The Sylvan Realm #1

[GM Mad]

Sylvan Realm #1


The Elfquest has been completed! The Mother Tree has been restored and after six hundred years the elves have returned to the Sylvan Realm. While it is a time for great celebration, there is still much danger to the Mother Tree. Even thought the vile mage Moorkroft has been defeated his forces are still a threat. The elves launched preemptive strikes at the forts housing his troops that ring the Sylvan Realm. Some of the orcs based in the most distant forts to the south have reached the elfin forest and are being hunted down on foot.

In spite of all of this, the present danger has seemed to pass and life in the Sylvan Realm seems to be settling down. Those in charge debate who shall lead the Sylvan Realm. The Elves are traditionally led by a Clan Council. Each Clan has a representative on the council along with the leader of the Keepers of the Tree. Lastly there is an elected Council Head who is responsible for handling matters in the Sylvan Realm. Apart form that is the Elfin King or Queen, who oversees matters outside the Sylvan Realm.

Right now there are two Priests of Corellon in the Sylvan Realm, the All-Father deity of the elves. Such priests have a natural 'awe' factor to them and their words carry great weight. Lilia is one priest while Chandra Sakar from Clan Red Arrow is the other. Clan Red Arrow is the warrior clan and it is feared that under Chandra's rulership, he would declare war on the orcs and hunt them down regardless of how few elves are now in the Sylvan Realm.

Finally the full Council meets to choose their leaders. It is a tie between Lilia and Chandra with Kylie's mother, Allurien Feador, casting the final vote. Allurien picks Lilia to become the Queen of the Sylvan Realm. An unhappy Chandra becomes the Head of the Council. Both Priests now have to renounce their place as Clan Leaders and new ones will have to be picked.

As her first official act, Queen Lilia declares that, for now, the Sylvan Realms will not act against their enemies. Not until reinforcements from the Elfholds arrive. No one is sure when that will happen, as the day the Rainbow Bridge arrives seems to be random. However, the leaves of the Mother Tree will take on a rainbow hue on the day the bridge will arrive with the sign is high in the sky. Until then a defensive posture seems prudent. Unhappily following the Queen's orders, Chandra looks for volunteers to round out units of elves to respond to any threats that may come along within the Sylvan Realm before reinforcements arrive.

Farther to the south, Laucian and his fellow members of the Order of the Golden Griffon are out on reconnaissance. The day before they were at the Elfin Palace that Moorkroft used as his base. The armored constructs that protected it now seem inactive. From there the riders fly towards one of the three southernmost enemy forts. These ones are so far to the south, that the enemy was able to move into the forest long before the elves could reach them. They are also the only forts not yet burning.

As the griffon riders draw closer, movement is spotted down below. Much like the fort that the Chosen had raided a few days ago, those below are orc women and children. They run into the buildings to hide upon seeing the griffons and their riders.

Bringing his bow to bare Laucian nocks an arrow to it, takes aim at the figures beneath them but then he realizes they are female and with child, “Hold you fire!” he calls out to the others in Elfish, Signaling the others down Laucian will have them land near but far enough from the fort, “One of us will fly above keeping watch for any enemy patrols. While the rest of us see to the fort. No Women or children are to be harm unless they provoke us.

Cain of Solonor stays airborne to keep watch while the others land their griffons. Niles of Solonor stays with the griffons, while Laucian lead Valis, Luciard and Breeze Swiftflow follow Laucian in search of the orcs. Much like before, the orcs are found huddled together in fear. No males, or anything else is present.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Welcome back! Not a whole lot of new things to cover in this opening post as only Laucian posted in the previous one. The current game day is November 25th 571 CR as per the posts recaps. Here is where I have everyone last left at.

November 24th - This is the day that Laucian and the Griffon Riders reached the Fort mentioned in the post above. So Laucian is off on his own at the moment. Assuming that all three forts are inspected before returning to the Mother Tree and everything goes smoothly, Laucian would arrive late on the 26th. But when does things go smoothly in this world?

Valena and those wishing to join the Silver Maidens, Fayrianna and Annelwin, departed the Griffon Stable in search of their Order Hall somewhere in the wilds of the Sylvan Realms. Like Laucian, Valena is off on her own as well. River Blossom says the journey will take a little over a day on foot.

November 25th - That evening the Elfin Rulers are elected. Lilia is here and Kylie and Talen have been around in the background with Allurien Feador at Golden Peak. Nariya and Lia would have arrived from the Griffon Stable this day, so most of the group is currently here. Those who were part of the effort to restore the Mother Tree have a celebrity status among the elves. They'll be asked if they wish to join the response groups that Chandra is forming and will most likely expected to lead such groups.


The Sylvan Realm itself is located in the northwest portion of the continent of Burn on Arret. It real world terms the weather in that region is similar to Alaska. However, the presence of the Mother Tree has warped the traditional weather patterns. The temperature is fairly uniform year round. It's in the seventies most days with nights dropping into the sixties, so conditions are very comfortable. There is a heavy downpour of several inches of rain nearly every night in the Sylvan Realm. That much water is needed to refresh all the trees and plants in the Sylvan Realm. The run off drains away in the many rivers and eventually leads out to sea. Given the amount of rain, clean drinking water is easy to come by.

The Sylvan Realm itself is a relatively flat elfin forest ringed by snow capped mountains on three sides. The fourth side is the ocean itself. The Realm measures 100 miles wide east to west at its widest point and 85 miles north to south. This area is huge and even with all the places you were while retrieving the medallions, much of the Sylvan Realm lies unexplored. Each Clan has its own home town within the realm. The Tree Keepers remember what the Sylvan Realm was like back when they merged with the trees in a type of suspended animation, but what its like now is unknown. There is a thin strip of land on the southern end of the Sylvan Realm next to the coast that is plains and this leads south.

Based on the information uncovered at the enemy forts, the fire giants live to the south in an volcanic area called the Hellfurnaces. The humans lie to the east in a place called Raven's Claw which is part of the Kingdom of Sunderland. Sunderland is believed to be part of Vassa, the land ruled by the infamous Witch-King. Lastly the orcs come from the north from a place they call Xorg. There are some roads that lead over the mountains and most likely caves as well.

That should be enough to get things rolling again and bring us to the eternal now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“That could be interesting,” Talen easily answers. “If you don’t mind me screwing up every now and then. I’m still pretty new to this sort of thing.”

"You and me both," Kylie replies. "I seem destined to make more than my share of blunders. Hopefully we can cover for each other when that happens."

Kylie spends most of the day - when she's not with her mom - helping to recover supplies and bring them to the designated storage areas. Talen's company is comforting, and it is nice to be doing something useful that doesn't involve killing.

“That’s kind of spooky. Everyone seems to know what to do without being told. Must be an elf thing.”

"I know what you mean, but I suppose they may be just pitching in on whatever helpful activity they see someone else doing," Kylie says with a shrug. "Kind of like we are."

As the day passes, there are several instances when elves of far greater age and standing treat her with some measure of deference. Kylie finds this a bit unsettling, as she doesn't see herself as anyone particularly special. While it is true that she played some part in momentous events, certainly others could have done just as well or better in her place.

That evening, they attend the Elfin Council. She will invite Talen to join her in sitting near her mother. Not surprisingly, the first subject is selection of the new ruler, and it quickly turns contentious. The vote comes down to a tie, with only her mother left as the last vote.

"I choose Lilia," Allurien says. "She is clearly the best choice."

Allurien's vote breaks the tie, and brings a smile to Kylie's face. She gives her mother a nod of support for her decision.

Clearly, Chandra is not so pleased, but that is the nature of politics. Nevertheless, life goes on.

If approached, Kylie will agree to join a response team in the event that an incursion occurs. She will also agree to help with some scouting, if it is felt that her skills are appropriate for that.

She would love to get a chance to congratulate her friend Lilia, though Kylie suspects that she has many new responsibilities to handle now that she is Queen and may not have time for trivialities.

[Lia]

Lia

Upon hearing that Lilia is voted the new Elfin Queen, Lia approaches the elfin queen. “Congratulations upon your promotion. I hope we can still speak as we used to” She says evenly a smile crossing her ebony features not knowing protocol she will refrain from bowing her head. “I wish to seek you counsel if I may?”

“While with Nariya out hunting down orcs an elf named Thera’s attacked me, He was taken into custody but escaped. His patron was the “Dark archer?” looking quizzically at the older elf, “Could you please tell me of this?” she asks her lavender eyes looking at the mage queen.

Her left hand rested casually on her sword hilt, “The others with us said I could deal with him as I saw fit, but given our new place here I wanted the clan masters to decide his fate. Sadly, he escaped in the night like a coward.”

Lia looks at the attention with skepticism from the other elves looking up to them. To Talen she will say, “Be careful brother. I was attacked for the what I am now. I do not know how the others will look at you.” She says indicating his half blood status.

Lia will approach Chandra, “I heard you are looking for individuals to be apart of teams to patrol the realm? I would gladly do so. Perhaps in doing so we can look to the other clan villages. She offers the priest.

[Laucian]

Laucian-

Cain of Solonor stays airborne to keep watch while the others land their griffons. Niles of Solonor stays with the griffons, while Laucian lead Valis, Luciard and Breeze Swiftflow follow Laucian in search of the orcs. Much like before, the orcs are found huddled together in fear. No males, or anything else is present.

“Stay on guard.”he says to the others in elvish as his eyes move amongst the buildings to the orcs then back to the openings. Seeing the Orcs gather in fear Laucian calls out in Orc, “Who speaks for you? The armies of Mookroft’s orcs have been defeated, What is left is being hunted down and exterminated.” He pauses for a moment letting the information sink in “It does not have to be so with you. Gather what food you can carry and leave the Sylvan realm. Do not take this as sign of weakness, for if you return , the people of Sylvan realms will show you and your kin no mercy.”

Laucian will be ready to put an arrow in any orc that resists, whether it be child or female.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

The waiting is finally over and the full Elfin Council convenes for the first time. There are butterflies in Lilia's stomach as she has a good idea just how this will all play out. It isn't too surprising when Chandra calls for a vote to elect the Elfin King or Queen. His lust for power is blatantly obvious.

Chandra votes first and votes for himself. Alanik Feador votes for Lilia. Solus votes for Chandra. Lilia votes for herself. Stobon votes for himself. Olantius votes for Lilia, while Voluril surprisingly picks Chandra, making the two priests tied in the vote.

The voting mostly goes as expected. Stobon votes for himself even thought he has no chance of winning. So much for the 'royal' clan.

Lilia arches an eyebrow when Voluril votes for Chandra, placing the two Priests of Corellon even with only one vote remaining. Thanks to the increased intelligence she gains from wearing the Star Crown she quickly guesses why this happened. Voluril already knew who Allurien would choose and being a merchant, he wanted to remain in Chandra's good graces. It was a logical choice from a business point of view.

"We are deadlocked," Chandra calls out; somewhat surprised that he wasn't a landslide pick. "Allurien of Clan Feador has yet to choose. Your vote shall decide who shall lead. Make your choice."

Allurien stands up with all eyes upon her.

"I choose Lilia," Allurien says. "She is clearly the best choice."

Chandra is visibly stunned at the result and light applause rings out. It is clear that Chandra and his allies are not happy.

"What?" Chandra calls out. "She has no experience in leadership! I've been training for this all my life! This is the path Corellon has set forth for me and you choose another? This is outrageous!"

"The Council has spoken," Alanik calmly states. "It is our will that Lilia shall be the Elfin Queen."

The moment comes and the elf maiden is as ready as she could be. This is far beyond anything she ever imagined when she left home at the urging of Sherwood and the Clan Elder. Queen of the Sylvan Realm.

