Elfquest #34

[GM Mad]

Elfquest #34


It is the morning after the restoration of the Mother Tree. The population in the Sylvan Realm has dramatically increased as nearly eighty elves were released from the Rainbow Bridge. This is added to the nearly two hundred elves that where released from their trees when the Sylvan Realm was originally abandoned. But that pales in comparison to the nearly three hundred elves that had their trees defiled by Moorkroft. For those elves it is a both a time of happiness and of sorrow, seemingly fitting with the approach of Yeartide.

Many elves present join the hunt for those orcs that manage to reach the great elfin forest. Still others remain behind and prepare for the future while those unfamiliar with the elfin culture start to learn what it means to be an elf.

Kylie listens as her mother speaks. There is much wisdom in her words, yet also does it not mesh entirely with her own experience. "Much of what you say is no doubt true, and it may be that some elves are more given to vindictiveness and rash actions than others. What did happen was not - as you thought - in the heat of battle, but long afterwards as we searched the otherwise-empty fort. Also, I do not believe that they would have survived had I not been there to speak up in their defense. In fact, I was told in no uncertain terms that they needed a reason not to slaughter these defenseless women. As far as I can tell, it was only my pushing for other solutions that led them to eventually find a reason.

"They may or may not be typical of most elves, but there is certainly much hatred lurking in the hearts of at least some of my companions. This worries me greatly, and I find myself uncertain what to do."

“Kylie, their has always been bad blood between elves and orcs since, well since there has been elves and orcs. Nothing is going to change that, at least it either of our life times. What you saw were defenseless women, what the others saw were defenseless orcs, an enemy that would surely exterminate them if the situations were reversed. It seems to me that you’re giving your companions very little credit here for their compassion. The fact that they actively sought another way than just killing, tells me that they were not as bloodthirsty as you seem to think. Otherwise, there wouldn’t have even been any conversation. The deed would have been done.”

“Quarter is rarely given in any battle against orcs, and never from the orcs themselves. Those who deal with orcs regularly are cold hearted towards them from past experience. There are those elves that would exterminate any orc they come across. There are those who would not. It depends on the individual and their experiences.”

“Since we’re on this subject,” Allurien continues, “I suppose that I should talk about the controversial festival of Agelong. Agelong is held during the summer solstice and marks both the birth of the elfin race the battle between Corellon and One-Eye. Remember that I said that elves do not go out and actively hunt orcs? Well, other than the Festival of Agelong that is. There are those elves that will cut themselves, so that their blood merges with the ground much like Corellon’s did and they will go forth to hunt orcs, killing any that they find. Not all elves participate in this orc hunt. Many elves feel that it is a barbaric, while others revel in its savagery.”

“We elves are many things,” Allurien tells Kylie. “The majority of these are pleasant and kind. But never forget that all elves, and even you, were born in battle against orcs. It flows in our blood and there are times when the blood overwhelms common sense. That is the dark side of being an elf.”

“But enough of dwelling on the negative. To be an elf is so much more than fighting orcs. Come, there is much for me to tell you and show you.”

[GM Mad]

Down underneath the great elfin forest, the hunters move south from the Mother Tree. The air is damp, but comfortable. It typically rains every night in the Sylvan Realm, providing the great forest all the moisture it needs to survive. The waters are either absorbed by the plants and trees, or channeled away into the numerous rivers and streams. This is the magic of the Mother Tree in action.

Valena rides along the road heading south on River Blossom, her unicorn mount. With River Blossom’s approval, Valena gives Lia a ride towards the enemy. Here underneath the thick canopy of trees Lia feels more comfortable in the twilight-like shadows. It is now that she notices that she can see farther than she used to thanks to her new drow abilities. Likewise, Lia’s sense of hearing is greater than it used to be. She can hear things further away and clearer than before.

Laucian rides his griffon just above the path. The trial is wide enough for his mount fly along, but it has to move a little slower to avoid obstacles. Riding with Laucian is Nariya and Talen. Due to this slightly slower pace, River Blossom is able to keep time with the griffon.

Much like Lia, Talen notices his gifts from the Mother Tree for the first time. His vision is also sharper than it was before.

Along the way a small pack of cooshee’s joins up with you, adding six more of the elfin dogs to those who accompanied you from the Mother Tree.


Thus far there has been no sign of the orc infestation, but this is not a surprise. They should be more to the south yet.

Around four hours into your ride this changes. Lia is the first to hear the sounds of battle and trackers in the group realize that you are approaching the large clearing with the geysers in it where the elves initially made contact with the griffons.

Reaching the edge of the clearing, you can see a large battle is taking place there. The orcs have reached the clearing and are engaged in battle against those elves that had been chasing them. Adding to this scene of chaos are numerous riderless griffons who have joined the fray, along with other cooshee and even a small unit of centaurs.

Several hundred orcs are present and their numbers are overwhelming, but the defenders are more than holding their own. The orcs foolishly move across the geyser field and occasional a few orcs are sent skyward on the jets of water. Those held aloft are easy prey for the griffons that snatch them up, fly upwards and then let them drop.

Not too far away, you notice a small group of orcs, perhaps twenty, that have reached the edge of the forest once more. They are frantically using torches trying to start fires. Their success is minimal, as the elfin forest is so damp, but a few of the fires take hold and start to spread!

[GM Mad]

Back at the Mother Tree, Allurien spends a few more minutes discussing politics. The Clan Masters for Clans Chossum and Erendyl are settled upon. Voluril Ocing will speak for Clan Chossum, and Stobon for Clan Erendyl. General talk is that Chandra Sakar of Clan Red Arrow will make a push to be the Elfin King. Coupled with his natural charm as being a High Priest of Corellon, this makes this a real possibility. This notion does meet with some concern, as many do not wish to see a member of Clan Red Arrow in such an important position.

Allurien speaking for Clan Feador meets with the approval of the Keepers of the Tree, who are also all from Clan Feador. Their old Clan Master was among those slain by Moorkroft and given the new political climate they want some one more up to date then they are. Those elves that remained in stasis in the Sylvan Realm did so for over seven hundred years.

One of the Tree Keepers alerts Allurien that items secreted away for the Clan Masters home have been returned.

“It seems that finding a place to live is no longer a worry,” Allurien tells Kylie with a smile. “One is waiting for us. Shall we go check it out?”


As the pair walks along, and makes the journey down the Mother Tree, both note the Keepers all around. A few are tending to the limbs of the Mother Tree. Picking up those limbs that have fallen and pruning those that are bunched to close together. They dutifully pick up any leaves that they can find that have fallen.

“Tending to the Mother Tree is the fill time job of the Keepers,” Allurien tells Kylie. “The leaves, bark, and limbs are all used in the creation of those unique elfin items. The leaves are tanned and woven together to make Elfin Cloaks, while the bark is used to create the soles of elfin boots. The wood is used to fashion arrows and elfin swords. The exact process is known only to the Keepers.”

[GM Mad]

“I suppose that I was over simplifying things earlier when I spoke about the elves. Those where the generalities of the situation. But not only is an elf shaped by his environment, but by his clan as well. There are some general traits associated to each of the seven main clans.”

“For instance, Clan Chossum is mostly interested in the mercantile trade. To that end they actively seek out other markets to buy and sell goods in. They are very open to negotiating with the outside world and meeting new people. Other clans tend to characterize Clan Chossum as being the most dwarf-like with their love of gold.”

“Clan Erendyl are noted for their high number of artisans. They also consider themselves to be the ‘royal clan’ as the current Elfin King came from Clan Erendyl. The King has to withdraw from his Clan to be King, but strong ties still remain and there are many of Clan Erendyl among his court.”

“Those of Clan Grunalf are noted for their foresters. The most famous hunters and trackers tend to come from this clan. Their Clanhold also lies the closest to the orc hordes; hence they’ve had to fight orcs more than most other clans. Those of Clan Grunalf are taught how to effectively fight orcs from when they are children.”

“In contrast to Clan Chossum, is Clan Longrunner. They favor a policy of isolationism, that no other race but elves should be allowed access to the Elfholds. It is said that they have the strongest and most powerful wizards among the elves, but given how they like to isolate themselves, that might be just a rumor.”

“Clan Mealidil is among the oldest of the clans and they are steeped in tradition and lore. It is said that this clan is living in the past and that they want to keep things as they were. Change does not come easy to one from Clan Mealidil. However, their dedication to recording history is well known. The finest elfin libraries are said to belong to Clan Mealidil.”

“Then we have Clan Red Arrow. This is the warrior clan. The scouts of the elfin army might come from Clan Grunalf, but the warriors from Clan Red Arrow. They are the closest than an elf comes to be a warmonger. That is why many fear Chandra Sakar becoming too powerful here in the Sylvan Realm. Not only is he a High Priest of Corellon, but he comes from Clan Red Arrow as well. It s a very real possibility that he will take a stronger military stance on things than a leader from any other clan.”

“And that leaves us, Clan Feador. Others call us overachievers, as they felt we were trying to make up from abandoning the Sylvan Realm. Many of us just choose to be become adventures and want to see the outside world for ourselves. The one trait that all do agree upon, is that Clan Feador has the best of the Tree Keepers.”

[GM Mad]

By now Allurien and Kylie have reached the town around the Mother Tree. It is called Feadiel and it is the Clan Hold for Clan Feador here in the Sylvan Realm. The Clan Master’s home is located about sixty feet above the forest floor. It’s a typical elfin tree house. It is spacious with plenty of room.

The spindles on the railings are elegantly carved and close examination will reveal that each spindle is unique. Unlike dwarves who prefer uniformity and consistency, the elves make each thing they create a unique work of art. There are many such small touches through out elfin homes.

While rummaging through a chest of items brought by the Keepers, Allurien spies something familiar and pulls it out. The chests hold clothing items, along with the necessary mundane household items.

“What do you think, Kylie?” Allurien asks as she puts on a robe from the chest. The robe is beautiful and seems to be made out of leaves. It matches the colors of the leaves of the Mother Tree.

“This is a Clan Master robe,” Allurien explains. “Each clan has its own unique robe and those of our clan are made to mimic the colors of the leaves of the Mother Tree.”


After a time, Allurien approaches Kylie. “May I ask you something? You’ve known Lilia far longer than anyone else here. What do you think of her leadership abilities? What’s she like?”

Now what?

[Lia]

Lia

Backing up a moment

Sherwood asks if she wishes him to send a message to her Grandmother. After a thought Lia, smiles gently at her Uncle. “Tell her that we are well. Our thoughts and love are with her always.” After a thought, “I miss her though I am learning much and that I walk a closer path to Eilistraee.” Walking forward she will embrace her Uncle in a hug and kiss his cheek. “Thank you for all that you have done. If you are ever in need, I will answer your call.” She says with a soft smile.

--

Mounting up in back of Valena on her unicorn, Lia can’t help marvel at the grace and power of the beast. As they move through the undergrowth Lia’s eyes slowly become adjusted to the shade, must to her surprise she can see quite farther then she used to! As they draw further south, Lia hears the distinct sound of metal ringing and the cries of battle. Squinting in concentration she thinks she is losing it that her ears are playing tricks. But then it rings out again. “Do you hear that, Valena? Tis the sounds of battle of that I am sure. We are not far!”

Not too far away, you notice a small group of orcs, perhaps twenty, that have reached the edge of the forest once more. They are frantically using torches trying to start fires. Their success is minimal, as the elfin forest is so damp, but a few of the fires take hold and start to spread!

Lia’s eyes go wide upon seeing this, dropping from Valena’s Mount drawing her longsword in the process, a metallic hiss of annoyance comes to her ears. Moving forward, Lia pulls out her Lioness statue, and calls them forth to aid her. Once close enough to the orcs, she will tear into them with her sword.

[Laucian]

Laucian

Hearing then seeing the sounds of battle, Laucian directs the griffon low to the ground slowly coming in for a landing to drop the others off. As he does so he sees the orcs lighting fires to the forest!

Laucian will take to the air, pull out his bow while flying towards them Laucian will put arrows in their hides, starting with the torch Bearers. If there is room to maneuver a snatch and grab Laucian will instruct his Griffon to do so. Once the orc is in it’s talons. Laucian will instruct the Griffon to use it as a make shift projectile into the other orcs below.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Lilia spends much of the day talking to others and the new Clan Council starts to take shape. Someone called Voluril Ocing will speak for Clan Chossum. From what Lilia can recall, Voluril was not an expedition leader. He must have just been a member of one of the expeditions. Clan Chossum is more noted for their mechanizing skills than anything else.

Stobon of Solonor will speak for Clan Erendyl. The Erendyl’s are more noted for their skilled artisans, so how Stobon can to be a priest of the elfin good of archers, hunters, and wilderness survival is a bit of a mystery.

That fills four of the seven Clan Master positions. That just leaves Clan Longrunner, Red Arrow and Mealidil. Lilia is confident that Chandra Sakara will speak for Clan Red Arrow. He’s a high priest of Corellon and as Lilia is quickly learning, they have the ability to seem more than they are to other elves. However, there are some murmurs about Chandra seeking to either become the Head of the Council or even the Elf King himself.

This also seems to be a source of concern as well. It was Chandra after all who initially suggested that we take the fight to the enemy before they could attack. Clan Red Arrows is well know for their love of battle, so should he come into power it could mean much conflict in the days to come. Conflict that the Sylvan Realm is not ready to be engaged in.

So another option is needed. Perhaps Allurien could fill that role? She’ll have to speak to the Stobon and Voluril about it.

Lilia will also speak to the High Keeper as well.

“High Keeper, I have a question for you. Do you know how long it will be before the next rainbow bridge connects the Sylvan Realm to the Elfholds? Some of the issues we are currently grappling with could be changed if the bridge will come into existence soon.”

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

The ride to reach the invading orcs begins. Valena tentatively slips on top of River Blossom. This is her first time riding the unicorn. After making sure she is okay, Valena asks River Blossom to take the road to the south. River Blossom suggests carrying Lia as well and Valena has no objection.

“Do you hear that, Valena? Tis the sounds of battle of that I am sure. We are not far!"

“My eyesight is better than my hearing,” Valena notes as she urges River Blossom to slow down. She doesn’t want her prized mount to get hurt in the fighting to come.

The clearing with the geysers comes into sight. Laucian lets his passengers off and Lia slips off of River Blossom’s back. Valena drops off as well. Taking her bow, she’ll keep her distance and rapid-fire arrows into the enemy orcs hoping to take as many of them down as quickly as possible.

[Talen]

Talen:

Talen tags along with the other orc hunters. Laucian offers a ride on his griffon that Talen gratefully accepts. Soon the orcs are reached and they are trying to start fires in the forest. Once on the ground, Talen rushes forward intent of using his bastard sword to stop the orcs.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Once again, Kylie listens quietly to her mother. Some of what she says differs from Kylie's own experience, though Kylie realizes that her own experience is limited. The information regarding this 'festival of Agelong' is disturbing, but Kylie doesn't interrupt her mother.


Later, they find themselves embroiled in political discussions, as it appears that Allurien we become the Clan Master of Feador. There is much talk regarding Chandra Sakar of Clan Red Arrow making a bid for king, as many seem to feel that he may be too warlike.

“It seems that finding a place to live is no longer a worry,” Allurien tells Kylie with a smile. “One is waiting for us. Shall we go check it out?”

"Really? Wow," Kylie says, amazed. "Sure, let's go see it."

“Tending to the Mother Tree is the fill time job of the Keepers,” Allurien tells Kylie. “The leaves, bark, and limbs are all used in the creation of those unique elfin items. The leaves are tanned and woven together to make Elfin Cloaks, while the bark is used to create the soles of elfin boots. The wood is used to fashion arrows and elfin swords. The exact process is known only to the Keepers.”

"So they're both keepers of the tree and makers of enchanted items. That sounds like a fascinating job." Kylie clearly sounds intrigued.

As they continue to walk, Allurien provides her daughter with more information on the clans and their specialties. It seems to be a very organized and compartmentalized society, in many ways. Still, Kylie likes the idea that the Feador have a natural knack for being Tree Keepers...

Arriving at the home set aside for the Feador Clan Master, Kylie is impressed by the combination of simplicity, beauty and attention to detail. The artistry is amazing! Kylie spends some time just looking around and appreciating all of the work that went into making this home.

“What do you think, Kylie?” Allurien asks as she puts on a robe from the chest. The robe is beautiful and seems to be made out of leaves. It matches the colors of the leaves of the Mother Tree.

“This is a Clan Master robe,” Allurien explains. “Each clan has its own unique robe and those of our clan are made to mimic the colors of the leaves of the Mother Tree.”

"That's beautiful, mom!" Kylie says. Stepping close, she examines the robe in detail, noting what she can of the construction. It seems almost as though the leaves may still be alive! "I will enjoy seeing the other clan robes. If they are as beautiful as this one, then a gathering of the Clan Masters will truly be a treat for the eyes."

After a time, Allurien approaches Kylie. “May I ask you something? You’ve known Lilia far longer than anyone else here. What do you think of her leadership abilities? What’s she like?”

Kylie pauses for several moments, considering how to answer the question. "Lilia has changed much in the time I've known her. When we first met, she was strongly inclined to thinking of elves as superior to all other races; to her mind, other races were savages incapable of achieving anything of value. However, certain events since then have given her a new perspective. Her recent entrance into the priesthood could be considered a culmination of that path.

"As for being a leader, she is a good one. She is smart and thoughtful, generally making good decisions on sometimes limited information. My only real concern with her at this point is that she sometimes allows others to usurp her authority and doesn't seem to see this as a problem. As Clan Master of Grunalf, I think there is a possibility that she could become something of a puppet if someone strong-willed emerges within her clan."

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Allurien:

“There are other, more enjoyable festivals the elves partake in as well,” Allurien adds seeing her daughters discomfort over Agelong. “Each is unique in its own way.”

“There is Faerieluck, which is held early in the spring. It is a time when we elves celebrate our forest cousins, the pixies, the leprechauns, the brownies, and so on. The day is spent in practical jokes and merriment, and the participants try to demonstrate their cleverness at the expense of another. The games are never acrimonious; they draw to a close long before anyone’s pride is hurt.”

“Next is Springrite and it takes place at the vernal equinox. This festival represents a time of fertility among the elves who spend this season engaged in pursuits of romance and song. We spend a week around the equinox dancing and singing and involve ourselves in nothing but merriment.”

“The opposite of Springrite is Fallrite, and its held during the autumn equinox. This is a time of quiet contemplation where think about our ancestors, our eventual passage to Arvandor, Corellon’s realm in the afterlife, and the immediacy of death even in a nearly immortal lifetime.”

"So they're both keepers of the tree and makers of enchanted items. That sounds like a fascinating job." Kylie clearly sounds intrigued.

“It’s a way of life to the Keepers,” Allurien adds. “Their skills and knowledge are passed down from father to son. Nothing is ever recorded, les if fall into the wrong hands. The secrets of the Tree Keepers is theirs alone.”

“Back in the Elfholds, each clan as its own Mother Tree. Technically, these are the Daughter Trees, as the tree here in the Sylvan Realm would be their mother. Branches from the Mother Tree were taken to the Elfholds where the keepers planted them and over time they grew into new Mother Trees. That is what made this recent crisis so dire. If the Mother Tree here died, then her offspring would die as well thanks to the mystic link they share.”

"That's beautiful, mom!" Kylie says. Stepping close, she examines the robe in detail, noting what she can of the construction. It seems almost as though the leaves may still be alive! "I will enjoy seeing the other clan robes. If they are as beautiful as this one, then a gathering of the Clan Masters will truly be a treat for the eyes."

“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” Allurien states. “The robes of the Clan Master reflect the ideals of that particular clan. Ours honors the Mother Tree. Clan Grunalf’s robes are those of a forester, Clan Mealidil’s robes are ancient in appearance and they date back to the very first of their clan masters. Long Runners wear hunters-garb, while Red Arrows wear armor. The Erendyl’s have the most beautiful of robes, as they are the most artistic clan. The Chossum’s wear modern formal attire. But as you say, it is a colorful affair.”

“There are other elfin clans too, even in the Elfholds. These are the main seven, the largest of the clans. It is possible to leave a clan and join or form another. In theory, each clan master has a set on the council. In practice, the seven main clan masters are the ones who set policy. Sometimes the other Clan Masters will be summoned for important decisions regarding the elfin people as a whole.”

[GM Mad]

Kylie pauses for several moments, considering how to answer the question. "Lilia has changed much in the time I've known her. When we first met, she was strongly inclined to thinking of elves as superior to all other races; to her mind, other races were savages incapable of achieving anything of value. However, certain events since then have given her a new perspective. Her recent entrance into the priesthood could be considered a culmination of that path.

"As for being a leader, she is a good one. She is smart and thoughtful, generally making good decisions on sometimes limited information. My only real concern with her at this point is that she sometimes allows others to usurp her authority and doesn't seem to see this as a problem. As Clan Master of Grunalf, I think there is a possibility that she could become something of a puppet if someone strong-willed emerges within her clan."

“Interesting,” Allurien will note. “The reason that I ask is that the Council will have the task of selecting both a Council Leader and the Elfin King or Queen. From what I’ve seen so far, those two seem the most likely candidates for the positions. Priests of Corellon have a touch of the aura of the All-Father, making it easier for them to influence other elves. Many elves are in awe of them, much like they would be should they be in the presence of the All-Father himself.”

“Chandra is a high level priest and skilled warrior, but he hails from Clan Red Arrow, the war elf clan. His natural inclinations would lean towards battle and conflict. That sometimes is necessary, but only rarely with we elves.”

“From what I’ve seen and heard, the experiences your friend went through on her path of transformation have made her a popular figure. How many elves can say that they’ve met their creator several times? Her ideas on how we all should proceed next make sense to me. She doesn’t seem to be the warmongering type, so that is also in her favor. She seems to be a chosen one of Corellon and that can be used to make her the Elfin Queen. In that position, it would be her decisions that dictate just how the Sylvan Realm interacts with the outside world. Chandra would be the Council Master and it would be his task to oversee the internal workings of the Realm. I trust him to defend the Realm and he would not be in a position to declare war on any of our neighbors.”

“But as you indicate, there is the danger that Chandra could manipulate Lilia to his own ends should she become the Elfin Queen. I feel that is a risk we’ll have to take to keep Chandra in check. Hopefully, your friend will be open to other voices in addition to Chandra.”

“Unless some other elf with a strong personality steps up, that is how I see things playing out. When the time to vote comes, you and your friends should be present as well. You’re the heroes of the Sylvan Realm, the ones who restored the Mother Tree. Your words will have weight to them.”


The rest of the day passes pleasantly enough. The gatherers return with food for all, fruits and nuts mostly, typical elfin food. Kylie does have the Book of Food and it does hold alternatives.

Allurien will speak to Kylie about her various skills and abilities out of motherly curiosity. Allurien herself is a sorceress on par with Sherwood and shares Kylie’s scouting abilities. Lastly, she is a competent warrior.

[GM Mad]

Orc Hunt:

Further to the south, in the large geyser clearing a force of elves, cooshee’s griffons, and centaurs are engaging the orcs that have penetrated the Sylvan Realm. While the main forces are engaged, a small band of orcs with torches are trying to set fire to the forest! The dampness of the elfin forest foils this, but some of the fires do take hold.

Lia and Valena drop from River Blossom’s back. Valena rapidly fires arrows into the orcs and three of them drop. Lia fishes for and pulls out her lioness statuettes and tosses them to the ground. There they grow into real lioness and join Lia on her charge towards the orcs followed by numerous cooshee’s.

Talen and Nariya slide off of the back of Laucian’s griffon. Talen draws his bastard sword and rushes forward while Nariya throws her enchanted spear. Orcsbane is thrown and an orc goes down impaled upon the spear.

Taking to the air on his griffon, Laucian fires arrows that down two more orcs. The griffon dives down and snatches one of the rocs and flies off with him. That same orc than is released and dropped upon other orcs in the clearing.


Back at the main group of orcs, Valena is forced to move to a different location as those advancing towards the enemy come in between her and her targets. Lia drives her swords into orcs while her lioness’ rip into other orcs. A flood of cooshee’s follows this and more orcs are taken down. Not much is left by the time Talen and Nariya reach the battle site, but they help finish off the orcs.


Stomping on them or using your cloaks to smother them can quickly put out the spot fires. The torches are also smothered.

From there, the group continues on, aiding the elves against the other orcs in the clearing. The battle is brutal, but the outcome never in doubt. Twenty minutes later, all the orcs are dead with minimal elfin casualties.

Many of the elves are weary and ready to return to the Mother Tree to relax and celebrate. However, others are still eager to continue the conflict. Chandra Sakar, the High Priest of Corellon is among those who wish to continue the hunt.

“The deed is not yet done, my friends!” Chandra calls out. “We cannot rest, will not rest until every single orc with this holy forest has been exterminated! The Mother Tree may haven been restored, but she is not yet safe. We cannot be lax in our task and in our vigilance! Who among us wishes to be the one who allowed the Mother Tree to be destroyed?”

Chandra’s words are well received and in spite of being weary, many elves go off with him to ensure that no more orcs remain within the Sylvan Realm.


(Going to go with him and continue the hunt or return back to the Mother Tree?)

[GM Mad]

Elfin Politics:

Back at the Mother Tree, Lilia speaks with the other council members. Both Stobon and Voluril admit to knowing very little about Allurien.

“As long as neither the leader of the Clan Council and the Elfin King hail from Clan Long Runner, I have no preference in who takes up the leadership of the Sylvan Realm” Voluril comments.

“Clan Erendyl is the Royal Clan,” Stobon notes. “It should only be natural that one of my clan, perhaps myself, have the honor of being the leader of the Clan Council. Perhaps even the Elfin King himself.”

“High Keeper, I have a question for you. Do you know how long it will be before the next rainbow bridge connects the Sylvan Realm to the Elfholds? Some of the issues we are currently grappling with could be changed if the bridge will come into existence soon.”

“The rainbow bridge appears once a month, every 28 days,” the High Keeper explains. “Since the bridge appeared yesterday, I have to assume that it will do so 27 days from now.”


Later that evening, some of the elves return from the orc hunt. They tell of the terrific battle in the geyser clearing and that under the direction of the Chandra Sakar, many elves are still out in the forest hunting orcs to make sure the Sylvan Realm is secure.

Now what?

[Nariya]

Nariya:

The battle is swift as Nariya and the others join. The remaining orcs go down and Nariya quickly helps in smothering the flames. "What they can not take they burn," she grumbles.

“The deed is not yet done, my friends!” Chandra calls out. “We cannot rest, will not rest until every single orc with this holy forest has been exterminated! The Mother Tree may haven been restored, but she is not yet safe. We cannot be lax in our task and in our vigilance! Who among us wishes to be the one who allowed the Mother Tree to be destroyed?”

"We must press on and see this to its end," Nariya says to the others. She is more than ready to go. She will use her pathfinding skills to find the quickest routes to locations that the orcs would have to pass through to carry out their vile plan.

[Laucian]

Laucian


Many of the elves are weary and ready to return to the Mother Tree to relax and celebrate. However, others are still eager to continue the conflict. Chandra Sakar, the High Priest of Corellon is among those who wish to continue the hunt.

“The deed is not yet done, my friends!” Chandra calls out. “We cannot rest, will not rest until every single orc with this holy forest has been exterminated! The Mother Tree may haven been restored, but she is not yet safe. We cannot be lax in our task and in our vigilance! Who among us wishes to be the one who allowed the Mother Tree to be destroyed?”

"We must press on and see this to its end," Nariya says to the others. She is more than ready to go. She will use her pathfinding skills to find the quickest routes to locations that the orcs would have to pass through to carry out their vile plan.

“Then I wish you luck, Nariya for I shall not.” He says looking towards Charnda, “These elves are exhausted and not fit for fighting. It is foolhardy of him to press them so. He and any who follow him will be frolicking through the forest looking for any sign of an orcs. They may slip by him in his blood thirst, and he will be to blame for the Mother Tree’s demise.”

Mounting up Laucian, waits for any of the others going back to the Mother tree, then he will fly back. Once back he will seek out Lilia explaining what transpired.

“The battle was hard fought but won. Once the fires were put out, The elf known as Charnda called out rallying the exhausted elves to his side blaming any who did not would be to blame for the demise of the Mother tree.” Taking a sip of water from his water skin and wiping his mouth on his sleeve. “He took the elves in on large group, the thought of orcs being about troubles me as well, but to hunt them down in one large pack is folly. If they slip past his party, which wouldn’t be hard given their exhausted state, their will be fighting at our door step.”

“If this elf is chosen as king, I will not follow him and nor will the Order of the Griffon. We will do what is best for our people.” He says simply clearly frustrated by the events of the day.

[Lia]

Lia
As the battle ends, Lia helps put out the fires. Walking towards the others she hears the words of Chandra and a few of the others. Having a feeling her abilities in the undergrowth would be beneficial. “I will go.” As she lightly pets the flanks of the lioness at her side.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

The other festivals that Allurien describes sound more pleasant than Agelong. Kylie blushes a bit at the description of Springrite, as she is still young and inexperienced in the ways of romance.

Her mother tells Kylie a bit more about the Keepers, and Kylie can't help wondering if it would even be possible for a half-elf - like herself - to become one. It may be that it would take longer than her shortened lifetime to master the skills of a Keeper. After all, her own mother will likely outlive her by hundreds - if not thousands - of years. Still, it wouldn't hurt to ask one of the Keepers about it.

Allurien also describes the other Clan Master robes. "I would imagine that all of the clans put a great amount of effort and skill into the design and creation of their Clan Master robes. Whatever the style, it seems likely that they are all artful and of exceeding quality. It will be a fascinating experience to see them all."

The discussion turns to the subject of Lilia and her future role here in the Realms. "I don't know that Lilia has any particular connection to Chandra, so it may not be overly difficult to offset his influence. What may be more difficult may be seeing to it that she deals appropriately with any instances where he oversteps his bounds. I think her inclination is to avoid the potential confrontation and just ignore it, which would only serve to encourage him to continue in that vein."

Kylie pauses for a moment. "Still, all of that said, I do believe she would make a good - and perhaps someday great - leader for the elves here. It will likely take her a while to grow into the role, as it would anyone not born to it. You know the other elves here far better than I; if you feel she is the best candidate, then no doubt you are correct. I will gladly support her nomination, and I'm sure the others will do likewise."

When the time for eating comes, Kylie will eat the elfin food that is provided. Some part of her desires to have some good human food now and again, but she will put that off for the time being. After dinner, Kylie and her mother discuss their skills, and Kylie is not surprised to find that her mother is more skilled - and in more areas - than she is. To some extent, that is to be expected between parent and child, and particularly in this case as her mother has already lived many times Kylie's own lifetime.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Lilia’s brow furrows slightly as she speaks to he other Clan Masters. It seems that all they can think of is their own selfish interests! One who refuses to consider a leader from a particular clan and another who thinks only his clan is worthy to lead. Clearly, neither of these men can be considered for the task.

While there are not yet representatives from the other three clans, Lilia still feels that Allurien is the best pick this far. She is a hero of the elfin people, after all. It was she who was chosen to lead the first expedition to the Sylvan Realm.

“Whomever we pick as our leaders should be chosen for the good of the elfin people, not according to some personal agenda or some temporary status. The new leaders will have many challenges to contend with. They will be charged in representing all the elves, not just the ones they favor.”

“The rainbow bridge appears once a month, every 28 days,” the High Keeper explains. “Since the bridge appeared yesterday, I have to assume that it will do so 27 days from now.”

“But the Rainbow Bridge appearing could have been invoked by the Mother Tree, to clear the backlog, so to speak. It is possible that the Bridge might appear sooner. So it might appear today, or 27 days from now. Is there anyway to tell when the bridge is going to appear before hand? Any warning?”


Lilia spends much of the day talking politics and to the regular elves. Many still speak to her about her experiences with the All-Father and her being among those chosen to restore the Mother Tree. All this attention is uncomfortable at first, but what is done here is for the good of the elfin people. This is more important than anything that Lilia personally desires.

Evening comes and the tone becomes more relaxed. Feywine is shared and many elves are celebrating the restoration of the Mother Tree. Lilia finds herself in the company of a few male admirers; she’s not looking for that kind of attention right now. There’s just too many other issues to contend with right now and there will be time for such pursuits later.

After a time, some of the other elves that went out on the hunt return and tell what happened. Laucian is among them.

“The battle was hard fought but won. Once the fires were put out, The elf known as Chandra called out rallying the exhausted elves to his side blaming any who did not would be to blame for the demise of the Mother tree.” Taking a sip of water from his water skin and wiping his mouth on his sleeve. “He took the elves in one large group, the thought of orcs being about troubles me as well, but to hunt them down in one large pack is folly. If they slip past his party, which wouldn’t be hard given their exhausted state, their will be fighting at our door step.”

“If this elf is chosen as king, I will not follow him and nor will the Order of the Griffon. We will do what is best for our people.” He says simply clearly frustrated by the events of the day.

“While I can see cause for your concern,” Lilia says, “Chandra is a Priest of Corellon. He does what he does for the good of the elfin people. I would be surprised if he carried out his mission in such a sloppy fashion.”

“But as you say, a little rest should have been taken. Many elves only need a few hours rest to feel refreshed. Then the hunt could have continued. After all, in our forest is the orcs who are the disadvantage.”

“If I may make a suggestion, perhaps you should round up some griffon riders and prepare to make an aerial patrol of the Realm come the dawn. See what can be seen from overhead. Since we have yet to see a fire from the three forts to the south, they will need to be cleared out and burned down.”

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

The battle against the orcs is brutal and decidedly one-sided. It is said that the only real danger from orcs is that they have such large numbers. But in this battle, the sides are a bit more even and the outcome never in doubt.

In retrospect, Valena shouldn’t be surprised that Chandra wants to press on. He is Clan Red Arrow after all. Nariya agrees to go along, as does Lia. Laucian has other ideas.

“Then I wish you luck, Nariya for I shall not.” He says looking towards Chandra, “These elves are exhausted and not fit for fighting. It is foolhardy of him to press them so. He and any who follow him will be frolicking through the forest looking for any sign of an orcs. They may slip by him in his blood thirst, and he will be to blame for the Mother Tree’s demise.”

“All real possibilities,” Valena agrees. “Let us hope that those with Chandra are not in as deep of bloodlust as he is. But we have other duties that we should attend to. There are many wounded elves here that need our help.”

Valena will go forth and begin the task of binding the less threatening wounds and converting her spells into healing magic for those who are in danger of perishing. The griffon stable isn’t too far away, as Valena recalls from the days they spent there recently. Those wounded can be moved there so that they can rest and recover. Valena will stay there to aid in their recovery, while Laucian flies back to the Mother Tree. She’ll catch up to him later on when able.

[Talen]

Talen:

This time Talen is more involved in the fighting and he feels that he contributed more this time around. One of the elves that seems to be in charge wants to continue to hunt the orcs. Talen can see the need for that, but these elves have been up all night and many are visibly weary. There is a strange charisma to this elf, but Talen is able to fight it off, perhaps because he is not a full elf himself.

Both Nariya and Lia decide to go off with the charismatic elf, while Laucian refuses to. Valena goes forth to tend to the wounded and helps them towards the shelter of the nearby griffon stable.

“I think I’ve had enough fighting for one day,” Talen says. “I’m more than ready to relax. I’ll be going back to the Mother Tree with Laucian.”

If Laucian stays a bit longer to help out with the wounded, Talen will help as best he can. Most likely in helping to move the wounded to the griffon stable.

To his sister, he’ll say, “Be careful out there. The orcs might not be the only enemies you’ll have to contend with.”


Once back at the Mother Tree, the elves seem to be celebrating. Talen stays along the edge of the celebrating. He’s not a full-blooded elf, so some of it is alien to him. He’s heard about the debilitating of Feywine to a non-elf, so does not partake in any. There is plenty of food to be head, but it’s mostly fruits and nuts.

Talen will seek out Kylie.

“Hi,” Talen says. “It’s sure changed around here, hasn’t it? Say, do you still have that food book handy? I’m dying for something other than nuts and fruits to eat. What I wouldn’t give for some meat!”

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“Hi,” Talen says. “It’s sure changed around here, hasn’t it? Say, do you still have that food book handy? I’m dying for something other than nuts and fruits to eat. What I wouldn’t give for some meat!”

Kylie is sitting and studying her spellbook while her mother talks politics nearby when Talen finds her. Hearing his voice, she looks up. "Oh, hi, Talen!" She listens as he asks his questions, which bring a smile to her face. "Indeed I do, though it's with my things back at mom's new home. Since she's been selected to be the Clan Master of Feador, she has been given the ancestral clan home here. It's a beautiful place! Come on - I'll take you there and get you some real food." Kylie's voice bears a tinkle of laughter with that last comment. She pauses a moment to let her mother know where she's going, then leads Talen out.

Along the way, Kylie asks, "Did you ever decide what you wanted to request from Mother Tree?"

Upon reaching their new home, Kylie takes Talen inside. "What do you think? Feel free to look around a little while I dig that food book out of my bags."

Returning a couple minutes later, Kylie tracks him down. "Here you go. Take whatever you like - but leave a little for future emergencies..." she says with a chuckle.

[Talen]

Talen:

Kylie is sitting and studying her spellbook while her mother talks politics nearby when Talen finds her. Hearing his voice, she looks up. "Oh, hi, Talen!" She listens as he asks his questions, which bring a smile to her face. "Indeed I do, though it's with my things back at mom's new home. Since she's been selected to be the Clan Master of Feador, she has been given the ancestral clan home here. It's a beautiful place! Come on - I'll take you there and get you some real food." Kylie's voice bears a tinkle of laughter with that last comment. She pauses a moment to let her mother know where she's going, then leads Talen out.

“Okay, sounds great!” Talen answers. “So your mom’s the Clan Master? What does that involve? I guess I haven’t been paying attention to the politics going on.”

Along the way, Kylie asks, "Did you ever decide what you wanted to request from Mother Tree?"

“I finally did,” Taken easily answers. “What Lia did, honoring our grandmother, got me thinking. So I did something similar, but not quite as radical. The Mother Tree granted me the superior infravision and the innate spell abilities possessed by the drow. All the benefits, but none of the drawbacks.”

(Talen, and Lia’s, infravision extends to 90’ instead of the standard 60’. Talen can innately cast Faerie Fire, Dancing Lights, Darkness, Levitate, Detect Magic and Know Alignment once per day.)

Upon reaching their new home, Kylie takes Talen inside. "What do you think? Feel free to look around a little while I dig that food book out of my bags."

“You’re right, this is an incredible place,” Talen will say once they get to the sky house. “The skill and craftsmanship in building this, all of this, is amazing.”

Returning a couple minutes later, Kylie tracks him down. "Here you go. Take whatever you like - but leave a little for future emergencies..." she says with a chuckle.

“Thanks,” Talen will gratefully say as he digs in. He is careful to leave plenty of food in reserve. “Yeah, definitely want to save some for later. It’s strange, I mean I’m part elf, like you are, and there is much of the elfin way of life that I can understand, but there are other parts that just elude me. Must be my human half peaking through. I can understand the elves living off the bounty of the forest, but it just doesn’t satisfy me for the long run. I need something more substantial to eat.”

“It makes me wonder if our kind, we half-elves, can appreciate both or elfin and human heritages, but at the same time can’t fully embrace them. It’s like that elfin saying I’ve heard. ‘Child of two worlds, but not truly belonging to either’. I’m beginning to think that’s very true.”

“At least you blend in here pretty well, but I’m head and shoulders taller than most. Makes me easier to find, I guess,” Talen adds with a laugh.

“This place is nice, for now, but I can’t see me staying here for a real long time. It’s nice to explore my elfin heritage, but at some point I want to do the same for my human side.”

“Sorry, I’ve seemed to have rambled on a bit. Say, do you think your mom would mind if I bunked down here for the time being? You seem to have plenty of room and could use a place to put my gear.”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Allurien

The discussion turns to the subject of Lilia and her future role here in the Realms. "I don't know that Lilia has any particular connection to Chandra, so it may not be overly difficult to offset his influence. What may be more difficult may be seeing to it that she deals appropriately with any instances where he oversteps his bounds. I think her inclination is to avoid the potential confrontation and just ignore it, which would only serve to encourage him to continue in that vein."

Kylie pauses for a moment. "Still, all of that said, I do believe she would make a good - and perhaps someday great - leader for the elves here. It will likely take her a while to grow into the role, as it would anyone not born to it. You know the other elves here far better than I; if you feel she is the best candidate, then no doubt you are correct. I will gladly support her nomination, and I'm sure the others will do likewise."

"They are priests of the same order, and if I understand that she's just recently become a priest, then Chandra would be her immediate superior in the church hierarchy. As queen, she would out rank Chandra, but he would out rank her as a Priest of Corellon. It's a bit complicated."

"But as Queen, she would get to appoint her own court which has many positions that you and your companions could fill. Such as ambassadors and personal operatives. If she selects her inner circle wisely, then this might all work out for the best."

Her mother tells Kylie a bit more about the Keepers, and Kylie can't help wondering if it would even be possible for a half-elf - like herself - to become one. It may be that it would take longer than her shortened lifetime to master the skills of a Keeper. After all, her own mother will likely outlive her by hundreds - if not thousands - of years. Still, it wouldn't hurt to ask one of the Keepers about it.

During the day, Kylie has a conversation with one of the younger Keepers, a man named Lorac. While Lorac doesn't get into specifics, he does mention what it takes to become a Treekeeper.

"The training starts when we become teenagers," Lorac explains. "That training continues until around when we reach middle-age. It can vary depending on the individual. When a new High Keeper is selected, they are usual old in age, having been a Keeper for almost two hundred years."

[GM Mad]

Orc Hunt

Further to the south, the clash between elves and orcs has ended with a decisive victory. Some of the orcs did flee into the forest and at the urging of High Priest Chandra many elves take off in pursuit. But not all elves rush off to continue the hunt.

Many are weary from the long day and night of battles. Still others are just tired of fighting. Valena, Laucian, Talen, and other elves help tend to the wounded. The worst off are moved to the nearby Griffon Stable to rest. After this task is done, Laucian and Talen ride back to the Mother Tree while Valena stays behind to help comfort the wounded.


Nariya and Lia join with Chandra to continue the orc hunt. As the group gathers, Chandra provides both leadership and order to the some thirty elves that followed him. Trackers note multiple paths of orcs leading away from the clearing. Smaller groups hare haphazardly organized and these smaller units rush back into the elfin forest following these smaller trails.

Nariya leads one of these groups and Lia keeps close to her. Four other male elves join the pair, along with several cooshee’s and Lia’s lionesses. The lone mage of the group is Ryhmer, who calls himself a mage of some skill when asked. The other three appear to be typical elves wearing armor and carrying bows. They are Katyr, Theras, and Thyl.

Lia can feel Theras giving her disapproving looks and outright hateful stares. There’s something about the man that Lia finds familiar, but she just can’t place it.

Nariya leads the way down the path. These smaller side paths weave and wind their way throughout the elfin forest. They’d slow an army down to a crawl and you usually have to go single file along them. Occasionally the paths widen and small clearings are reached. The dense underbrush provides a natural barrier.

Nariya suddenly gives the signal to come to a stop and be silent. She whispers back that a group is quickly approaching your position! It’s most likely orcs, as they are too noisy to be elves.

“Let’s ambush them,” Thyl suggests as he grabs his bow and settles into a position off the path. “Trap them in a crossfire and fill them with shafts.”

[GM Mad]

Elfin Politics

Back at the Mother Tree, some of the elves are engaged in political discussions.

"Whomever we pick as our leaders should be chosen for the good of the elfin people, not according to some personal agenda or some temporary status. The new leaders will have many challenges to contend with. They will be charged in representing all the elves, not just the ones they favor."

“Then perhaps you should seek out such positions of power,” Voluril suggests. “The position of leadership is probably between you and Chandra anyway. It really doesn’t matter to me which one of you is King or Queen. You’ll both serve all the elves in your own fashion.”

"But the Rainbow Bridge appearing could have been invoked by the Mother Tree, to clear the backlog, so to speak. It is possible that the Bridge might appear sooner. So it might appear today, or 27 days from now. Is there anyway to tell when the bridge is going to appear before hand? Any warning?"

“Such a thing could be possible, Clan Master,” the High Keeper states. “On the day the Rainbow appears, the leaves of the Mother Tree take on a rainbow hue to them. Thus we know the bridge will appear that day when the sun is highest in the sky.”


Later in the afternoon, the first of the elves involved in the battle at the geyser field arrive. They tell the tale of what happened and Chandra continuing the pursuit.

“This just underscores why Chandra cannot be King,” Stobon notes. “War is the last thing the Sylvan Realm needs, at least until more elves return to their ancestral home.”

“It matters not to me,” Voluril states. “War is good for business, as is peace. There are opportunities for commerce either way.”

A Clan Master for Clan Mealidil is chosen. He is Olantius Jasus who was a past expedition leader. He is both a skill warrior and mage. Olantius is brought up to speed on the discussions thus far.

“Your ideals seem logical to me, Lilia of Grunalf. A quick strike now makes sense to catch our enemies off guard so that we can have time to recover. Based on what I saw at the Geyser Field, I have no doubt that Chandra’s first act as King would be to form an army and march on the orc stronghold. His bloodlust against orcs is that strong. There might be a time and place for such a thing, but it is not now nor in the near future. We should defend ourselves; rebuild what has been lost and re-forge past alliances while being vigilant to any new threats. Do not forget the lesson of Halimath’s Pride.”


That night, the elves partake in Feywine and sing and dance in celebration of the restoration of the Mother Tree and that the orcs have been drive off.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

An elf is considered to be the human equivalent of a teenager around their 75th birthday. They turn adults around 110 years old. Middle age is about 175. Thus, new Keepers become apprentices around 75 years old and are trained for about 100 years before becoming full fledge Keepers. The age of the youngest High Keeper is about 250, which corresponds to old age for an elf.

It's not until about 350 years old that an elf actually starts to look old and show signs of aging such as wrinkles. The typical elfin lifespan runs about 600-800 years.

I figure that Allurien is in the 140-150 age range. Plenty of time to adventure and gain experience and then take a decade off to raise a child.


Now what?

[Nariya]

Nariya:

“Then I wish you luck, Nariya for I shall not.” He says looking towards Charnda, “These elves are exhausted and not fit for fighting. It is foolhardy of him to press them so. He and any who follow him will be frolicking through the forest looking for any sign of an orcs. They may slip by him in his blood thirst, and he will be to blame for the Mother Tree’s demise.”

"Then go," Nariya replies. "Get those home who need rest and tend to the wounded, I however just arrived and am not exhausted. Those that are going will need others such as me who are alert to keep them alive and from 'frolicking'. Besides there isn't an orc alive who can leave a trail I can't follow nor slip past me. If by some impossible chance they do, they will need your bow to defend the Mother Tree."

Seeing Lia will go with her, Nariya looks for signs of orcs passing and finds them easily enough.

Nariya and Lia join with Chandra to continue the orc hunt. As the group gathers, Chandra provides both leadership and order to the some thirty elves that followed him. Trackers note multiple paths of orcs leading away from the clearing. Smaller groups hare haphazardly organized and these smaller units rush back into the elfin forest following these smaller trails.

Nariya takes the lead, following the orcs' headlong tumble through the elven lands easily enough. There is little time to get to know the elves with her except to understand what they can offer in a fight.

Nariya suddenly gives the signal to come to a stop and be silent. She whispers back that a group is quickly approaching your position! It’s most likely orcs, as they are too noisy to be elves.

“Let’s ambush them,” Thyl suggests as he grabs his bow and settles into a position off the path. “Trap them in a crossfire and fill them with shafts.”

"Yes, set up an ambush, but do not loose shafts until we know what we face," Nariya says and moves into a good ambush site. She will watch the cooshee's reactions and wait until whatever is making the noises appears before using her spear.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

"They are priests of the same order, and if I understand that she's just recently become a priest, then Chandra would be her immediate superior in the church hierarchy. As queen, she would out rank Chandra, but he would out rank her as a Priest of Corellon. It's a bit complicated."

"But as Queen, she would get to appoint her own court which has many positions that you and your companions could fill. Such as ambassadors and personal operatives. If she selects her inner circle wisely, then this might all work out for the best."

"Hmm... I hadn't considered the priest aspect. Lilia just became a priestess a few days ago, so I'm not really used to thinking of her in those terms.

"Selecting her court would be a very important set of decisions. However, I don't know if we would be the best choices; after all, there are many elves here who are older, more knowledgeable and more experienced. We may be heroes of a sort, but that doesn't make us good leaders or advisors. Still, I must admit to being intrigued by the idea of being some kind of representative or ambassador that travels to other lands..."

"The training starts when we become teenagers," Lorac explains. "That training continues until around when we reach middle-age. It can vary depending on the individual. When a new High Keeper is selected, they are usually old in age, having been a Keeper for almost two hundred years."

From what Lorac says, a half-elf would be quite old by time they finished their training - even if they started as young as Kylie is now. "Thank you, Lorac. I appreciate you taking the time to talk with me. It really does seem like a fascinating occupation."

“Okay, sounds great!” Talen answers. “So your mom’s the Clan Master? What does that involve? I guess I haven’t been paying attention to the politics going on.”

"Yup," Kylie replies, then pauses to consider a moment. "I don't really know much of the detail. From what I gather, she's the leader of the clan, so she will be guiding internal matters and representing the clan in external matters. Beyond that... " Kylie shrugs.

“I finally did,” Talen easily answers. “What Lia did, honoring our grandmother, got me thinking. So I did something similar, but not quite as radical. The Mother Tree granted me the superior infravision and the innate spell abilities possessed by the drow. All the benefits, but none of the drawbacks.”

"Wow, that's pretty amazing! Sounds like you made an excellent choice, Talen. Have you told Lia about your choice yet?"

Kylie listens as Talen talks as he eats. He seems to have a lot of things on his mind. "I know what you mean, Talen. I'm having a similar experience of feeling like I don't really fit in very well anywhere. It's so wonderful to finally find my mom that I want to take my time and really get to know her again and spend some time with her. However, I'm not sure I can see really staying here long-term, though. I hope there is somewhere in the world that I'll feel at home, but I'm not feeling very confident of that right now. At times, I even wonder if that hidden valley where we met you and Lia isn't the best place for me. There are so many different kinds of people there, it seems like there wouldn't be any normal to be different from - if that makes any sense."

Kylie laughs. "Sure, I think mom would be okay with you staying here with us. I haven't looked around that much, but I think there's a couple of extra bedrooms around here somewhere. Come on, let's go see what we can find for you." Kylie rises and heads off in search of a suitable room for her friend.


Later that evening, Kylie will lurk about the outer edges of the celebration. If Talen attends too, she'll tend to hang out and chat with him. Having tasted feywine once before, she'll try a few sips once again, but will be careful not to drink too much.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

“Then perhaps you should seek out such positions of power,” Voluril suggests. “The position of leadership is probably between you and Chandra anyway. It really doesn’t matter to me which one of you is King or Queen. You’ll both serve all the elves in your own fashion.”

“Me?” Lilia stammers out in surprise. “Why would anyone think I would make a good Council Leader or Elfin Queen?”

But after a moment’s though, the Voluril’s logic becomes clear. Chandra and herself are the only Priests of Corellon currently in the realms. And it seems that Lilia’s journey from what she was to who she is becoming has elevated her in the eyes of many.

“I understand what you are saying,” Lilia finally says. “Yes, that does seem to be the case, does it not? I did not seek out such a high position, but if called upon to serve the Elfin People in such a manner, I would graciously accept.”

“Such a thing could be possible, Clan Master,” the High Keeper states. “On the day the Rainbow appears, the leaves of the Mother Tree take on a rainbow hue to them. Thus we know the bridge will appear that day when the sun is highest in the sky.”

“That is good to know,” Lilia answers. “It allows you time to have goods and people ready to cross over the bridge.”

Later in the afternoon, the first of the elves involved in the battle at the geyser field arrive. They tell the tale of what happened and Chandra continuing the pursuit.

“This just underscores why Chandra cannot be King,” Stobon notes. “War is the last thing the Sylvan Realm needs, at least until more elves return to their ancestral home.”

“Unfortunately, I would have to agree,” Lilia sadly states. She’s visibly disappointed that one of her own would be so bent on one thing at the expense of the elfin people. “Very well, if you would nominate me to become the Elfin Queen, then I would happy accept. As you say, Clan Master Stobon, war is the last thing the Sylvan Realms needs. Our population is low and even if the Rainbow Bridge opened up tomorrow, not enough elves could cross over to even support large scale military action against the orcs.”

“Our course is clear. We must rebuild, re-establish past alliances, and prepare to defend what is ours once more. It’s only this way that the Sylvan Realm will survive for generations to come.”

“It matters not to me,” Voluril states. “War is good for business, as is peace. There are opportunities for commerce either way.”

Lilia just shakes her head at Voluril’s comment. At the very least, she knows how to deal with Voluril in the future. It has to be a business deal in which he benefits from.

A Clan Master for Clan Mealidil is chosen. He is Olantius Jasus who was a past expedition leader. He is both a skill warrior and mage. Olantius is brought up to speed on the discussions thus far.

“Your ideals seem logical to me, Lilia of Grunalf. A quick strike now makes sense to catch our enemies off guard so that we can have time to recover. Based on what I saw at the Geyser Field, I have no doubt that Chandra’s first act as King would be to form an army and march on the orc stronghold. His bloodlust against orcs is that strong. There might be a time and place for such a thing, but it is not now nor in the near future. We should defend ourselves; rebuild what has been lost and re-forge past alliances while being vigilant to any new threats. Do not forget the lesson of Halimath’s Pride.”

“Obsession destroys everything,” Lilia states, saying aloud the meaning of the fable of Halimath’s Pride. “Thank you, Clan Master Olantius for your vote of confidence. The position of Elfin Queen is not one that I sought, but it does seem that for the good of the Elfin People one that I must take up. That much has become abundantly clear to me. Chandra seems more bent on conflict than doing what is best for the elfin people. There is a time for war and there is a time for peace. Without question, what we need most is peace for the Sylvan Realm to be restored.”

Lilia tries to relax while the others celebrate, but finds her mind wandering with the numerous issues of the day.

[Talen]

Talen:

"Yup," Kylie replies, then pauses to consider a moment. "I don't really know much of the detail. From what I gather, she's the leader of the clan, so she will be guiding internal matters and representing the clan in external matters. Beyond that... " Kylie shrugs.

“Yeah, I agree,” Talen answers. “Politics gives me a headache.”

"Wow, that's pretty amazing! Sounds like you made an excellent choice, Talen. Have you told Lia about your choice yet?"

“No, I never got the chance. We were off to help against the orcs before I could get to it. She rode with Valena, and I rode with Laucian, so we never had a chance to talk. Then she went off to continue the hunt with Chandra and Nariya, while I stayed behind to help the wounded before returning. Hopefully, there’ll be plenty of time to talk once she returns.”

Kylie listens as Talen talks as he eats. He seems to have a lot of things on his mind. "I know what you mean, Talen. I'm having a similar experience of feeling like I don't really fit in very well anywhere. It's so wonderful to finally find my mom that I want to take my time and really get to know her again and spend some time with her. However, I'm not sure I can see really staying here long-term, though. I hope there is somewhere in the world that I'll feel at home, but I'm not feeling very confident of that right now. At times, I even wonder if that hidden valley where we met you and Lia isn't the best place for me. There are so many different kinds of people there, it seems like there wouldn't be any normal to be different from - if that makes any sense."

“It makes sense, Kylie,” Talen states. “Grandmother used to say that home is where you make it. It’s something that your heart tells you. I grew up in the sheltered environment of Lost Valley and it really isn’t an answer. The world is full of wonderful things and wonderful people, all of which I never would have met if I hadn’t left. I never would have seen the Mother Tree or travel this far from home, or meet you and the others if I had never left.”

“From what I’ve heard, many elves leave the elfin forest when they become adults. They travel and adventure, much like we are doing now. Then they return home with a greater understand of the world and an appreciation of what they have.”

“Obviously, we can’t do that as we’re not full elves. But the idea can still work. Travel, adventure, and see the world and then decide where to put down roots. But we can live among the elves for a time and then live among humans for a while. I think I can understand why our kind would choose the humans more over the elves. We should live longer than humans, but not as long as an elf would. We would age slowly compared to a human, but we would age. You’re mom will probably look the same to you as she does today for the rest of your life.”

“Anyway, you have your mom and staying with her just makes sense. All I really have on the elf side is grandmother and I’ve already spent most of my life with her. So I’m more eager to know of my human relatives. But is it good to experience both sides of things.”

Kylie laughs. "Sure, I think mom would be okay with you staying here with us. I haven't looked around that much, but I think there's a couple of extra bedrooms around here somewhere. Come on, let's go see what we can find for you." Kylie rises and heads off in search of a suitable room for her friend.

“Thanks! I’ll go get my gear.”

Later that evening, Kylie will lurk about the outer edges of the celebration. If Talen attends too, she'll tend to hang out and chat with him. Having tasted feywine once before, she'll try a few sips once again, but will be careful not to drink too much.

Not having much else to do, Talen follows Kylie and her mother to the elfin celebration.

“They certainly seem to like the dance and sing and drink Feywine,” Talen notes with a laugh. “I’d probably be too embarrassed to do that!”

[Laucian]

Laucian

“While I can see cause for your concern,” Lilia says, “Chandra is a Priest of Corellon. He does what he does for the good of the elfin people. I would be surprised if he carried out his mission in such a sloppy fashion.”

“But as you say, a little rest should have been taken. Many elves only need a few hours rest to feel refreshed. Then the hunt could have continued. After all, in our forest is the orcs who are the disadvantage.”

Laucian listens respectfully as Lilia speaks of what transpired but slowly shakes his head. “And as a Priest of Corellon is it not to look after those who are weaker and wounded? If it is so, then he is sorely lax in his practices of such things. He did not even stop and tend to the wounded nor appoint anyone to do so.” He says looking Lilia in the eye. “Valena and I stayed behind and healed those we could. As it stands now there is some number of elves in Valena’s care in the Griffon Stables.


Laucian will seek out Volunteers to go on patrol. First stop will be the griffon stables then patrol.
L

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“No, I never got the chance. We were off to help against the orcs before I could get to it. She rode with Valena, and I rode with Laucian, so we never had a chance to talk. Then she went off to continue the hunt with Chandra and Nariya, while I stayed behind to help the wounded before returning. Hopefully, there’ll be plenty of time to talk once she returns.”

"I'm sure there will be, Talen. It was an important decision in your life, and no doubt she'll be wanting to hear about it."

“It makes sense, Kylie,” Talen states. “Grandmother used to say that home is where you make it. It’s something that your heart tells you. I grew up in the sheltered environment of Lost Valley and it really isn’t an answer. The world is full of wonderful things and wonderful people, all of which I never would have met if I hadn’t left. I never would have seen the Mother Tree or travel this far from home, or meet you and the others if I had never left.”

“From what I’ve heard, many elves leave the elfin forest when they become adults. They travel and adventure, much like we are doing now. Then they return home with a greater understand of the world and an appreciation of what they have.”

“Obviously, we can’t do that as we’re not full elves. But the idea can still work. Travel, adventure, and see the world and then decide where to put down roots. But we can live among the elves for a time and then live among humans for a while. I think I can understand why our kind would choose the humans more over the elves. We should live longer than humans, but not as long as an elf would. We would age slowly compared to a human, but we would age. You’re mom will probably look the same to you as she does today for the rest of your life.”

“Anyway, you have your mom and staying with her just makes sense. All I really have on the elf side is grandmother and I’ve already spent most of my life with her. So I’m more eager to know of my human relatives. But is it good to experience both sides of things.”

"You make some very good points, Talen, and for the most part I know them to be true. I've just had some misgivings about some things recently and it's left me feeling uncertain and out-of-place. I do want to see more of the world and explore both sides of my heritage more. I grew up primarily among humans in Elcadan, so I suppose this is a good place for me for a while, but I don't know that it will ever feel like home. Certainly I will always want to visit my mother periodically, just as I want to visit my father while he's still alive, but neither is really home anymore. I just have to hope that someday I will find someplace where I really belong."

“They certainly seem to like to dance and sing and drink Feywine,” Talen notes with a laugh. “I’d probably be too embarrassed to do that!”

"Are you kidding?" Kylie replies with a laugh. "This may be the best part of being an elf. If you're going to experience being an elf, this is where it starts. Come on!" Kylie will do her best to coax Talen into celebrating with her. She's not particularly good at either singing or dancing, but she'll do so with gusto as long as he joins in.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed