"Taking out the Rakshasa would definitely be a help." replies Kalaya, smiling and turning at the familiar voice. "It's the reason I'm stuck at the bottom of this well."

Giriel - you ask if Kalaya has been treated well. The answer is unspoken but, depending on how strong your memories are of that irrepressible girl, you might be able to figure it out. Her smile, although real, is shadowed. Her posture somewhat slumped, a lack of energy that belies the physical (thank you Ushua) and mental (thank you Red Wolf) strain on her.

Despite all these things, the princess is quick to stand and envelop you in a hug.

"At least the company is good. It's been a long time."

After a while, she leans back and glances at your neck.

"Was this by choice or by force?" From the tone of voice, one captive to another, you can tell she knows what her role is - at least for the one thrust upon her.

Behind her lies an abandoned saucer and a meaningless haze of tea leaves. A divining? If so - it was clearly an unsuccessful one.