“Thank you all for your confidence in me,” Lilia simply states. “I will do my best to live up to the honor you have bestowed upon me. For now, I feel we must defend the Mother Tree until we receive reinforcements from the Elfholds. The Mother Tree has just been restored and we can not allow any further danger to come to her. We will leave our enemies outside the Sylvan Realm alone for now until we have the resources to properly deal with them without endangering the Mother Tree. But those within our forest must be deal with severly.”

Unhappily following the Queen's orders, Chandra looks for volunteers to round out units of elves to respond to any threats that may come along within the Sylvan Realm before reinforcements arrive.

Lilia is in agreement with this strategy. Having units ready to engage any potential enemies is a good thing. Not long after that, the council breaks for the evening and it is time to relax. More discussions on how to proceed next can wait until tomorrow.

[Lilia]

Queen Lilia:

She would love to get a chance to congratulate her friend Lilia, though Kylie suspects that she has many new responsibilities to handle now that she is Queen and may not have time for trivialities.

As the meeting breaks up and everyone goes their separate ways, Lilia is approached by many well wishers and congratulaters. She spots Kylie near her mother.

“We have come a very far since Pyris,” Lilia says to Kylie with a smile. “Farther then I could have ever imagined. How are you adjusting to life here in the Sylvan Realms?”

Upon hearing that Lilia is voted the new Elfin Queen, Lia approaches the elfin queen. “Congratulations upon your promotion. I hope we can still speak as we used to” She says evenly a smile crossing her ebony features not knowing protocol she will refrain from bowing her head. “I wish to seek your counsel if I may?”

After speaking to Kylie, Lia comes up. While Lilia is getting used to Lia being a full drow now, the idea of being approached by a drow is momentarily startling.

“Thank you, Lia,” Lilia says with her own smile. “Of course we can speak as we used to. Being the Elfin Queen is not the same as a human monarch as far as duties and powers go. As I understand it, I have some flexibility.”

When Lia says she wishes my counsel, Lilia realizes that this is a serious matter. “Come, let us speak in private away from prying ears.” Once away from the others, Lia tells her tale.

“While with Nariya out hunting down orcs an elf named Theras attacked me, He was taken into custody but escaped. His patron was the “Dark archer?” looking quizzically at the older elf, “Could you please tell me of this?” she asks her lavender eyes looking at the mage queen.

“I am sorry that you had to endure what this Theras did to you,” Lilia says. “You say that he invoked the name of the Dark Archer? This is troubling indeed. The Dark Archer is better known as Shevarash, a elfin demi-power. He is a god, but just a very minor one. Those who seek vengeance, especially those who lost loved ones to the drow venerate him. In a certain sense he is the living embodiment of the hatred many elves have for the drow. Do not forget that the Spider Queen tried to topple the All-Father himself and take his place. She and those who followed her betrayed the Seldarine, the elfin gods themselves. They rejected the gifts given by the All-Father and what it means to be an elf. To an elf that is a betrayal of all things you hold dear. I struggle to find any other crime that is worse than that.”

Her left hand rested casually on her sword hilt, “The others with us said I could deal with him as I saw fit, but given our new place here I wanted the clan masters to decide his fate. Sadly, he escaped in the night like a coward.”

“Elfin law is not as strong or as strict as human law, for example,” Lilia explains. “When a crime does occur, sometimes those involved directly in the situation will settle the matter, much like the others with you stated. Or the matter could be turned over to a Clan Leader for their judgment. Either method could be used to resolve this situation.”

“That he did escape, just goes to show how deep, how ingrained is our mistrust and outright hatred of the drow can be. Watch your back. I wouldn't want to see any harm come to you.”

[Talen]

Talen:

"You and me both," Kylie replies. "I seem destined to make more than my share of blunders. Hopefully we can cover for each other when that happens."

“Grandma said that was how we learn,” Talon admits. “Given all the dumb things that I've done so far, I must be a genius by now!”


Talen helps out as much as he can while at the Mother Tree. The attention that some of the elf maidens gives him he finds a bit unnerving. Sure there are some lovely ladies there, but they are full blooded elves. The fact that they are old enough to be his grandmother just kills any thoughts of romance!

"I know what you mean, but I suppose they may be just pitching in on whatever helpful activity they see someone else doing," Kylie says with a shrug. "Kind of like we are."

“I suppose you could be right,” Talen agrees. “I hadn't thought of it that way. I guess some of the things we've seen elves do does boarder on almost magical, so maybe I made it seem more supernatural than it really was.”


Later on, Talen attends the Elfin Council. Talen stays in the back and out of the way. Given his height, relative to your typical elf, seeing from so far away is not an issue. As the meeting goes on and the leaders are chosen, Talen can sense the anger and frustration from the one they call Chandra. Clearly he thought himself the gods gift to all elves and that he was better than everyone else. Kylie's mother, Allurien, breaks the tie and Lilia becomes the Queen of the Sylvan Realm. Talen isn't exactly sure how big of a deal this is. After all, there were no nobility or royalty in the Lost Valley. The elves seem to make it a big deal, so Talen guess that it probably is important.

Talen will congratulate Lilia on her victory and he will agree to help out should his meager skills be needed in the days to come.

Not long after that, he spots his sister having a private conversation with Lilia. Once they seem to be done, Talen will move closer and give his sister a hug.

“Good to see you, Little Sister,” Talen says.

Lia looks at the attention with skepticism from the other elves looking up to them. To Talen she will say, “Be careful brother. I was attacked for the what I am now. I do not know how the others will look at you.” She says indicating his half blood status.

“Who attacked you? Why?”

Talen is silent as he hears about what this Theras tried to do. He had no idea just how hated the drow were among the forest elves. And now his only sister has become something that many hate.

“If I find this Theras then I'll settle the score,” Talen vows somberly.

Later on, while not so emotionally charged, Talen will reveal to his sister what gift he took from the Mother Tree.

“I too wished to honor our heritage, but took a different path that you did. I gained those special abilities that drow have over my half-elfin ones. But otherwise, I'm still a half-elf. At least I think I am,” Talen adds with a goofy smile.

[Valena Feador]

Valena of the Silver Maidens:

“I am willing,” Annelwin will say. “I too serve the Lady of the Forests and to have a unicorn companion has been a dream of mine.”

“That's wonderful!” Valena says in delight. She's pleased to have another follower of Ehlonna among the order she is trying to restore.

“Just let me know when we’ll be leaving,” Fayrianna adds.

“After the morning meal,” Valena easily answers.


There is some excitement come the light of day as the villainous Theras has escaped with outside help no doubt.

“I'll keep an eye out for him,” Valena promises Lia. “In the meantime, me and my friends are off to find the Order Hall for the Silver Maidens. We'll return to the Mother Tree once we are finished there.”

From there we travel down to the forest floor and begin the overland journey to the Order Hall. River Blossom leads the way and during the trip Valena will walk beside her Unicorn friend. She occasionally pinches herself to make sure she is not dreaming.

Valena will keep alert during the trip. While she trusts River Blossom explicitly there is the potential danger of more orcs turning up or that renegade elf Theras.

[GM Mad]

Update for Laucian:

Laucian and the rest of the Order of the Golden Griffon are checking out one of the three southernmost forts Moorkroft used to house his army of orcs. Much like the fort explored to the north several days ago, this one only has a few orc females and children.

“Stay on guard.”he says to the others in elvish as his eyes move among the buildings to the orcs then back to the openings.

The others nod their understanding and silently move forward with weapons or spells at the ready.

Seeing the Orcs gather in fear Laucian calls out in Orc, “Who speaks for you?”

After a pause, one of the older looking female, her legs trembling moves closer.

“The armies of Moorkroft's orcs have been defeated, What is left is being hunted down and exterminated.” He pauses for a moment letting the information sink in. “It does not have to be so with you. Gather what food you can carry and leave the Sylvan realm. Do not take this as sign of weakness, for if you return , the people of Sylvan realms will show you and your kin no mercy.”

The orc woman tells the others to do as the elf says. They quickly gather up what they can carry and leave the fort in great haste. In about half an hour they are gone from sight.


GM Notes:

Going to explore the fort first or just torch it? You'll have enough time to reach a second fort today, but by then it'll be night and you'll probably want to settle in for some rest for you and your mounts.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“Grandma said that was how we learn,” Talon admits. “Given all the dumb things that I've done so far, I must be a genius by now!”

Kylie chuckles. "Your grandmother is very wise. I hope I have the opportunity to meet her someday."

As they go about their work during the day, Kylie spots Talen noticing attractive elven women a couple of times and feels a brief pang of jealousy. It's perfectly normal, she reminds herself while doing her best to unclench her teeth.

“I suppose you could be right,” Talen agrees. “I hadn't thought of it that way. I guess some of the things we've seen elves do does boarder on almost magical, so maybe I made it seem more supernatural than it really was.”

"We've been surrounded by so much magic and so many mages - including myself - for so long that it is easy to assume everything is supernatural." Kylie replies.

During the Elfin Council, Kylie doesn't see Talen anywhere. It occurs to her that he may have chosen to sit with his own clan, or may have decided not to attend.

As the meeting breaks up and everyone goes their separate ways, Lilia is approached by many well wishers and congratulaters. She spots Kylie near her mother.

Kylie sees Lilia approaching and smiles a bit shyly. "Hi Lil-... Queen Lil-... Gah! I'm sorry, I don't know what the protocol is for addressing an elven queen..." Her brows scrunch together, clearly unhappy with herself.

“We have come a very far since Pyris,” Lilia says to Kylie with a smile. “Farther then I could have ever imagined. How are you adjusting to life here in the Sylvan Realms?”

"Indeed we have, both in distance and in personal development," Kylie replies, then pauses for a moment to consider her friend's question. "Fairly well, though I don't entirely feel like I belong here. Perhaps that will change with time."

She pauses again, clearly still a bit uncomfortable. "If an opportunity arises where you have a little time, I would like to talk with you about my role here. It would be good to have a purpose, and I'm not really that interested in more fighting."

[Laucian]

Laucian
As the orc female comes forward, Laucian’s amber eyes look her over seeing if she has a weapon. It does not appear so but even still the elf doesn’t relax.

The orc woman tells the others to do as the elf says. They quickly gather up what they can carry and leave the fort in great haste. In about half an hour they are gone from sight.

The ranger priest looks inward thinking of his mother and the price she paid to assure her son was free of the orcs he can’t help but wonder if the orcs would do the same for their children.

Within a half an hour the women and children are gone. Looking over head, he waves the okay to Cain. He the looks to Valis, Luciard and Breeze Swiftflow, “Luciard can you please tell Niles to bring the griffons inside. Valis, once Cain Lands could you take position take position in one of the towers, inform Cain to do the same. “he says calmly looking at the leader’s tent. “Breeze come with me.”he says evenly as he heads toward the leaders tent.

Once there he will look for anything of value, including maps and letters. As Breeze and Laucian walk, Laucian says, “Look for anything that maybe of use to us. Maps, Letters of movement, any chests.

Once they are done searching the leaders tent, barring anything else happening, Laucian will order the others to set fire to the fort and make for the next fort.

[Lia]

Lia-

“Elfin law is not as strong or as strict as human law, for example,” Lilia explains. “When a crime does occur, sometimes those involved directly in the situation will settle the matter, much like the others with you stated. Or the matter could be turned over to a Clan Leader for their judgment. Either method could be used to resolve this situation.”

“That he did escape, just goes to show how deep, how ingrained is our mistrust and outright hatred of the drow can be. Watch your back. I wouldn't want to see any harm come to you.”

“Nor I you.”she says evenly. “Whatever comes to pass I will see it through.” She says with a heavy heart. “It is just strange to think some would raise their hand against one that saved them and the mother tree.”she says in disbelief.

“If I find this Theras then I'll settle the score,” Talen vows somberly.

“Thank you, Talen. It is good to have you here.” She says with a sheepish grin.

