The forest of red bud trees was like something from a dream- and just like a dream, she stumbled upon it without any true intention. If given a lifetime, she didn't think she could imagine something as intricately beautiful. Her steps were silent against the fresh undergrowth of the young forest. Cherry blossoms cascaded in a flood of pink and white, their petals glimmering like pearly stars against the verdant backdrop of newly unfurling leaves. The earth was fragrant with hints of clover and wildflowers, and she knew that beneath it all lay precious roots and herbs that she could certainly make use of. The first breaths of spring were clearly present in the eastern territories- and with new life, came new opportunities to scavenge.

As she walked, she kept her eyes open for anything that might be useful or of value. She could sense something in the air- a hint of unknown possibilities and potential. Everywhere she looked was something new and exciting; patches of fresh herbs and tiny flowers popping their heads out from the undergrowth, mushrooms pushing through decomposing leaves in search of sunlight. She spied patches of open ground here and there, indicating digging spots that might contain roots- treasures that would be a great addition for her host's stores. But the most immediate problem happened to be ... where should she start?

"Mariah Mendacium"

It's pretty out. Erik will give it that much. The boy made his way down from the mountain on confident paws. Though they'd be returning to Tojo-kai soon, there had been that whole thing with Celeste getting kidnapped, and it didn't feel safe to travel until someone came up as an additional support to walk them back down. Tate was already here, but having someone else help too would just be... safer.

But where were the thoughts of safety as Erik was out on the mountain? Morganna had been squirreled away safely, but Erik was still free to roam. He was too bulky to kidnap, if anything. Already showing every bit of the brawn in both bloodlines, he's really a credit to their imposing stature. Right, too heavy, too bulky, and a bit too... goopy to kidnap. By that token, Morg should have been allowed to wander a bit too but... ehhh, don't bring that logic up to their dad.

Let the boy have a bit of whimsy, especially on one of the first warm days of spring. Though he thrived in winter, he wouldn't deny the feeling of sun on his back was nice. A quiet game of hide and seek, or something like tag maybe? Had sprung up between the boy and his companion. The cat was lighter and faster on her feet, but Erik was persistent. The two romped, though he could feel his breathing getting heavier. Waving an unofficial time out to his companion, the boy leaned heavily against one of the trees to hack and cough, and further fight to catch his breath. Fuck.

"Speech"

The lush forest of red bud trees stretched out before Mariah like a dream, revealing a breathtaking spectacle of intricate beauty that took her breath away. The delicate cherry blossoms clustered together in a vibrant display of pink and white, creating a celestial scene against the backdrop of newly sprouting leaves. As she walked deeper into the forest, the gentle scent of clover and wildflowers filled the air, beckoning her to unearth the hidden treasures nestled beneath the earth. It was as if she had stumbled upon a secret paradise, untouched by the sinister edge of reality.

Mariah glided soundlessly through the young forest, her senses heightened and alert for any potential treasures. The first breaths of spring whispered promises of new opportunities, and every turn seemed to hold the potential for discovery. Sprouts of fresh herbs, delicate flowers, and plump mushrooms emerged from unexpected corners, tempting her scavenging instincts. Yet amidst the abundance, one pressing question lingered: where should she begin her search? The air was alive with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and earthy soil, beckoning Mariah deeper into the wooded wonderland. She couldn't resist the pull, eager to uncover the hidden gems waiting to be found.

In the midst of her contemplation, a new presence caught Mariah's attention. Her gaze shifted towards a fascinating figure, who seemed to be engaged in a playful game with a companion. The warmth of spring infused the air with a sense of carefree whimsy, as if the world itself was embracing this moment. But the idyllic scene came to an abrupt halt when the figure leaned against a tree, his body racked with coughs and hacking. Mariah couldn't resist the opportunity for some snark as she called out, "Well, aren't you just a ray of sunshine?" She strode forward with a raised eyebrow, ready to rain on this unexpected parade.

"Mariah Mendacium"