The Sylvan Realm #18 (#62)

[GM Mad]

Sylvan Realm #18 (#62)

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


On the Sunflower, Kylie, Lia and Allurien are in the hidden room off the Captain's Cabin. They were able to remove some of the traps and locks, but not all of them.

"I watched you carefully, and I think I grasp the basic technique," Kylie replies. "I can tell that I'll need a lot of practice to feel at all confident about it, though."

“It does require much practice and a very steady hand,” Allurien agrees. “Those will come in time.”

The jewelry is beautiful indeed. For a second, Kylie imagines wearing them along with her enchanted dress; she feels elegant just thinking about it. "You could buy most of Dog Alley for less than that, I suspect."

“But would you really want to?” Allurien wryly answers.

Not long after that, a scream is heard from elsewhere in the ship! It sounded like Argent. Kylie rushes off to see what made her friend scream like that.

Lia hears the scream and watches as Kylie chases after it’s owner. “Kylie! You do no good rushing…. Oh forget it.”she says calling after the mage and goes to follow while drawing her blade.

“The impatience of youth...,” Allurien will note as she follows after Lia drawing her own short swords as she goes. “Still let us give her back up in case there is danger.”


Kylie races back to the Stateroom area of the Sunflower and finds Argent is now in Myev's cabin. Nothing else is around, just the Invoker.

“We were eating,” Argent says upon seeing Kylie. It's clear that she's upset about something. “And then all of a sudden, Myev just vanished! I've seen Jallarzi cast a Teleport spell before, but this was nothing like that. Even Myev seemed surprised!”

A few moments after that Lia and Allurien arrive and can see that Myev is indeed gone.

[GM Mad]

In the Heart of the Tree, the leaf that Myev had with her has just grafted itself to the Mother Tree. There was a surge of energy from the leaf. In response to this burst of energy, treant-like eyes and a mouth formed on the chambers wall and the Mother Tree speaks!

Suddenly, a new, strange yet soothing voice is heard! Onas' eyes dart about the small chamber trying to ascertain the source of the voice. Behind him, a face appears in the wall of the chamber! Onas has only once before seen a treant, and the similarity is unmistakable. Could the Mother Tree really be so closely related to the treants? The thought is staggering, and Onas drops to one knee. "On my life, I will give such help as I am able," he vows.

“As would us all,” Lilia quickly adds. “What would you have us do? What is this gift and message of which you speak?”

“Welcome, Forest Elder. Which cousins do you speak of? Your sister?” Laucian can’t help but wonder. While not so quick to bend the knee, Laucian awaits to hear the words of this Elder tree.

“The Mother Tree of the world where this leaf came from gave me the gift of energy,” the Mother Tree explains. “She sensed my weakness and sought to aid me. Alas, the aid was not needed, but the gift was most generous.”

“The message is that your cousins, the elves of her world are not all gone. While the war with their enemies raged, many elves were merged with trees for their protection and safety. Those elves lost the war, but those held within the trees still remain. But they will not last much longer. An elf can only be safely merged with a tree for so long before they fade. Thus the leaf was both aid and a call for help.”

“The leaf bearer, the one you call Myev needs my help as well,” the Mother Tree continues. “She is burdened and I can ease her troubles. I now bring her to me.”

In a flash, a stunned Myev appears in the Chamber of the Heart!

“What--?” Myev sputters aloud upon seeing all the elves and the wooden face on the chamber wall. “What is this place? What do you want with me?”

“The one called Myev was a weak child,” the Mother Tree continues ignoring Myev's questions. “Her mother feared that her tribe will slay the child for being so feeble. One night she took the baby in to the elf ruins and prayed to whatever gods who would listen for help. My sister Mother Tree listened and hatched a long term plan to save her children. The spirit of one of the elves hidden in the trees merged with the baby and with this addition Myev was able to survive to this long. The elfin spirit was weak and could only awaken every so often, but it was able to bring this leaf to me.”

“There--,” Myev starts to say. “There is an elf in me?”

“You are an elf in all but form,” the Mother Tree responds. “I can change that if you so desire.”

“You can?” an amazed Myev says. “Yes, I would very much like to be an elf. I've dreamed of being an elf!”

In response, branches emerge from the walls and floor of the Chamber of the Heart and gently surround Myev and build a cocoon around her. Eventually you cannot see the scro at all through the leafs and branches.

“I grow tired,” the Mother Tree states. “The extra energy is fading, but I have one more act to perform before I sleep.”

There is another flash and now a surprised Talen is among you!

“You have been touched by the builders of the ruins to the north,” the Mother Tree says. “You know how to work their devices. There are similar devices on Myev's world, thus you will be able to travel there and rescue the slumbering elves. My sister tells me that you need this code I now give you.”

A series of symbols appear in Talen's understandably confused mind. “What--?” he utters in confusion.

“Go to this other place,” the Mother Tree says her voice becoming slower and more labored. “Save your cousins, my sister's children. The help you need will come tomorrow, for the Rainbow Bridge will open when the sun is at its peak.”

With those final words, the eyes and mouth close is if they were never really there. The Mother Tree has gone back to sleep leaving behind many stunned individuals trying to process what they just witnessed.

Now what?

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Lilia has just witnessed the leaf from the other Mother Tree join with her Mother Tree and give it energy and knowledge.

“The Mother Tree of the world where this leaf came from gave me the gift of energy,” the Mother Tree explains. “She sensed my weakness and sought to aid me. Alas, the aid was not needed, but the gift was most generous.”

“That explains that,” Lilia thinks to herself. The Elf Maiden has noted the surge in the Mother Tree's growth from the leaf. Apparently the leaf was sent long before the Mother Tree was restored, so perhaps her sister tree was attempting to aid her from afar. A lifeline thrown from so far away.

“The message is that your cousins, the elves of her world are not all gone. While the war with their enemies raged, many elves were merged with trees for their protection and safety. Those elves lost the war, but those held within the trees still remain. But they will not last much longer. An elf can only be safely merged with a tree for so long before they fade. Thus the leaf was both aid and a call for help.”

“So much like the elves that stayed in the Sylvan Realm to tend to the Mother Tree,” Lilia notes. “They remained in stasis within trees until the Mother Tree was restored. Perhaps this other Mother Tree can release those elves, but has not done so since they have nowhere to really go?”

“The leaf bearer, the one you call Myev needs my help as well,” the Mother Tree continues. “She is burdened and I can ease her troubles. I now bring her to me.”

Lilia can't help but wonder just how Myev can be helped or even if she needs aid.

In a flash, a stunned Myev appears in the Chamber of the Heart!

“What--?” Myev sputters aloud upon seeing all the elves and the wooden face on the chamber wall. “What is this place? What do you want with me?”

“The Mother Tree has summoned you,” Lilia will say to Myev. “She calls you the leaf bearer. Do you know what that means?”

However the Mother Tree does not seem interested in having a conversation and instead continues on with her explanation.

“The one called Myev was a weak child,” the Mother Tree continues ignoring Myev's questions. “Her mother feared that her tribe will slay the child for being so feeble. One night she took the baby in to the elf ruins and prayed to whatever gods who would listen for help. My sister Mother Tree listened and hatched a long term plan to save her children. The spirit of one of the elves hidden in the trees merged with the baby and with this addition Myev was able to survive to this long. The elfin spirit was weak and could only awaken every so often, but it was able to bring this leaf to me.”

“There--,” Myev starts to say. “There is an elf in me?”

“You are an elf in all but form,” the Mother Tree responds. “I can change that if you so desire.”

“That explains many things,” Lilia notes. “Just how the scro made it here and how Myev can understand and speak elfish.”

“You can?” an amazed Myev says. “Yes, I would very much like to be an elf. I've dreamed of being an elf!”

“Are you sure this is what you want, Myev” Lilia asks mildly concerned. While she is unsure just what the Mother Tree is going to do, the Elf Maiden does not believe that Myev will be harmed. But still, such a change is not a decision one should make so quickly.

In response, branches emerge from the walls and floor of the Chamber of the Heart and gently surround Myev and build a cocoon around her. Eventually you cannot see the scro at all through the leafs and branches.

“Its a cocoon,” Lilia notes. “Like a caterpillar changing into a butterfly. I wonder what will emerge? And how like this will take?”

“I grow tired,” the Mother Tree states. “The extra energy is fading, but I have one more act to perform before I sleep.”

There is another flash and now a surprised Talen is among you!

“You have been touched by the builders of the ruins to the north,” the Mother Tree says. “You know how to work their devices. There are similar devices on Myev's world, thus you will be able to travel there and rescue the slumbering elves. My sister tells me that you need this code I now give you.”

“Talen?” Lilia says in surprise. She wasn't expecting to see him summoned by the Mother Tree. “Touched by the builders? You mean the Elders? Is that what those teaching columns did to him yesterday? Made him able to use their Pillar Artifacts? Talen, did you know this?”

A series of symbols appear in Talen's understandably confused mind. “What--?” he utters in confusion.

Clearly Talen is just confused as Lilia is. If he does possess such knowledge, its not known to him yet.

“Go to this other place,” the Mother Tree says her voice becoming slower and more labored. “Save your cousins, my sister's children. The help you need will come tomorrow, for the Rainbow Bridge will open when the sun is at its peak.”

With those final words, the eyes and mouth close is if they were never really there. The Mother Tree has gone back to sleep leaving behind many stunned individuals trying to process what they just witnessed.