Later on, while not so emotionally charged, Talen will reveal to his sister what gift he took from the Mother Tree.

“I too wished to honor our heritage, but took a different path that you did. I gained those special abilities that drow have over my half-elfin ones. But otherwise, I'm still a half-elf. At least I think I am,” Talen adds with a goofy smile.

Lia let’s out a laugh at Talen seeing his goofy smile. “I am happy for you.” She says with a smile and giving him a hug, “I know grandmother would feel the same.” She says with a smile, “It will be sometime before I get used to it.”she says somberly. “My eyes sting within the daylight. I truly know what Grandmother feels like, and to think I used to tease her when I was a child.”

“I'll keep an eye out for him,” Valena promises Lia. “In the meantime, me and my friends are off to find the Order Hall for the Silver Maidens. We'll return to the Mother Tree once we are finished there.”

“Thank you, Valena. You are a true friend. She says evenly , “Good luck to you, do you know where to start looking?”

Lia will enquire about the Darksong knights as well as the villiages of the other clans with the Clan elders. When night comes, Lia will find a quiet place and begin to dance and pray to her patron as well as guidance.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Kylie sees Lilia approaching and smiles a bit shyly. "Hi Lil-... Queen Lil-... Gah! I'm sorry, I don't know what the protocol is for addressing an elven queen..." Her brows scrunch together, clearly unhappy with herself.

“Lilia is perfectly fine,” Lilia answers holding her hands up in front of her with a smile. “Unlike the human or dwarven equivalent, I was picked and my eventual successor will also be picked. It is not hereditary position. I simply speak for the Sylvan Realm in matters beyond our borders.”

"Indeed we have, both in distance and in personal development," Kylie replies, then pauses for a moment to consider her friend's question. "Fairly well, though I don't entirely feel like I belong here. Perhaps that will change with time."

“I have to imagine that this is all very daunting to you,” Lilia states. “You went from knowing little of your elfin heritage and now you are in the cradle of modern elfin civilization. Some twenty thousand years ago the elves were forced to abandon their first home, the legendary Evergreen and eventually settled here in the Sylvan Realm. Ten thousand years later, the Sylvan Realm was too crowded for all the elves and a great exodus occurred. Lead by King Dorwynn those elves settled in the much larger Elfholds to the southeast. Now we are returning to our second home and restoring it to life. For an elf, these are very exciting times.”

“But unlike many half-elves,” Lilia continues as she absentmindedly scratches Lady's head, “you've had a taste of what it is like to be an elf. While you possessed the energy to heal the Mother Tree, you were an elf. That gives you an insight most half-elves could never match. Your words also remind me of things that I have heard about half-elves. That they seem to have trouble fitting in anywhere. While you are part of two different races, you're not really either one. I don't know how I would deal with that.”

She pauses again, clearly still a bit uncomfortable. "If an opportunity arises where you have a little time, I would like to talk with you about my role here. It would be good to have a purpose, and I'm not really that interested in more fighting."

“Of course we may talk more in the morning,” Lilia answers. “You will always have my ear, Kylie. As I said before, there is much to do here in the Sylvan Realm and not everything involves fighting orcs. We'll need to scout out the rest of the Realm and see what condition the other elfin clan holds are in. The Royal Palace will need to be cleared of Moorkroft's presence at some point. Once the internal matters are deal with we'll need to scout the lands outside our border and decide if those who live there are allies or enemies. There is much to do and just how big a role you play in all of this is up to you.”

“Nor I you.”she says evenly. “Whatever comes to pass I will see it through.” She says with a heavy heart. “It is just strange to think some would raise their hand against one that saved them and the Mother Tree.”she says in disbelief.

“Lia, you are far stronger than I am,” Lilia admits. “The path you chose is a difficult one. While I am certainly no expert on drow, do not let the actions of one mad man color your perceptions.”

“I mean look around you,” Lilia says while gesturing the the area around them. “Do you think just any drow would even be welcomed here high up in the branches of the Mother Tree? The All-Father picked you, your brother and Kylie for a particular reason. It is my believe that he wants to reunite the whole family of elves. For a long time half-elves were considered to be outcasts at the very least and not very welcomed among we elves. Kylie wasn't even allowed into the Elfholds before. As for Drow, much like orcs, they are considered to be enemies first. It takes time for perceptions to change. But with what you have done here you have taken many steps in the right direction.”

After a time, Lilia will excuse herself for the evening. She'll retreat to the quarters that she has been using these last few days. Lady and Laucian's cooshee's, whom she is watching while Laucian is away, keep her company while she rests.

[Talen]

Talen:

Kylie chuckles. "Your grandmother is very wise. I hope I have the opportunity to meet her someday.

“You did meet her,” Talen says in surprise. “My grandmother is Nightmist. Until you arrived with Uncle Sherwood, I hadn't met any of my human relatives before.”

"We've been surrounded by so much magic and so many mages - including myself - for so long that it is easy to assume everything is supernatural." Kylie replies.

“Yeah, that makes sense,” Talen agrees.

“Thank you, Talen. It is good to have you here.” She says with a sheepish grin.

“Its what big brothers are for.”

Lia let’s out a laugh at Talen seeing his goofy smile. “I am happy for you.” She says with a smile and giving him a hug, “I know grandmother would feel the same.” She says with a smile, “It will be sometime before I get used to it.”she says somberly. “My eyes sting within the daylight. I truly know what Grandmother feels like, and to think I used to tease her when I was a child.”

“It'll be an adjustment for everyone,” Talen agrees. “Do you have a place to sleep for the night? I've been staying with Kylie and her mother. Her mother is the clan leader for the Feador's and they have their own place. I don't think it would be a problem for you to join us.”

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

“Thank you, Valena. You are a true friend. She says evenly , “Good luck to you, do you know where to start looking?

“You are most welcome, Lia,” Valena answers with a smile. “River Blossom knows the way, so there shouldn't be much danger. We'll talk more back at the Mother Tree.”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Elfin Council:

The Elfin Council has met and selected Lilia as the Queen of the Sylvan Realm and that Chandra will be the Head of the Council. Traditionally, the Elfin Queen deals with issues beyond the borders of the Sylvan Realm, while the Head of the Council handles internal matters. After the election, Lilia speaks.

“Thank you all for your confidence in me,” Lilia simply states. “I will do my best to live up to the honor you have bestowed upon me. For now, I feel we must defend the Mother Tree until we receive reinforcements from the Elfholds. The Mother Tree has just been restored and we can not allow any further danger to come to her. We will leave our enemies outside the Sylvan Realm alone for now until we have the resources to properly deal with them without endangering the Mother Tree. But those within our forest must be deal with severely.”

For the most part, much of the Council agrees with their new Queen. Those who disagree keep it to themselves. As his first act, Chandra looks to create response units to deal with threats as they arise. He asks Kylie and Talen, who both agree. Chandra is then approached by Lia.

Lia will approach Chandra, “I heard you are looking for individuals to be apart of teams to patrol the realm? I would gladly do so. Perhaps in doing so we can look to the other clan villages.” She offers the priest.

Chandra is surprised by the boldness of the drow, but makes no comment on it. “Yes, thank you for your assistance in this matter. You will be alerted when you are needed.”

Lia will inquire about the Darksong Knights as well as the villages of the other clans with the Clan elders.

Most of the Clan Leaders never heard of the Darksong Knights. It's not a surprise as they are all from the Elfholds to the southeast. Alanik Feador, the High Keeper of the Tree, easily walks up to Lia.

“Knowledge of the Darksong Knights was kept to a select few,” Alanik explains. “The previous rulers of the Sylvan Realms knew, but most did not. Not everyone was ready, nor really needed to know, that a few drow were present in the Sylvan Realm. While I was never there, the Darksong Knights made their home beneath the Royal Palace, thus the former King of the Sylvan Realm knew of them. I don't know what happened to them after the Elves left.”

“The other clan holds in the Sylvan Realm were abandoned when the elves left,” Alanik continues. “There are no other elves currently here. Just those adventurers who were freed from the Rainbow Bridge and those elves who slept in trees to tend to the Mother Tree.”

The council agrees tomorrow afternoon to iron out more issues. The gathering starts to thin out as the hour is late and most retire for the evening.

[GM Mad]

Laucian:

The members of the newly reformed Order of the Golden Griffon have reached the first of three enemy forts on the southern edge of the Sylvan Realm. More orc females and children are found. Laucian instructs them to gather what they can carry and leave. With the orcs gone, Laucian has his companions keep watch while he and Breeze Swiftflow search the fort for valuables and information.

The pair start at the quarters of the fire giant who commanded the fort. This is easy to find as all the forts were built using the same layout.

Once there he will look for anything of value, including maps and letters. As Breeze and Laucian walk, Laucian says, “Look for anything that maybe of use to us. Maps, Letters of movement, any chests.

The fire giants quarters his huge given that they are nearly twenty feet tall. The foul smell of hell hounds fills the area. The giants treasure is found. It holds many gold coins and a few bloodstone gems. This type of gem is small and blood red in color. Average specimens are around 50 gold in value. Bloodstones were found among the valuables of the previous fort.

There are also large hides holding giant sized messages on them. However, no one here can read the fire giant dialect. Breeze can pick out a few words thanks to his rogue ability to Read Languages. The word Hellfurnaces appears a few times, but there is also reference to a placed called Frost Haven far further to the north.

Some more minor treasure is found in the wyvern riders quarters. Some messages and notes are found, but their human writing is unlike that of those in Cynalon. Breeze can pick out a few words here and there. A placed called Raven's Claw is noted as before. One note talks about finding an 'arrival point' that the author believes is somewhere in the Sylvan Realm.

The orc quarters are saved for last. Some treasure is found, but nothing remarkable. The orc commander complains that fresh troops and supplies take too long to arrive at the fort, but otherwise the notes are uninteresting.

With that taken care of, the treasure rounded up, and the fort put to the torch the griffon riders are off once more. The sun is starting to set as you spot the next fort, the middle one of the three to the south, far off in the distance. Dusk has fallen once you are close enough to see finer details. A few light sources are noted as you approach overhead.


Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“You did meet her,” Talen says in surprise. “My grandmother is Nightmist. Until you arrived with Uncle Sherwood, I hadn't met any of my human relatives before.”

"Oh! You're right," Kylie admits, blushing in embarrassment. "With so much happening over the last couple of months, I totally forgot. I'm so sorry."


Meeting Chandra is a somewhat odd experience; he seems rather stiff and uptight - perhaps partly due to his displeasure at not being chosen as King. On some level, his heart seems to be in the right place, though he seems to lack the wisdom to really think through his decisions. Perhaps being Council Elder will give him an opportunity to grow into a great leader.

“Lilia is perfectly fine,” Lilia answers holding her hands up in front of her with a smile. “Unlike the human or dwarven equivalent, I was picked and my eventual successor will also be picked. It is not hereditary position. I simply speak for the Sylvan Realm in matters beyond our borders.”

"Okay, I think I understand." Kylie replies. She is pleased with the less formal expectations around royalty, though she wishes she felt less uncertain in this new society that is growing up her in the Sylvan Realm. At least Lilia seems to still see her as a friend, and that is more important to Kylie than any of the rest.

“I have to imagine that this is all very daunting to you,” Lilia states. “You went from knowing little of your elfin heritage and now you are in the cradle of modern elfin civilization. Some twenty thousand years ago the elves were forced to abandon their first home, the legendary Evergreen and eventually settled here in the Sylvan Realm. Ten thousand years later, the Sylvan Realm was too crowded for all the elves and a great exodus occurred. Lead by King Dorwynn those elves settled in the much larger Elfholds to the southeast. Now we are returning to our second home and restoring it to life. For an elf, these are very exciting times.”

