>>> This episode follows Serra v Tearea- A battle ending in a draw.

A Tranquil Respite
| This bedroom is the complete opposite of the havoc-filled
| sitting-room downstairs. Though the room is quite spacious,
| it is sparsely furnished with a single, modest bed and a small
| fur rug, both a simple white. Large windows on the north and
*-@ | east walls let in a good amount of natural light, while a
| set of breezy linen curtains ensures privacy. A small, battered-looking
| writing desk sits against the north window where its occupant
| can peer out over the rustling sea of grasses and peep into
| the garden below. The walls are painted a soft neutral grey
---------+ color, the color of clouds just after a storm. The sensation
of calm and tranquility persists here. A spot of warm color is lent by the
cinnabar-speckled flower pot that rests in the northeast corner.

[Exits: west down]
A small painting depicts a figure seated on a cliff watching the sea.
A cozy fur rug is placed at the side of the bed.
A modest, neatly made bed rests against the east wall.
A large flower pot is here.
A small white shelf next to the bed acts as a nightstand.
A quill with a white feather is on a small writing desk.
(Glowing) A mug of hot cocoa is on a small writing desk.
A white lily is on a small writing desk.
A small, scuffed writing desk faces the north window.

The Book of Water, Volume II
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Untitled
1) Within (see 1-1, 1-2)
2) Connections (see 2-1)
3) Devotion (see 3-1)

Untitled

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The way of water is one that flows effortlessly, naturally. Facing an
immobile obstruction, it simply diverts another way unless there are none.
When given no choice, Water can build to a great and unstoppable force of
its own. But if given the chance, it will be gentle.

Within our own lives, we often face obstructions of different scales. Face
these obstructions first with analysis and contemplation rather than force,
for the path to pass it need not be a linear one. Only when all
alternatives are exhausted must the pressure build to burst the dam before
us. In most scenarios, there is an easier way. And the pressure may be
released with the aid of another.

***

The natural state of water is neutral. While there is an inherent aspect
of goodness in its life-giving way, a cup of water, a pond, or an ocean do
not abide or judge the laws of man, but rather the laws of nature.

Likewise, Water does not judge a person for their origin or beliefs, or
force others to alter their origin or beliefs. The way of Water is of
seeking understanding, by which the follower of Water may flow naturally
around the lives of other folk in Serin. One does not need to agree with
all they see, but likewise one need not force a conflict, for Water, and
life, exists within all living things regardless of their convictions.

***

The heart of Water does not cling easily. Rather, its devotion grows
slowly, over the course of time, with understanding and encouragement, like
a river carving its way into a rock bed. In the beginning, Water seeks only
to understand others. True devotion, and loyalty, follows only when such
true understanding is found.

It takes a great deal to gain the devotion of a follower of Water, but once
it is formed the bond is nearly impossible to break. This tenacious
connection can be forged between the follower and the world around them,
their companions, and their God.

Conversely, in this manner, too, the distrust of a follower of Water may be
slowly formed, but once it has solidified it is difficult to dissolve.

***

Serra lays down her quill and rubs her tired eyes.
Serra taps her chin thoughtfully as she reviews the inked pages.
You frown.
Serra picks up her quill and begins anew.

***

Journal 2.8: Becoming Water
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Day of the Fall of Thalos, 30th Renewal of the Celestial of Retribution

It feels as though eons have passed since I last could truly clear my mind
and sit in contemplation.

I have begun working on my second volume of the Book of Water. The first
volume was a work of the Physical nature. I now turn my gaze to the
Spiritual. Though I sense all too clearly the frailty of age, I yet feel
almost a child in the ways of Spirit. I did not gain my first student until
I was over seventy years old. I have been remiss in his teaching, I think.

But all must come with time.

Have we the time? Have I the time? Again my mortality presents itself. By
fate or fortune I have found a set from the depths of history itself that
slows time's inexorable passage. Perhaps this is what shall save me until I
can complete my work.

Some Renewals hence I wrote to Warmistress Tearea, who engaged me in what
she considered a duel of the pen. Over and over she has reiterated that a
purposeful life is driven by passion. She is very focused on the self and
one's own consciousness. Life being what one creates of oneself, and others
to be judged using one's own values, which are elevated over others'. She
claims this is the way of Fire, and perhaps this is unsurprising as it
opposes Water in some respects.

But then she wrote this. "Perhaps it is that we cannot find the middle
ground necessary to become more than passing acquaintances. It is truly a
shame that differences that we both find incomprehensible seem to make it
so." One must consciously, wilfully seek understanding, and willingly share
it, not simply expect another to offer it. Thus, till our writing, we knew
nearly nothing about each other with an impenetrable wall of silence between
us. But perhaps I have been expecting, not seeking, myself, for too many
threads swirled around me...

I cannot blame the silence upon fear, or awkwardness, for I have overcome
the silence with far more terrifying foes. Of brutality the Warlords are
but a pale shadow of what I have witnessed in my long life. What drove me
to respond in such a defiant manner?

Seeking the stories of others has been perhaps the one true passion of my
life. Why can I not bring myself to seek hers? Is it truly the simple
first act of our meeting, however brutal it was?

I sit and I write of the path of Water, and how one should flow around
challenges and not push fruitlessly against them. To me, and what I have
been teaching Kaelric, is that an integral part of our path is forgiveness
and understanding. Have I not fully learned the path of Water that I hope
to teach? Does a remnant resisting Water still linger within me?

I must be calm, and empty myself of all things...

***

<SCHOLAR> Serra: A study in Water
To: Kaelric
Dear Kaelric,

It has been some time since we agreed to begin the passing of the ways of
Water. In this I must apologize, for my attentions have lately been turned
to the rising of Demons. I have begun working on a second volume of the
Book of Water. In the writing of it I have begun to think that it is a good
exercise for a student to imagine what Water means to them. For I know only
what it means to me.

I offer you two tasks, which you may take one or both of.

First, write of how you perceive Water, and how it fits into your own life now.
Second, write of the traces of Water that you observe in the life of others.

I would find these perspectives most enlightening.

Warmly,
Serra

***

<SCHOLAR> Serra: The story of Warlords
To: Tearea
Dear Tearea,

I would like to request the opportunity for you to tell me the story of
Warlords in your own form of expression. I will duel you, and as you win, I
will listen as you tell me the story. I cannot guarantee I will understand
all of it. But the way of Water is to try, and you have met me in my arena.
I will enter yours.

Serra