“Thank you, Mother Tree,” Lilia will say with a bow. “We shall do as you ask as soon as we are able.”

Lilia steps forward and runs her hand over Myev's cocoon. “That seems to solve the mystery of Myev. I hope she finds what she seeks with this change.”

Next Lilia steps up to Talen. “Did you understand what the Mother Tree said? Were you touched by the Elders?”

Afterwards Lilia will speak to everyone. “My friends, we have been blessed. The Mother Tree spoke directly to us. The Rainbow Bridge will arrive tomorrow and hopefully all the aid that we need will come over it from the Elfholds. Until Talen figures out how to get us to this other world, we must continue on as we have planned. The Sunflower will be moved to the docks by the Elfin Palace and we'll go forth to explore it to make sure it is clear of Moorkroft's presence.”

“Until then, let us relax and enjoy this evening. Our vigil is coming to an end and there is much to celebrate.”

Turning to Andlin and the High Keeper, Lilia will add, “Perhaps it would wise to keep a guard stationed here in the Heart of the Tree to keep an eye on the cocoon. Just in case.”

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

“At its core its not that complicated,” Lilia easily says to Onas. “The more powerful spells one can cast, the more energy you provide the Spell Engine. The more energy a Spell Engine has the more you can do with it, but it will drain away at a steady rate. Unless you have enough spells to keep the engine powered, it will run out of energy and cease to function. Myev claims to know only the most basic of spells and therefore shouldn't have had enough energy to keep the Sunflower going for very long.”

Onas listens carefully to the queen's explanation. He's not really sure what a Spell Engine is, but he kind of gets the general gist of what she's saying. "Okay, I think I understand. The ship runs on energy from magical spells, and she didn't have enough spell-casting ability to power the ship for extended periods. Yet somehow, she got here anyway, so she must have had help of some kind."

“You could be right, Laucian,” Lilia says. “Perhaps this leaf is the only reason the scro made it here at all. Still I have to wonder, why did this other Mother Tree feel the need to make this long journey?”

The queen's question is a good one. Onas considers it for a moment before responding. "If the elves there were all killed, as Myev stated, then it may need someone to care for it. Or it could be in some kind of danger. Or perhaps it is just lonely?"

“Welcome, Forest Elder. Which cousins do you speak of? Your sister?” Laucian can’t help but wonder. While not so quick to bend the knee, Laucian awaits to hear the words of this Elder tree.

Hearing Laucian's questions from over his shoulder, Onas silently guesses as to the answers, but respectfully chooses not to attempt to speak for the Mother Tree.

“The Mother Tree of the world where this leaf came from gave me the gift of energy,” the Mother Tree explains. “She sensed my weakness and sought to aid me. Alas, the aid was not needed, but the gift was most generous.”

“The message is that your cousins, the elves of her world are not all gone. While the war with their enemies raged, many elves were merged with trees for their protection and safety. Those elves lost the war, but those held within the trees still remain. But they will not last much longer. An elf can only be safely merged with a tree for so long before they fade. Thus the leaf was both aid and a call for help.”

The other Mother Tree's gift goes beyond that of just strength and energy for the Sylvan Realm's Mother Tree, and is also a message of hope. There are surviving elves on this other world, and they can be rescued. Onas believes in his heart that this mission is part of his purpose in the world, and it is his destiny to see it completed. Queen Lilia reminds them that some of their ancestors were left behind in the trees here in the Realm in a similar manner to what the Mother Tree describes of the elves on this other world.

The Mother Tree then summons the scro named Myev, who is clearly surprised upon arrival. Mother Tree goes on to explain her background, and also the fact that one of the elves from the world has merged with this young scro woman!

“That explains many things,” Lilia notes. “Just how the scro made it here and how Myev can understand and speak elfish.”

Onas notes that his guess regarding another entity present in Myev's mind was not far off. "So I was right," he mutters softly to himself, feeling pleased by that notion.

She is offered the chance to become an elf in all ways, and Myev jumps at the chance, saying that she has always wanted to be an elf. With that declaration, Mother Tree enwraps her in a leafy cocoon. 'How long will this transformation take,' Onas wonders.

And yet the surprises have not ended. No sooner is Myev settled into the Mother Tree's embrace than Talen magically appears, no less surprised than Myev had been moments before! From what he understands of Mother Tree's words, Talen gained some hidden knowledge on their recent trip to the north. Mother Tree adds some additional piece of knowledge granted by the Mother Tree of that other world. Though he seems not to fully comprehend the knowledge that he has been given, it appears that Talen is the key to their ability to go rescue the elves of that other world!

One last piece of information is imparted: The Rainbow Bridge will open tomorrow, and reinforcements will come through. The Sylvan Realm will be far more ready to defend itself from whatever threats await. Onas says a prayer of thanks to Angarradh for her beneficence.

Afterwards Lilia will speak to everyone. “My friends, we have been blessed. The Mother Tree spoke directly to us. The Rainbow Bridge will arrive tomorrow and hopefully all the aid that we need will come over it from the Elfholds. Until Talen figures out how to get us to this other world, we must continue on as we have planned. The Sunflower will be moved to the docks by the Elfin Palace and we'll go forth to explore it to make sure it is clear of Moorkroft's presence.”

“Until then, let us relax and enjoy this evening. Our vigil is coming to an end and there is much to celebrate.”

Onas finally rises to his full height. "As you say, my queen, there is much to be done and much to be celebrated." He is already thinking about the Forest Riders and the work before him to get that force established here. Hopefully, there will be some recruits among those who arrive on the morrow.

Turning to Andlin and the High Keeper, Lilia will add, “Perhaps it would wise to keep a guard stationed here in the Heart of the Tree to keep an eye on the cocoon. Just in case.”

Even as his mind considers the ramifications of all that had happened and all that they had learned, Onas overhears Lilia's statement. "I would be honored to serve in this way, Queen Lilia, if that is acceptable."

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“It does require much practice and a very steady hand,” Allurien agrees. “Those will come in time.”

Kylie nods quietly, trying to commit the technique to memory.

“But would you really want to?” Allurien wryly answers.

Kylie smiles fondly at her mother, hearing the tone of humor in her voice, yet her response is soft and serious. "If I could improve the lives of the people living there so that others would not have to grow up the way I did, then yes, I would."

“Me? You must have me confused with Talen…. I know we look alike and all but I’m not the mage.” She says in jest.

Realization of her error pulls Kylie up short, and embarrassment floods her face. "I-- I got confused. I'm sorry, Lia. Perhaps Talen could cast the spells tomorrow?"

===

As she races off to find Argent, Kylie hears the words of caution from Lia and her mother, but they fail to penetrate her concern for her friend.

Kylie races back to the Stateroom area of the Sunflower and finds Argent is now in Myev's cabin. Nothing else is around, just the Invoker.

“We were eating,” Argent says upon seeing Kylie. It's clear that she's upset about something. “And then all of a sudden, Myev just vanished! I've seen Jallarzi cast a Teleport spell before, but this was nothing like that. Even Myev seemed surprised!”

Relief floods through Kylie at the sight of her friend, and her fear melts away. "Argent, are you all right?" she asks, concern etched on her features.

"Myev vanished?! How could that--" Kylie trails off as her brain swarms with activity, trying to puzzle out what might have happened. "Could this be an attack of some kind? Could the leaf have summoned her in some way?" The relief she felt upon seeing Argent is replaced by anxiety over Myev's fate. She has far to many questions and far too few answers.

Hearing a noise behind her, Kylie turns to see Lia and Allurien arrive, weapons in hand. "Mom, Argent says Myev vanished into thin air right in front of her!"

[Talen]

Talen:

After exploring the treasure vault everyone went their own way. Talen found his way to the galley for a snack and he talked to the human mage Argent when she arrived later on.

Seeing no one else around, Talen went for a walk in the forest to pass the time. There is a flash and Talen is stunned to find himself somewhere else! Lilia and Laucian are there among other elves. The chamber looks like the Heat of the Tree, the place where we gave her the life saving energy. Even stranger there is a face on the wall and it is talking!

“You have been touched by the builders of the ruins to the north,” the Mother Tree says. “You know how to work their devices. There are similar devices on Myev's world, thus you will be able to travel there and rescue the slumbering elves. My sister tells me that you need this code I now give you.”

“Talen?” Lilia says in surprise. She wasn't expecting to see him summoned by the Mother Tree. “Touched by the builders? You mean the Elders? Is that what those teaching columns did to him yesterday? Made him able to use their Pillar Artifacts? Talen, did you know this?”

A series of symbols appear in Talen's understandably confused mind. “What--?” he utters in confusion.

“Go to this other place,” the Mother Tree says her voice becoming slower and more labored. “Save your cousins, my sister's children. The help you need will come tomorrow, for the Rainbow Bridge will open when the sun is at its peak.”

Next Lilia steps up to Talen. “Did you understand what the Mother Tree said? Were you touched by the Elders?”

“What just happened?” Talen asks in genuine confusion. “Touched by the Elders? I have no idea what you're talking about. I saw some symbols in my head, but they don't mean anything to me. I have trouble finding my socks and you think I can find another whole world? What does this all mean?”

[Lia]

Lia

Realization of her error pulls Kylie up short, and embarrassment floods her face. "I-- I got confused. I'm sorry, Lia. Perhaps Talen could cast the spells tomorrow?"

Lia smiles slightly as Kylie explains her confusion. “It is okay, Kylie. We will have to ask him. I haven’t seen him for some time. He’s probably in the kitchen getting food.” She says in jest.