“But unlike many half-elves,” Lilia continues as she absentmindedly scratches Lady's head, “you've had a taste of what it is like to be an elf. While you possessed the energy to heal the Mother Tree, you were an elf. That gives you an insight most half-elves could never match. Your words also remind me of things that I have heard about half-elves. That they seem to have trouble fitting in anywhere. While you are part of two different races, you're not really either one. I don't know how I would deal with that.”

Kylie listens intently to Lilia's explanation, occasionally glancing at her mother for confirmation - though there clearly is no need for it. Seeing Lilia scratching Lady, Kylie thinks of Dapple and the fact that she had left her cooshee companion back at the Feador clanhome in Mother Tree, thinking it wouldn't be appropriate to bring the animal to the Elfin Council; she will have to think more on that.

"I will admit to having felt odd while that energy was within me, and a little hollow after releasing it." She manages a weak smile at the thought, which grows stronger at Lilia's uncertainty at the experience. At least she is not the only one. "I'm still not sure that I'm dealing with it well, but I'm doing as best I can and hopefully it will grow easier."

“Of course we may talk more in the morning,” Lilia answers. “You will always have my ear, Kylie. As I said before, there is much to do here in the Sylvan Realm and not everything involves fighting orcs. We'll need to scout out the rest of the Realm and see what condition the other elfin clan holds are in. The Royal Palace will need to be cleared of Moorkroft's presence at some point. Once the internal matters are deal with we'll need to scout the lands outside our border and decide if those who live there are allies or enemies. There is much to do and just how big a role you play in all of this is up to you.”

"Thank you, Lilia, it means a lot to me that we can still be friends. I don't know what I would do without my big sister around," Kylie says, glancing over her shoulder at her mother with a smile. "But you are right that it is getting late, and I for one am very tired. I will look forward to talking more with you in the morning." She gives Lilia a quick hug, then turns away to return to the Feador clanhome for a good night's sleep.


On the way back, Kylie looks at her mother with a goofy grin. "I guess you didn't realize you had another daughter. Wait until you meet my brother Laucian..."

[Laucian]

Laucian-

With that taken care of, the treasure rounded up, and the fort put to the torch the griffon riders are off once more. The sun is starting to set as you spot the next fort, the middle one of the three to the south, far off in the distance. Dusk has fallen once you are close enough to see finer details. A few light sources are noted as you approach overhead.

Laucian takes the treasure and letters and places them in a satchel. He looks to the others making sure they are ready. Soon enough the fort is fire and they take to the wind. Looking back Laucian can see the smoke begin to billow up as more of the fort Is aflame.

“Good riddance.”he says evenly as he dawns his helm for flying.

As the lights in the distance come to light, Laucian calls out to the others. “Tell your griffins to glide over the fort by 100 yards( In Height) and fly over a corner of the fort. Look for possible targets. Laucian is hoping that the darkness plus the gliding of the griffons will give them the element of surprise and be able to see what is within the fort. If a target does present itself, Laucian will see about taking it out. ( Stunning arrow on Giants if any, then Ice.)

[Lia]

Lia

Chandra is surprised by the boldness of the drow, but makes no comment on it. “Yes, thank you for your assistance in this matter. You will be alerted when you are needed.”

Lia takes note of the surprise of the priest but says nothing of it. He is surprised due to my skin nothing more she thinks to herself.

“It'll be an adjustment for everyone,” Talen agrees. “Do you have a place to sleep for the night? I've been staying with Kylie and her mother. Her mother is the clan leader for the Feador's and they have their own place. I don't think it would be a problem for you to join us.”

“As long as it is okay with them.” She says evenly to her brother. “I hadn’t thought of sleeping arrangements as of yet.”

Lia will make her way with Talen when the time comes. She will look at Kylie and her mother.

“Greetings, Talen suggested that I might be able to stay with you and your kin tonight? If it is not to your liking I can look elsewhere.” She says softly her lavender eyes looking between the two women.

“Knowledge of the Darksong Knights was kept to a select few,” Alanik explains. “The previous rulers of the Sylvan Realms knew, but most did not. Not everyone was ready, nor really needed to know, that a few drow were present in the Sylvan Realm. While I was never there, the Darksong Knights made their home beneath the Royal Palace, thus the former King of the Sylvan Realm knew of them. I don't know what happened to them after the Elves left.”

“So it is possible they are still within the Palace,” she adds hopefully, "though I’m sure that the palace was searched."

A thought comes to mind, “And if they were not, could threats reach us from below the palace?” she asks curiously. Lia looks at Alanik, "Thank you for your counsel. I will have to speak with the clan elders and our queen if this is the case."

Seeing the house become late, Lia goes through her prayers and practices her dancing before turning in for the night. It takes a little while for sleep to come for her mind wonders with what to do and where to go. Perhaps tomorrow will provide more information she thinks as she falls asleep.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

For the most part, much of the Council agrees with their new Queen. Those who disagree keep it to themselves.

“That went well,” Lilia thinks to herself after making her proclamation to the Clan Council. Most seemed to agree and the very least no one objected to her ideas.

"Okay, I think I understand." Kylie replies. She is pleased with the less formal expectations around royalty, though she wishes she felt less uncertain in this new society that is growing up her in the Sylvan Realm. At least Lilia seems to still see her as a friend, and that is more important to Kylie than any of the rest.

“I'm still figuring this out myself,” Lilia admits. “My plan is to do what I think is best for the elfin people and hope for the best. Unlike those back in Cynalon, we really don't have a noble class. There are no elfin lords or ladies. Long titles can be so cumbersome."

Kylie listens intently to Lilia's explanation, occasionally glancing at her mother for confirmation - though there clearly is no need for it. Seeing Lilia scratching Lady, Kylie thinks of Dapple and the fact that she had left her cooshee companion back at the Feador clanhome in Mother Tree, thinking it wouldn't be appropriate to bring the animal to the Elfin Council; she will have to think more on that.

Lilia notes Kylie's minor surprise at seeing Lady here. “We elves live in harmony with nature,” Lilia explains. “That includes the creatures we share the forests with. Lady here is free to go where she pleases. But I am very pleased that she chooses to stay beside me.” That last bit is said while vigorously scratching the cooshee.

"I will admit to having felt odd while that energy was within me, and a little hollow after releasing it." She manages a weak smile at the thought, which grows stronger at Lilia's uncertainty at the experience. At least she is not the only one. "I'm still not sure that I'm dealing with it well, but I'm doing as best I can and hopefully it will grow easier."

“That's all any of us can do,” Lilia notes. “The best we can. I am sure that life will become easier for you.”

"Thank you, Lilia, it means a lot to me that we can still be friends. I don't know what I would do without my big sister around," Kylie says, glancing over her shoulder at her mother with a smile. "But you are right that it is getting late, and I for one am very tired. I will look forward to talking more with you in the morning." She gives Lilia a quick hug, then turns away to return to the Feador clanhome for a good night's sleep.

“You will always be welcome here, Kylie,” Lilia says. “Among humans family tends to be those whom you share a blood relationship with. Among us elves, our clan is our family even if we do not share blood relations. So you can consider all those in Clan Feador as part of your family. And with the role you have played in restoring the Mother Tree all elves will treat you as kin.”

Lilia says her good nights and heads back to the rooms she has been using here at Golden Peak. Laucian's cooshee's are waiting there while Onyx is curled up on the bed. Lilia cleans up and then turns in for the evening. She lies there for a time, her thoughts focuses on what she most do in the days and months to come. An idea concerning those who are half-elfin comes to her before she nods off. The evening rain begins to fall outside and its soothing noise sends Lilia off into sleep.

[Talen]

Talen:

"Oh! You're right," Kylie admits, blushing in embarrassment. "With so much happening over the last couple of months, I totally forgot. I'm so sorry."

“Don't worry about it,” Talen easily answers. “It does seem almost a life time ago since we met in the Lost Valley.”

“As long as it is okay with them.” She says evenly to her brother. “I hadn’t thought of sleeping arrangements as of yet.”

“Hey, she puts up with me,” Talen says with a grin, “so you shouldn't have any problem!”

Lia will make her way with Talen when the time comes. She will look at Kylie and her mother.

“Greetings, Talen suggested that I might be able to stay with you and your kin tonight? If it is not to your liking I can look elsewhere.” She says softly her lavender eyes looking between the two women.

Taken stand with his sister as she asks Allurien for permission to sleep in their home. Assuming things go well, Talen will take to Lia for a time before turning in himself.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“I'm still figuring this out myself,” Lilia admits. “My plan is to do what I think is best for the elfin people and hope for the best. Unlike those back in Cynalon, we really don't have a noble class. There are no elfin lords or ladies. Long titles can be so cumbersome."

Kyie nods as she listens to her friend - the Queen! - explain. "Not having a noble class is an idea that will take some getting used to. Elcadan was all about class and where you fit in the hierarchy."

Lilia notes Kylie's minor surprise at seeing Lady here. “We elves live in harmony with nature,” Lilia explains. “That includes the creatures we share the forests with. Lady here is free to go where she pleases. But I am very pleased that she chooses to stay beside me.” That last bit is said while vigorously scratching the cooshee.

"That matches with what I'd always heard," Kylie responds, rubbing her chin in thought, "but the reality is still a bit hard to grasp. I will observe those around me and try to better understand the culture."

“That's all any of us can do,” Lilia notes. “The best we can. I am sure that life will become easier for you.”

Kylie is pleased by her friend's confidence in her. "Thank you. I hope that turns out to be the case."

“You will always be welcome here, Kylie,” Lilia says. “Among humans family tends to be those whom you share a blood relationship with. Among us elves, our clan is our family even if we do not share blood relations. So you can consider all those in Clan Feador as part of your family. And with the role you have played in restoring the Mother Tree all elves will treat you as kin.”

This seems a bit strange, though Kylie does not doubt that Lilia is right. The idea that she is practically family to people she has known for but a few days - and in many cases has not yet even met in person - simply on the basis of participating in this event boggles her mind a bit. She does indeed have much to think upon.


Kylie notes the visitors at the door and goes to greet them. "Mom! We have visitors!" she calls out over her shoulder. "Hi Talen. Hi Lia. Come in," she says as her mother approaches from another room. "Mom, have you met Talen's sister Lia yet? I met their grandmother Nightmist while we were visiting the Hidden Valley."

“Greetings, Talen suggested that I might be able to stay with you and your kin tonight? If it is not to your liking I can look elsewhere.” She says softly her lavender eyes looking between the two women.

"Pleeeaaassseee," Kylie begs her mom with a bit of a smirk, since she has a pretty good idea how her mother will respond anyway, "We have plenty of room..." The clanhome is becoming quite a home-away-from-home for her and her companions.

Kylie will spend some time studying and playing with Dapple before turning in for the night.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Laucian:

With the first of the three enemy forts dealt with, the Order of the Golden Griffon fly on to the next one. Night is beginning to fall when they can see the distant fort on the grassy plains. A few sources of light are noted in the fort below.

Laucian instructs his followers to have their griffons silently glide over the fort and look for enemy targets. As Lucian does so, he can just make out movement in the guard tower below him. The target is too far away to clearly make out with his elfin sight, even when amplified by the Griffon Rider's Helm. What sounds like an arrow flying through the air is barely heard right after that, but if an arrow was fired at him it didn't pass anywhere near Laucian or his griffon mount.

After grouping up again, the other riders report movement in the guard towers, but too far away to make out any clear details. The occupants are just vague figures in the darkness given the distance and the speed of your mounts.


GM Notes:

Elfin night sight is only good up to 60 feet. At the 100 yard range and given the growing darkness, your sight is no better than anyone else. The Griffon Riders Helms do double your vision while worn, but it is still just 120 feet that your infravision will work. It still not enough to make out the figures.

[GM Mad]

Golden Peak:

On top of the Mother Tree in the Order Hall of the Golden Griffons, a place called Golden Peak, the elves start to turn in for the evening while others chat.

