm enough hold to chase away any prospect of sleep.

They slithered through the door to the classroom, anxious eyes not daring to shoot over at the corner of the chalkboard lest she was watching and trying to figure out who would react to the flower, if it was even there. Head down to where their hair tumbled down and hid their face, they finally chanced a tiny peek at the board’s corner, and their breath caught in their throat. It was there; right in the corner! A small flower drawn with chalk, tiny petals so delicately drawn with the care and detail that only a master designer could conjure! Their elation was suddenly put on hold as they felt the muscles in their tail twitch involuntarily; if it started to thrash, she would know who her admirer was! Forcing themselves to think fast, they jerked their head forward and gave a loud sneeze, causing the tail to point straight out and the muscles to lock up. Hoping that the few classmates looking in their direction would ‘chalk’ their sneeze up to the dust coming from the blackboard, they gave a convincing sniffle and slithered over to their desk in the back, not daring to look for a reaction from Zaniyah.

Once the class began, however, they couldn’t hold back the sheer joy they felt. She had read the note and wanted to talk some more! Of all the ones in the whole school who probably vied for her attention, she in her generosity had spared a little for them! They should have known better than to think that wonderful Zaniyah would do any of the spiteful things that had kept them up the night before. No longer able to contain themselves, they reached into their desk and pulled out a sheet of the best paper they had; the one they usually reserved for special ad projects. It was thick and a little glossy, with a simple design watermarked in the corner for class, and it even had a slight pink tinge to it; just perfect for a nice heartfelt letter.

Not caring that their grade might suffer if they dedicated this class to not paying attention, they pulled out their best pen and using their textbook as a shield, began to write.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you. When I saw that flower on the blackboard, you gave me the most wonderful treasure I could imagine, short of actually talking to you: just a bit of your time to tell me that you acknowledged something I had sent out with the fear that it might never reach you, or that you might be afraid of some stranger noticing you. But now you’ve given me hope, and so much joy.

I heard you mention once that you like to design fashion; I don’t know much about clothes and fashions, but I know it’s a wonderful thing that you want to bring happiness to people by helping them look their very best; not many strive to make such kindness their living. I doubt though that you would find anyone as beautiful as you to model your designs. You could easily be your own model, from the way your hair flows like silk when you walk to the artistic markings on your arm that only serve to accentuate the creative soul within. And you would deserve nothing less than your face in every paper and magazine, your designs inspiration for royalties, and lesser artisans striving to make things that compliment your works.

Were I even the least bit brave, I would ask to see your works, pondering the heart in every hemline, the soul in every sash, the reverie in every ribbon. I imagine every piece as a part of you, projected onto the world and making it shine with extensions of your good will. Those who are to receive these things should consider themselves the luckiest people in the world. As it is, I am content with one beautiful chalk flower.

I’m so grateful that you let me speak to you this way; I hope someday I might break this prison of awkward silence I’ve built for myself and maybe have the courage to tell you all of this in person. If you ever want to say anything back; not that you have to or anything, but just in case you do……I don’t use my locker very much, but outside in the gardens beside the blue wisteria tree, there is a hole in the bark just below the ground. I pass by that tree every day, and I’ll start checking whenever I can. I won’t be sad if you don’t write anything, but I just want you to know that your words mean just as much to me as I hope mine do to you.

Your marveling admirer

They had just enough time to finish before the bell rang to signal the end of the next class and the tumultuous rush to get to the next one. One quick fold and slide into an envelope that matched the decorum of the paper; pale pink with a pearly sheen and the same watermarked design in a bottom corner, and it was ready to be slipped into Zaniyah’s locker during the crush of the hallway traffic. They couldn’t tell if she had already been to her locker, but it didn’t matter; the most suffocating crowd the academy could muster wouldn’t be able to crush their soaring spirits.


Second Baph Reaction-


Zaniyah awoke that day early with a smile this was not unusual but the fact the smile was still there from the day before was. Funny how one little letter that was written from the heart could captivate someone's attention. Losing count of how many times she read the letter before she drifted off to sleep with the words still swirling about in her mind and a contented smile on her lips.