“The impatience of youth...,” Allurien will note as she follows after Lia drawing her own short swords as she goes. “Still let us give her back up in case there is danger.”

Lia cant help but shake her head and smirk, realizing she is probably just as old as Kylie, or at least she was when she was a half elf?( Not that it matters but how old is she now? As she went from half to full)
“Always will.” She says evenly as she rounds a corner and seeing Argent and Kylie.

A few moments after that Lia and Allurien arrive and can see that Myev is indeed gone.
Lia scans the room seeing only the two mages. Myev is no where to be seen!

Hearing a noise behind her, Kylie turns to see Lia and Allurien arrive, weapons in hand. "Mom, Argent says Myev vanished into thin air right in front of her!"

“How?” is all that comes from her lips as she looks to Kylie then to Argent.

[Laucian]

Laucian

“The Mother Tree of the world where this leaf came from gave me the gift of energy,” the Mother Tree explains. “She sensed my weakness and sought to aid me. Alas, the aid was not needed, but the gift was most generous.”

“The message is that your cousins, the elves of her world are not all gone. While the war with their enemies raged, many elves were merged with trees for their protection and safety. Those elves lost the war, but those held within the trees still remain. But they will not last much longer. An elf can only be safely merged with a tree for so long before they fade. Thus the leaf was both aid and a call for help.”

“The leaf bearer, the one you call Myev needs my help as well,” the Mother Tree continues. “She is burdened and I can ease her troubles. I now bring her to me.”

Laucian listens to the words of their mother tree as the shock and awe of seeing the treant’s face passes. Elves in need? It seems the scro did not eliminate all of our cousins as they were hiding within trees much like that of the Slyvian realm tree keepers.
Laucian hears the words of the Treant and finds them interestind and is surprised that the mother tree wishes to help out a scro. It is said in time that the scro contains the spirit of an elf! Surely he is kicking himself for not trusting myev but it seems he was wrong.

Myev appears in a flash and the mother tree explains how she can speak elvish and why she is not like the other scro. She is part elf or atleast bonded with one somehow.
“You are an elf in all but form,” the Mother Tree responds. “I can change that if you so desire.”

“You can?” an amazed Myev says. “Yes, I would very much like to be an elf. I've dreamed of being an elf!”

In response, branches emerge from the walls and floor of the Chamber of the Heart and gently surround Myev and build a cocoon around her. Eventually you cannot see the scro at all through the leafs and branches.

Laucian watches in amazement as the branches of the mother tree enwrap Myev into a cocoon. He can’t help but wonder at the marvel of the magic that is happening before him. It must have been similar to Lia, he thinks to himself.
There is another flash and now a surprised Talen is among you!

“You have been touched by the builders of the ruins to the north,” the Mother Tree says. “You know how to work their devices. There are similar devices on Myev's world, thus you will be able to travel there and rescue the slumbering elves. My sister tells me that you need this code I now give you.”

Shielding his eyes from the flash he then sees Talen standing before him looking quite surprised and the Mother tree begins to speak again of the builders or elders…
Laucian can’t help but wonder what the Tree Elder has passed on to Talen as he looks utterly confused.

“Go to this other place,” the Mother Tree says her voice becoming slower and more labored. “Save your cousins, my sister's children. The help you need will come tomorrow, for the Rainbow Bridge will open when the sun is at its peak.”

With those final words, the eyes and mouth close is if they were never really there. The Mother Tree has gone back to sleep leaving behind many stunned individuals trying to process what they just witnessed.

(Easier for me to do it this way)

Next Lilia steps up to Talen. “Did you understand what the Mother Tree said? Were you touched by the Elders?”

Looking at the confused face of Talen Laucian can’t help but say to the young mage. “Perhaps if you draw what you have seen it will become clearer for you.”The Follower of Ehlonna states evenly.

Afterwards Lilia will speak to everyone. “My friends, we have been blessed. The Mother Tree spoke directly to us. The Rainbow Bridge will arrive tomorrow and hopefully all the aid that we need will come over it from the Elfholds. Until Talen figures out how to get us to this other world, we must continue on as we have planned. The Sunflower will be moved to the docks by the Elfin Palace and we'll go forth to explore it to make sure it is clear of Moorkroft's presence.”

“We will make the necessary preparations, My queen.

“Until then, let us relax and enjoy this evening. Our vigil is coming to an end and there is much to celebrate.”

Turning to Andlin and the High Keeper, Lilia will add, “Perhaps it would wise to keep a guard stationed here in the Heart of the Tree to keep an eye on the cocoon. Just in case.”
Even as his mind considers the ramifications of all that had happened and all that they had learned, Onas overhears Lilia's statement. "I would be honored to serve in this way, Queen Lilia, if that is acceptable."

“Two eyes are always better then one.”The Ranger Cleric says stoicly. “Ill stand vigil as well.”As he would like to see what Myev becomes as she emerges from her cocoon.

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

“What just happened?” Talen asks in genuine confusion. “Touched by the Elders? I have no idea what you're talking about. I saw some symbols in my head, but they don't mean anything to me. I have trouble finding my socks and you think I can find another whole world? What does this all mean?”

Onas is surprised and somewhat disturbed by Talen's obvious confusion and disorientation. If the young half-elf cannot find a way to put the pieces of information together, it will jeopardize the mission that they have been assigned by the Mother Tree!

"Are you okay, Talen?" Onas queries, his voice soft and comforting. "These last few days must have been quite stressful for you. Is there anything we can do to help?"

Looking at the confused face of Talen Laucian can’t help but say to the young mage. “Perhaps if you draw what you have seen it will become clearer for you.”The Follower of Ehlonna states evenly.

This seems like an excellent suggestion. Onas looks over at the leader of the Golden Griffins and nods in approval.

“Two eyes are always better then one.”The Ranger Cleric says stoicly. “Ill stand vigil as well.”As he would like to see what Myev becomes as she emerges from her cocoon.

"I welcome your company, Laucian of Ehlonna. It should be an interesting evening."

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Sunflower:

Kylie smiles fondly at her mother, hearing the tone of humor in her voice, yet her response is soft and serious. "If I could improve the lives of the people living there so that others would not have to grow up the way I did, then yes, I would."

Allurien's tone changes from one of mild amusement to one of admiration. “That is a very noble sentiment, Kylie. I am proud of you for thinking of others like that.”

Argent screams in alarm off in the distance. Kylie rushes to find out what happened with Lia and Allurien trailing behind. Argent is reached and the Invoker claims that Myev just vanished!

Hearing a noise behind her, Kylie turns to see Lia and Allurien arrive, weapons in hand. "Mom, Argent says Myev vanished into thin air right in front of her!"

“How?” is all that comes from her lips as she looks to Kylie then to Argent.

“Could be magic that I am unfamiliar with,” Allurien admits. “Until we learn otherwise, we must assume that this was an attack of some type. Defensive positions and be ready for battle. Either this was a targeted attack against Myev or just the beginning of something larger.”

“Kylie?” Allurien asks a moment later. “These Spell Engines of yours, can they help protect the ship and us? What can they do?”

[GM Mad]

Heart of the Tree:

The Mother Tree has spoken! She tells that the leaf that lead Myev here was from another Mother Tree and that she needs help. Some of her elves are still alive having merged with trees for protection. But an elf can only be merged with a tree for so long before they fade. The Mother Tree claims that Talen will find the way to this other world, but the half-elf seems confused and disorientated from this sudden turn of events.

Myev was summoned first and it was revealed that she had the soul of a elf within her since she was a baby. It was this elfin spirit that allowed Myev to learn magic and read and speak elfish. It was how Myev was able to reach Arret since her elfin part is a much more powerful sorceress. The scro is understandably stunned by these revelations.

“The Mother Tree has summoned you,” Lilia will say to Myev. “She calls you the leaf bearer. Do you know what that means?”

“No...”, Myev answers innocently as if she was a small child. “Am I possessed?”

The Mother Tree offers Myev the chance to be changed into a full elf and the scro eager accepts.

“Are you sure this is what you want, Myev” Lilia asks mildly concerned. While she is unsure just what the Mother Tree is going to do, the Elf Maiden does not believe that Myev will be harmed. But still, such a change is not a decision one should make so quickly.

“It's all that I've ever dreamed about,” Myev answers excitedly. “To be like you is all I ever wanted.”

The Mother Tree obliges and wraps Myev up and branches and leafs creating a cocoon. Lilia suggests that guards she be placed to keep watch and Onas and then Laucian take up that task.

The other elves present start to come over the shock of what they just witnessed.

“As you say, Your Majesty,” High Keeper Alanik Feador says, “we have been blessed. I never heard of the Mother Tree actually speaking directly to us. Typically I just get a feel for what she wants done. Amazing!”

“Now this was truly history!” Elora proclaims proudly. “And all were a witnessed it. What an amazing story this will be the chronicle!”

“Or a ballad,” Lorelei pipes up. “Perhaps even a full opera...”

“Oh no!” Elora cries out in disappointment. “We don't keep written records concerning the Mother Tree! I can't record this momentous occasion!”

“Alas, I can just mildly adjust a few things to conceal what really happened,” Lorelei continues. “Those in the know will know what the lyrics mean while others won't. If you will excuse me, I have much work to do!”

“Perhaps a work of fiction instead of a historical document?” Elora wonders aloud as she too departs the Heart of the Tree. “It's about the only way I can record this and still protect the Mother Tree.”