Kylie listens intently to Lilia's explanation, occasionally glancing at her mother for confirmation - though there clearly is no need for it. Seeing Lilia scratching Lady, Kylie thinks of Dapple and the fact that she had left her cooshee companion back at the Feador clanhome in Mother Tree, thinking it wouldn't be appropriate to bring the animal to the Elfin Council; she will have to think more on that.

Allurien simply nods in agreement when Kylie looks back at her mother.

On the way back, Kylie looks at her mother with a goofy grin. "I guess you didn't realize you had another daughter. Wait until you meet my brother Laucian..."

“It is as your friend said, Kylie,” Allurien states. “We elves are more clannish than humans. Family to us is our whole clan. You have to think of it this way. All elves are descended from Corellon Larethian. That's why he is called the All-Father. From that perspective all elves, no matter how distant, are related. Given that, we are very much used to large families.”


Elsewhere, Lia speaks with Alanik, the High Keeper of the Tree.

“So it is possible they are still within the Palace,” she adds hopefully, "though I’m sure that the palace was searched."

“Underneath the palace,” Alanik corrects. “I have heard that there are caves and tunnels down there descending into the depths of the earth where the drow do dwell.”

A thought comes to mind, “And if they were not, could threats reach us from below the palace?” she asks curiously.

“It is possible,” Alanik agrees. “As I stated, I was never personally there. I only speak of the rumors that I heard over the years.”

Lia looks at Alanik, “Thank you for your counsel. I will have to speak with the clan elders and our queen if this is the case."

“Anytime, Lia of Eillstraee,” Alanik says with a bow. “Pleasant eve to you.”

After that, Lia chats with her brother Talen and together they begin the climb down the Mother Tree to the town down below.

[GM Mad]

Feador Clanhold:

The Feador Clan is well known as the best at tending to the Mother Tree and her descendants. Here in the Sylvan Realm, the Feador Clanhold is called Feadiel and it sits at the base of the Mother Tree itself. All of the elves who remained behind in the Sylvan Realm are part of the Feador Clan, so because of that there are more Feador's in the Sylvan Realm than all the other clans combined many times over.

As Allurien and Kylie make their way back home, many of the elves give them greetings and a few stop and chat for a bit. Eventually, they do make it back to the home of the Clan Councilwoman. Like many elfin homes, it is up in the trees. Not long after that, there are visitors.

Kylie notes the visitors at the door and goes to greet them. "Mom! We have visitors!" she calls out over her shoulder. "Hi Talen. Hi Lia. Come in," she says as her mother approaches from another room. "Mom, have you met Talen's sister Lia yet? I met their grandmother Nightmist while we were visiting the Lost Valley."

“Welcome,” Allurien says in greets as she approaches. “We met in passing, but have yet to actually converse.”

“Greetings, Talen suggested that I might be able to stay with you and your kin tonight? If it is not to your liking I can look elsewhere.” She says softly her lavender eyes looking between the two women.

"Pleeeaaassseee," Kylie begs her mom with a bit of a smirk, since she has a pretty good idea how her mother will respond anyway, "We have plenty of room..." The clanhome is becoming quite a home-away-from-home for her and her companions.

Allurien sighs at her daughter's antics. “Go get a guest room ready,” she tells Kylie. “Talen, why don't you be a dear and give her a hand?”

“You are most welcome to stay with us, Lia of Eillstraee,” Allurien says to Lia warmly. “My home is your home. Come, let us chat while the preparations are being made.” Allurien gestures to a series of chairs and small couches in one corner of the entry chamber to the Councilwoman's home.

After being seated, Allurien says, “I have heard of Eillstraee during my adventures before, but I had yet to meet a follower of her. I am very interested to know more about her.”

[GM Mad]

November 26th:

As usual, the overnight rain peters out before night ends and the clouds break. The new day arrives to a mostly clear sky and the sun occasionally breaks through the dense elfin forest in a few spots. For the most part it is twilight-like darkness on the floor of the great elfin forest. The light does not bother Lia in this environment.

The morning passes quickly as breakfast is had. Near noon or so, Allurien makes her way back up to Golden Peak as another Council meeting was scheduled for today.

However, as you reach Golden Peak the area does not seem as crowded as it was the night before. It is quickly determined that Council Leader Chandra is not present, nor are any of those you would consider to be followers. No one knows for sure where they went, but some think that something came up during the night and they have gone out to investigate it.

Shortly after that there is a minor commotion when three elf maidens riding unicorns simply appear in a common area of Golden Peak. It is Valena and her companions Fayrianna and Annelwin. Together they are working to restore the Silver Maidens, an order of elfin females who have unicorn mounts.

Most elves are in awe of the unicorns, as they are rarely seen even to the elves and now there is three of them. Valena dismounts from River Blossom. Aerie, her companion falcon sits on her shoulder. Valena's cooshee companions come rushing in from the stairs leading down the Mother Tree.

“Well met, friends!” Valena calls out in greet. “Did I miss anything while I was gone?”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Clan life was covered in greater detail in the last post of Elfquest #4 and continues into #5. That was when Elder Treelife gave the half-elves a tour of the Grunalf Clan Hold in the Elfholds. It also ties into how the elves deal with crime as Lilia was explaining earlier. Since the clan is considered one large family, they tend to deal with matters internally. There really isn't much crime as all goods the clan makes is for everyone in the clan.

The elves do lead a very different way of life!

With this post, we start a new day, November 26th. Everyone but Laucian is now here. Laucian is back at the end of November 24th.

Now what?

[Lia]

Lia

“Underneath the palace,” Alanik corrects. “I have heard that there are caves and tunnels down there descending into the depths of the earth where the drow do dwell.”

Lia listens intently to Alanik. Thoughtfully she will bring this up to Lilia. As the new Queen she would need to know of the possibilities that hold beneath the palace. Whether they be rumors or not. Once the palace is searches these rumors or truths should be explored.

"Pleeeaaassseee," Kylie begs her mom with a bit of a smirk, since she has a pretty good idea how her mother will respond anyway, "We have plenty of room..." The clanhome is becoming quite a home-away-from-home for her and her companions.

Allurien sighs at her daughter's antics. “Go get a guest room ready,” she tells Kylie. “Talen, why don't you be a dear and give her a hand?”

Lia can’t help but smile and shake her head at the interaction between mother and daughter.

“You are most welcome to stay with us, Lia of Eillstraee,” Allurien says to Lia warmly. “My home is your home. Come, let us chat while the preparations are being made.” Allurien gestures to a series of chairs and small couches in one corner of the entry chamber to the Councilwoman's home.

“Thank you Allurien. I dare say I would not find the warmest of welcomes at most doors.Taking the seat upon one of the small couches, Lia looks around the dwelling.

After being seated, Allurien says, “I have heard of Eillstraee during my adventures before, but I had yet to meet a follower of her. I am very interested to know more about her.”

As Allurien speaks to her, Lia shuffles in her seat slightly, partly due to nerves and being comfortable. “I would think many haven’t.” she says with an easy smile. “It is said that Eillstraee is the daughter of the Father of Elves by way of the spider Queen. But then she was not known by that name. During an uprising against the the King of Elves, Eillstraee was deceived by her mother and she unknowingly attacked her beloved father. After the uprising, Corellon had banished all those involved though Eillstraee was found of no wrong doing.” She adds evenly her lavender eyes meeting Allurien’s gaze.

“It is said that Eilistraee sought out her father, and asked for the same punishment. Her teachings say that she wished it so that she could be a beacon of light in the Underdark. To remind her people of what good is in each of us and to be free among the surface world in harmony with other races.”

Eilistraee teaches us to be mindful of one another that not to judge us by our looks but our deeds and hearts. She teaches us dancing, swordplay, and to see the beauty in the world no matter the shape. “ she adds thoughtfully .”She is a beacon of light to those that choose to see her.”

“I do not know how much Kylie spoke to you about Nightmist, Talen and I. We lived in the hidden Valley. It was a place of different races could live among themselves in peace and harmony. My grandmother instilled her teachings in us, then sent us out into the world so that we can have a better understanding of the world. In doing so I had the honor of meeting and speaking to my patroness. She was truly beautiful her dance brought tears to my eyes. Her blessing and my choice was to become a drow, so that I could fully know what it is to be one of her children.” She looks at Allurien with a thoughtful smile knowing the elf would probably not understand her choices or beliefs.

As the rain begins to dissipate, Lia begins to wake. Quietly looking up to the dwellings roof she quietly thinks to herself. As the others begin to stir , Lia will stretch then get ready for the day, Strapping her sword to her hip and meeting the others for breakfast.

Seeing the others Lia will ask the others, “I was speaking to Alanik about the Darksong knights. A relatively unknown force here in the Sylvan realms. There is rumors of caverns beneath the Palace. I wonder if Lilia was informed of this?”she adds looking up at the others.

When Alluien heads to the clan council meetings, Lia will ask is she can attend.

[Laucian]

Laucian

Having glided over the fort he can only see shadows within the fort.

“Could anyone see anything?” he asks. Though soon enough the others speak the same as he experienced.

Lauican will circle the Griffon riders around for another pass in doing so he will add. “Target anything that moves. We don’t know what we are dealing with.” Laucian will fly his mount over the fort with his bow at the ready. He will fire arrows down on any target he sees.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Kyie nods as she listens to her friend - the Queen! - explain. "Not having a noble class is an idea that will take some getting used to. Elcadan was all about class and where you fit in the hierarchy."

“Now that I think about it, we elves do have some semblance of what you might consider to be classes,” Lilia states. “But unlike Cynalon how we react to classes is dependent on us, not the other person.”

“You can roughly divide elves into three classes. The first is your elders. That would include your parents, clan elders, and others who are much older than you are. You treat these people with respect.”

“The next group is those who are around your age. They are your equals, so you treat them as equals.”

“Lastly, there is the young ones. Those who are younger than you all the way to newborns. You protect them and guide them as best you can. That's pretty much all you need to know when it comes with dealing with elves. Going beyond this simple system just complicates things unnecessarily.”

"That matches with what I'd always heard," Kylie responds, rubbing her chin in thought, "but the reality is still a bit hard to grasp. I will observe those around me and try to better understand the culture."

Lilia simply nods her understanding. It might be a concept just beyond her half-elfin grasp. Not long after that, Lilia turns in for the evening.


The Sylvan Queen, a title that will take some time to get used to, is awake early. She hasn't cast any spells for a while now, so Lilia doesn't have to memorize or pray for more. She regards her armor-- the concept of now wearing armor still amazes her! –- and wonders how to properly maintain it. While the change the All-Father made to her included many things about her new priestly role, it didn't cover maintaining armor. Perhaps she should have paid more attention when the human warriors back in Cynalon cleaned theirs?

Since she not expecting danger here on Golden Peak, Lilia leaves her armor and bow behind, but does put her sword belt on. After that, she's out to mingle and have breakfast.

However, as you reach Golden Peak the area does not seem as crowded as it was the night before. It is quickly determined that Council Leader Chandra is not present, nor are any of those you would consider to be followers. No one knows for sure where they went, but some think that something came up during the night and they have gone out to investigate it.

Word reaches Lilia that Chandra and those who followed him have gone off on some mission. No doubt to hunt down orcs in the Sylvan Realm. The gossip has it that some orcs did reach the forest and some of the other adventuring bands were hunting them down. Something important must have come up that send her fellow priest into action. Lilia thinks nothing of it, as this sort of thing is part of his responsibilities as head of the Clan Council. To protect the Sylvan Realm.

Shortly after that there is a minor commotion when three elf maidens riding unicorns simply appear in a common area of Golden Peak. It is Valena and her companions Fayrianna and Annelwin. Together they are working to restore the Silver Maidens, an order of elfin females who have unicorn mounts.

