#toa2023 flowers 1

[boundlesschaos]

Tea- How befitting and quaint it was for tea to find its way forward. The multitude of options to choose from makes it quite the spectacle. As Céline peruses her options, she draws one hand towards her chin in contemplation.

The princess turns to her right, gaze shifting upwards with a content face of satisfaction. "Are you looking to enjoy the tea, as well? Might you have a preferred flavor?" She takes a moment for the silence to absorb, letting the fresh scent of tea encompass the two. While a ball is different than a chat in the gardens, she knows its value all very well. "Would you like to enjoy some with me? I would be pleased to have the company." Tea is a wondrous way to grant respite, she has learned over the years.

"Oh, uhm." Niamh catches the glance from the stranger, and her brow furrows as she takes in the situation once more. She had ventured to this location seeking the source of a curious aroma, but now that she found it? If she had to be honest...

"...I would appreciate the company." She confirms with a nod. "Does that mean...you're versed in this? I've been having trouble deciding..." Though it was difficult to admit directly, Niamh wasn't especially versed in handling tea. So, to have someone who appeared to be an expert... "Could you provide a recommendation?" With a glint present in Niamh's eyes, it was clear Céline had the girl's full attention.

[boundlesschaos]

Niamh gives Céline a nod in agreement. There were many wonders about the strange events that had unfolded. Indeed, Niamh had to wonder if a certain other force was responsible...

...but, thanks to the unusual circumstance she was in, she was learning of matters that she originally had not considered possible - or considered at all. So, when Céline prepares the warm, comforting apple tea, Niamh is eager to try it posthaste.

Taking the cup into her hands, she quickly brings it to her mouth, nearly burning her tongue in the process. Nearly, anyway - right as she's to down the beverage, so takes note of the heat, and forces herself to slow down.

"....Thank you for this..." she quietly voices, before taking another, more practiced sip of the tea.

As the glow blossoms and the vines flutter, Céline spares a glance towards her own as the newest piece finds itself fluttering. "Fascinating, is it not? How quickly the buds turn into full flowers.." Her words trail off, moving her hands back to her side in a clean and fluid motion.

It is true this premise is full of mystery, but she must admit a certain intrigue to forming bonds within petaled flowers. It may very well symbolize peace and tranquility— A bloom from a flower that may not have grown otherwise.

She nods towards Niamh, resting a fingertip atop the vine. "While I can talk much about tea, I could not tell you the specifics behind this phenomenon. It is likely our hosts know more than I. I wonder if anyone has inquired about it as of yet." Even so, she continues on. She can't leave without allowing Niamh to try the tea she has so praised. "Allow me to prepare that apple blend tea. I do hope you enjoy it."

[boundlesschaos]

"Ways in the body...and soul..." Niamh repeats with awe. To have something that can provide both...further study had to be performed to understand the extent of this tea's power. "I'd like to try it."

Having someone to have the tea alongside her would provide insight on how to handle the drink, too. Whether it was better to have it hot, or how quickly to consume the drink...

Oh, a hand? Niamh stares, perplexed at first, before a shy smile forms. "...Yes, it's important. Thank you for assisting me..."

Bringing her hand forward as well, Niamh rests hers on Céline. She's ready to be directed as needed - but the last thing she expects is for something else to happen when their hands make contact. The symbols on their hands begin to glow, and the vines around their necks begin to change...

"H-huh?" Niamh's stare turns to one of concern as she looks to Céline for any insight on the matter.

@boundlesschaos

"Oh, uhm." Niamh catches the glance from the stranger, and her brow furrows as she takes in the situation once more. She had ventured to this location seeking the source of a curious aroma, but now that she found it? If she had to be honest...

"...I would appreciate the company." She confirms with a nod. "Does that mean...you're versed in this? I've been having trouble deciding..." Though it was difficult to admit directly, Niamh wasn't especially versed in handling tea. So, to have someone who appeared to be an expert... "Could you provide a recommendation?" With a glint present in Niamh's eyes, it was clear Céline had the girl's full attention.

"I know much about tea. Its taste can be altered in many ways— The way it is brewed, the blend itself.. Even the space where you are having the tea!" Céline is pleased to offer her aid in any ways she can, including choosing the perfect tea. While she is new to Fódlan, the helpings in front of her hold a familiar aura.

Eyeing the options at her disposal, it appears Fódlan has become well-equipped and prepared for all palettes. There are many to choose from, but she finds it imperative to choose a cup that would be enjoyed by both herself and her dining companion. She doesn't know what flavors are liked or disliked, surmising it best to choose one that is both enjoyable and provides something beneficial all-around. "What would you say if I proposed an apple blend tea? It offers much in ways of the body and soul."

Extending a hand forward, she wears an expression of grace and determination: "You may rely on me any time you should need it. A ball is best enjoyed with others, is it not?"