“We'll make sure this chamber is safe,” Andlin will tell Lilia. “This will be a day that none of us will ever forget.”

“And when we are ready to go on this rescue mission,” Arlen Brightsword declares, “I will be pleased to accompany you all. The chance to rescue our kin and visit another world is not be passed up. But for now let us relax and await for our guests from the Elfhold's to arrive tomorrow. There is much to do.”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Not that it matters but how old is she now? As she went from half to full.

Chronologically, Lia is 19 years old. Given that she was changed into a drow, I would peg Lia as being around 89 years old in drow years. Just crossed the threshold from adolescence and into adulthood. That sounds about right.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

Allurien's tone changes from one of mild amusement to one of admiration. “That is a very noble sentiment, Kylie. I am proud of you for thinking of others like that.”

Kylie beams with joy at her mother's comment. "Thank you, Mom. It's just hard to see so much misery and suffering every day, and not be able to do anything about it."

Lia smiles slightly as Kylie explains her confusion. “It is okay, Kylie. We will have to ask him. I haven’t seen him for some time. He’s probably in the kitchen getting food.” She says in jest.

Lia's last comment catches Kylie by surprise, causing her to snort with startled amusement. "Yeah, he pretty much does seem to live from meal to meal..."

“How?” is all that comes from her lips as she looks to Kylie then to Argent.

“Could be magic that I am unfamiliar with,” Allurien admits. “Until we learn otherwise, we must assume that this was an attack of some type. Defensive positions and be ready for battle. Either this was a targeted attack against Myev or just the beginning of something larger.”

Concern, both for her friend and the possibility of attack, creases Kylie's forehead. "I hope he's okay, but we'll have to figure that out later." She begins to think through various strategies for defending the ship, but her mother speaks up again.

“Kylie?” Allurien asks a moment later. “These Spell Engines of yours, can they help protect the ship and us? What can they do?”

Kylie jerks as the thoughts hit her. "If I remember correctly, they have four functions: life support, propulsion, space travel, and defense. I've never tried the defensive function and I don't know exactly what it will do, but I can start it up and see what happens." Unless otherwise instructed, she will mentally focus on the Spell Engine that she bonded with recently, and activate the defensive function at full power.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Onas listens carefully to the queen's explanation. He's not really sure what a Spell Engine is, but he kind of gets the general gist of what she's saying. "Okay, I think I understand. The ship runs on energy from magical spells, and she didn't have enough spell-casting ability to power the ship for extended periods. Yet somehow, she got here anyway, so she must have had help of some kind."

Sensing that Onas isn't really following her explanation, Lilia shifts to a less complicated comparison. “Think of it this way. You're trying to keep a roaring fire going and all you have for fuel is a twig. That is the situation Myev faced trying to get the Sunflower to arrive here. Not enough fuel.”

The queen's question is a good one. Onas considers it for a moment before responding. "If the elves there were all killed, as Myev stated, then it may need someone to care for it. Or it could be in some kind of danger. Or perhaps it is just lonely?"

“All possibilities”, Lilia concedes.

“No...”, Myev answers innocently as if she was a small child. “Am I possessed?”

“In a non-malevolent fashion,” Lilia will say diplomatically.

“It's all that I've ever dreamed about,” Myev answers excitedly. “To be like you is all I ever wanted.”

“Then it seems that your wish shall be granted,” Lilia concludes. “We'll talk again once the deed is done.”

“As you say, Your Majesty,” High Keeper Alanik Feador says, “we have been blessed. I never heard of the Mother Tree actually speaking directly to us. Typically I just get a feel for what she wants done. Amazing!"

“Seems there is much that we do not know when it comes to the Mother Tree”, Lilia states. “Or Mother Trees as now seems to be the case. It does make wonder. Just how many other Mother Trees are there and how many other worlds do we have kin on?”

Even as his mind considers the ramifications of all that had happened and all that they had learned, Onas overhears Lilia's statement. "I would be honored to serve in this way, Queen Lilia, if that is acceptable."

“I have no issue with your request, Onas”, Lilia responds.

“Two eyes are always better then one.”The Ranger Cleric says stoically. “Ill stand vigil as well.”As he would like to see what Myev becomes as she emerges from her cocoon.

“We'll make sure this chamber is safe,” Andlin will tell Lilia. “This will be a day that none of us will ever forget.”

“Very good, gentlemen” Lilia adds. “It seems that Myev is far more important than any of us realized. She is a link to our kin on that other world. Perhaps she'll be able to provide information about this place we'll be going to.”

“And when we are ready to go on this rescue mission,” Arlen Brightsword declares, “I will be pleased to accompany you all. The chance to rescue our kin and visit another world is not be passed up. But for now let us relax and await for our guests from the Elfhold's to arrive tomorrow. There is much to do.”

“Yes,” Lilia agrees. “I does sound like an exciting mission.”

“What just happened?” Talen asks in genuine confusion. “Touched by the Elders? I have no idea what you're talking about. I saw some symbols in my head, but they don't mean anything to me. I have trouble finding my socks and you think I can find another whole world? What does this all mean?”

Lilia appears crestfallen for a moment. Does Talen truly not know what the Mother Tree says he does? Or is he like Myev: has the knowledge but just doesn't know it.

“Do not concern yourself, Talen,” Lilia will say to the half-elf. When the time comes, you will know what to do. I believe it.”

Lilia will than depart the Heart of the Tree and report what has happened to the others. There is much news to be shared!

[Talen]

Talen:

Talen was suddenly teleported into the Heart of the Tree and had strange symbols implanted in his mind.

"Are you okay, Talen?" Onas queries, his voice soft and comforting. "These last few days must have been quite stressful for you. Is there anything we can do to help?"

“I--”, Talen starts to say. “I don't know. This was all very sudden. Everyone wants to mess with my head for some reason. I'll be all right after a good night's sleep.”

Looking at the confused face of Talen Laucian can’t help but say to the young mage. “Perhaps if you draw what you have seen it will become clearer for you.”The Follower of Ehlonna states evenly.

“That's the problem,” Talen counters. “They're not like numbers or letters. I'm not even sure what they are. I don't think I can describe them in a way that makes any sense.”

Lilia appears crestfallen for a moment. Does Talen truly not know what the Mother Tree says he does? Or is he like Myev: has the knowledge but just doesn't know it.

“Do not concern yourself, Talen,” Lilia will say to the half-elf. When the time comes, you will know what to do. I believe it.”

“You do?” Talen says in surprise. “You have more faith in me than I do, Lilia. Give me some time to sort this all out and try to make sense of it. I'm gonna get some rest.”

Talen will then depart the chamber and make his way back to the Sunflower and find a bunk to use for the night.

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

Sensing that Onas isn't really following her explanation, Lilia shifts to a less complicated comparison. “Think of it this way. You're trying to keep a roaring fire going and all you have for fuel is a twig. That is the situation Myev faced trying to get the Sunflower to arrive here. Not enough fuel.”

Lilia's additional explanation seems to fit with his understanding, confirming that he had comprehended the basics well enough. "Thank you, Queen Lilia. I appreciate your explanations."

“I--”, Talen starts to say. “I don't know. This was all very sudden. Everyone wants to mess with my head for some reason. I'll be all right after a good night's sleep.”

Onas places one hand on the half-elf's shoulder. "I'm sure that you're right, Talen. A good night's sleep can work wonders."

“You do?” Talen says in surprise. “You have more faith in me than I do, Lilia. Give me some time to sort this all out and try to make sense of it. I'm gonna get some rest.”

Though he doesn't voice it, Onas has faith in Talen as well. He rose to the task of saving the Mother Tree, so clearly he is capable of great things.

“As you say, Your Majesty,” High Keeper Alanik Feador says, “we have been blessed. I never heard of the Mother Tree actually speaking directly to us. Typically I just get a feel for what she wants done. Amazing!”

“Now this was truly history!” Elora proclaims proudly. “And all were a witnessed it. What an amazing story this will be the chronicle!”

Listening to the High Keeper and then Elora, Onas becomes aware of how great an historic event he has just experienced. Feeling blessed, he offers up a prayer to Angarradh in thanks for the honor of allowing him to be present for an event of such magnitude. Though he himself played no great part in the event, just being able to witness such an occasion is a true blessing.

“Seems there is much that we do not know when it comes to the Mother Tree”, Lilia states. “Or Mother Trees as now seems to be the case. It does make wonder. Just how many other Mother Trees are there and how many other worlds do we have kin on?”

Onas considers the queen's comments; she poses some interesting questions. "We may never know the full answer to that question, my queen, but perhaps we'll get closer to an answer when we visit that other world. I look forward to rescuing our kin, and possibly the Mother Tree as well."

“Very good, gentlemen” Lilia adds. “It seems that Myev is far more important than any of us realized. She is a link to our kin on that other world. Perhaps she'll be able to provide information about this place we'll be going to.”

Onas bows once again to the queen. "I pray you are right, Queen Lilia. We will keep her and this entire chamber safe. I for one am very interested to see how she transforms under the Mother Tree's care."

Lilia accepts Onas' request, and Andlin decides to join Laucian and Onas in guarding the Heart of the Mother Tree. Once the others have left, Onas will negotiate a duty schedule with the other two warriors. They may be elves, but even elves need some sleep - and it has been quite a day.

[Lia]

Lia

Lia's last comment catches Kylie by surprise, causing her to snort with startled amusement. "Yeah, he pretty much does seem to live from meal to meal..."

