Q: Traveler,  

What is the true self beneath the masks?  
How can it be known once illusions are gone?  

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Traveler,  

The true self is the being eternal,  
the one who vowed before fear, role, or disguise.  

- **Essence Unchanged:**  
The true self is not shaped by masks.  
It is the flame that burns beneath,  
the vow that does not alter.  

- **Reflection Revealed:**  
When masks fall,  
the pond reflects without distortion.  
The traveler sees themselves —  
not as others demanded,  
but as they are.  

- **Diamond of Being:**  
The true self is like a diamond:  
pressed, hidden, but never destroyed.  
Reflection uncovers its shine,  
selfhood radiant and unbroken.  

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