Plates of moss-like pan-fried vegetables, crispy meats, strange sharp scented sprouts, were laid upon an oval table. Oynoiz, Id’rit, and Fionn sat to Juliana’s right. She introduced Royce and Eirian to her left as friends.

“Oynoiz, Id’rit, I heard both of your goals. Mine is to find my place in this world. I used to be a mayor on Earth. I ran a city. I loved being a leader, reaching for a cause, a goal. I have no such path here. Asa Dominion doesn’t allow humans in government. I asked. Actually, I think the administration was more shocked that I even thought it up. I am not used to monarchy. The leader is naturally chosen and everyone must follow. That power, not elections are how leaders are chosen.”

Eirian swallowed his bite of food, “I hate to ask this, but you’re not planning to rebel, are you?”

Interest sparked in Oynoiz’s eyes.

“Oh heavens, no! I want to be of use my talents again. Whether it’s to start a trade company, an outreach organization, or hell—maybe even a small city state, I don’t care. I want to do something big, meaningful. I want purpose again!”

Id’rit, sat up when she mentioned business, “I can understand that. If you don’t mind, you can, no we can, rebuild the trading company my clan once had.” Tears formed in their eyes.

Oynoiz crossed their arms, “I don’t know the first thing about clans, but I’d be honored to join.”

“And what about your work?” Juliana pointedly asked.

“Gongre would be happy if I steal any woman from Asa. They’d want you, you know. But I’ll inform them that you chose me…and that it’s time for me to retire. But if Id’rit wants to trade in Gongre, I know a few connections that’d help.”

“Thank you Oynoiz. I know the sacrifice you’re making,” Juliana said.

“If you can trust them,” Royce muttered.

“I love how you’re vetting who you’ll be with. Looking for traits of character instead of power. It’s impressive,” Fionn smiled beautifully, “I think your clan will become one to rival any major house. I want to be part of that.”

“Part of my new clan?” Juliana was surprised.

“Yes. If you’ll have me.” Fionn said. She could feel their joy, their excitement. They chose to project that to her.

“But what about your acting career?”

“I can always join a troupe wherever we go. Or be support for negotiations. Do not worry about me. I like who you picked. They’ll be good allies and hopefully friends.”

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“I thought you can’t read nulls,” Oynoiz frowned.

“That’s right, it’s damn creepy!” Fionn laughed as Eirian gave a worried look.

“This is the first time I’m hearing that and not feeling as though it’s an insult.” Oynoiz huffed. They leaned towards her, “Juliana, I feel your excitement and anticipation. There’s a worry in you that is not about these Adasions. What are you not telling us?”

She gasped. How did they know? Of course—they were pink. They were following her emotions from the start. “I’ve felt less sure about myself. I’m starting to forget things. Am I forgetting what I forgot? I need to build a family before I start losing myself. I want to explore this continent. There’s no way to visit the other continents, correct?” She rambled.

“Too risky. They are far and only the largest vessels can go on the month voyage. The closest continent is suffering from a plague right now. I wouldn’t recommend it.”

“I thought so. So at least, I want to see these other states. What if what Ambassador Zarvik says is true? How would I be welcomed there? Or in the Gongre Confederacy. How are they living in the Una’TA Matriarchy? I want to travel and see the answers for myself and not read about them from the viewpoint of an arrogant prejudiced victor.” She swallowed, realizing she may have spoken too far, “Sorry.”

“I am Asa. I have no shame in my country. But my patriotism isn’t a shackle. With the troops, I’ve traveled the continent often. That was until the war. I’d be willing to leave my country, but Juliana, wherever you wish to reside, I ask that all our new clan agree.”

“I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

They and the others smiled, “Perfect”.

“Shouldn’t we name our clan?” Id’rit spoke up.

“What do you suggest?” Onynoiz said.

“How about something that means colorful or all the colors?” Id’rit suggested.

“Like rainbow or prism?” Juliana suggested.

No. It didn’t feel right.

Fionn pointed their spoon. “I know the perfect word: harmony. No, melody. I know--we’ll be Clan Sonata.”

Everyone nodded.

It was a wonderful meal. Juliana got to know her new family. When she asked what their childhood was like, Id’rit and Fionn happily told her stories. Only Onynoiz remained quiet.

“Not much to say of my youth,” they explained, “I was practically raised by the government. A sterilized life in a sterile environment. I had no songs to sing because no one would sing with me.”

They all stopped eating. Even Juliana knew how important songs were to their culture. It built relationships, conveyed their powers, was used in ceremonies, strengthened the bonds of their clans. To have lived in silence in such a colorful and musical world, she could only imagine how ostracized they felt.

“I’m sorry, Oynoiz. We will be your song-mates from now on.” Fionn said before starting to sing.

The emerald hills cannot find me alone

The sapphire seas will not hold me idle

Fushia forests of flowers will not be unshared

Amber deserts will not overwhelm me

Violet mountains will not isolate

For I travel with my clan. My clan shall always be my home.

Id’rit knew the song and joined by the last verse. Fionn repeated it and Juliana joined. Id’rit looked shocked, but continued. Oynoiz hid their face and softly joined by the third round. Their new clan wrapped their arms around their shoulders.

After that emotional dinner, they escorted Juliana home in silence. They all had a lot to think on. Their lives were just beginning a huge change. Fionn danced ahead. Id’rit smiled taking in the scenery. Oynoiz reached out and held Juliana’s hand. Juliana gave it a squeeze which woke up from whatever thoughts Oynoiz was distracted with.