Taking the letter to her desk she placed it on her blotter and began to search for her paper supplies. Like all the supplies she has paper was one she had in quantity of all different kinds. Thinking about which one would be perfect to send a letter in return she sorted through the packs until one caught her attention. The paper was a lovely shade of Peach but had a hint of Rose to it. It glistened when the sunlight hit it and the paper was thick and smelled heavenly. Knowing this was the paper she wanted to use she took several sheets along with her notebook to write the letter out first then copy from. No mistakes, she wanted this letter to convey what her thoughts were and did not want to mess up.

Sitting down she began to write. Different sentences came out and she wrote them down. Her thoughts and feelings became a jumbled mess but after a while she stopped writing and read what she had written. Picking out specific parts she began to construct the letter on the special sheet of paper and wrote carefully.

This morning, what a glorious beautiful morning, I awoke with a smile on my lips. The words you written spilling from my lips like a sonnet. I can recite every word you wrote from memory, I fell asleep to those words swirling in my mind and whispering from my lips. Your words there is no way to fully explain what they convey to me. Your words are expressive, beautiful and so full of meaning anyone in our world would be lucky to have such a treasure given to them as your letters are. That is what I see them as, a treasure. Others may see it differently but that is what they are. Your words each one is carefully selected to convey your thoughts and feelings in a expressive way, there is no misconstruding what you are trying to rely in your message.

Your words are like a soft flutter of wings touching my face, a lovely fragrance from the flowers teasing my sense of smell. A soft sound that is pleasant to the ears, a rich and sweet taste in my mouth and the most beautiful colors that explodes in front of my eyes. Each word entices and entrances as you read pulling you in deeper until suddenly the end is there and you are left wanting. Your words, something so simple as words, have impacted me on a level I never thought possible.

My designs fall short in comparison to your gift of words. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your thoughts on how I should be my own model and other artisians should see my work. To be truthful, I am my own worst critic. I see some of my work and dislike it immediatley beliving it is not good enough to wear myself let alone allow another to do so. To hear that someone holds my work the way you do the words I have fail to express how that makes me feel although one word comes to mind immediately, elated.

I can not be as expressive in words as you, they seem to flow from your hand as if they know they belong on the paper. My expression is in the fashion I create so I chose to do just that, if you reach down just a little bit more you will find something I made especially for you. You mentioned in your first letter about my markings, I created the same pattern on some lovely fabric and made you a small keepsake. A gift, something small but from the heart. If you like my gift I would like to see you holding it when we meet. I am assuming that you wish to meet with me so we can talk and get to know one another. The choice of where and when will be left up to you. I so desire to see whom holds me in such high esteem and the one who makes me smile by simply being themselves. Please do not be nervous when meeting with me, just be you. This is not an audition, you do not have to portray yourself as something your not. I am wanting to know you, the real you. The one you have hidden, I can read between the lines of your letter and it seems as though your afraid of rejection.

Remember one thing no one is more special then you. Our world is made better simply by you being in it. You have an amazing gift of words one you should share with everyone although I will say I will be jealous of the thought of others reading your words. I hope that brought a small smile to your lips as your words have done for me.

Signed

The one you made smile.

With that she read it over to make sure it said what she wanted and sighed. She knew she did not excel at using words to convey her thoughts and feelings like her admirer but she tried her best to say what she was feeling. It would be easier when they met face to face, she could say what came to mind. Taking the paper she carefully folded it and placed in the matching envelope and sealed it. Then began to get ready for the day.

Feeling like this day would be something special she took great care in grooming herself this morning. In a happy, upbeat mood she began to gather her supplies for class and off she went in search of the blue Wisteria tree near the garden to place her letter and small gift for her admirer. Looking around it only took a few minutes to locate it and carefully placed her letter and gift inside. Walking off at a steady pace she debated hanging around but figured her secret admirer would still be sleeping or getting ready for class. Smiling brightly she made her way to her first class of the day with such a enthusiastic step.


Finale Post 1-


The soft morning light never failed to make the gardens a magical place during the dawn hours, and it was the perfect excuse for the hybrid to meander through the gardens, their long tail making almost no noise through the dew-soaked grass. They knew the way well, but nevertheless they took their time in heading toward the blue wisteria. Suppose she had not left anything? How would they feel if they reached into the knothole and found nothing? What would it mean; that she was through talking, or maybe she didn’t know what to say? Anxious thoughts swirled around with the morning mist until finally, not being able to put it off any longer, they started to move slowly toward the blue wisteria.

As it came into view, a quick glance around to make sure nobody else was about and hiding, and they were right beside the blue wisteria, doing their best to hide among the fragrant bunches of striking blue flowers. Placing a pale hand on the cool, damp bark, they traced the cracks and crevices down to where the hole was. Questing fingers reached in, and they held their breath; the feel of paper caused them to let out their breath in a whoosh, a few flowers dancing about at the sudden small gust. They pulled out the letter and held it close, imagining the delicate fingers that had caressed that paper before putting it there. Crouching down behind the tree, they pulled it out and read the inscription, and every word seemed to make their heart hammer louder and louder.

How could Zaniyah say that their admirer’s words were special and akin to a treasure when her own words were so poetic and full of life? Why hadn’t THEY thought to write about wings and flowers and beautiful smells? Their own words seemed so dull and lifeless, just like the one who wrote them. Their wings drooped for just an instant, but then they blinked in realization. Regardless of who used the best words, she still wanted to meet them, to give them a chance to be graced by her presence and cradled in the warmth of her interest.

When they read the last part about the keepsake, they looked with wide eyes at the hole and slowly reached in, feeling around until they felt cloth. Hoping that nothing would tear as they pulled, they carefully withdrew their arm to reveal a heart, about the size of a pomegranate, stitched cleverly together with a fabric that seemed a mirror image of the artwork on her arm. But wait……they squinted at the design, noticing that some of the swirls seemed a little different. Holding it almost up to their nose, they suddenly gasped. The swirls were forming words, but not just any words:

Do you like me? Circle yes or no.
You deserve love, happiness…
You’ve given me hope, and so much joy.
The heart in every hemline, the soul in every sash…..

Just when they thought their heart couldn’t hammer any harder…..this really WAS from the heart, and not just because it was heart-shaped. She had given them their words back, in a way that showed that they were appreciated, loved, cherished.
Clutching it hard as though afraid harm would come to it, they forced themselves to quiet their mind, and carefully placed both letter and heart into the folds of their shirt. They felt in a daze as they somehow found their way to class, taking their seat and hardly daring to look in the direction of the one who sat just a few feet away, doubtless wondering who was figuratively holding her heart.

They waited for class to get underway before reaching into their desk and pulling out another sheet of the special advertising paper, folding it delicately in half like a large card and opening it up to write carefully.

You’ve given me your heart, and I will treasure it for always.
I want to meet you; I will set aside my fear that you will be disappointed in finding your admirer to be shy and painfully average, that in spite of my colorful, passionate words, they stem from the dullest and grayest of springs. My words are still part of me, and if they turn out to be the only part of me worth merit, than so must it be.
I will be waiting for you by the blue wisteria tree after classes, holding both your heart and my own frail hopes.

Your undeserving admirer

When the bell finally rang, they rose up carefully, trying not to seem hurried as they slithered out the door and into the crowded hallway. They gave themselves just enough time to quickly push the note into Zaniyah’s locker before rushing away, wondering how they were ever going to survive the rest of the day with anticipation beating against their chest like a bird in a cage.


Finale Post 2-


Zaniyah not a early bird as they say got up earlier then usual that day. She wanted to get to class before everyone else. Her reasons were simple, she wanted to watch the other students enter so she can see if anyone seemed off meaning gave a clue or some tidbit of a clue they were the one sending her those lovely letters that made her heart flutter. As she walked towards school her mind began to center on her classmates she was able to dismiss several as they were very boisterous and outgoing not the kind to hide their thoughts or feelings. Several others seemed unlikely due to just a feeling she had, which left a few left that made her smile. Her crush the one who never talked to her nor looked in her direction was in that group. Maybe she was grasping at straws as the saying goes but she hoped they were the one sending those letters to her.

Entering school she walked to her locker and opened it hoping for another letter, disappointment was all she received. It was possible the admirer has not written to her as of yet and she must be patient. That gave her an idea! If she paid attention in class to who was not paying attention but writing she may know the answer before she is supposed to! Smiling widely she shut her locker and hurried to class not caring if she forgot anything. She felt giddy, happy and tingly all at the same time.

Walking into class she sat in her assigned seat and waited impatiently for class to begin. She began to casually look about the room when the teacher was reading a passage from the textbook but did not notice anything out of the ordinary. Try as she may nothing caught her eye as out of the ordinary. After a few minutes of looking about she sighed and gave up. Maybe they already written to her and waited until after class to slip the note in her locker. She smiled a little at that but still was sad she was unable to solve this cute mystery on her own.

The rest of the class went by in a daze not really paying attention but lost in her thoughts. Suddenly class was over and before she could get out of her seat the teacher was there asking to speak with her. Nodding she hoped this would not take to long and watched as the other students and her crush exit the doorway.

It did not take long speaking with the teacher, asking about a paper then she was free to get to her locker and she did have a pass from the teacher if she was caught in the halls while class was in session. Hurrying to her locker she opened it and there was a letter!

Eyes hungry for the words they wrote she opened the letter and greedily read them. The words flowed like before each word like music to her ears and a lovely sight to behold. How their words spoke to her, as if she was the only one in their world.

A meeting! They wanted to meet! she said outloud not caring if anyone heard her. After all the classes are done for the day a meeting where she placed the note and gift. A perfect place to meet it would be quiet and the smells from the flowers would be so beautiful. Wondering how she would function the rest of the day with the thoughts of the upcoming meeting her day would be a blur of nothing but thoughts until that meeting took place. Her admirer would be awaiting her with their heart on their sleeve, literally! The token she made could be worn that way if they so chose.

Re reading the last part of the letter made her heart sink a little, they were still afraid of what she would think. The thoughts of them thinking that way brought tears to her eyes. The words became blurry as she thought how could they not know how much happiness their words have brought her? Those lovely, beautiful words they wrote each one accenting the one before and after with such precision only a master of words could create. Their words written by another hand would be just words but written by their hand they were a treasure. Why couldn't they understand that? A gift she wished she had to convey all she was feeling and thinking but her gift was with creating pretty things she created and sewn. Wishing she could speak to them right at that moment she knew the words she would say and hoped she would have the chance to do so later on that day. She needed them to understand something, no matter what they thought of themselves she thought highly of them. She wanted them to know their self worth, even if they didn't. It was important to her they knew.

Stumbling off to her next class her mind was on her letter and the meeting that would take place in a few hours which felt like an eternity. Mind filling with thoughts of what if's made her misstep and almost fall but she kept on going like nothing happened. She knew she had to get her mind on her schooling or the day would take longer then it already would as it was.

Getting into her class she sat down and began to work trying to block out the meeting that she so desperately wanted. It was not working but she tried anyway. Sighing to herself she just let her mind wander not caring if she got in trouble or not, her thoughts were worth it.


Finale Post 3-


The rest of the day, as they predicted, was so much bothersome noise to their ears, punctuated here and there by the angry murmur of a teacher when they were caught staring off into space. It hardly mattered to them; grades could be made up, and no way would a day’s worth of goofing off hurt their grade so irreparably. All that mattered now was the impending meeting after class, and what could possibly happen as a result. What sort of impression would they make? What if they did something ridiculous, or what if she had already guessed who her admirer must be and would be disappointed? So many what-ifs, and they crowded everything else from their mind for the duration of the school day.

The final bell tolled, and they felt a mixture of relief and anxiety as they put their books away in their locker for the day and slithered slowly towards the door leading out to the gardens. Students passed them by right and left, chatting about their plans for the evening; would that her immediate future was so certain! She opened the door and slowly made her way through the gardens, twilight not yet fallen on the school, but still dark enough to make the place a realm of mystery and magic.

They stopped at the wisteria tree, letting the long flower-laden tendrils sit on their shoulders as if in reassurance. Turning around slowly, they pulled out the heart from their shirt and held it in their hands delicately, as though it was a real heart, or an effigy made from the most precious crystal. They felt a tremor go through their entire body, as every small shadow and darting sound through the garden bushes caused them to start, thinking it might be her. They continued to stand there like a single ghostly figure at a vigil, their candle instead a token of innermost feelings.

A sudden sound of footsteps caused them to focus on the path, bathed in the glow of deep twilight. The figure drew closer, and their heart began to thunder. It was her; she was here! There was no mistaking her, just as she was certain that there was no mistaking them, with all of the other students gone off to other activities. They were alone in the garden. Say something! They shouted inwardly, Say something now! They felt as though a lump had formed in their throat, lodged there and burning like a dollop of lead. When their voice finally emerged, they were certain it was too small for her to hear. “Hello. It……. It really was me. I’m……I’m Hadassah.”


Finale Post 4-


The day crept by slowly, the clock barely moving or so it seemed. Her thoughts consumed with the meeting after the school day ended not with her studies as it should be. Several of her teachers caught her daydreaming and reprimanded her for it but she did not truly care at that moment. Her studies could wait one day, her grades were near excellent and she was usually a very studious student. Just today she could not concentrate, her thoughts on her admirer and who they were. Their words kept swirling about in her mind soothing her need to know and enticing her for the meeting.

Feeling like she would crawl out of her skin if she did not get to the meeting the bell tolled alerting all to the end of the school day. Blowing out a small sigh of relief she hurried to her locker and took the few moments to get her textbooks and supplies for her work she needed to do at her dorm then went to the bathroom to freshen up a bit. She wanted to look presentable to her admirer. She fussed over her hair with nervous hands, and ran a soft cool cloth over her horns to make them look glossy. Her fur was fluffed a bit so she smoothed that out and finally after a few minutes of grooming felt she looked as good as she could. Taking a few deep breaths she picked up her bag and headed out to the gardens. Knowing she was a few minutes late she tried to hurry but did not want to draw attention to herself, she forced her steps to slow down but still kept a hurried stride she did not want her admirer to think she was not showing up.

Suddenly the fragrance from the wisteria tree assailed her nose and tickled it. She smiled knowing she was so close and when the tree came into view she stopped in her tracks. There next to the tree was her admirer. Shocked beyond all belief it was her! Her crush. She was stunned into complete silence. The one who never spoke to her but held her attention was the one who wrote those lovely words to her. The words she held dear to her heart. She felt the need to say something, anything when she tried to speak no words came out. Praying the look on her face was not disgust but shock she just stood there for a moment more before she heard in a very soft tender voice saying Hello and a name. Tilting her head to the side a smile broke out on her face and she giggled. What? I giggle oh my land she must think I am disgusted! Say something that she could understand she thought to her self. Putting a hand over her mouth she cleared her throat and walked towards the one she now knew as Hadassah. Reaching her hand up and out she acted on pure impulse and gently touched her cheek and looked in her eyes. "So you are the lovely one who writes as if am a most cherished treasure to you. I must admit I am beyond thrilled it is you, for you have held my attention for a long time. You never spoke to me so I just kept my feelings to myself" the words just tumbled from her lips. Slowly taking her hand away from her cheek she stood there for a moment longer before looking down at her hands. A smile could not be contained nor the beating of her heart for she held her token. The one she crafted for her admirer and prayed it would be her whom received it. "I see you still have my token, my heart as it were. You seem to have taken it with you simply being you but you must know you stole it long before you began to write me, I never had the courage to say anything to you now I wish I had. Time wasted we could have had but now we can look forward to what is in the future awaiting us" with that she reached down and took one small pale hand and slowly raised it and placed a gentle kiss on it.


Finale Post 5-

The words they spoke just seemed to hang there, thickening the air and stifling them as at first there was nothing said in return. But then....she tilted her head to the side and she......she giggled. They felt their heart stop dead; of all the reactions they had anticipated, this definitely was the last. What did it mean? They felt the lump of lead in their throat return, hotter than ever and constricting any more words they might say.

But then she came forward, and took their hand in hers, and then felt the brush of her hand on their face like the softest stroke of a moth's wing. Then she began to speak, and before too long the words began to warp and echo, as though from the other end of a tunnel. She......had had the same feelings for them? All this time? They could have spoken with her long before now, shared things, been together.......

Now it was their turn to giggle, though compared to hers, theirs sounded whisper-quiet, like rustling grass. "We could have saved us a lot of time, huh? But then there wouldn't have been..." They looked down at the heart that they still held in their remaining hand. "I think.... this way was nicer. Knowing we knew each other so well..."

It was all too wonderful to be true; not only did Zaniyah not care that their features were ordinary and dull, but she actually had wanted them anyway, for as long as they had wanted her! Hadassah's eyes filled with happy tears, and as soon as Zaniyah had finished planting the daintiest of kisses on their hand, they suddenly reached out and embraced her in a hug. "Thank you..." they whispered as the tears began to spill. "Thank you so much, my love."