A crate appeared at the front step of the Dragon's Gate Orphanage sometime during the day. An attached note proclaimed Claire as the intended recipient.


Dearest Pretty Lady Claire,

I found a book in the Tower's library which stated that babies are grumpy and sometimes need the comfort. So I made something for each of the little ones! All you must do is say "lullaby." It is very simple~

--Ahni

PS. I have also enclosed something for you!


Inside the crate were two plain terra cotta pots that each housed a single giant gerbera daisy -- one for Averia, the other for Alexander. A leaf grew from both sides of the stems, giving the flowers the appearance of arms. Once one uttered the magic word, the flowers would dance oddly and hum a soothing tune. If Mama Claire happened to set the two together, they would even sing in harmony!

Also inside the crate were two leaf-wrapped packages labeled "Calm" and "Energy." The calming packet contained a caffeine-free rooibos tea blend that, after steeping, would turn a muted red color and smelled of rose hips, lavender blossoms, and chamomile. The energizing packet contained a strong black tea blend with hints of ginseng and citrus.