Most elves are in awe of the unicorns, as they are rarely seen even to the elves and now there is three of them. Valena dismounts from River Blossom. Aerie, her companion falcon sits on her shoulder. Valena's cooshee companions come rushing in from the stairs leading down the Mother Tree.

“Well met, friends!” Valena calls out in greet. “Did I miss anything while I was gone?”

“Hello Valena,” Lilia says with a wave and a smile as she approaches. Lilia finds herself in awe of the majestic unicorns. “I see that you have added more ladies to your ranks. Very good.”

“As for what you missed, we've got the leadership of the Sylvan Realm in place. You may address me as 'Queen of the Sylvan Realm',” Lilia says with a pleased smile. “Chandra is the Head of the Clan Council and seeming away on some mission. Against orcs most likely.”

With several of the Clan Council missing, it seems that we won't be able to discuss matters fully. When she does see Kylie, Talen, and the Lia, Lilia will wave them over.

“Good afternoon to you all,” Lilia says in greeting. “An idea came to me while I was falling asleep. I wish to see what you think of it.”

[Talen]

Talen:

With the hour growing late, Talen and his sister Lia make their way to where he's been staying with Kylie and her mom.

Kylie notes the visitors at the door and goes to greet them. "Mom! We have visitors!" she calls out over her shoulder. "Hi Talen. Hi Lia. Come in," she says as her mother approaches from another room. "Mom, have you met Talen's sister Lia yet? I met their grandmother Nightmist while we were visiting the Hidden Valley."

“Kylie,” responds when she says hi. Although he is wondering why she is being so formal. Talen's been staying here for days now!

Lia asks if she would be welcome to stay here.

"Pleeeaaassseee," Kylie begs her mom with a bit of a smirk, since she has a pretty good idea how her mother will respond anyway, "We have plenty of room..." The clanhome is becoming quite a home-away-from-home for her and her companions.

Allurien sighs at her daughter's antics. “Go get a guest room ready,” she tells Kylie. “Talen, why don't you be a dear and give her a hand?”

Talen is still a bit confused about Kylie's behavior, but doesn't think all that much about it. “Yes ma'am,” Talen says in response to Allurien's request.

As he departs with Kylie, he says to her, “I figured we'd let Lia use the room next to mine. If that's okay?”

Next morning over breakfast, Lia brings up the Darksong Knights and the Elfin Palace.

Seeing the others Lia will ask the others, “I was speaking to Alanik about the Darksong knights. A relatively unknown force here in the Sylvan realms. There is rumors of caverns beneath the Palace. I wonder if Lilia was informed of this?”she adds looking up at the others.

“What are the Darksong Knights?” Talen wonders a loud. “If I were to make a guess, I doubt Lilia knows much more about the palace than any of us do. It still may not be safe since Moorkroft was using it. But there could be magic and spells to be found there! We should check it out.”

Not having much else to do, Talen follows the girls back up to the top of the Mother Tree. There is talk of politics and others being away hunting orcs, but Talen doesn't really pay attention to any of that. Much like the other elves present, he finds himself in awe of not one, but three unicorns being ridden by elf maidens!

After a time, Talen will say to Valena, “Looks like you're starting your own little club.”

It then strikes Talen that this group that he's known these last few weeks seems to be breaking up. Sherwood is gone, Lilia is now a queen, and Laucian and Valena are involved in their own orders. Even Lia seems to have an ancient order to restore. Half-elves really don't seem to have a place in the Sylvan Realm.

“Good afternoon to you all,” Lilia says in greeting. “An idea came to me while I was falling asleep. I wish to see what you think of it.”

“Your Majesty,” Talen says in greeting. “What idea is this?”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Laucian:

The griffon riders compare notes about the enemy fort they are investigating. It was too dark and the targets too far away to make out clearly. Laucian decides to risk flying closer to identify targets and take them out.

Laucian's griffon flies away from the fort and then circles back towards it gathering speed as it flies along. The griffon is much lower, just barely higher then the wall around the fort. As it gets closer to the fort, the griffon starts to glide and hold itself steady.

Once more, Laucian spots movement in one of the guard tower. He aims his arrow and draws it back slowly. Just as he prepares to fire it, Laucian's eyes go wide in surprise! Those are not orcs or even men in the tower-- they are elves!

The elves in the tower seem realize this, as Laucian faintly hears, “Hold your fire! Those are not wyverns!” The voice that cried out is male and spoke in elvish!

[GM Mad]

Lia & Allurien:

Back at the Mother Tree, Lia and Allurien have a chat.

“Thank you Allurien. I dare say I would not find the warmest of welcomes at most doors.” Taking the seat upon one of the small couches, Lia looks around the dwelling.

“Oh?” Allurien says in slight surprise. “Did something happen?”

As Allurien speaks to her, Lia shuffles in her seat slightly, partly due to nerves and being comfortable. “I would think many haven’t.” she says with an easy smile.

“If one tends to adventure, like I did before I met Kylie's father, one does tend to eventually come into conflict with the drow,” Allurien easily answers. “They always seem to be up to some evil plot to do harm to the surface world.”

“It is said that Eillstraee is the daughter of the Father of Elves by way of the spider Queen. But then she was not known by that name. During an uprising against the the King of Elves, Eillstraee was deceived by her mother and she unknowingly attacked her beloved father. After the uprising, Corellon had banished all those involved though Eilistraee was found of no wrong doing.” She adds evenly her lavender eyes meeting Allurien’s gaze.

“It is said that Eilistraee sought out her father, and asked for the same punishment. Her teachings say that she wished it so that she could be a beacon of light in the Underdark. To remind her people of what good is in each of us and to be free among the surface world in harmony with other races.”

Eilistraee teaches us to be mindful of one another that not to judge us by our looks but our deeds and hearts. She teaches us dancing, swordplay, and to see the beauty in the world no matter the shape“ she adds thoughtfully. ”She is a beacon of light to those that choose to see her.”

“The tales that I heard growing it up tell events differently,” Allurien admits. “But history does tend to be shaped and molded by the teller. Facts are discarded that do not fit the narrative one is trying to tell. On the whole, Eilistraee seems a pleasant enough goddess, but one who has taken on what most might call an impossible task. The schism between elf and drow was so long ago and so violent, that I doubt there ever will be complete acceptance. But I do admire those that at least try.”

“I do not know how much Kylie spoke to you about Nightmist, Talen and I. We lived in the hidden Valley. It was a place of different races could live among themselves in peace and harmony. My grandmother instilled her teachings in us, then sent us out into the world so that we can have a better understanding of the world. In doing so I had the honor of meeting and speaking to my patroness. She was truly beautiful her dance brought tears to my eyes. Her blessing and my choice was to become a drow, so that I could fully know what it is to be one of her children.” She looks at Allurien with a thoughtful smile knowing the elf would probably not understand her choices or beliefs.

“No, Kylie hasn't spoke much about Lost Valley,” Allurien states. “We've had so much to catch up on. She was just a child that last time I saw her and now she is all grown up. I missed so much of her life.”

Seeing the others Lia will ask the others, “I was speaking to Alanik about the Darksong knights. A relatively unknown force here in the Sylvan realms. There is rumors of caverns beneath the Palace. I wonder if Lilia was informed of this?”she adds looking up at the others.

Seeing that Talen asks who the Darksong Knights are, Allurien doesn't have to voice the question. Instead she will listen as she nibbles on her morning fruit and nuts.


Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“Now that I think about it, we elves do have some semblance of what you might consider to be classes,” Lilia states. “But unlike Cynalon how we react to classes is dependent on us, not the other person.”

“You can roughly divide elves into three classes. The first is your elders. That would include your parents, clan elders, and others who are much older than you are. You treat these people with respect.”

“The next group is those who are around your age. They are your equals, so you treat them as equals.”

“Lastly, there are the young ones. Those who are younger than you all the way to newborns. You protect them and guide them as best you can. That's pretty much all you need to know when it comes with dealing with elves. Going beyond this simple system just complicates things unnecessarily.”

"So it's really all about age, then..." Kylie replies, reflecting on the concept. "So, being half-elven, my lifespan will be far less than full elves, and thus will always be seen as a 'young one' by most adult elves."

“It is as your friend said, Kylie,” Allurien states. “We elves are more clannish than humans. Family to us is our whole clan. You have to think of it this way. All elves are descended from Corellon Larethian. That's why he is called the All-Father. From that perspective all elves, no matter how distant, are related. Given that, we are very much used to large families.”

Kylie chuckles. "So being a half-elf, I guess that makes them half-relations..." This is another new perspective that Kylie will need some time to ponder and absorb. It occurs to her to wonder if at some far distant point in history there was a single progenitor of the human race as well.

Allurien sighs at her daughter's antics. “Go get a guest room ready,” she tells Kylie. “Talen, why don't you be a dear and give her a hand?”

As he departs with Kylie, he says to her, “I figured we'd let Lia use the room next to mine. If that's okay?”

"I don't see why not," Kylie replies with a shrug. Part of her still sees this as her mother's house, but not entirely her own.

As they work, Kylie glances over at Talen. "It is still so strange having my mother back. For most of my life, I believed her to be dead. Now, here she is all of a sudden!" Kylie shakes her head. "In a way, it feels like a chance to be a child again. I have taken care of my dad since mom disappeared, and that meant growing up very quickly at an early age. That and living in Dog Alley gave me little chance to experience being a kid."

Kylie spends a somewhat restless night as she struggles to process all of the new concepts and perspectives that she is being exposed to. The next morning, she is slow to get up, and drags herself out to the dining area just as the others strike up a conversation.

Seeing the others Lia will ask the others, “I was speaking to Alanik about the Darksong knights. A relatively unknown force here in the Sylvan realms. There is rumors of caverns beneath the Palace. I wonder if Lilia was informed of this?”she adds looking up at the others.

“What are the Darksong Knights?” Talen wonders a loud. “If I were to make a guess, I doubt Lilia knows much more about the palace than any of us do. It still may not be safe since Moorkroft was using it. But there could be magic and spells to be found there! We should check it out.”

"It had occurred to me," Kylie says, nodding, "that there was likely a need to explore the palace more thoroughly in the near future. We were able to destroy Moorkroft, but didn't actually have an opportunity to cleanse it of his influence."


Later than morning, Kylie and Dapple go in search of Lilia to have that conversation they spoke of the previous night, but is unable to find the newly-crowned elven queen. Perhaps she got caught up in the business of government, or maybe just decided that she needed to sleep in late.

Returning to the house, Kylie rejoins her mom, Talen and Lia. As noon approaches, they move out into the common area, as there is a council meeting planned. Apparently Chandra has left the new settlement, which means the council meeting will need to be rescheduled. For some reason, his absence bothers Kylie, though she cannot put her finger on exactly why. Some part of her doesn't entirely trust him.

... there is a minor commotion when three elf maidens riding unicorns simply appear in a common area of Golden Peak. It is Valena and her companions Fayrianna and Annelwin. Together they are working to restore the Silver Maidens, an order of elfin females who have unicorn mounts.

Most elves are in awe of the unicorns, as they are rarely seen even to the elves and now there is three of them. Valena dismounts from River Blossom. Aerie, her companion falcon sits on her shoulder. Valena's cooshee companions come rushing in from the stairs leading down the Mother Tree.

When she does see Kylie, Talen, and the Lia, Lilia will wave them over.

There is a bit of a commotion, and the friends see the unicorns arrive from a little ways off. Lilia spots Kylie and the other half-elves through the rapidly-growing crowd and waves them over to join her and Valena.

After a time, Talen will say to Valena, “Looks like you're starting your own little club.”

Talen's comment brings a grin to Kylie's face. "They are beautiful, Valena..." she murmurs in awe of the unicorns. "Being accepted by them is a great honor." Kylie looks down at Dapple with a smile, knowing that she too has been honored by the trust and love of her cooshee friend.

“Good afternoon to you all,” Lilia says in greeting. “An idea came to me while I was falling asleep. I wish to see what you think of it.”

“Your Majesty,” Talen says in greeting. “What idea is this?”

Kylie gives Talen a glance, remembering her own uncertainty the previous evening regarding how to address their friend. "Yes, Lilia, please tell us. I think we have much to discuss."

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

The trip to the Order Hall of the Silver Maidens was a wonderful experience. The only access to the area was by way of River Blossom's ability to 'blink', to vanish and reappear elsewhere much like a mage's ability to Teleport. The Order Hall was a collection of buildings in a large clearing. A brook passed through the area that provided water.

Other unicorn's were present and her companions were accepted by them. Gear for the unicorns was found as well as tabards for the order. There was a lore book covering the history of the Silver Maidens and it went back thousands of years. The idea of bringing back such an ancient order thrilled Valena.

Light leather barding was acquired for River Blossom, giving her friend more protection. Since Valena relied on her archery most of the time, she didn't want to slow River Blossom down with heavier armor. Valena herself know wore a tabard of the Silver Maidens. It was dark blue in color with silver edging. The head of a unicorn in silver was displayed in the middle. Valena's Holy Symbol of Ehlonna danged in front of her tabard. Underneath her tabard, Valena wears her Chain Mail of Ehlonna.

The other Silver Maiden had the same tabard on, showing their status. Fayrianna had chosen plate barding for her unicorns and now carried a lance. Much like Valena, Annelwin had chosen lighter armor since she was also a Ranger of Ehlonna.

With the business at the Order Hall taken care of, the group made their way back to Golden Peak. They decided to make a grand entrance by having their unicorns blink them up to Golden Peak. It seemed to have the desired affect on the other elves.

Shortly after that there is a minor commotion when three elf maidens riding unicorns simply appear in a common area of Golden Peak. It is Valena and her companions Fayrianna and Annelwin. Together they are working to restore the Silver Maidens, an order of elfin females who have unicorn mounts.

Most elves are in awe of the unicorns, as they are rarely seen even to the elves and now there is three of them. Valena dismounts from River Blossom. Aerie, her companion falcon sits on her shoulder. Valena's cooshee companions come rushing in from the stairs leading down the Mother Tree.

“Well met, friends!” Valena calls out in greet. “Did I miss anything while I was gone?”

“Hello Valena,” Lilia says with a wave and a smile as she approaches. Lilia finds herself in awe of the majestic unicorns. “I see that you have added more ladies to your ranks. Very good.”

“As for what you missed, we've got the leadership of the Sylvan Realm in place. You may address me as 'Queen of the Sylvan Realm',” Lilia says with a pleased smile. “Chandra is the Head of the Clan Council and seeming away on some mission. Against orcs most likely.”

“Well then,” Valena responds, “congratulations are in order. While I have little love for politics, I did not wish to see Chandra become King. That would have been disastrous. At any rate, the Silver Maidens are reborn to once more serve the Sylvan Realm and to protect the Mother Tree from all dangers. Have you a task for us, Your Majesty?”

After a time, Talen will say to Valena, “Looks like you're starting your own little club.”

“Indeed I am, Talen,” Valena responds. “Hopefully we three are just the beginning of a much larger group. The requirements to become a Silver Maiden are steep and most women will not met them. But I am hopeful that more will soon join us.”

Talen's comment brings a grin to Kylie's face. "They are beautiful, Valena..." she murmurs in awe of the unicorns. "Being accepted by them is a great honor." Kylie looks down at Dapple with a smile, knowing that she too has been honored by the trust and love of her cooshee friend.

“That it is, friend Kylie Feador,” Valena answers with a smile. “Its a dream come true for me. I still have to pinch myself to make sure that this is really happening.”

[Lilia]

Lilia:

"So it's really all about age, then..." Kylie replies, reflecting on the concept. "So, being half-elven, my lifespan will be far less than full elves, and thus will always be seen as a 'young one' by most adult elves."

“Yes,” Lilia answers bluntly. “I admit that I have done that myself. There are times where I had to bite back my reactions as I know you are not a child and should not be treated as such. But the impulse is there.”


Next afternoon, Valena returns to Golden Peak and not long after that Allurien, Kylie, Talen, and Lia.

“Well then,” Valena responds, “congratulations are in order. While I have little love for politics, I did not wish to see Chandra become King. That would have been disastrous. At any rate, the Silver Maidens are reborn to once more serve the Sylvan Realm and to protect the Mother Tree from all dangers. Have you a task for us, Your Majesty?”

“Thank you, Valena,” Lilia responds. “Many shared your fears of what Chandra might do. He will now protect the Sylvan Realm instead of waging war against those beyond our forest. In fact he seems to be off doing just that as we speak.”

“You ladies have been away for several days now,” Lilia continues. “Why don't you relax for a time and we'll see if any new crisis comes up that requires your attention?”


After speaking with Valena, Lilia motions the half-elves over to her and speaks of an idea she has.

“Your Majesty,” Talen says in greeting. “What idea is this?”

Kylie gives Talen a glance, remembering her own uncertainty the previous evening regarding how to address their friend. "Yes, Lilia, please tell us. I think we have much to discuss."

“That we do, Kylie,” Lilia answers with a smile. “The experience that we've lived through has made me re-think many of my own ideals. When I left the Grunalf Clan Hold on Sherwood's quest I had a thirst for magical power and no love for humans. My encounter with the All-Father in the Beleme Swamp started to change my ideals. The Dark One offered me magical might in exchange for my aid. I was tempted, but the All-Father showed me that this power came at the price of being transformed into a lich. That was not a price that I was willing to pay.”

“Based on that experience, I changed my mind about joining Kharyna of Mystra's adventuring band as I had only done so in my quest for magical might. Instead I joined Kylie and Sherwood Elf-Friend on the mission that led us to the Lost Valley where we found Lia and Talen. It was there that the All-Father touched me again when Nightmist cast her Commune.”

“I have to admit that I was shocked that the All-Father included not only half-elves, but those of drow blood on our quest to restore the Mother Tree. That said to me that the All-Father considers half-elves and even the drow to be his children. This is a lesson that we elves have forgotten. Far to many of us treat you like outcasts needlessly.”

“Now here we are having restored the Mother Tree. In the Sylvan Realms, each of the seven main clans have a home. For instance the Grunalf Clan Hold is called Einsun and I am told lies to the southeast of here. That is their home here in the Sylvan Realms. Likewise the other clans have their own homes. Clan Feador's is around the base of the Mother Tree and so on.”

“But you half-elves have no such home. From what I can tell from our past talks is that you are not comfortable with the elvish way of life. Likewise, the human way of life does not suit you either. I think it is time that you half-elves, you other children of the All-Father have a home of your own.”

“My idea is to let you half-elves build your own community here in the Sylvan Realm. A place that you can call home where you are free to follow whatever traits of the elves or the humans that you wish. Or ignore them all together should you chose. That maybe someday you'll become the eight main clan of those with elfin blood. And perhaps, those of the drow who do wish to return to the light will become the ninth clan.”

After letting her announcement sink in, Lilia will ask, “What do you think?”

[Laucian]

Laucian

Once more, Laucian spots movement in one of the guard tower. He aims his arrow and draws it back slowly. Just as he prepares to fire it, Laucian's eyes go wide in surprise! Those are not orcs or even men in the tower-- they are elves!

The elves in the tower seem realize this, as Laucian faintly hears, “Hold your fire! Those are not wyverns!” The voice that cried out is male and spoke in elvish!

Laucian’s eyes go wide in surprise as he begins to lessen the tension on his bow. Elves? Living in the fort? He asks himself more than anyone.

“Gryphons!" The ranger of Ehlonna Calls back in Elvish as he begins bring his mount around. Laucian will direct his mount down toward the fort and land near the tower that called out in elvish.

“Hail to the fort? I am Laucian Nailo of Clan Grunalf, Priest of Ehlonna and member of the Golden Gryphons of the Sylvan Realm. Whom calls the fort home?” he calls out in elfish his bow still taught with an arrow.

[Lia]

Lia

“Oh?” Allurien says in slight surprise. “Did something happen?”

“I was attacked while hunting the orcs by one of our own.” she says thoughtfully her ebony hand coming up and pushing a strand of white hair from her face. “Theras sought to seek his revenge by striking me down in the name of the Dark Archer. While I was a half elf, I did not see the hate of the drow in people when they looked upon me. Now, “ making a circle with her hand in the table, “People are wary of me, since I made my choice, regardless of being chosen.” She adds calmly.

“If one tends to adventure, like I did before I met Kylie's father, one does tend to eventually come into conflict with the drow,” Allurien easily answers. “They always seem to be up to some evil plot to do harm to the surface world.”

“In truth, I do not know much of my heritage save my grandmother, Nightmist,” she adds thoughtfully. “Unless you count my goofy brother. I have heard some tales of the drow, but are the stories as horrible as they sound?” Lia asks hoping that if she does come in contact with her distant kin, she would be able to show them Eilistraee’s light.

“The tales that I heard growing it up tell events differently,” Allurien admits. “But history does tend to be shaped and molded by the teller. Facts are discarded that do not fit the narrative one is trying to tell. On the whole, Eilistraee seems a pleasant enough goddess, but one who has taken on what most might call an impossible task. The schism between elf and drow was so long ago and so violent, that I doubt there ever will be complete acceptance. But I do admire those that at least try.”

“Thank you.” Smiling slightly, “What are the stories that you have heard?” She asks the elder elf, hoping to gain some knowledge of the subject.”

“No, Kylie hasn't spoke much about Lost Valley,” Allurien states. “We've had so much to catch up on. She was just a child that last time I saw her and now she is all grown up. I missed so much of her life.”

“In a sense she still is as I am. What matters is that you are here now to lend your support and love. I know it meant the world for her to find you.”she adds evenly, ‘For what it is worth, it is better late than never.”

Most elves are in awe of the unicorns, as they are rarely seen even to the elves and now there is three of them. Valena dismounts from River Blossom. Aerie, her companion falcon sits on her shoulder. Valena's cooshee companions come rushing in from the stairs leading down the Mother Tree.

“Well met, friends!” Valena calls out in greet. “Did I miss anything while I was gone?”

Lia wonders how the unicorns appeared out of no where! Surprise is apparent on her face as she asks, “Greetings, Valena. I trust your trip went well?”

“As for what you missed, we've got the leadership of the Sylvan Realm in place. You may address me as 'Queen of the Sylvan Realm',” Lilia says with a pleased smile. “Chandra is the Head of the Clan Council and seeming away on some mission. Against orcs most likely.”

“One would hope”. She says evenly, “Though I asked to be apart of orc parties. I wonder why he did not let me know.” The drow says letting her feelings of mistrust of Chandra known.

“What are the Darksong Knights?” Talen wonders a loud. “If I were to make a guess, I doubt Lilia knows much more about the palace than any of us do. It still may not be safe since Moorkroft was using it. But there could be magic and spells to be found there! We should check it out.”

“From what I understand they are dark elves whom serve the realm by protecting it from creatures the Underdark. She says simply, not wanting to go fully into the story, “It is rumored that they lived beneath the palace and but a few only knew of their existence, The King and now Queen and some elders," she adds thoughtfully.

"It had occurred to me," Kylie says, nodding, "that there was likely a need to explore the palace more thoroughly in the near future. We were able to destroy Moorkroft, but didn't actually have an opportunity to cleanse it of his influence.”

“My sentiments exactly.”she adds leaning back in her chair and pops a few nuts in her mouth.

“But you half-elves have no such home. From what I can tell from our past talks is that you are not comfortable with the elvish way of life. Likewise, the human way of life does not suit you either. I think it is time that you half-elves, you other children of the All-Father have a home of your own.”

“My idea is to let you half-elves build your own community here in the Sylvan Realm. A place that you can call home where you are free to follow whatever traits of the elves or the humans that you wish. Or ignore them all together should you chose. That maybe someday you'll become the eight main clan of those with elfin blood. And perhaps, those of the drow who do wish to return to the light will become the ninth clan.”

After letting her announcement sink in, Lilia will ask, “What do you think?”

Lia listens intently upon Lilia’s idea and looks around to the others trying to gauge their reactions and thoughts. A smile etches across her ebony features as she looks at Queen Lilia. “I think it is a wonderful idea! I cannot speak for the others your Majesty but I think we should at least try.” She adds with a look to the others in the hopes that they share her excitement.

After a few moments she will add, “Your Majesty. I have heard rumors of the Darksong knights here in the Sylvan Realm. From what I understand their maybe a base of operations for them underneath the palace proper.” Lia looks up to the queen, “What concerns me is that this headquarters may have ways to lead to the Underdark.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Laucian:

Laucian’s eyes go wide in surprise as he begins to lessen the tension on his bow. Elves? Living in the fort? He asks himself more than anyone.

“Gryphons!” The ranger of Ehlonna Calls back in Elvish as he begins bring his mount around. Laucian will direct his mount down toward the fort and land near the tower that called out in elvish.

“Hail to the fort? I am Laucian Nailo of Clan Grunalf, Priest of Ehlonna and member of the Golden Gryphons of the Sylvan Realm. Whom calls the fort home?” he calls out in elfish his bow still taunt with an arrow.

“Well met, Laucian of Clan Grunalf,” the same male voice that spoke earlier calls out. “I am Arlen Brightsword of Clan Red Arrow. Everyone be at ease. We are among friends.”

“This is not our home,” Arlen continues speaking directly to Laucian. “My comrades and I are the group sent to defeat the forces of this fort. Through circumstances that I cannot yet explain, we failed to find an enemy to fight. We took refuge in this fort and made it appear as if it had not be taken. It was our hope that the enemy would return and we could take them unaware. But alas, you and your fellow riders are the first souls we have seen since we have arrived. Do you have news from the Mother Tree?”

[Talen]

Talen:

Lia joins us at the elfin home Kylie's mom is using. Allurien sends Talen and Kylie off to get the room ready.

"I don't see why not," Kylie replies with a shrug. Part of her still sees this as her mother's house, but not entirely her own.

“Great!” Talen says with his typical goofy grin. “I'm so used to having her in the next room from me. It feels weird when she's not there.”

As they work, Kylie glances over at Talen. "It is still so strange having my mother back. For most of my life, I believed her to be dead. Now, here she is all of a sudden!" Kylie shakes her head. "In a way, it feels like a chance to be a child again. I have taken care of my dad since mom disappeared, and that meant growing up very quickly at an early age. That and living in Dog Alley gave me little chance to experience being a kid."

“I know what you mean,” Talen says slowly. “I'm very happy for you.”

Talen can't help but think of that horrible night when both his mother and father died during that drow raid when he was a child. A big part of his life was just cruelly ripped away leaving behind a wound that never did heal. The lost got easier to cope with as time passed, but Talen never fully got over it.


Next morning at breakfast the subject of the Elfin Palace comes up.

"It had occurred to me," Kylie says, nodding, "that there was likely a need to explore the palace more thoroughly in the near future. We were able to destroy Moorkroft, but didn't actually have an opportunity to cleanse it of his influence."

“My sentiments exactly.”she adds leaning back in her chair and pops a few nuts in her mouth.

“Sounds like a plan then,” Talen agrees. “At least its something productive to do.”

Lia mentions the Darksong Knights.

“From what I understand they are dark elves whom serve the realm by protecting it from creatures the Underdark.” She says simply, not wanting to go fully into the story, “It is rumored that they lived beneath the palace and but a few only knew of their existence, The King and now Queen and some elders," she adds thoughtfully.

“Wow,” Talen whispers. “Hard to believe that there are drow here now. I mean, I doubt Moorkroft would just let them stay under his base. That reminds me of something else. When we tried to get into the palace we ran into that wall of thorns. Did Moorkroft put it there or did the elves do it even earlier? Its obviously some sort of defensive measure. Maybe it closed up any access to below the palace at the same time? Is this thorn wall there all the time or just in emergencies?”


That afternoon, we climb up to the top of the Mother Tree once more. Valena and her unicorn riders appear.

“Indeed I am, Talen,” Valena responds. “Hopefully we three are just the beginning of a much larger group. The requirements to become a Silver Maiden are steep and most women will not met them. But I am hopeful that more will soon join us.”

“Good fortune then,” is all that Talen can think to say to the priestess and unicorn rider.

The subject of Chandra comes up while we speak to Valena.

“One would hope”. She says evenly, “Though I asked to be apart of orc parties. I wonder why he did not let me know.” The drow says letting her feelings of mistrust of Chandra known.

“He asked Kylie and me as well,” Talen adds. “He didn't come and get us either. Maybe he didn't know where we were, since Kylie's mom's house is close to the ground? Maybe he just doesn't like us much?”


Lilia calls us over for a talk.

Kylie gives Talen a glance, remembering her own uncertainty the previous evening regarding how to address their friend. "Yes, Lilia, please tell us. I think we have much to discuss."

Lilia says a lot and it takes time for Talen to digest it all fully. Lia speaks up first.

Lia listens intently upon Lilia’s idea and looks around to the others trying to gauge their reactions and thoughts. A smile etches across her ebony features as she looks at Queen Lilia. “I think it is a wonderful idea! I cannot speak for the others your Majesty but I think we should at least try.” She adds with a look to the others in the hopes that they share her excitement.

“That is a lot to take in,” Talen will finally say. “I mean the idea of having a home for us half-elves sounds fine. But I don't know if I would be the one to oversee this project. I mean we are the only half-elves in the Sylvan Realm and us building our own town is beyond our abilities.”

“At this point in my life, I am certainly not ready to settle down. I'm only nineteen years old. There is so much that I want to do and see before I settle down and start a family of my own. I've only had a taste of being with my human relatives and want to experience more. While its nice to experience what it is like to be among the elves, I can't stay here long term. For one thing, I need better food to eat. Fruits and nuts just are not satisfying to me. I need more human food in my diet.”

“Does that make any sense?” Talen adds after a pause.

[Laucian]

Laucian

“Well met, Laucian of Clan Grunalf,” the same male voice that spoke earlier calls out. “I am Arlen Brightsword of Clan Red Arrow. Everyone be at ease. We are among friends.”

“This is not our home,” Arlen continues speaking directly to Laucian. “My comrades and I are the group sent to defeat the forces of this fort. Through circumstances that I cannot yet explain, we failed to find an enemy to fight. We took refuge in this fort and made it appear as if it had not be taken. It was our hope that the enemy would return and we could take them unaware. But alas, you and your fellow riders are the first souls we have seen since we have arrived. Do you have news from the Mother Tree?”

“Some.” He calls back in elvish, “May we enter?” he soon calls back. If he is allowed he will direct the Gryphons inside. Upon seeing Arien Brightsword he will put out his hand in friendship. “The orcs are on the run. We were sent out to rid the realm of the orc stench.”the Ranger says evenly,”When I left the mother tree the clan elders were being decided as well as the King.”

"Have you been to the other fort? Is there another group there?"he curiously asks.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“Yes,” Lilia answers bluntly. “I admit that I have done that myself. There are times where I had to bite back my reactions as I know you are not a child and should not be treated as such. But the impulse is there.”

Kylie just nods, a bit sadly. This just serves to confirm some of the feelings that she - and apparently Talen - have been having about not really fitting in here.

“Great!” Talen says with his typical goofy grin. “I'm so used to having her in the next room from me. It feels weird when she's not there.”

Kylie cannot help grinning back at her friend. "I still can't believe that I've gotten used to being away from my father..."

“I know what you mean,” Talen says slowly. “I'm very happy for you.”

Talen can't help but think of that horrible night when both his mother and father died during that drow raid when he was a child. A big part of his life was just cruelly ripped away leaving behind a wound that never did heal. The lost got easier to cope with as time passed, but Talen never fully got over it.

"Thank you for understanding," Kylie says. The sense of loss in Talen's eyes is potent, reminding Kylie of what she knows of his past, and hinting that there may be more that she hasn't yet heard.

Seeing the others Lia will ask the others, “I was speaking to Alanik about the Darksong knights. A relatively unknown force here in the Sylvan realms. There are rumors of caverns beneath the Palace. I wonder if Lilia was informed of this?”she adds looking up at the others.

"Wow, that's fascinating," Kylie murmurs, mostly to herself. A whole order of drow working in support of the elven rulers! That completely goes against everything that most people believe about the drow. The world is a much more complicated place than most people want to believe.

“Wow,” Talen whispers. “Hard to believe that there are drow here now. I mean, I doubt Moorkroft would just let them stay under his base. That reminds me of something else. When we tried to get into the palace we ran into that wall of thorns. Did Moorkroft put it there or did the elves do it even earlier? Its obviously some sort of defensive measure. Maybe it closed up any access to below the palace at the same time? Is this thorn wall there all the time or just in emergencies?”

"It is possible that Moorkroft didn't know of their presence," Kylie says, "or perhaps he duped them into supporting his cause in some way. We won't really know what happened there until we investigate."

“Indeed I am, Talen,” Valena responds. “Hopefully we three are just the beginning of a much larger group. The requirements to become a Silver Maiden are steep and most women will not met them. But I am hopeful that more will soon join us.”

“Good fortune then,” is all that Talen can think to say to the priestess and unicorn rider.

"I think this is an important step in the rebuilding of the elven community here," Kylie says. "I'm sure there will be many more applicants as the community grows."

“That it is, friend Kylie Feador,” Valena answers with a smile. “Its a dream come true for me. I still have to pinch myself to make sure that this is really happening.”

Kylie nods in response to Valena's words. She can imagine how hard it must be for Valena to really grasp as a reality. "It really is happening, Valena, and you deserve it as much as anyone."


Lilia presents her idea for a half-elven clan home here in the Sylvan Realm to Kylie, Talen and Lia. The idea is truly revolutionary, and the half-elves are all understandably surprised and a bit shocked by the proposal.

Lia listens intently upon Lilia’s idea and looks around to the others trying to gauge their reactions and thoughts. A smile etches across her ebony features as she looks at Queen Lilia. “I think it is a wonderful idea! I cannot speak for the others your Majesty but I think we should at least try.” She adds with a look to the others in the hopes that they share her excitement.

“That is a lot to take in,” Talen will finally say. “I mean the idea of having a home for us half-elves sounds fine. But I don't know if I would be the one to oversee this project. I mean we are the only half-elves in the Sylvan Realm and us building our own town is beyond our abilities.”

“At this point in my life, I am certainly not ready to settle down. I'm only nineteen years old. There is so much that I want to do and see before I settle down and start a family of my own. I've only had a taste of being with my human relatives and want to experience more. While its nice to experience what it is like to be among the elves, I can't stay here long term. For one thing, I need better food to eat. Fruits and nuts just are not satisfying to me. I need more human food in my diet.”

“Does that make any sense?” Talen adds after a pause.

Kylie smiles at her friend. "It makes perfect sense, Talen. I feel similarly myself except in reverse, in that I've had so little experience with the elven way of life."

"That said," Kylie continues, "I am very much in support of your amazing and generous idea, Queen Lilia! I would very much like to be a part of helping to make it a reality. This will be a huge project and will take a lot of time to bring it to fruition, but I cannot think of a better goal to work toward. Thank you, this is a great gift that you are extending to us, and by extension to all half-elves." Behind the excitement that is plain on her young face, thoughts and ideas are whirling through Kylie's mind in response to all the possibilities that have just opened up.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed