The Sylvan Realm #15 (#59)

[GM Mad]

Sylvan Realm #15 (#59)

December 2nd, CR 571 or Deepnight 24th, 20,519 AP

It is the day after the Sunflower's return to the Sylvan Realm. The Rainbow Bridge will not be arriving today, so the elves are mostly in a holding pattern while guarding the Mother Tree. With the down time, other tasks are dealt with.

Kylie, Lia and Talen investigate the vault on the lowest level of the ship. Its a series of rooms. The first was the paymaster's office. Behind it was a chamber were, presumably, elfin slaves were kept. A side chamber holds even more treasure, coins, gems and jewels along with a very disturbing liquid. Elora believes it to be vidate, a liquid the slavers used to numb and condition elfin slaves. The question of what to do with the liquid comes up.

She turns to Elora. "We're sitting on a fairly large river. Do you think opening the bottles and dumping the contents into the water would do the trick? That should dilute it pretty effectively, I would think."

Upon learning of the drug, Laucian gives his two cents. "I would not put it in the water supply. We do not know how it would effect others here. It might be best to burn or break them perhaps as the fort we burnt?"

“I have to agree with Laucian on this matter,” Elora adds. “We do not know what, if any, affect it would have on others or the local wildlife. Likewise, we do not know if this is a concentrate that needs to be mixed with water to work, or the final potion itself. Pouring it into the water just might make matters worse. Let us secure it for now until a proper way to dispose of it is determined.”

“I will seek the Seeress out as well as Lilia.” Realizing the others are not so vigilant Laucian rescinds his burning statement. “Perhaps we should entertain the thought of moving the ship further from the Mother Tree. I do not like the idea of having this so close to something that means the world to our people.“

“That is not a bad idea,” Elora agrees. “Even moving it to a place that would put any invaders at a disadvantage.”

“I do not doubt our kins’ skill. I just do not like the fact of not knowing how many they may come. As you said 25,000 is a large sum for one elf. If they learn of how many elves are here it will be like maggots on a rotting corpse.”

“Hence why we need to consult with the Seeress so that she can perform her divinations,” Elora easily states. “Once the facts are known, then a proper course of action can be decided upon.”

“It seems that my work here is done,” Elora continues. “I'll accompany Laucian back to the Mother Tree to report my findings.”


Laucian and Elora, and any others who go with them, make their way to the upper deck where a few griffons are waiting. They pass Myev who is just staring out into the forest from a position safe from the griffons.

The flight back to the Mother Tree takes about ten minutes to complete. Finding Lilia is easy enough. She is conversing with many other elves at the Golden Peak. Allurien is present as is Andlin, Alanik Feador, Triestar Silvarost, Sheeryl Soulsearcher, Arlen Brightsword, and Gweyr Autumnfire among many others. The new arrivals are welcomed to join the conversation.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Since her Detect Magic ability is still active from before Talen's casting, Kylie checks the contents of the four chest for any sign of magic - particularly the jewelry and potion chests. If that is completed before the effect fades, she will stride over to the prisoner storage area to see if there is any magic present in that room.

Kylie does not detect any additional sources of magic in the vault or holding area.

I only have Laucian and Elora going back to the Mother Tree right now. The others are still back on the Sunflower. Argent is in her quarters while Myev is up on deck.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“I will seek the Seeress out as well as Lilia.” Realizing the others are not so vigilant Laucian rescinds his burning statement. “Perhaps we should entertain the thought of moving the ship further from the Mother Tree. I do not like the idea of having this so close to something that means the world to our people.“

"Honestly, Laucian, I think our best bet is to guard the ship well. Moving it further away would just make it easier for them to take it back, and that would likely lead to them going back to using it for enslaving elves. Instead, we should work to make it impossible for them to retrieve."

“Hence why we need to consult with the Seeress so that she can perform her divinations,” Elora easily states. “Once the facts are known, then a proper course of action can be decided upon.”

Kylie is not inclined to disagree with the historian, so she remains quiet.

Upon learning of the drug, Laucian gives his two cents. "I would not put it in the water supply. We do not know how it would effect others here. It might be best to burn or break them perhaps as the fort we burnt?"
Laucian will excuse himself from the others, and go looking for Lilia and the Seeress.

“I have to agree with Laucian on this matter,” Elora adds. “We do not know what, if any, affect it would have on others or the local wildlife. Likewise, we do not know if this is a concentrate that needs to be mixed with water to work, or the final potion itself. Pouring it into the water just might make matters worse. Let us secure it for now until a proper way to dispose of it is determined.”

"You both make a good point," Kylie admits. "Perhaps one of you could ask the seeress about it when you talk with her?"
___

There appear to be no more sources of magical emanations in this group of cabins, so Kylie waits for the effect to expire.

With that ugly business done for the moment, Kylie heads back up on deck. She sees Myev standing at the rail looking out toward the forest pensively, so she walks over to stand beside the scro woman. "Are you okay, Myev?"

[Lilia]

Lilia:

As the day passes, more and more elves gather around Lilia to simply chat and offer opinions on future courses of action. Good ideas are heard that will need to be acted upon when able. Time passes quickly and eventually Lilia sees Laucian and Elora returning from their trip to the Sunflower.

“Come, sit and join us,” Lilia offers. “We could all stand a day of relaxation.”

[Talen]

Talen:

"Hmm..." Kylie murmurs under her breath, thinking. She gestures toward the flasks in the fourth chest. "Figuring out how to dispose of this...liquid... might be a good start."

“Uhm...,” Talen says while thinking about what to do with the liquid. “Pour it all into a pot and boil it? Wow, that sounded better in my head then when I said it out loud.”

Talen follows the others up on deck and will wave goodbye to Laucian and the elfin priestess who's name eludes him.

“Thievin' is hard work,” Talen announces as he starts to head to the galley. “I believe its time for a snack.”

[Argent]

Argent:

Kylie is somewhat concerned for her friend due to the listless tone of her voice. She was always so driven before. Hopefully, she'll find her motivation once she's had a chance to relax and talk with her family and mentors. "Okay, we'll take it one step at a time, starting with Karn's Keep. I'll let Mom know that will be our first destination."

“Great!” Argent answers. “I'll finish up packing and meet you up on deck.”

After gathering up her meager belongings, Argent makes her to top deck of the ship. She pauses at the door to make sure none of those horrible birds are around. If the area is clear, she'll come out otherwise she'll wait for now.

[Laucian]

Laucian

"Honestly, Laucian, I think our best bet is to guard the ship well. Moving it further away would just make it easier for them to take it back, and that would likely lead to them going back to using it for enslaving elves. Instead, we should work to make it impossible for them to retrieve."

“And you think leaving it in the heart of everything we hold dear, where there will be more elves in time would be good? Forgive me but I do no see it that way.”

As the day passes, more and more elves gather around Lilia to simply chat and offer opinions on future courses of action. Good ideas are heard that will need to be acted upon when able. Time passes quickly and eventually Lilia sees Laucian and Elora returning from their trip to the Sunflower.

“Come, sit and join us,” Lilia offers. “We could all stand a day of relaxation.”

“Thank you, I am afraid that our days of relaxation may be short lived my queen.” As he takes a chair and offers it to Elora, then takes one himself. “We did a sweep of the Sunflower and we found many things, both good and some troubling.”

“Kylie, Talen and Lia found several chest of treasure, Silver, Electrum and Jewels. In the same room Elora was able to read the letters that were found. These letters mentioned special cargo worth 25,000 gold each. Upon further reading and guess work it was found out that whomever owned the ship the Scro stole dealt in slavery. Particularly dealing with capturing and giving the poor souls a potion that makes them absent of mind and will."

Is there anyway that the ship can be seen by magic? If so I would like the ship to me moved away from the Mother tree. If these slavers see the ship they will seek to reclaim what is theirs and find our kin. If It were me I’d destroy the ship and take the spell engines. Not to mention these potions need to be destroyed.”

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“Great!” Argent answers. “I'll finish up packing and meet you up on deck.”

Kylie sighs in frustration, realizing that she hasn't communicated well with her friend. "Argent? I'm sorry, but would it be okay if we left tomorrow? I still have several things that I need to do here before I'll feel ready to leave. Also, mom may need to adjust her spells in memory to prepare for the trip. I know I do."

“Uhm...,” Talen says while thinking about what to do with the liquid. “Pour it all into a pot and boil it? Wow, that sounded better in my head then when I said it out loud.”

"I don't think any of us know what the best answer is," Kylie says. "But I'm sure that we can all figure it out together."

“And you think leaving it in the heart of everything we hold dear, where there will be more elves in time would be good? “Forgive me but I do no see it that way.”

"In this, I happen to agree with Elora that we can easily defend the ship with the number of highly skilled elves that we have here. Moving it further away only makes it harder to defend, whereas wiping out these slavers - if and when they arrive - benefits not only us, but all elves everywhere."

Kylie pauses for a moment, considering her words. "We may disagree, Laucian, and that is only natural. We have done so before, and likely will again. Let's see what Lilia and the others think, as it is ultimately their decision."

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Lilia is enjoying a relaxing morning among the company of many other elves. They chat and talk about the issues of the Sylvan Realm in a casual way. Laucian and Elora arrive and are welcomed to join in.

“Thank you, I am afraid that our days of relaxation may be short lived my queen.” As he takes a chair and offers it to Elora, then takes one himself. “We did a sweep of the Sunflower and we found many things, both good and some troubling.”

“That does seem to be the way of things,” Lilia notes. “What news have you?”

“Kylie, Talen and Lia found several chest of treasure, Silver, Electrum and Jewels. In the same room Elora was able to read the letters that were found. These letters mentioned special cargo worth 25,000 gold each. Upon further reading and guess work it was found out that whomever owned the ship the Scro stole dealt in slavery. Particularly dealing with capturing and giving the poor souls a potion that makes them absent of mind and will."

“Slavers,” Lilia repeats arching an eyebrow. “That is troubling news.”

“Is there anyway that the ship can be seen by magic? If so I would like the ship to me moved away from the Mother tree. If these slavers see the ship they will seek to reclaim what is theirs and find our kin. If It were me I’d destroy the ship and take the spell engines. Not to mention these potions need to be destroyed.”

“From what I understand about scrying,” Lilia says, “is that any person or object known to the scryer can be seen. However, just because you can see where something is does not mean that you know where that location is at. Just because it can be found, does not mean that they would know where it was.”

“It was my intent to store the Sunflower at the docks around the Royal Palace,” Lilia continues. “We only came to the Mother Tree to help Talen. I have no intention of destroying the ship. It is far too valuable as a transport. To bring goods and supplies to the Sylvan Realm and in times of battle being about to rapidly move troops. And yes, these potions need to be properly dealt with.”

“Does anyone else have anything else to add on this matter?” Lilia asks, throwing the question out to all present.

[Lia]

Lia

Lia listens to both Laucian and Kylie discuss that of the Ship and it’s fate. “Let the council decide when they have all the information. I do feel the ship should be moved though as Elora stated.”

“Uhm...,” Talen says while thinking about what to do with the liquid. “Pour it all into a pot and boil it? Wow, that sounded better in my head then when I said it out loud.”

Before the others leave, Lia asks, “All the suggestions make sense. So I’ll remove the potion chest from the ship. If there Is dry wood on the ship we can build a fire pit that we can rest the chest contents on. Once the fire is lit, I would suggest we step away as to not inhale the fumes.”

As the others begin to leave, Lia will size up the chest and attempt to lift it. If she is able to Lia will then walk the chest to the shoreline.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

The vault on the lowest level of the Sunflower has been opened and its secrets revealed. It seems that the Talagran Trading Company were slavers who specialized in elves! It is feared that they will be coming to take back their ship and to capture more elves!

The group starts to go their separate ways after the exploration is complete. Lia looks over the chest holding the vidate liquid, an elixir that is said to numb the mind of an elf making them docile. The chest is easy enough to pick up with her magical enhanced strength thanks to her ogre gauntlets.

The chest is carried up on deck, but then Lia finds another problem. The Sunflower is at anchor in the middle of the river, where it is deep enough to let the ship float without hitting the bottom. The shores are too far away to lower a gangplank.


Not far away, Kylie approaches Myev.

With that ugly business done for the moment, Kylie heads back up on deck. She sees Myev standing at the rail looking out toward the forest pensively, so she walks over to stand beside the scro woman. "Are you okay, Myev?"

“Hmm?” Myev says, surprised to suddenly find Kylie close by. “Oh, just day dreaming. Thinking how fun it would be to go off and explore. To do something. It must be wonderful to be an elf and live in this place.”


Laucian and Elora have returned to the top of Golden Peak. There they find Lilia and many other elves having a casual conversation. Laucian reports the latest news.

“Thank you, I am afraid that our days of relaxation may be short lived my queen.” As he takes a chair and offers it to Elora, then takes one himself. “We did a sweep of the Sunflower and we found many things, both good and some troubling.”

“Kylie, Talen and Lia found several chest of treasure, Silver, Electrum and Jewels. In the same room Elora was able to read the letters that were found. These letters mentioned special cargo worth 25,000 gold each. Upon further reading and guess work it was found out that whomever owned the ship the Scro stole dealt in slavery. Particularly dealing with capturing and giving the poor souls a potion that makes them absent of mind and will."

“Slavers,” Lilia repeats arching an eyebrow. “That is troubling news.”

The other elves present agree with that information.

“Its even worse than that,” Elora adds. “The slaves they seek and the potion they use on them are specifically meant for us elves. The fear is if they come here for their ship that they will find a new hunting ground for elves.”

“Is there anyway that the ship can be seen by magic? If so I would like the ship to me moved away from the Mother tree. If these slavers see the ship they will seek to reclaim what is theirs and find our kin. If It were me I’d destroy the ship and take the spell engines. Not to mention these potions need to be destroyed.”

This new information that the target is elves causes an even louder murmur. Lilia adds her thoughts on the matter.

“From what I understand about scrying,” Lilia says, “is that any person or object known to the scryer can be seen. However, just because you can see where something is does not mean that you know where that location is at. Just because it can be found, does not mean that they would know where it was.”

“That is my understanding as well,” Allurien adds.

“But divinations could then be cast that would allow this Talagran Trading Company to find out where their ship is,” Sheeryl speaks up. “I will perform such divinations to find out if they are coming here and when.”

“The Mother Tree has unique magical properties that she uses to protect the Sylvan Realm with,” Alanik Feador reports. “Most are not aware of them as they are rarely used. For instance, the Mother Tree has an aura that blocks undead from entering the Sylvan Realm. I believe that she also blocks attempts to scry within our borders.”

“So they might be unable to find the Sunflower,” Triestar reasons.

“Through scyring at least,” Allurien says. “As Sheeryl stated, divinations could still lead them here. If a mage who is familiar with the ship can teleport, then they could simple appear on the ship without warning. There are some defenses against this. The most likely place to target as an arrival point would be ones personal quarters. Knowledge of you arrival point is the key, but even more important is the that the area needs to be clear of objects. Teleporting into an object can be fatal to a mage. For protection against this, I would move objects into the clear areas, chairs tables things like that.”

“It was my intent to store the Sunflower at the docks around the Royal Palace,” Lilia continues. “We only came to the Mother Tree to help Talen. I have no intention of destroying the ship. It is far too valuable as a transport. To bring goods and supplies to the Sylvan Realm and in times of battle being about to rapidly move troops. And yes, these potions need to be properly dealt with.”

“Does anyone else have anything else to add on this matter?” Lilia asks, throwing the question out to all present.

“Destroying those potions is a simple matter,” Sheeryl reports. “Many priests have access to a Create Water spell. The magic can be reversed to Destroy Water. It will work on all types of liquids. Problem solved.”

“If these elf hunters are coming here,” Andlin suggests, “then I feel that they do not know what they are getting themselves into. In my experience raiders such as them do not attack strong targets. No, they look for places where there is little defense and resistance. They are not looking for a fight, but rather merchandise. If we bloody their noses, they might not come back.”

“I like the way you think,” Arlen adds with a laugh. “Let us see how to deal with organized resistance. If we do know when they are coming, then we can dictate the conditions of the battlefield. Move the ship to the Royal Palace like Lilia suggested. It will keep damage to a minimum.”

“I'll happily give them a warm welcome,” Gweyr adds with a positively evil smile. “Maybe we'll get some more ships out of the deal.”

Now what?

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Lilia listens as Laucian brings news of what has transpired on the Sunflower. The others present add their own comments.

“Its even worse than that,” Elora adds. “The slaves they seek and the potion they use on them are specifically meant for us elves. The fear is if they come here for their ship that they will find a new hunting ground for elves.”

“That would be disastrous,” Lilia agrees. “If they should come, they will not find an easy target here.”

“But divinations could then be cast that would allow this Talagran Trading Company to find out where their ship is,” Sheeryl speaks up. “I will perform such divinations to find out if they are coming here and when.”

“Please do, Seeress,” is Lilia's comment.

“The Mother Tree has unique magical properties that she uses to protect the Sylvan Realm with,” Alanik Feador reports. “Most are not aware of them as they are rarely used. For instance, the Mother Tree has an aura that blocks undead from entering the Sylvan Realm. I believe that she also blocks attempts to scry within our borders.”

“Those are very handy abilities,” Lilia says in mild surprise. She had no idea that the Mother Tree provided other things beyond the grand forest.

“So they might be unable to find the Sunflower,” Triestar reasons.

“Through scyring at least,” Allurien says. “As Sheeryl stated, divinations could still lead them here. If a mage who is familiar with the ship can teleport, then they could simple appear on the ship without warning. There are some defenses against this. The most likely place to target as an arrival point would be ones personal quarters. Knowledge of you arrival point is the key, but even more important is the that the area needs to be clear of objects. Teleporting into an object can be fatal to a mage. For protection against this, I would move objects into the clear areas, chairs tables things like that.”

“If that is the case, then we need to set up such defenses on the Sunflower,” Lilia states, “to block those attempting to arrive in such a manner. Maybe put other protection spells up on the ship, such as Glyph's of Warding.”

“Destroying those potions is a simple matter,” Sheeryl reports. “Many priests have access to a Create Water spell. The magic can be reversed to Destroy Water. It will work on all types of liquids. Problem solved.”

“That's wonderful,” Lilia happily says. “Unfortunately, that is a spell I do not have access to. Can somehow pray for it tonight? We can destroy those potions in the morning. Might as well leave them where they are for now.”

“If these elf hunters are coming here,” Andlin suggests, “then I feel that they do not know what they are getting themselves into. In my experience raiders such as them do not attack strong targets. No, they look for places where there is little defense and resistance. They are not looking for a fight, but rather merchandise. If we bloody their noses, they might not come back.”

“Or they are very experienced in fighting elves,” Lilia counters. “We cannot let our bravado overcome our common sense. These slavers are intelligent foes. We have to treat them as such.”

“I like the way you think,” Arlen adds with a laugh. “Let us see how to deal with organized resistance. If we do know when they are coming, then we can dictate the conditions of the battlefield. Move the ship to the Royal Palace like Lilia suggested. It will keep damage to a minimum.”

“I do agree with having such a fight at a place of our choosing,” Lilia says. “For right now, the Sunflower stays where it is. If we moved it, it would take a few days to make the trip back to the Mother Tree. We cannot be away from her that long.”

“I'll happily give them a warm welcome,” Gweyr adds with a positively evil smile. “Maybe we'll get some more ships out of the deal.”

“While that is a lovely thought,” Lilia responds, “let's not get ahead of ourselves. One problem at a time.”

“Any other news?”

[Argent]

Argent:

Kylie sighs in frustration, realizing that she hasn't communicated well with her friend. "Argent? I'm sorry, but would it be okay if we left tomorrow? I still have several things that I need to do here before I'll feel ready to leave. Also, mom may need to adjust her spells in memory to prepare for the trip. I know I do.”

“I--” Argent starts to say, “I didn't think of having to memorize the necessary spells. I guess I was just in such a hurry to get home that I didn't think. Tomorrow will be fine.”

Argent lets out a sigh in mild frustration, but not much she can do about anything right now. While she will pack to leave back at her quarters, the Invoker will take a look around and see if the lady mage left anything interesting behind.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Before the others leave, Lia asks, “All the suggestions make sense. So I’ll remove the potion chest from the ship. If there Is dry wood on the ship we can build a fire pit that we can rest the chest contents on. Once the fire is lit, I would suggest we step away as to not inhale the fumes.”

Burning the potions seems risky to Kylie. "As with the fate of the ship, I think we should let the council decide the fate of the potions as well. Build the fire pit if you like, but we should hold off on lighting it until we hear back."

“I--” Argent starts to say, “I didn't think of having to memorize the necessary spells. I guess I was just in such a hurry to get home that I didn't think. Tomorrow will be fine.”

"I know the last couple of months have been very hard on you, Argent," Kylie says sympathetically, resting her head on her friend's shoulder. "You need a chance to really rest, recuperate, make peace with all that has happened, and decide what to do with your life. We'll get you home tomorrow, and then you can start on that process."

“Hmm?” Myev says, surprised to suddenly find Kylie close by. “Oh, just day dreaming. Thinking how fun it would be to go off and explore. To do something. It must be wonderful to be an elf and live in this place.”

Kylie smiles, enjoying the opportunity to just relax and chat with her new friend. "Though I'm only partly an elf, I do like this land. It is possible that I will live out my life here, though I cannot predict what the future will bring. I enjoy exploring as well, and would be happy to do so with you if the opportunity presents itself."

[Lia]

Lia

Burning the potions seems risky to Kylie. "As with the fate of the ship, I think we should let the council decide the fate of the potions as well. Build the fire pit if you like, but we should hold off on lighting it until we hear back."

Lia listens to the half elf, but does not make a reply. The sooner these cursed things are destroyed the better.

Lia tests the size of the chest and weight. Within moments she realizes just how light the chest is in her enchanted arms. She begins carrying through the ship and up to the deck. Up upon the deck, Lia realizes the flaw in her plan as she sees that there is no land nearby, what is worse nor is there anywhere she can put the chest to build a fire pit.

Seeing no Alternative, Lia moves the chest back below deck and places it in the Captain’s quarters.

[Laucian]

Laucian

“But divinations could then be cast that would allow this Talagran Trading Company to find out where their ship is,” Sheeryl speaks up. “I will perform such divinations to find out if they are coming here and when.”

“I thank you for your council. To say I am naïve in the way of divination would be an understatement.” He says with a sheepish grin.

“The Mother Tree has unique magical properties that she uses to protect the Sylvan Realm with,” Alanik Feador reports. “Most are not aware of them as they are rarely used. For instance, the Mother Tree has an aura that blocks undead from entering the Sylvan Realm. I believe that she also blocks attempts to scry within our borders.”

“So they might be unable to find the Sunflower,” Triestar reasons.

“Through scyring at least,” Allurien says. “As Sheeryl stated, divinations could still lead them here. If a mage who is familiar with the ship can teleport, then they could simple appear on the ship without warning. There are some defenses against this. The most likely place to target as an arrival point would be ones personal quarters. Knowledge of you arrival point is the key, but even more important is the that the area needs to be clear of objects. Teleporting into an object can be fatal to a mage. For protection against this, I would move objects into the clear areas, chairs tables things like that.”

“This is good to hear, that would lead these slavers to rely on their flying ships to scout our lands.” His mind working out a plan.

“Pray that they did not scry the ship when we were returning here.”He says evenly, “There is good from this as well. The Scro over estimated the skill of our kin and paid the price. Many fell to both bow and blade. With the Gryphon riders, we could see what blind spots these ships have and exploit them to our Advantage. Sadly though, these ships are far faster than our gryphons, But that is not to say we can use the clouds and trees to our advantage and harass them at every turn.”

“I can return to the ship and see that the rooms are adjusted as you Instructed, Allurien.”

As the queen asks if there is anything else, Laucian looks to Elora, “Not that I recall. The ship does need to be searched more fully but I felt this news could not wait, My Queen.”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

On the top of Golden Peak, the Queen holds an impromptu court having discussions on a variety of issues...

“I thank you for your council. To say I am naive in the way of divination would be an understatement.” He says with a sheepish grin.

“All priests have their strengths and their weaknesses,” Sheeryl easily says. “Divinations happen to be my strong suit. However, do not ask me to go out and hunt down prey. I'll leave that task to those with such skills as yourself.”

“If that is the case, then we need to set up such defenses on the Sunflower,” Lilia states, “to block those attempting to arrive in such a manner. Maybe put other protection spells up on the ship, such as Glyph's of Warding.”

“I can return to the ship and see that the rooms are adjusted as you Instructed, Allurien.”

“I'll give you a hand,” Allurien adds. “I wanted to catch up with Kylie anyway.”

“That's wonderful,” Lilia happily says. “Unfortunately, that is a spell I do not have access to. Can someone pray for it tonight? We can destroy those potions in the morning. Might as well leave them where they are for now.”

“I will do as you ask,” Sheeryl answers with a bow.

“Or they are very experienced in fighting elves,” Lilia counters. “We cannot let our bravado overcome our common sense. These slavers are intelligent foes. We have to treat them as such.”

“A very good point,” Andlin adds. “Underestimating a foe is a sure path to defeat.”


Back at the Sunflower, a dejected Argent returns to her temporary quarters. After a time, she starts to look around better. A small, personal chest is found, but it is locked. There are numerous books in the room, but they are all in a language that Argent cannot understand.


Up on deck, Kyle chats with the sole surviving scro, Myev. In the background, Lia carries the chest with the vidate liquid in up on deck. She looks around finds the Sunflower far from the river's shores. Lia then carries the chest back down below again.

Kylie smiles, enjoying the opportunity to just relax and chat with her new friend. "Though I'm only partly an elf, I do like this land. It is possible that I will live out my life here, though I cannot predict what the future will bring. I enjoy exploring as well, and would be happy to do so with you if the opportunity presents itself."

“That would be wonderful!” Myev agrees. “I find myself become more and more envious of the elves. That lead such wondrous lives and live in such grand places. And to live so long! I think I would greatly enjoy being an elf! If such a thing was possible, of course.”


Not long after that, Laucian returns to the Sunflower along with Allurien and any one else who came along. Their griffons land on the deck of the Sunflower. Myev quickly vacates the area while Lia comes back up on deck.

“Hello, Kylie,” Allurien says with a wave. “The Queen wishes to ship be protected against unwanted arrivals by way of teleportation. To that end, we are going to be moving furniture into the open areas of the private quarters. Teleporting into a solid object can be fatal. The rest of the ship should be explored as well to find whatever secrets remain hidden.”

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Lia begins testing the heft of the chest with the elf control potions as Kylie leaves to head up on deck. She is clearly stronger than she looks, as she has no trouble with the bulky chest.

“That would be wonderful!” Myev agrees. “I find myself become more and more envious of the elves. That lead such wondrous lives and live in such grand places. And to live so long! I think I would greatly enjoy being an elf! If such a thing was possible, of course.”

Kylie laughs, enjoying Myev's enthusiasm and wonder. "We are all what we are -- except for Lia of course, who was changed by the power of the gods. So I guess anything truly is possible, assuming you're friendly with the gods..."

As she and Myev converse, Kylie sees Lia appear on deck with the chest, look around beyond the railings, then head back down below-decks, still carrying the chest. "Everything okay, Lia?" Kylie asks, looking over at the former half-elf.

Not long after, Laucian, Allurien, and others return from their meeting with the queen and her advisors. The presence of the griffins causes Myev to quickly vacate the deck.

“Hello, Kylie,” Allurien says with a wave. “The Queen wishes the ship to be protected against unwanted arrivals by way of teleportation. To that end, we are going to be moving furniture into the open areas of the private quarters. Teleporting into a solid object can be fatal. The rest of the ship should be explored as well to find whatever secrets remain hidden.”

"Hi mom!" Kylie says happily, stepping forward and hugging her mother. "I can certainly help with the searching. Do you want to join me? We could talk as we work..."

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

At the top of Golden Peak, the Queen holds an impromptu court discussing a variety of issues...

Standing nervously near the back of the group in shining elven plate mail, Onas Brightsword - younger brother of Arlen Brightsword - listens carefully to the discussion. He brushes a strand of gray hair out of his blue eyes so as to have a clear view of the assembled luminaries. Not far away, Laucian - Hero of the Mother Tree and Order Master of the Golden Griffons - describes what they found aboard the flying ship that they brought back from their mission to rescue Chondra and his allies. Queen Lilliathelionn Allandros - herself a Hero of the Mother Tree - discusses a course of action with the renowned diviner Sheeryl Soulsearcher, High Keeper of the Mother Tree Alanik Feador, and the rest of the Elven Council.

'Will I ever accomplish my goal of becoming a peer among such illustrious heroes?' Onas wonders to himself.

A movement to his left diverts his attention from him musings. Turning, he finds himself nearly face-to-face with none other than Valena Feador - Order Master of the Silver Maidens, and also a Hero of the Mother Tree! "Greetings, Order Master Valena," he says softly, not wanting to disturb the council's deliberations. A giant lump forms instantly in his throat. 'Gods above, she's beautiful,' he cannot help thinking to himself.

It is soon decided that they should make preparations to protect the flying ship. Defending and protecting is Angharradh's way, so Onas decides that he must do what he can to help.

Checking that his sword Frostfang is still securely sheathed at his hip and his shield upon his back, Onas approaches Laucian. "Uhm, Order Master Laucian? I would very much like to help with the defense of the ship, if I may."

The trip to the flying ship does not take long mounted on the griffons. While not a member of the Golden Griffons himself, Onas always enjoys the exhilaration of riding these noble beasts.

Reaching the ship, Onas dismounts and helps with getting the griffons settled where they are out of the way. An excited exclamation causes him to turn to see what what the commotion is about. He sees the young half-elven woman Kylie Lanthorn - yet another Hero of the Mother Tree - step up and hug Feador Clan Master Allurien Feador. 'I guess those stories I heard about her being Allurien's daughter are true,' he thinks.

It's amazing to him to think that half-elves number among the Heroes of the Mother Tree. Not far from Kylie stands another of them, known to him only as Talen. Supposedly both Talen and his sister have Drow blood, no less, yet they were selected to be among those who rescued the Mother Tree by none other than Corellon Larethian! Despite what they have been taught their whole lives to believe, if the Father of All Elves chose them, then they must have been worthy in their own way. So many strange and wondrous events, it is hard to imagine that the elven way of life won't be affected.

Onas shakes his head to clear his mind. There is work to be done, and that is why he came. He finds someone to ask where the staterooms are, then makes his way to start arranging the teleport obstacles requested by the queen.

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

After departing the Sunflower, Valena returned to her quarters to be reunited and play with her animal companions. A little attention to is payed to Aerie, the wounded falcon that Valena came across when we arrived in the Sylvan Realm. But most of the attention is payed to her bigger 'cousins', a mated pair of cooshees. Valena named the male Taure, which meant forest in the elfin tongue. The lady was named Duin, the elfin word for river. After a bit or roughhousing, Valena turns in for the night.

Valena awakes before the dawn. After saying her good mornings to her companions, she prays to Ehlonna for a new round of spells. That task complete, and after a light breakfast, Valena is off. It's still dark out when she meets up with the other Silver Maidens, Fayrianna and Annelwin. The task of securing the land routes to the Mother Tree are divided up.

As if somehow knowing that she is needed, River Blossom appears nearby using the unicorn's natural ability to 'blink'. The ability to move from one place to another in seemingly a blink of an eye. Goodbye's are said and we are off.

River Blossom blinks and we reappear near the base of the Mother Tree. We start to trot down one of the roads that leads to the Mother Tree, checking in with the guards on duty. Taure and Duin catch up to us and together we ride off. The unicorn maintains a steady pace as the coosshee's trot along side.

Valena samples some of the naturally growing fruits as they travel along. Stopping to speak to guards and the occasional animal as she rides on. The journey is very enjoyable and Valena could easily spend all day, if not days, just riding around exploring this new land. No signs of trouble is found and many animals are alerted to warn Valena should any arise. But, alas, responsibilities send her back to the Mother Tree sooner than she would have liked.

Blinking once more River Blossom travels up to Golden Peak, while the cooshee's have to travel up the trails to the top of the Mother Tree under their own power. It's mid-morning by now and Valena spots a large group of elves gathered in conversation. Laucian is seen among them. After saying her goodbye to River Blossom, Valena walks up to join them.

A movement to his left diverts his attention from him musings. Turning, he finds himself nearly face-to-face with none other than Valena Feador - Order Master of the Silver Maidens, and also a Hero of the Mother Tree! "Greetings, Order Master Valena," he says softly, not wanting to disturb the council's deliberations. A giant lump forms instantly in his throat. 'Gods above, she's beautiful,' he cannot help thinking to himself.

“Hello,” Valena politely answers with a smile, not really sure who the speaker is. There are so many new faces here, those released from the Rainbow Bridge when the Mother Tree was restored, that she cannot recall them all.

“Lilia,” Valena says getting the queen's attention. “The ground around the Mother Tree is as secure as we can make it. Fortunately, the area is small, so we three Silver Maidens can cover it. When reinforcements from the Elfholds arrive and more of the Sylvan Realm put into use, that will no longer be the case. Even if more join the Silver Maidens, given our high standards, I doubt that there will be enough of us to patrol all the Sylvan Realm. That that end, I suggest that we look to create units of Forest Riders to fill the void. When able, of course.”

As most elves knew, Forest Riders were units of elfin cavalry riding elfin horses.

“Anything exciting happen while I was out on patrol?”

[Argent]

Argent:

Back at the Sunflower, a dejected Argent returns to her temporary quarters. After a time, she starts to look around better. A small, personal chest is found, but it is locked. There are numerous books in the room, but they are all in a language that Argent cannot understand

A few of the books are paged through, but the text is in an unknown language. “I don't really feel like trying to figure out a new language,” Argent mutters to herself tossing the book aside. “It could be anything from erotic poetry to how to plant rutabagas.”

That's when she spots the chest on the floor near the door. “Well, hello there! And what secrets do you hold?”

Argent is not surprised to find the chest is locked, but that is no hindrance to a mage! Cast Knock on the chest from a safe distance.

[Laucian]

Laucian

“All priests have their strengths and their weaknesses,” Sheeryl easily says. “Divinations happen to be my strong suit. However, do not ask me to go out and hunt down prey. I'll leave that task to those with such skills as yourself.”

“Aye, it is the way for all things. “ he says with easy grin.

“I'll give you a hand,” Allurien adds. “I wanted to catch up with Kylie anyway.”

“As you wish, Last I saw her she was with Talen and Lia.
As the meeting comes to a close a elfin plate garbed elf walks up asking for him.

Checking that his sword Frostfang is still securely sheathed at his hip and his shield upon his back, Onas approaches Laucian. "Uhm, Order Master Laucian? I would very much like to help with the defense of the ship, if I may ”

“You know my name but I don’t know yours.” He says easily noting the sword and shield at the Elf’s back. “And you are? Another sword is always welcome.” He says as he turns and heads towards the Griffons. Seeing Aura he strokes the flank and mounts up. “Time to go girl.” He says as he looks to see the others are ready. He takes to the air and the trip takes a short time as the ship comes into view. He directs Aura where to go and the familiar feeling of the ship beneath them is soon found.
After dismounting, Laucian makes Aura comfortable and sees Onas doing the same. “Seems you know your way around a griffon.” he states evenly.
Allurien wrote

:“Hello, Kylie,” Allurien says with a wave. “The Queen wishes the ship to be protected against unwanted arrivals by way of teleportation. To that end, we are going to be moving furniture into the open areas of the private quarters. Teleporting into a solid object can be fatal. The rest of the ship should be explored as well to find whatever secrets remain hidden.”

"Hi mom!" Kylie says happily, stepping forward and hugging her mother. "I can certainly help with the searching. Do you want to join me? We could talk as we work..."

“It shouldn’t take us long. Where are Talen and Lia?” He asks curiously. Laucian will move through the ship moving furniture as they spoke in the meeting.

[Lia]

Lia

As she and Myev converse, Kylie sees Lia appear on deck with the chest, look around beyond the railings, then head back down below-decks, still carrying the chest. "Everything okay, Lia?" Kylie asks, looking over at the former half-elf.

“Aye, I’m okay. I thought there might be way to get this to shore but I do not want to take the risk of flying it there and dropping it. I’ll put it back below deck.”
Unaware as to what is going on above, Lia will begin looking around in rooms they have yet to visit.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

As the queen asks if there is anything else, Laucian looks to Elora, “Not that I recall. The ship does need to be searched more fully but I felt this news could not wait, My Queen.”

“Thank you, Laucian,” Lilia says. “Carry on than.”

“Lilia,” Valena says getting the queen's attention. “The ground around the Mother Tree is as secure as we can make it. Fortunately, the area is small, so we three Silver Maidens can cover it. When reinforcements from the Elfholds arrive and more of the Sylvan Realm put into use, that will no longer be the case. Even if more join the Silver Maidens, given our high standards, I doubt that there will be enough of us to patrol all the Sylvan Realm. That that end, I suggest that we look to create units of Forest Riders to fill the void. When able, of course.”

“The idea had cross my mind as well,” Lilia admits. “Perhaps when we get reinforcements there will be individuals with the skill to make this happen. Fortunately, the griffons can cover a lot of ground, so its not a high priority, but a priority nonetheless.”

As the others depart back to the Sunflower, Lilia will gesture for Elora to come closer.

“I have a task for you, historian,” Lilia states. “Something that should be of great interest to you. The scro, Myev. possesses knowledge of the elves that were wiped out on her world. This information needs to be recorded before it is forgotten. Those elves may not be any more, but they should not be forgotten.”

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

“Hello,” Valena politely answers with a smile, not really sure who the speaker is. There are so many new faces here, those released from the Rainbow Bridge when the Mother Tree was restored, that she cannot recall them all.

Embarrassment flushes Onas' face as he sees the lack of recognition in Valena's eyes. "Ah, sorry," he says haltingly, "I'm Onas Brightsword. I was a member of one of the earlier groups that tried to come through the Rainbow Bridge and was trapped until you released us. My older brother Arlen led our group." He feels a little foolish rambling on like this, and hopes she doesn't mind.

“Lilia,” Valena says getting the queen's attention. “The ground around the Mother Tree is as secure as we can make it. Fortunately, the area is small, so we three Silver Maidens can cover it. When reinforcements from the Elfholds arrive and more of the Sylvan Realm put into use, that will no longer be the case. Even if more join the Silver Maidens, given our high standards, I doubt that there will be enough of us to patrol all the Sylvan Realm. That that end, I suggest that we look to create units of Forest Riders to fill the void. When able, of course.”

Valena turns and addresses the queen, who is moving their way. Onas suddenly realizes that the council's deliberations have ended and he missed the last part of it! His concern with his inattention vanishes when he hears Valen's suggestion. Forest Riders! That would be so amazing! And perfect for him!

“The idea had crossed my mind as well,” Lilia admits. “Perhaps when we get reinforcements there will be individuals with the skill to make this happen. Fortunately, the griffons can cover a lot of ground, so its not a high priority, but a priority nonetheless.”

Onas' excitement overrules his natural caution. "My queen," he says, bowing as the words come tumbling out in a rush, "I'm Onas Brightsword, younger brother of Arlen Brightsword, and I would very much love to become a Forest Rider. My closest companion is an elfin horse named Carad Orod and I'm trained in mounted combat. Joining the Forest Riders would be a great honor for both of us."

===

“You know my name but I don’t know yours.” He says easily noting the sword and shield at the Elf’s back. “And you are? Another sword is always welcome.” He says as he turns and heads towards the Griffons. Seeing Aura he strokes the flank and mounts up.

"Oh, ah... my apologies," Onas says, realizing that once again the person he's speaking to has no idea who he is. "I'm Arlen Brightsword's younger brother, Onas. I think we met - very briefly - at that orcish fort that Gweyr so happily burned down. Of course, you've been so busy since then, I'm not surprised that you've forgotten." Despite his words, he cannot entirely hide the look of disappointment on his face.

Seeing Laucian mount up on the griffon he calls Aura, Onas realizes that he should do the same. Scrambling a bit to keep up, Onas selects one of the other griffons, greets the proud creature, then mounts up. He's no expert by any means, but he has ridden one before. The trip to the captured flying ship doesn't take long.

After dismounting, Laucian makes Aura comfortable and sees Onas doing the same. “Seems you know your way around a griffon.” he states evenly.

"Thank you, Order Master," Onas says. "I've only flown a few times; I'm actually much more at home on a horse, but there are some similarities."

==

On his way below-decks, Onas spots some rope and grabs a coil of it. Picking a random stateroom that no one else seems to be working in, he sets to moving the furniture into different places and tilting some at odd angles. He then strings the rope about the room at roughly waist- to chest-height to create additional obstruction.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Queen's Gathering:

The impromptu gathering around the Queen of the Sylvan Realm comes to a close. Before the gathering can break up, Valena arrives to report on the security of the Mother Tree. The Priestess of Ehlonna notes that right now the Silver Maidens can patrol the small area below. But once more elves arrive the territory will be too large for them to manage. Valena suggests adding Forest Riders, essentially units of light elfin cavalry, to fill in the void. Lilia admits that thought has crossed her mind. Those words cause another to speak up:

Onas' excitement overrules his natural caution. "My queen," he says, bowing as the words come tumbling out in a rush, "I'm Onas Brightsword, younger brother of Arlen Brightsword, and I would very much love to become a Forest Rider. My closest companion is an elfin horse named Carad Orod and I'm trained in mounted combat. Joining the Forest Riders would be a great honor for both of us."

Before Lilia or Valena can answer, Arlen Brightsword speaks up.

“I can proudly vouch for my brothers riding skills,” Arlen states. “He was worked long and hard to not only serve the One and the Three, but to make a fine horseman out of himself. He and Carad Orod make a fierce foe in battle!”

The One and the Tree, as most elves know, relates to Angharradh, the current consort to Corellon Larethian and in some myths, the mother of the elfin race. Angharradh was actually a merged goddess composed of three lesser elfin powers: Aerdrie Faenya, Hanali Celanil, and Sehanine Moonbow.

“You'd be hard pressed, Your Majesty, to find a more qualified applicant here in the Sylvan Realms!”


Before everyone departs, Lilia calls the historian and Priestess of Labelas Enoreth Elora Calauth over to her.

“I have a task for you, historian,” Lilia states. “Something that should be of great interest to you. The scro, Myev. possesses knowledge of the elves that were wiped out on her world. This information needs to be recorded before it is lost. Those elves may not be any more, but they should not be forgotten.”

“Very much so, Your Majesty,” Elora enthusiastically agrees. “Such knowledge must be recorded for posterity! I'll depart immediately!”

[GM Mad]

The Sunflower:

Griffons are mounted as many elves fly back to the Sunflower at anchor in the river far below the Mother Tree. Other activities are in progress on the ship...

Kylie laughs, enjoying Myev's enthusiasm and wonder. "We are all what we are -- except for Lia of course, who was changed by the power of the gods. So I guess anything truly is possible, assuming you're friendly with the gods..."

“My race doesn't live very long,” Myev adds after a time looking back at Kylie. “So living for so long seems like a dream. How old do you think I am?”


Elsewhere, Lia explores on her own. She went through the door from the main deck and is now in a room that seems to be an office of some kind. There is a desk that has numerous piles of paper neatly arranged in open boxes. Books fill up a bookshelf that lines the outer hull. The paperwork that Lia looks at is in writing that she cannot comprehend.

Past the office is a hallway with several doors. The first door on the right opens up into a what looks like a woodworkers shop. It has numerous tools and devices that would be a boon to any carpenter. The door past the woodworkers shop holds wood and other wood working supplies.

The door at the end of the hallway opens up into a small room that hugs the front of the Sunflower. The ship's prow dominates this area. The next room coming back is used for rope storage. The last chamber holds many tuns of wine.


One deck down, Argent has found a locked chest in her borrowed quarters. Stepping back from the chest, the Invoker casts Knock on the box and it pops open! Inside are some personal affects of the lady mage who previously used these quarters, some intimate clothing and under ware and a small pouch of ten amber gems of various sizes.


Back up on deck, Laucian, Allurien and Onas land their griffons. Myev departs the area before they land. Kylie steps forward to great her mother while the elves mission is explained.

"Hi mom!" Kylie says happily, stepping forward and hugging her mother. "I can certainly help with the searching. Do you want to join me? We could talk as we work..."

“Of course I can join you,” Allurien easily answers. “At this point you know far more about this ship than I do. Where should we start?


At that moment, Elora returns on a griffon as well.

“Did anyone see where Myev went?” the historian inquires.


Laucian takes off on his own and reaches the state room area and starts the task of rearranging the furniture to create a deadly trap for would be teleporters. His presence can't help but be noticed by Argent who is going through the chest she magically opened.


Elsewhere, Onas lost track of Laucian and randomly picks a door to enter. Behind the door he finds a small office and walking towards him is a drow!

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

The areas Lia visited are #8-13 on the map. As Lia is exiting the area, she finds Onas before her.

Oh, and say hello to a new character from a familiar player!

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“Aye, I’m okay. I thought there might be way to get this to shore but I do not want to take the risk of flying it there and dropping it. I’ll put it back below deck.”

"Okay, let me know if I can help with anything," Kylie replies.

“My race doesn't live very long,” Myev adds after a time looking back at Kylie. “So living for so long seems like a dream. How old do you think I am?”

Turning back to Myev after Lia departs, Kylie considers the question. "Hmm... If you were human, I would guess you were in your early to mid twenties. However, I don't know that much about scro, but I've heard that orcs only tend to live about two-thirds as long as humans, on average. Since scro appear to be related to orcs, I would guess you were around 14 to 17 years old?"

“It shouldn’t take us long. Where are Talen and Lia?” He asks curiously. Laucian will move through the ship moving furniture as they spoke in the meeting.

Her mother's arrival proves a bit of a distraction for Kylie. "Lia just went below-decks a few moments ago," she replies, waving her hand in the general direction she's gone. "Last I saw Talen, he was up here on deck. I'm sure he's around somewhere..."

“Of course I can join you,” Allurien easily answers. “At this point you know far more about this ship than I do. Where should we start?"

"I'm thinking we should start at the front of the lowest deck and work our way up. We can probably skip the rooms at the back of that deck, since we just got through searching them pretty thoroughly. This way, mom..."

“Did anyone see where Myev went?” the historian inquires.

As Kylie and her mother start toward the nearest aft stairwell, Elora returns a few moments behind the others. "She ducked inside to avoid the griffons," Kylie says, pointing. "You should be able to find her in there."

Kylie will lead her mother down the stairs to the lowest level. "You take that side and I'll take this side, and I'll meet you up front," Kylie says. "Hard to know what might be hidden amongst all this cargo."

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Lilia is enjoying her time simply speaking with the others. She is pleased that so many elves are willing to do whatever is needed to keep the Mother Tree safe. Lilia absentmindedly scratches Lady's head as the cooshee lays beside her chair. Talk turns to Forest Riders and a volunteer steps up.

Onas' excitement overrules his natural caution. "My queen," he says, bowing as the words come tumbling out in a rush, "I'm Onas Brightsword, younger brother of Arlen Brightsword, and I would very much love to become a Forest Rider. My closest companion is an elfin horse named Carad Orod and I'm trained in mounted combat. Joining the Forest Riders would be a great honor for both of us."

Lilia raises a curious eyebrow as the younger Brightsword approaches her. But before she can say anything, his older brother adds more.

“I can proudly vouch for my brothers riding skills,” Arlen states. “He was worked long and hard to not only serve the One and the Three, but to make a fine horseman out of himself. He and Carad Orod make a fierce foe in battle!”

The One and the Tree, as most elves know, relates to Angharradh, the current consort to Corellon Larethian and in some myths the mother of the elfin race. Angharradh was actually a merged goddess composed of three lesser elfin powers: Aerdrie Faenya, Hanali Celanil, and Sehanine Moonbow.

“You'd be hard pressed, Your Majesty, to find a more qualified applicant here in the Sylvan Realms!”

“Well, then,” Lilia states, “with qualifications like those the matter is settled. Onas Brightsword, I hereby place in charge of forming units of Forest Riders for the protection of the Mother Tree and the Sylvan Realm. It is my hope that when the Rainbow Bridge does open once more that many skilled elves will return to our homeland That all of our orders will have an influx of members. Then we will be able to turn our attention to other tasks.”

Lilia asks Elora to carry out the task of recording the information that Myev holds regarding the fallen elves of the scro home world.

“Very much so, Your Majesty,” Elora enthusiastically agrees. “Such knowledge must be recorded for posterity! I'll depart immediately!”

“Thank you, Historian,” Lilia says with a pleased smile. She then sits back down and renews her scratching behind Lady's ears.

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

Embarrassment flushes Onas' face as he sees the lack of recognition in Valena's eyes. "Ah, sorry," he says haltingly, "I'm Onas Brightsword. I was a member of one of the earlier groups that tried to come through the Rainbow Bridge and was trapped until you released us. My older brother Arlen led our group." He feels a little foolish rambling on like this, and hopes she doesn't mind.

“Well met, Onas Brightsword,” Valena easily states. “Pleased to meet you.”

“The idea had cross my mind as well,” Lilia admits. “Perhaps when we get reinforcements there will be individuals with the skill to make this happen. Fortunately, the griffons can cover a lot of ground, so its not a high priority, but a priority nonetheless.”

“A sensible position,” Valena agrees.

Then Onas steps up and provides his skills as a rider and even claims to have his own elfin horse! His brother Arlen speak of his siblings accomplishments. In turn, Lilia makes Onas the head of the Forest Riders in the Sylvan Realm.”

“Congratulations are in order then,” Valena says with a grin, “Order Master.”

[Argent]

Argent:

One deck down, Argent has found a locked chest in her borrowed quarters. Stepping back from the chest, the Invoker casts Knock on the box and it pops open! Inside are some personal affects of the lady mage who previously used these quarters, some intimate clothing and underwear and a small pouch of ten amber gems of various sizes.

“Well, aren't we a naughty girl,” Argent mutters eyeing the sexy garments. There are some gems that will have some value, but nothing that looks magical or even a spellbook.

Not long after that, Argents notices another is in the area.

Laucian takes off on his own and reaches the state room area and starts the task of rearranging the furniture to create a deadly trap for would be teleporters. His presence can't help but be noticed by Argent who is going through the chest she magically opened.

Stepping out of her room and into the hallway, Argent moves to see what is the elf is doing. “What's going on?”

[Lia]

Lia

"Okay, let me know if I can help with anything," Kylie replies.

“I will,” she says as she lifts the chest and steps back below deck.

Elsewhere, Lia explores on her own. She went through the door from the main deck and is now in a room that seems to be an office of some kind. There is a desk that has numerous piles of paper neatly arranged in open boxes. Books fill up a bookshelf that lines the outer hull. The paperwork that Lia looks at is in writing that she cannot comprehend.

Lia takes her time as she steps through the deck coming to an office, Placing the chest of vile liquids in the office room. She looks about the room and sees many papers neatly in arranged boxes, books fill the room. Attempting to read them Lia realizes quickly that she can not. Frowning Lia places the papers back where they were and steps out of the room then pauses. “Could this be the quartermasters room?” she asks herself. She will make a note of the room. Perhaps the historian Elora could make short work of the mystery.

Past the office is a hallway with several doors. The first door on the right opens up into a what looks like a woodworkers shop. It has numerous tools and devices that would be a boon to any carpenter. The door past the woodworkers shop holds wood and other wood working supplies.She then steps into an area that looks like t would be solely used for woodworking.

Lia steps within the woodworking area, she wonders if this is where they did all the woodwork not only for functionality but decoration as well. She take a few looks at the tools found there trying to figure out their purpose as she is not familiar with wood working.

The door at the end of the hallway opens up into a small room that hugs the front of the Sunflower. The ship's prow dominates this area. The next room coming back is used for rope storage. The last chamber holds many tuns of wine.

As she enters another room she sees many ropes dominating the area with the large prowl of the ship taking up most of the area. And the last many tuns of wine. Lia can help but let our a low whistle. These slavers traders liked their wine.

Having seen what these doors have to hold Lia begins to retrace her steps.

Elsewhere, Onas lost track of Laucian and randomly picks a door to enter. Behind the door he finds a small office and walking towards him is a drow!

As the door opens, Lia sees a grey hair elf comes whom is wearing elfin plate comes into view. Unconsciously Lia’s left hand goes to her sword hilt and the slight metallic hiss is heard making it easier to draw. Her lavender eyes narrow slightly as thoughts of the elf who attacked her comes rushing to the forefront of her mind. She keeps her sword hand by her right side. She smiles, though forced, her eye lingering on his, “Good day.”

( Where is the boat map?)

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

“Well met, Onas Brightsword,” Valena easily states. “Pleased to meet you.”

Onas grins brightly, not quite sure what to say to this beautiful hero of their people. Fortunately, the council ends and Lilia approaches, removing the need to reply.

===

“I can proudly vouch for my brothers riding skills,” Arlen states. “He was worked long and hard to not only serve the One and the Three, but to make a fine horseman out of himself. He and Carad Orod make a fierce foe in battle!”

...

“You'd be hard pressed, Your Majesty, to find a more qualified applicant here in the Sylvan Realms!”

Being brothers, Arlen and Onas have been at odds as often as they have been supportive of each other. That his brother has chosen to speak on his behalf to the Queen, is very gratifying, and Onas realizes that he will need to make this up to Arlen at some point. "Thanks, Arlen!"

“Well, then,” Lilia states, “with qualifications like those the matter is settled. Onas Brightsword, I hereby place in charge of forming units of Forest Riders for the protection of the Mother Tree and the Sylvan Realm. It is my hope that when the Rainbow Bridge does open once more that many skilled elves will return to our homeland That all of our orders will have an influx of members. Then we will be able to turn our attention to other tasks.”

"Thank you, Queen Liliathelion! Thank y--" Onas replies, and then it hits him. "Uhm... I... don't really know much about being a Forest Rider... I guess I... uh... have a lot to learn."

It takes a moment, but the look on his face brightens and he straightens his shoulders. "Nevertheless, I will do everything in my power to repay the faith you have placed in me, my queen, and build an order of Forest Riders you can depend on!" Standing in such august company and being given so much responsibility is almost more than he can comprehend. It occurs to him that he has a lot of work ahead to live up to this responsibility.

“Congratulations are in order then,” Valena says with a grin, “Order Master.”

A flush of embarrassment spreads across Onas' face. "Oh! Ah... thank you, Ord-- Valena!" Despite his sudden promotion, Onas feels awkward using her name with no honorific. She is still one of the Heroes of the Mother Tree, and he has yet to fully prove himself.

===

Rope in hand, Onas approaches a closed door on one of the lower decks. 'I wonder what this room was used for,' he thinks and he opens the door.

A small part of his brain registers a desk and some books, indicating possibly an office of some kind. Those thoughts are nearly obliterated as he comes face-to-face with a female drow.

"Drow!" he yells in alarm, instinctively dropping the rope. Both of them reach for their swords simultaneously. Onas has his half-way out of the sheathe before he pauses, some thought or memory scratching insistently at the edges of his consciousness.

She smiles, though forced, her eye lingering on his, “Good day.”

Recollection explodes into the forefront of his mind. While he has never met her, Onas is nearly certain who this young woman standing before him really is. "Wait! You-- You're Lia, the Transformed, Hero of the Mother Tree! Aren't you?" He slides Frostfang back into its sheathe, though doesn't entirely remove his hand from it, hoping - wanting - to be right in his. If not, he's already dead...

[Laucian]

Laucian

Back up on deck, Laucian, Allurien and Onas land their griffons. Myev departs the area before they land. Kylie steps forward to great her mother while the elves mission is explained.

Her mother's arrival proves a bit of a distraction for Kylie. "Lia just went below-decks a few moments ago," she replies, waving her hand in the general direction she's gone. "Last I saw Talen, he was up here on deck. I'm sure he's around somewhere..."

“Alright, If you see them before I do let them know we have to move furniture in the cabins so that if a mage teleports in they will be very sorry.”

Laucian looks around for Onas but does not see him just the cabin door shutting. Walking toward the below deck door.

Laucian takes off on his own and reaches the state room area and starts the task of rearranging the furniture to create a deadly trap for would be teleporters. His presence can't help but be noticed by Argent who is going through the chest she magically opened.

Stepping out of her room and into the hallway, Argent moves to see what is the elf is doing. “What's going on?”

“Lilia would like the furniture moved into the open areas of the room. It seems that teleporting into a room well known could bring slavers here. By moving the furniture we limit their arrival points and if blocked, these mages will be harm tremendously.”he says evenly to the mage.

Laucian will begin moving things into the open areas.

[Lia]

Lia

A small part of his brain registers a desk and some books, indicating possibly an office of some kind. Those thoughts are nearly obliterated as he comes face-to-face with a female drow.

"Drow!" he yells in alarm, instinctively dropping the rope. Both of them reach for their swords simultaneously. Onas has his half-way out of the sheathe before he pauses, some thought or memory scratching insistently at the edges of his consciousness.

Hearing the elf before her call out, “Drow!”in alarm and drawing his sword half way out, Lia does the same though pulls it from the sheath and holds in firmly in one hand and loosely in the other.

“I have dealt with your kind before.” She says evenly her eyes narrowing ever so slightly as the vision of the elf trying to kill her in the forest our still fresh in her mind. “Choose your next words carefully…” as she loosens her left hand on the pommel.

Recollection explodes into the forefront of his mind. While he has never met her, Onas is nearly certain who this young woman standing before him really is. "Wait! You-- You're Lia, the Transformed, Hero of the Mother Tree! Aren't you?" He slides Frostfang back into its sheathe, though doesn't entirely remove his hand from it, hoping - wanting - to be right in his. If not, he's already dead...

Lia stares hard at the elf before her as recollection clicks in the elf. He uses her name and calling her the transformed!? As she watches him put his sword away. For a long moment she keeps his gaze her sword at the ready before her. “I am Lia.” She says simply lowering her sword a fraction. “Forgive me, I am weary of so called friends.” She takes a step back and lowering sword to her right side. “Am I to trust that Lilia and Laucian sent you?”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Kylie chats with Myev up on deck before Laucian, Onas, and Allurien return...

Turning back to Myev after Lia departs, Kylie considers the question. "Hmm... If you were human, I would guess you were in your early to mid twenties. However, I don't know that much about scro, but I've heard that orcs only tend to live about two-thirds as long as humans, on average. Since scro appear to be related to orcs, I would guess you were around 14 to 17 years old?"

“I've seen 14 springs,” Myev answers. “Among my people some females of my age have had children already. I may live about forty more years or so. I have heard that elves are still children longer than I will live! That's hard to comprehend.”

Myev vacates the area as several griffons arrive bearing elves. Laucian goes off to secure the ship from mages teleporting in. But moving obstacles into normally open areas, it is hope that an intruder will inside a solid object. Such a thing can be fatal to the teleporting mage!

After talking to Laucian, Kylie and her mother Allurien start to move below decks themselves.

"I'm thinking we should start at the front of the lowest deck and work our way up. We can probably skip the rooms at the back of that deck, since we just got through searching them pretty thoroughly. This way, mom..."

“Top to bottom, bottom to top doesn't matter as long as we don't miss anything,” Allurien says.

Before they can get to far, Elora also arrives by way of griffon. The historian inquires about the current location of Myev.

As Kylie and her mother start toward the nearest aft stairwell, Elora returns a few moments behind the others. "She ducked inside to avoid the griffons," Kylie says, pointing. "You should be able to find her in there."

“Thank you!” Elora excitedly answers and moves after Myev.


Not to far away, Lia explores on her own. She's passed an office area and found a wood working shop. Among the tools stored on the wall are chisels of various sizes, saws, planers, and other carpenter tools. The tools are very sharp and there is a large sharpening stone nearby, but they are really not weapons to be used in battle. A smell of sawdust fills the air and it covers the floor.

Kylie will lead her mother down the stairs to the lowest level. "You take that side and I'll take this side, and I'll meet you up front," Kylie says. "Hard to know what might be hidden amongst all this cargo."

“If the former masters of this vessel were traders,” Allurien notes, “than I imagine that we will find mostly mundane cargo. When I sailed the Great Southern Sea I came across and worked for a few traders. It can be a lucrative business if you have the gold, a sturdy vessel and a knowledge of what products are in demand where.”

The pair reach the lowest deck of the Sunflower. Allurien takes a look around the largest area of that part of the ship. (Area #38)

“This is typically called the lower hold,” Allurien states as she examines the chambers contents. “Mostly what I would expect to be here. Replacement masts if one was to break either from a storm or battle. Planks to repair holes. Spare barrels of water for drinking. Even if they did go bad, a priest could purify them once more. The same goes for food as well.”

Apart from the lower hold and the rooms that make up the ship's vault, there are four more doors. One door leads to a large chamber at the fore of the ship. At first glance, the area looks like a blacksmith's shop.

“A metal-repair shop,” Allurien says. “There are always weapons and armor to mend, along with the metallic portions of the ship. I've never seen such a large shop before on a ship. But than again, I've never seen a ship as big as this one before either.”

Two of the three smaller rooms are used for storage. One has extra sails and canvas. The other holds bags of grain. The last room holds a Spell Engine.

“What is that,” Allurien inquires. “Everything else down here is what I would expect to find. But this? This is something new to me.”


Elsewhere, Laucian continues to re-arrange furniture in the stateroom area while Argent watches. (Areas #23-30)

One deck up, Lia has come across Onas, the younger Brightsword brother.


Now what?

[Argent]

Argent:

“Lilia would like the furniture moved into the open areas of the room. It seems that teleporting into a room well known could bring slavers here. By moving the furniture we limit their arrival points and if blocked, these mages will be harm tremendously,” he says evenly to the mage.

“Oh, great,” Argent moans, “now I have to worry about someone appearing in my room unexpectedly!”

“That makes sense,” Argent agrees after thinking about it for a minute. “Jallarzi had a teleportation tower as her arrival point at her estate. The room was empty to avoid such a thing happening. It's a logical defense against teleporters.”

“I'm not strong enough to move this furniture, and most of it is nailed to deck anyway, but I will do what I can to stop anyone from arriving safely,” Argent vows to the elf.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

"Thank you, Queen Liliathelion! Thank y--" Onas replies, and then it hits him. "Uhm... I... don't really know much about being a Forest Rider... I guess I... uh... have a lot to learn."

“Well, you already have a horse and are a skilled rider, at least according to your brother,” Lilia notes. “That puts you far ahead of almost everyone else here.”

It takes a moment, but the look on his face brightens and he straightens his shoulders. "Nevertheless, I will do everything in my power to repay the faith you have placed in me, my queen, and build an order of Forest Riders you can depend on!" Standing in such august company and being given so much responsibility is almost more than he can comprehend. It occurs to him that he has a lot of work ahead to live up to this responsibility.

“I am sure you will do just fine, Onas Brightsword,” Lilia responds. “I would imagine that since your Forest Riders will overlap the responsibilities of the Silver Maidens that your two groups would work to compliment each other. But there will be more to it than just guard duty. As the old clan holds are reclaimed each will need Forest Riders and Griffon Riders for protection. Our borders will need to be patrolled and I see that as the main mission for the Forest Riders. Given the Griffon Riders have more range, I can see then scouting out the areas beyond our borders to find any threats before they get to closer. All of our groups are needed to protect the Sylvan Realm and the Mother Tree.”

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

A flush of embarrassment spreads across Onas' face. "Oh! Ah... thank you, Ord-- Valena!" Despite his sudden promotion, Onas feels awkward using her name with no honorific. She is still one of the Heroes of the Mother Tree, and he has yet to fully prove himself.

“I'd like to meet your horse,” Valena adds. “When time permits, of course. Among the powers that Ehlonna grants me is the ability to freely converse with animals and the creatures of the forest. I haven't met many elfin horses, but they are smart creatures.”

Valena has no interest in going back to the Sunflower, so will instead sit for a time, have a little lunch and converse with those present. Afterwards she'll go back out on patrol.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“I've seen 14 springs,” Myev answers. “Among my people some females of my age have had children already. I may live about forty more years or so. I have heard that elves are still children longer than I will live! That's hard to comprehend.”

Kylie nods thoughtfully. "As a half-elf, my lifespan will likely be a fair bit longer than that of a human, but still vastly shorter than a full elf. As I understand it, halflings have a similar lifespan to half-elves, and dwarves live around twice as long or so.

"Then again, I cannot imagine having kids already even though I'm well past that age by the standards of your race. I'm just a few years past puberty, and am still a child in the eyes of an elf." Kylie shrugs bemusedly. "I guess it's all just a matter of perspective."

“Alright, If you see them before I do let them know we have to move furniture in the cabins so that if a mage teleports in they will be very sorry.”

"Will do, Laucian," Kylie replies as she leads her mother down into the lower decks.

“If the former masters of this vessel were traders,” Allurien notes, “than I imagine that we will find mostly mundane cargo. When I sailed the Great Southern Sea I came across and worked for a few traders. It can be a lucrative business if you have the gold, a sturdy vessel and a knowledge of what products are in demand where.”

"You may be right, mom," Kylie says, "though we also know them to be slavers. From what we've already seen, they certainly had quite a bit of stuff secreted behind locked doors and within locked chests. I don't think we can rule out the possibility of hidden compartments and important things hidden among mundane items. We'll have to keep our eyes peeled for anything unexpected. Of course, that's why we're perfect for this job - right, mom?" she asks with a lopsided grin.

As they make their way through what her mother refers to as the 'lower hold', Kylie looks carefully for anything that seems hidden or out of place, just as Rat taught her.

“A metal-repair shop,” Allurien says. “There are always weapons and armor to mend, along with the metallic portions of the ship. I've never seen such a large shop before on a ship. But than again, I've never seen a ship as big as this one before either.”

"Nor have I," Kylie admits. "In addition to ship repairs, they may have needed to make chains and such for the prisoners. Perhaps that is why it is so large." She pays special attention in searching the storage rooms, as those seem like a great place to hide something.

“What is that,” Allurien inquires. “Everything else down here is what I would expect to find. But this? This is something new to me.”

Kylie laughs, surprised to actually know something that her mother doesn't. "That is called a 'Spell Engine', mom," she says. "It burns magical energy to allow the ship to fly as well as other functions. This ship has three of them installed, and a fourth in storage as a backup.

"Spell Engines can burn energy from either magical items or spells. Each engine has a set capacity to store magical energy, specific functions that it is able to perform, and a limit to how much power it can put into those functions. The most common functions seem to be: raising and lowering the ship, forward movement, and life support."

Once they are through carefully searching the lowest deck, Kylie and her mother will move up one deck and repeat the process.

[Onas]

Onas:

“Well, you already have a horse and are a skilled rider, at least according to your brother,” Lilia notes. “That puts you far ahead of almost everyone else here.”

"Ah... yes. You are right of course, my Queen." The note of awe in Onas's voice to be speaking directly to the Queen of the Elves of the Sylvan Realm is audible. "Perhaps some of the elders will be able to tell me more of the Forest Rider history and lore. And other riders may soon arrive."

“I am sure you will do just fine, Onas Brightsword,” Lilia responds. “I would imagine that since your Forest Riders will overlap the responsibilities of the Silver Maidens that your two groups would work to compliment each other. But there will be more to it than just guard duty. As the old clan holds are reclaimed each will need Forest Riders and Griffon Riders for protection. Our borders will need to be patrolled and I see that as the main mission for the Forest Riders. Given the Griffon Riders have more range, I can see then scouting out the areas beyond our borders to find any threats before they get to closer. All of our groups are needed to protect the Sylvan Realm and the Mother Tree.”

"Yes, Queen Lilia. That seems like a sound plan. I will be happy to work with both Valena of the Silver Unicorns and Laucian of the Golden Griffons to coordinate our efforts." He's going to need to recruit an awful lot of Riders to achieve what the queen is suggesting...

“I'd like to meet your horse,” Valena adds. “When time permits, of course. Among the powers that Ehlonna grants me is the ability to freely converse with animals and the creatures of the forest. I haven't met many elfin horses, but they are smart creatures.”

"Of course, Valena," Onas replies happily to the beautiful leader of the Silver Unicorns. "I know Carad Orod would enjoy meeting you, and you won't be disappointed by his intelligence. Hopefully, he won't say too many bad things about me," he says with a slightly awkward laugh.

===

Lia stares hard at the elf before her as recollection clicks in the elf. He uses her name and calling her the transformed!? As she watches him put his sword away. For a long moment she keeps his gaze her sword at the ready before her. “I am Lia.” She says simply lowering her sword a fraction. “Forgive me, I am weary of so called friends.” She takes a step back and lowering sword to her right side. “Am I to trust that Lilia and Laucian sent you?”

Onas breathes a silent sigh of relief, glad that his estimation was correct. "In a sense: The Queen remained at the council chambers. However, Laucian was looking for you. I am here because the Queen requested that we make it hard for the previous owners to teleport onto this ship by moving the furniture and creating other obstacles in the most likely cabins." He points down at the coil of rope at his feet. "Stringing this around the cabin seemed like a pretty good way to deter them."

If Lia makes no further move that seems aggressive, Onas will resume moving the furniture about the cabin, then string the rope about the room.

[Laucian]

Laucian

“Oh, great,” Argent moans, “now I have to worry about someone appearing in my room unexpectedly!”

“We will make it as difficult as possible for them to visit it you. My people see to our friends.” he says evenly laying a chair down upon the floor.

“I'm not strong enough to move this furniture, and most of it is nailed to deck anyway, but I will do what I can to stop anyone from arriving safely,” Argent vows to the elf.

“Thank you, Argent.” Laucian will do his best to move furniture into the unadornedarea. As he does so as efficient as he can. “What are you planning on doing with your new found freedom?” he asks curiously to the mage.

[Lia]

Lia

Onas breathes a silent sigh of relief, glad that his estimation was correct. "In a sense: The Queen remained at the council chambers. However, Laucian was looking for you. I am here because the Queen requested that we make it hard for the previous owners to teleport onto this ship by moving the furniture and creating other obstacles in the most likely cabins." He points down at the coil of rope at his feet. "Stringing this around the cabin seemed like a pretty good way to deter them."

“There is not much down this way. There are mostly work shops.” Lia says evenly as she sheathes her sword. Looking at the warrior before her. Perhaps she was quick to judge but it was well warranted. “ If they want the areas to be blocked so be it. Though there is more to do then just the cabins. If mages are to enter an area that would no be barred the cargo holds would be the areas in which I would look as well.
“There is also the matter of fully searching this ship. There maybe an area in which they may favor yet to be seen.”
Lia will begin helping moving furniture as she sees fit to do as the others were instructed.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed