'We're RICH...' When Aurelia announced it to the room at large, no one paid her any attention. 'Falcon, we don't have to work anymore.'
'That's...great...? But how?'
'Oh my dear Falcon, we have the blue diamonds.'
'We have?'
'Not yet but we will.'
The flickering lamplight in the tavern cast dancing shadows on Aurelia's face as she clutched the communication stone, its milky surface cool against her skin. Inside, a scene materialized – a vibrant meadow bathed in the dappled sunlight filtering through a canopy of ancient trees. At its center, perched on a weathered wooden swing, sat Esme, her youthful face animated by a mischievous grin.
"Esme!" Aurelia's voice, a breathy rush, carried across the miles. "It's me, Aurelia."
The image wavered briefly before solidifying, Esme's eyes widening in surprise. "Aurelia!" she exclaimed, jumping from the swing. "What a pleasant surprise! What brings your voice to Lapis Valley?"
