She really didn’t have the time for this, but that was precisely why Eela knew it was absolutely necessary. This whirlwind of a week had been so up and down emotionally that she knew she needed to steady herself before the gala. While it was a social event and that in of itself could be pleasant, her and everyone else would be working. It was a diplomatic event, after all. They may not be talking about the work, but every exchange would be building the rapport that they would bring to the negotiating table. It was vital they got this right, for everyone’s sake.

Wandering the stalls in a loose light purple sleeveless sweater dress and cropped leggings, Eela approached one of the booths that carried spices and herbs from across the galaxy. She smiled with an ease that had settled over her in her quiet moments since her date with Dash. Ease. Not something she was used to, all told, but she welcomed it and allowed that feeling to permeate her being. “Good morning, Livsal. Anything interesting today?”

The Brenerite grinned, which always looked a bit comical on their wide, scaled skin. “Indeed I do, Madame! Are you up for something spicy or sweet?”
She grinned. “Oh, I can handle some spice.”
Livsal poured a tiny amount of a dark green granulated powder onto a glass dish and handed it to her. “Put a little on your tongue and let it sit for a moment.”

Eela touched her fingertip to her tongue, then the powder, and then her tongue again. Her eyes popped wider and she let out a startled laugh. “Wow! Okay…” For a moment she wasn’t sure what to say as the taste continued to morph on her palate. It started out earthy, then hit with a subtle heat before becoming tart. Now it was settling into something warm that wasn’t about actual heat. It was hard to describe.

Livsal chuckled. “Perfect! I was hoping you’d like that. Intriguing, yes?”
“Definitely!” she said. “What’s it called?”
“Um’bral, from Kessik IV.”
“I definitely want a couple of jars. I have a friend who would be fascinated by it,” Eela said, already planning to give one to Kenzo. While the spice merchant went to wrap her jars, Eela felt a familiar ping on her senses. Sharah. She was somewhere here, but as she looked around Eela didn’t see her immediately.

~Eela