I call out ‘Stay Awhile!’

I don’t turn immediately when the voice rings out behind me, but I can feel the smile grow in my lips in anticipation. My first meeting with a grounder! Slowly, I sink down to the ground, turning as I do to lay eyes on my secret helper, and I... kind of deflate a little. His silver hair is pulled into elaborate braids, and his clothes are clean and well fitting. In stark contrast, my hair is pulled into a messy bun and secured with twine, and I’m wearing my mother’s tunic, a handful of sizes too big, with a baggy pair of pants, and no shoes. At least I had applied a fresh set of tattoos. The reds and white and oranges swirling down my arms and chest  are intense, and on full display. ”I’m not certain I would consider helping me interfering, but I’ll accept your apology.” I respond with a laugh, alighting on the ground so gently that it’s hard to tell I’ve even stopped flying. ”I was worried that they would have a hard time as well, but it seems they’re in possession of good neighbours.” My humour returns all at once, excitement overriding the worry of not putting enough effort in. ”They’re a tenacious bunch though, I imagine they’ll spread in no time.” The gryphlet flies from her perch to alight on the mans shoulders, and I gasp, razing my hand to my mouth. ”Oh you match! How precious!” I wonder if it’s intentional somehow, or a mere lucky coincidence ”It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Jigano. I am Tarasha.” My smile grows at his thanks, I had heard that the people outside the Greatwood were selfish, cruel folk, but it seems those reports are mistaken. Or maybe he’s simply an exception. ”I would not be being a good neighbour myself if I didn’t share our excess. A rising tide lifts all boats, doesn’t it?” Tarasha They are neither pink nor pale; And they will never be all mine;