“It is one of his many outstanding qualities.” She says with a impish grin.

Allurien wrote:“Could be magic that I am unfamiliar with,” Allurien admits. “Until we learn otherwise, we must assume that this was an attack of some type. Defensive positions and be ready for battle. Either this was a targeted attack against Myev or just the beginning of something larger.”
Concern, both for her friend and the possibility of attack, creases Kylie's forehead. "I hope he's okay, but we'll have to figure that out later." She begins to think through various strategies for defending the ship, but her mother speaks up again.”

“I’ll see if anything is transpiring on deck and the surrounding skies and area.” With a curt look to everyone she goes to check the deck and skies

[Laucian]

Laucian
Laucian watches and listens as Lilia explains the spell engine to Onas,

Sensing that Onas isn't really following her explanation, Lilia shifts to a less complicated comparison. “Think of it this way. You're trying to keep a roaring fire going and all you have for fuel is a twig. That is the situation Myev faced trying to get the Sunflower to arrive here. Not enough fuel.”
Lilia's additional explanation seems to fit with his understanding, confirming that he had comprehended the basics well enough. "Thank you, Queen Lilia. I appreciate your explanations."

Laucian can’t help but wonder and soon asks, “If we are to attempt this voyage across the stars, is there any way to perhaps fuel the engines for several days before parting? So that our mages aren’t taxed.”

“I--”, Talen starts to say. “I don't know. This was all very sudden. Everyone wants to mess with my head for some reason. I'll be all right after a good night's sleep.”

“Please do not go out on your own, my young friend.” Referring to him leaving in the dead of night. “If you need us we are here to share your burden, if it is needed.”

“You do?” Talen says in surprise. “You have more faith in me than I do, Lilia. Give me some time to sort this all out and try to make sense of it. I'm gonna get some rest.”

“Talen,” he says evenly, “Try not to doubt yourself, my friend. In the short time that I have known you, you have grown. You may not see it but it is there none the less.”

“As you say, Your Majesty,” High Keeper Alanik Feador says, “we have been blessed. I never heard of the Mother Tree actually speaking directly to us. Typically I just get a feel for what she wants done. Amazing!”

“Who would have guessed that our beloved tree was indeed a treant!” Laucian says eveny though silently kicking himself for not learning the treant language. It is a shame Nariya is not here to see this he silently thinks to himself, missing the trailblazer.

“Now this was truly history!” Elora proclaims proudly. “And all were a witnessed it. What an amazing story this will be the chronicle!”

“Or a ballad,” Lorelei pipes up. “Perhaps even a full opera...”

“Oh no!” Elora cries out in disappointment. “We don't keep written records concerning the Mother Tree! I can't record this momentous occasion!”

“Alas, I can just mildly adjust a few things to conceal what really happened,” Lorelei continues. “Those in the know will know what the lyrics mean while others won't. If you will excuse me, I have much work to do!”

“Perhaps a work of fiction instead of a historical document?” Elora wonders aloud as she too departs the Heart of the Tree. “It's about the only way I can record this and still protect the Mother Tree.”

Laucian watches the two speak of Ballads and History of the event. He can’t help but admite them that they wish to put ink to parchment but he is quite content to have seen it with his own eyes, It is an experience to cherish to say the least!

“We'll make sure this chamber is safe,” Andlin will tell Lilia. “This will be a day that none of us will ever forget.”

“And when we are ready to go on this rescue mission,” Arlen Brightsword declares, “I will be pleased to accompany you all. The chance to rescue our kin and visit another world is not be passed up. But for now let us relax and await for our guests from the Elfhold's to arrive tomorrow. There is much to do.

“I think we should do our guests honor and show them what our people have accomplished in such a short time, I believe that the Silver Maidens, Golden Griffons, Darksong Knights and Tree Keepers should all be there to welcome our kin.”
Laucian will excuse himself and gather his bed roll and a few other items of his for the vigil. As he returns, Onyx and and the two cooshee(whom he should name) come to say hello. He pets them all and pays them attention to them as he makes his way.
Once he finds a spot near or in the Heart of the tree where the cocoon is in sight, Laucian begins to go through his quiver, taking an inventory of his arrows. He will go through and sharpen their edges on his whetstone and do the same for his black edged sword.
Soon enough the cooshee curl up and Onyx assumes his place upon the male cooshee’s back. He will then go through his plans for the griffons and hopefully increase their numbers.
Laucian will pray to Ehlonna for all that she has given him this day. When he is on duty he will be mindful of his surroundings his hand resting on the pommel of his Long sword.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Night is starting to fall in the Sylvan Realm after a day of exploration and wonderment. Myev has vanished from the Sunflower right before a stunned Argent's eyes. Her cries of surprise summoned Kylie and then Lia and Allurien. The elder elf theorizes that this might be an attack!

Kylie beams with joy at her mother's comment. "Thank you, Mom. It's just hard to see so much misery and suffering every day, and not be able to do anything about it."

“At least you are in a position now to be able to do something about it,” Allurien adds.

While preparing to defend themselves, Allurien asks if the Sunflower's Spell Engines can protect them.

Kylie jerks as the thoughts hit her. "If I remember correctly, they have four functions: life support, propulsion, space travel, and defense. I've never tried the defensive function and I don't know exactly what it will do, but I can start it up and see what happens." Unless otherwise instructed, she will mentally focus on the Spell Engine that she bonded with recently, and activate the defensive function at full power.

“Do so,” Allurien directs. “It's better than nothing.”

“I’ll see if anything is transpiring on deck and the surrounding skies and area.” With a curt look to everyone she goes to check the deck and skies.

Lia heads up to the main deck to see what is going on. Its dark outside now, given that the Sunflower is at anchor on a river surrounded by dense forest. As she looks around, Lia becomes aware of a golden glow off to her one side.

Looking in that direction, Lia sees a large, some 10' wide by 10' high translucent shield appear in mid-air on the side of the Sunflower. It resembles the large type of full body shield that some warriors use to protect themselves. More and more of these shields appear until they completely surrounded the ship!


The gathering inside the Heart of the Tree breaks up and most depart. Lilia goes back to the top of the Mother Tree to inform the other elves what has transpired and to prepare them for tomorrow's arrival of the Rainbow Bridge.

Laucian leaves for a short time to gather his gear and his companions. All the while other elves stop by to visit and to hear what transpired in this chamber. Others wonder what Myev will be like once her cocoon opens. A guard rotation is set up, but the night passes quietly and uneventfully.


There is some excitement at the top of the Mother Tree. Those who look down can see the Sunflower is now covered by bright glowing golden translucent shields. The whole seem to look like scales from a distance, much like the shell of a turtle.


Now what?

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Lilia's additional explanation seems to fit with his understanding, confirming that he had comprehended the basics well enough. "Thank you, Queen Lilia. I appreciate your explanations."

“You are most welcome, Onas Brightsword”, Lilia states.

Laucian can’t help but wonder and soon asks, “If we are to attempt this voyage across the stars, is there any way to perhaps fuel the engines for several days before parting? So that our mages aren’t taxed.”

“Yes there is,” Lilia answers. “The Spell Engines only loose power when being used. We can have them all fully charged before setting out. Given how many mages we have, keeping them charged is not an issue for us.”

“However,” Lilia continues, “if I understand what the Mother Tree was saying, the Sunflower will not be the way we get to Myev's World. It will be byway of Elder Artifacts and that Talen will know how to do this. Even if he is unaware of just how to do so right now.”

Onas considers the queen's comments; she poses some interesting questions. "We may never know the full answer to that question, my queen, but perhaps we'll get closer to an answer when we visit that other world. I look forward to rescuing our kin, and possibly the Mother Tree as well."

“You are most likely correct,” Lilia agrees. “We have far too many issues to deal with here to really concern ourselves with elves from far distant places. We will go to Myev's World as requested by the Mother Tree. But after that, I do not expect to go to other worlds.”

“You do?” Talen says in surprise. “You have more faith in me than I do, Lilia. Give me some time to sort this all out and try to make sense of it. I'm gonna get some rest.”

“You were chosen by the All-Father”, Lilia adds in support. “It seems that he had plans for all of us beyond the restoration of the Mother Tree. When the time comes, you will know what needs to be done even if that eludes you right now.”

Onas bows once again to the queen. "I pray you are right, Queen Lilia. We will keep her and this entire chamber safe. I for one am very interested to see how she transforms under the Mother Tree's care."

“As am I, Onas,” Lilia says in agreement. “Perhaps if there are enough of elves from this other world, in time they can become a new clan among us.”

“I think we should do our guests honor and show them what our people have accomplished in such a short time, I believe that the Silver Maidens, Golden Griffons, Darksong Knights and Tree Keepers should all be there to welcome our kin.”

“I assumed that everyone would be present when the Rainbow Bridge arrives,” Lilia states. “We have much to share with our kin from the Elfholds and I hope that many will come to help us stabilize the Sylvan Realm.”

There is some excitement at the top of the Mother Tree. Those who look down can see the Sunflower is now covered by bright glowing golden translucent shields. The whole seem to look like scales from a distance, much like the shell of a turtle.

Excusing herself from the Heart of the Tree, Lilia goes back up to Golden Peak and reports what has transpired to everyone else. Afterwards, Lilia hears the commotion and takes a look for herself. She's not quite sure what she is looking at, but quickly deduces that Kylie must have put up the defensive ability of the Spell Engine. But why? That answer comes quickly since Myev suddenly appeared in the Heart of the Tree, she must have just as suddenly disappeared from the Sunflower. Perhaps they believe they are under attack.

Fetching a griffon, Lilia will ride down to the Sunflower. Once close enough she spots Lia up on deck. Not risking contact with the shield-like barrier, Lilia has her griffon hover next to the ship.

“There is no danger!” Lilia calls out to Lia. “Myev was summoned by the Mother Tree. She is safe. Lower the shields!”

[Lia]

Lia
L

ia heads up to the main deck to see what is going on. Its dark outside now, given that the Sunflower is at anchor on a river surrounded by dense forest. As she looks around, Lia becomes aware of a golden glow off to her one side.
Looking in that direction, Lia sees a large, some 10' wide by 10' high translucent shield appear in mid-air on the side of the Sunflower. It resembles the large type of full body shield that some warriors use to protect themselves. More and more of these shields appear until they completely surrounded the ship!

Looking about the ship Lia doesn’t find much until she reaches the deck. As she does she notices a glow coming from the corner of her eye. She looks quickly to the glow and sees a a large glowing shield, and then another. “So this is the defense.”She says to herself as more of the shields appear and fall into place. “It reminds me of a turtle.”
There is soon the woosh of wings and Lia turns her Lavender eyes in that direction where she finds Lilia hover the ship upon a griffon.

Fetching a griffon, Lilia will ride down to the Sunflower. Once close enough she spots Lia up on deck. Not risking contact with the shield-like barrier, Lilia has her griffon hover next to the ship.

“There is no danger!” Lilia calls out to Lia. “Myev was summoned by the Mother Tree. She is safe. Lower the shields!”

“It will be so!” she calls back. “I’ll tell Kylie to lower the defenses, I would move back my queen, I do not know what else these defenses are capable of.”
Lia will head below deck calling for Kylie, “Kylie! Shut the defenses down! Lilia is here and all is well. Myev was summoned by the mother tree!”
After telling Kylie and her mom of the news she will return to the deck incase Lilia decides to land and fill them in.

[Laucian]

Laucian

Laucian leaves for a short time to gather his gear and his companions. All the while other elves stop by to visit and to hear what transpired in this chamber. Others wonder what Myev will be like once her cocoon opens. A guard rotation is set up, but the night passes quietly and uneventfully.
There is some excitement at the top of the Mother Tree. Those who look down can see the Sunflower is now covered by bright glowing golden translucent shields. The whole seem to look like scales from a distance, much like the shell of a turtle.

Laucian prays to Ehlonna for her guidance and spells. The night passes uneventfully and quietly, though he he is still vigilant with his watch. Upon waking Laucian can see the commotion as the elves gather to look down upon the sunflower. It has shells about it like a turtle!

“I assumed that everyone would be present when the Rainbow Bridge arrives,” Lilia states. “We have much to share with our kin from the Elfholds and I hope that many will come to help us stabilize the Sylvan Realm.”

“I believe they will come. The elfholds are indeed our home but so is that of the Slyvian Realm. The curiosity of our home and the mother tree will draw our people here, both young and old.”

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

“At least you are in a position now to be able to do something about it,” Allurien adds.

Kylie pauses to consider her mother's comment. But what could she do, particularly now that she lives so far away? After some thought on the subject, she files it away for further consideration at a later time.

“It is one of his many outstanding qualities.” She says with a impish grin.

"Many... Sure, we'll call it that," Kylie replies, grinning widely.

===

“Do so,” Allurien directs. “It's better than nothing.”

"Okay, Mom." Kylie mentally reaches out to the Spell Engine and activates the defensive function as requested.

“I’ll see if anything is transpiring on deck and the surrounding skies and area.” With a curt look to everyone she goes to check the deck and skies

Kylie nods. "Good. We'll watch the quarters in case anyone tries to teleport aboard."

Kylie turns to her mother. "Mom, do you want to watch the captain's rooms while I keep an eye on these?" Either way, she draws her short sword and best dagger, and prepares to fight in defense of the ship. She may not have any spells memorized currently, but that doesn't mean she's defenseless.

===

Lia will head below deck calling for Kylie, “Kylie! Shut the defenses down! Lilia is here and all is well. Myev was summoned by the mother tree!”

Hearing Lia before she sees her, Kylie complies and mentally deactivates the defenses. "Lilia's here and Myev is okay? That's great news. I was so worried!"

After telling Kylie and her mom of the news she will return to the deck incase Lilia decides to land and fill them in.

Kylie will follow Lia back up on deck. "Hi Lilia! Lia says that Myev is okay. What's this about her being summoned by Mother Tree?"

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

“You are most likely correct,” Lilia agrees. “We have far too many issues to deal with here to really concern ourselves with elves from far distant places. We will go to Myev's World as requested by the Mother Tree. But after that, I do not expect to go to other worlds.”

Onas listens carefully to the queen's words. "It is as you say, Queen Lilia. After what we have seen here today, perhaps we will learn more from the other Mother Tree during our visit."

“Please do not go out on your own, my young friend.” Referring to him leaving in the dead of night. “If you need us we are here to share your burden, if it is needed.”

"I agree with Laucian, Talen. Where better to rest than here in the Heart of the Mother Tree?" Onas asks.

“Talen,” he says evenly, “Try not to doubt yourself, my friend. In the short time that I have known you, you have grown. You may not see it but it is there none the less.”

“You were chosen by the All-Father”, Lilia adds in support. “It seems that he had plans for all of us beyond the restoration of the Mother Tree. When the time comes, you will know what needs to be done even if that eludes you right now.”

Onas nods in agreement. "I have not known you long, Talen, but you were a member of the small group which saved the Mother Tree. To have done something so momentous at such a young age -- surely you will achieve other great things in your lifetime."

“As am I, Onas,” Lilia says in agreement. “Perhaps if there are enough of elves from this other world, in time they can become a new clan among us.”

Onas smiles, pleased by the queen's suggestion. "A new clan! That would be something to celebrate, wouldn't it? I hope to have the honor of seeing that come to pass."

Laucian will excuse himself and gather his bed roll and a few other items of his for the vigil. As he returns, Onyx and and the two cooshee(whom he should name) come to say hello. He pets them all and pays them attention to them as he makes his way.
Once he finds a spot near or in the Heart of the tree where the cocoon is in sight, Laucian begins to go through his quiver, taking an inventory of his arrows. He will go through and sharpen their edges on his whetstone and do the same for his black edged sword.
Soon enough the cooshee curl up and Onyx assumes his place upon the male cooshee’s back. He will then go through his plans for the griffons and hopefully increase their numbers.

Onas is on duty guarding the Heart when Laucian returns. A smile lights his face; he has always enjoyed being around cooshees. The intelligence and loyalty of these elfish canines is a treat to experience. "That is quite a group of companions you have there, Laucian."

The night passes uneventfully. Onas is a bit disappointed that the new Myev has not emerged when he rises from his sleep and returns to duty. He is very much looking forward to that. However, there is no way to know how long the transformation will require.

Come morning, Onas will engage in his usual morning devotions to Angarradh. He sees no particular reason to replace any of the miracles which she has granted to him, so he focuses on paying tribute to the Triune goddess.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Onas listens carefully to the queen's words. "It is as you say, Queen Lilia. After what we have seen here today, perhaps we will learn more from the other Mother Tree during our visit."

“I would expect to learn more”, Lilia says. “After all we don't seem to know much at all right now. Other than the scro defeated the elves on Myev's world. Are they the dominate power there or is there another? If there are others are they friend or foe? Will the Elder Artifacts even put us close to the where the elves are or will we have a long journey to reach them? So many questions, so few answers.”

Onas smiles, pleased by the queen's suggestion. "A new clan! That would be something to celebrate, wouldn't it? I hope to have the honor of seeing that come to pass."

“There are many other elfin clans,” Lilia adds, “beyond the main seven. However, none have become powerful enough to become the eight clan. It'll will be interesting to see who does rise in stature enough to become the next main clan.”

“Speaking of Clans, Onas, your clan, Red Arrow, does not have a representative on the council. Perhaps you would be interested in the position?”

“I believe they will come. The Elfholds are indeed our home but so is that of the Sylvan Realm. The curiosity of our home and the mother tree will draw our people here, both young and old.”

“I agree with your sentiment. A warband would be nice too”, Lilia says in reference to what elves call their army units.


Later, Lilia sees the golden shields around the Sunflower and deduces that it has something to do with Myev. Mounting a griffon, she flies down to the ship and calls out to Lia on deck.

“It will be so!” she calls back. “I’ll tell Kylie to lower the defenses, I would move back my queen, I do not know what else these defenses are capable of.”

“I had no intention of getting closer with those shields up,” Lilia answers. “I would imagine it would be like flying into a wall.”

Soon enough the shields are down and Lilia lands the griffon on the deck of the Sunflower. Kylie soon appears.

Kylie will follow Lia back up on deck. "Hi Lilia! Lia says that Myev is okay. What's this about her being summoned by Mother Tree?"

“The leaf the Myev possessed was from the Mother Tree of her world,” Lilia explains. “It was how Myev was able to lead the Sunflower here. The leaf gave the Mother Tree a burst of energy and for a short time she spoke, forming eyes and a mouth much like a treant. The Mother Tree called Myev the Leaf Bearer and summoned her to the Heart of the Tree.”

“It seems that there are still elves left on that world, the scro did not wipe them all out. There are elves merged with tress there, much like how the Keepers were merged so that they could tend the Mother Tree here in the Sylvan realm. But an elf can only stay that way so long before they fade. This other Mother Tree wants us to go there and rescue her elves.”

“It also seems that Myev is far more than she appears. The Mother Tree sad that she has an elfin spirit in her, one that had merged with a tree. The Mother Tree offered Myev the chance to become an elf and she accepted. Then she was wrapped up in tree limbs and leaves and that was the last we saw of her. My guess is that once this cocoon opens Myev will then be an elf.”

“When I saw the shields around the Sunflower, I realized that you didn't know what happened to Myev. She suddenly appeared among us and thus most likely simply vanished from here. That must have come as a surprise.”

[Talen]

Talen:

Onas places one hand on the half-elf's shoulder. "I'm sure that you're right, Talen. A good night's sleep can work wonders."

“It usually does for me,” Talen says.

“You were chosen by the All-Father”, Lilia adds in support. “It seems that he had plans for all of us beyond the restoration of the Mother Tree. When the time comes, you will know what needs to be done even if that eludes you right now.”

“You know, just once I wish someone would ask first before dropping things on us,” Talen says with a sigh. “I didn't ask for whatever they did to me to be done to me.”

Onas nods in agreement. "I have not known you long, Talen, but you were a member of the small group which saved the Mother Tree. To have done something so momentous at such a young age -- surely you will achieve other great things in your lifetime."

Talen isn't really sure what to say to that. Sure he actually did those things, but not alone. Even among that group, Talen always felt the lease important among them.

“Time will tell, I guess,” Talen utters.

“Please do not go out on your own, my young friend.” Referring to him leaving in the dead of night. “If you need us we are here to share your burden, if it is needed.”

“I wasn't going out on my own,” Talen repeats in confusion. “I was just going to a place to get some sleep.”

"I agree with Laucian, Talen. Where better to rest than here in the Heart of the Mother Tree?" Onas asks.

“I'm only part elf,” Talen counters. “And the part I have doesn't like sleeping on hard floors. I was going to go to the Sunflower where I can sleep on a nice mattress in a bed that actually fits me. I had no plans of wandering off or anything like that.”

“Talen,” he says evenly, “Try not to doubt yourself, my friend. In the short time that I have known you, you have grown. You may not see it but it is there none the less.”

“Thanks, Laucian,” Talen says, slightly embarrassed. “I'll be on the Sunflower if you need me.”

By the time Talen finds a griffon to ride to the Sunflower, the shield is down and Lilia is talking to the others on the deck. Talen lands his griffon and approaches.

“You gals missed the weirdest thing!” Talen calls out. “The Mother Tree has a face!”

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

“The leaf that Myev possessed was from the Mother Tree of her world,” Lilia explains. “It was how Myev was able to lead the Sunflower here. The leaf gave the Mother Tree a burst of energy and for a short time she spoke, forming eyes and a mouth much like a treant. The Mother Tree called Myev the Leaf Bearer and summoned her to the Heart of the Tree.”

Lilia's words contain so much information that Kylie struggles to take it all in. "Wait, so there's another Mother Tree on their world? And a leaf from it brought Myev here. And the Mother Trees are related or similar to treants..? I guess that kind of makes sense, though they seem to be on a completely different... scale. Wow. That's a lot to process..."

Lilia continues on with even more information.

“It seems that there are still elves left on that world, the scro did not wipe them all out. There are elves merged with tress there, much like how the Keepers were merged so that they could tend the Mother Tree here in the Sylvan realm. But an elf can only stay that way so long before they fade. This other Mother Tree wants us to go there and rescue her elves.”

"Okay, some of the elves there survived by merging with trees, just as they did here," Kylie's tone is contemplative. "So we need to plan a rescue mission. That's a long trip, so we'll need to gather supplies, especially since we don't know where we'll arrive or how to find the elves and their Mother Tree."

“It also seems that Myev is far more than she appears. The Mother Tree sad that she has an elfin spirit in her, one that had merged with a tree. The Mother Tree offered Myev the chance to become an elf and she accepted. Then she was wrapped up in tree limbs and leaves and that was the last we saw of her. My guess is that once this cocoon opens Myev will then be an elf.”

Kylie sputters for a second as she considers the ramifications. "Myev has an elfin spirit? And Mother Tree is transforming her into an elf? I didn't know she could do that." Kylie thinks for a moment. "I know we all received incredible gifts after saving Mother Tree, and Lia was transformed into a Drow, but I always assumed that was Corellon's power working through the tree. I hadn't considered that Mother Tree might have done that herself; that she might have that kind of power..." Kylie's voice drifts off as she considers and evaluates this new information.

“When I saw the shields around the Sunflower, I realized that you didn't know what happened to Myev. She suddenly appeared among us and thus most likely simply vanished from here. That must have come as a surprise.”

A snorting sound escapes from Kylie despite her best attempts to restrain it. "Yeah, you could say that. Mom immediately interpreted it as an attack and I activated the ship's defensive function.

"So you could see the ship's shields were up." This peaks Kylie's curiosity. "What did it look like? I've never used that option before and have no idea what it looks like..."

By the time Talen finds a griffon to ride to the Sunflower, the shield is down and Lilia is talking to the others on the deck. Talen lands his griffon and approaches.

“You gals missed the weirdest thing!” Talen calls out. “The Mother Tree has a face!”

Arriving aboard a griffin some short while after the queen, Talen's comment draws a happy laugh from Kylie. The sound is pleasant, though not quite musical. "Hi Talen," she says with some affection in her tone. "We were just talking about that. How are you doing? It sounds like a lot happened back at Mother Tree."

Despite the many distractions, Kylie's thoughts eventually return to her friend Myev. "I'm glad Myev is okay. Lilia, do you know how long the transformation will take?"
________________________________________________________________
Kylie's primary goal prior to leaving for Karn's Keep is learning new spells from her Mom, and refreshing her spell list. The conversations she wants to have with Elora & Lorelei, and with Andlin, can wait until after she returns. The main concern is that the longer she waits to talk to Elora & Lorelei, the more she'll forget. She also needs to talk with Talen and Lia - and possibly Myev - about the new clan, as well as more discussions with Lilia about her advisory role.

[Lia]

Lia

“I had no intention of getting closer with those shields up,” Lilia answers. “I would imagine it would be like flying into a wall.”

“Or worse.”The drow says back.

“The leaf the Myev possessed was from the Mother Tree of her world,” Lilia explains. “It was how Myev was able to lead the Sunflower here. The leaf gave the Mother Tree a burst of energy and for a short time she spoke, forming eyes and a mouth much like a treant. The Mother Tree called Myev the Leaf Bearer and summoned her to the Heart of the Tree.”

“That is amazing! I wonder if they can grow arms and walk?”she says absently as the queen speaks of Myev.

“It also seems that Myev is far more than she appears. The Mother Tree sad that she has an elfin spirit in her, one that had merged with a tree. The Mother Tree offered Myev the chance to become an elf and she accepted. Then she was wrapped up in tree limbs and leaves and that was the last we saw of her. My guess is that once this cocoon opens Myev will then be an elf.”

“It seems my mistrust was misplaced. I will have to apologize for my thoughts to her.” She says thoughtfully. “It will be a sight to see her emerge from her cocoon. But, to imagine a world far from here that elves are still alive. Who could have imagined.”

“You gals missed the weirdest thing!” Talen calls out. “The Mother Tree has a face!”

“Seems like we missed all the excitement, brother.”
"

Myev has an elfin spirit? And Mother Tree is transforming her into an elf? I didn't know she could do that." Kylie thinks for a moment. "I know we all received incredible gifts after saving Mother Tree, and Lia was transformed into a Drow, but I always assumed that was Corellon's power working through the tree. I hadn't considered that Mother Tree might have done that herself; that she might have that kind of power..." Kylie's voice drifts off as she considers and evaluates this new information.

“It is our faith in our elfin gods that gave us our gifts, not just from the All father. I don’t believe the Mother Tree could do such a feat, would the keepers of the tree not be aware of such things?”she asks with a hint of naivety.

"So you could see the ship's shields were up." This peaks Kylie's curiosity. "What did it look like? I've never used that option before and have no idea what it looks like..."

“Like shields interlocking of a golden turtle.” She says without a second thought. “I would be curious if the defense do anything else upon activation.”

“You gals missed the weirdest thing!” Talen calls out. “The Mother Tree has a face!”
“Seems like we missed all the excitement, brother. Are you okay?”
Looking to Lilia, “When are we to leave to help our kin? How are we supposed to get there?” she asks curiously.

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

“I would expect to learn more”, Lilia says. “After all we don't seem to know much at all right now. Other than the scro defeated the elves on Myev's world. Are they the dominate power there or is there another? If there are others are they friend or foe? Will the Elder Artifacts even put us close to the where the elves are or will we have a long journey to reach them? So many questions, so few answers.”

Onas pauses, marveling at how much deeper the queen has considered all of this. Truly, she will be a great leader. "You are right, Queen Lilia. There is so very little we know of these matters. Nevertheless, if there is even a chance of success, I feel we must go."

“There are many other elfin clans,” Lilia adds, “beyond the main seven. However, none have become powerful enough to become the eight clan. It'll will be interesting to see who does rise in stature enough to become the next main clan.”

“Speaking of Clans, Onas, your clan, Red Arrow, does not have a representative on the council. Perhaps you would be interested in the position?”

Having lived in the elfholds his entire life, Onas is aware of the presence of minor clans; he has seen his share of political maneuvering involving major clans and their alliances with the lesser houses. However, he has never seen a new clan come into existence where there was none before.

Lilia's question catches him entirely off-guard. "M-me, my queen?" he stammers, his mind suddenly spinning. "Uhm... I don't know... I... can bring it up with the other members of the clan. Since others will be arriving tomorrow, there may be better qualified choices." It takes a moment for the whirling in his brain to subside, at which point he takes a deep breath. "If the clan leadership feel that I am the best choice to represent the clan on the council, then I will do my best to fulfill that role." It is clear that he doesn't see himself as part of the clan leadership, though in truth, much of that leadership may have perished in Chondra's disastrous mission.

“I'm only part elf,” Talen counters. “And the part I have doesn't like sleeping on hard floors. I was going to go to the Sunflower where I can sleep on a nice mattress in a bed that actually fits me. I had no plans of wandering off or anything like that.”

"As you wish, Talen. May you sleep well," Onas replies with a friendly smile.

[Laucian]

Laucian

Lilia said-“I agree with your sentiment. A warband would be nice too”, Lilia says in reference to what elves call their army units.

“It may yet still be. If there is enough elves perhaps we may be able to assemble one.”

“You know, just once I wish someone would ask first before dropping things on us,” Talen says with a sigh. “I didn't ask for whatever they did to me to be done to me.”

Laucian smirks at the half elf as he says, “If that were the case we would all live normal uneventful lives. I understand your dilemma my brother. At times like these it is how you react that defines you, shapes you into the person the fates see you as.”

Talen wrote-
“I'm only part elf,” Talen counters. “And the part I have doesn't like sleeping on hard floors. I was going to go to the Sunflower where I can sleep on a nice mattress in a bed that actually fits me. I had no plans of wandering off or anything like that.”

Laucian shakes his head and smiles at the Half elf’s sarcasm.

“Thanks, Laucian,” Talen says, slightly embarrassed. “I'll be on the Sunflower if you need me.”

“Sleep well. I’ll see you in the morning to see to the vials..”

Onas wrote- Onas is on duty guarding the Heart when Laucian returns. A smile lights his face; he has always enjoyed being around cooshees. The intelligence and loyalty of these elfish canines is a treat to experience. "That is quite a group of companions you have there, Laucian."

“They have been with me for sometime, Ever watchful, courageous and loyal. I have not given them names as of yet.”He adds thoughtfully as he pets each of the cooshee’s flanks in turn. Petting the female, “Perhaps Sana,”and then to the Male, “And Conall. This little one I found half dead amongst an orc camp.” Picking up Onyx and stroking his back, “I healed him and fed him, he has been at my side ever since.”
“My griffon, Aura, is another of my companions.” He says simply looking up at Onas. “She was given to me and the knowledge of riding, flying and fighting from her back by our Patrons. It was than that I heard of the Golden Griffons and the rest you know.”
Laucian prays to Ehlonna for her guidance and spells. In the morning, He will go to Aura and fly to the ship and see to the potion vials.

[Argent]

Argent:

Myev vanished while sharing a meal causing Argent to cry out in alarm. Not long after that Kylie and then Lia and another elf show up.

Relief floods through Kylie at the sight of her friend, and her fear melts away. "Argent, are you all right?" she asks, concern etched on her features.

“I'm okay, but Myev is gone!”

"Myev vanished?! How could that--" Kylie trails off as her brain swarms with activity, trying to puzzle out what might have happened. "Could this be an attack of some kind? Could the leaf have summoned her in some way?" The relief she felt upon seeing Argent is replaced by anxiety over Myev's fate. She has far to many questions and far too few answers.

“I don't know,” Argent says. “I've seen Jallarzi teleport enough to know that it wasn't something Myev did on her own. She was taking a bite and then she was there!”

Hearing a noise behind her, Kylie turns to see Lia and Allurien arrive, weapons in hand. "Mom, Argent says Myev vanished into thin air right in front of her!"

“Could be magic that I am unfamiliar with,” Allurien admits. “Until we learn otherwise, we must assume that this was an attack of some type. Defensive positions and be ready for battle. Either this was a targeted attack against Myev or just the beginning of something larger.”

It takes Argent a moment to comprehend what Kylie and the elf are saying to each other. “This is your mother?” Argent asks of Kylie.

Assuming that she is correct, Argent turns to the elf and says, “Pleased to meet you, ma'am. Kylie told me so much about you.”

“Kylie?” Allurien asks a moment later. “These Spell Engines of yours, can they help protect the ship and us? What can they do?”

Kylie jerks as the thoughts hit her. "If I remember correctly, they have four functions: life support, propulsion, space travel, and defense. I've never tried the defensive function and I don't know exactly what it will do, but I can start it up and see what happens." Unless otherwise instructed, she will mentally focus on the Spell Engine that she bonded with recently, and activate the defensive function at full power.

Argent tries to follow along with what Kylie is telling her mother, but gets lost in a few places. “That sounds like a very nice magic item,” Argent says with more than a little awe.

Kylie draws her weapons and prepares for a potential attack. Argent goes into her room and retrieves her staff. “I'll help as best I can, Kylie.”

A little while after that, the one called Lia calls down to Kylie concerning Myev.

Lia will head below deck calling for Kylie, “Kylie! Shut the defenses down! Lilia is here and all is well. Myev was summoned by the mother tree!”

Hearing Lia before she sees her, Kylie complies and mentally deactivates the defenses. "Lilia's here and Myev is okay? That's great news. I was so worried!"

Kylie is off before Argent can say anything. The invoker follows, but misses part of the conversation. Something about Myev being converted into an elf by a tree!

“What are you doing to Myev!” Argent calls out in annoyance, grasping her staff is if to defend herself. “I knew I couldn't trust you elves with her! I'm not leaving here until I know that Myev is safe! Or are you going to try and turn me into a elf against my will too?”

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

It is night by the time Valena returns from her patrol. River Blossom blinks us up to Golden Peak and than the unicorn departs for the evening after we share a goodbye. It seems that there was some excitement while I was away. All the elves are talking about the Mother Tree and a Leave Bearer. Valena catches up with her companions and than makes her way to the Heart of the Tree.

Much to her surprise Laucian is there along with his companions, his mated pair of cooshee's and the black kitten Onyx. The elf she conversed with earlier this day, Onas, is present as well. Seeing that the cat is present and knowing that falcons tend to dislike enclosed places, Valena tells Aerie to go off and hunt.

“I wasn't expecting to see you two here,” Valena says as she enters with her cooshee's. “I heard talk that something happened here earlier and I thought I would check it out.”

“Well, hello there,” Valena says getting down on her knees to greet Onyx. “Are you being treated well? Are you a pretty kitty? Yes you are!”

Valena settles down with her cooshee's and leans against the chambers wall. “So what did I miss?” she asks.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Onas pauses, marveling at how much deeper the queen has considered all of this. Truly, she will be a great leader. "You are right, Queen Lilia. There is so very little we know of these matters. Nevertheless, if there is even a chance of success, I feel we must go."

“Oh, we are going,” Lilia states flatly. “Given the source of this request, it cannot be ignored. This is an enormous undertaking, but like any great project, we shall proceed one step at a time.”

Lilia's question catches him entirely off-guard. "M-me, my queen?" he stammers, his mind suddenly spinning. "Uhm... I don't know... I... can bring it up with the other members of the clan. Since others will be arriving tomorrow, there may be better qualified choices." It takes a moment for the whirling in his brain to subside, at which point he takes a deep breath. "If the clan leadership feel that I am the best choice to represent the clan on the council, then I will do my best to fulfill that role." It is clear that he doesn't see himself as part of the clan leadership, though in truth, much of that leadership may have perished in Chandra's disastrous mission.

“No need to rush to a decision right now,” Lilia states. “Since you have shown an interest in what goes on around here, I thought you might like to be more involved in the process. Just consider it is all I ask.”

Lilia's words contain so much information that Kylie struggles to take it all in. "Wait, so there's another Mother Tree on their world? And a leaf from it brought Myev here. And the Mother Trees are related or similar to treants..? I guess that kind of makes sense, though they seem to be on a completely different... scale. Wow. That's a lot to process..."

“Indeed,” Lilia responds. “Clearly, there is much that we do not know when it comes to the Mother Tree. Even the High Keeper was stunned that she could speak and form a face. It might have never happened before.”

“That is amazing! I wonder if they can grow arms and walk?”she says absently as the queen speaks of Myev.

“The Mother Tree has limbs and roots like any other tree, so I don't see why not.”

"Okay, some of the elves there survived by merging with trees, just as they did here," Kylie's tone is contemplative. "So we need to plan a rescue mission. That's a long trip, so we'll need to gather supplies, especially since we don't know where we'll arrive or how to find the elves and their Mother Tree."

“There is more to that part of the mission,” Lilia says. “I know that this all comes as a huge shock, so I was trying to not bury you in all the news at once.”

“It seems my mistrust was misplaced. I will have to apologize for my thoughts to her.” She says thoughtfully. “It will be a sight to see her emerge from her cocoon. But, to imagine a world far from here that elves are still alive. Who could have imagined.”

“None of us understood who or what she truly was,” Lilia says diplomatically. “Some of us only saw the orc side of her.”

Kylie sputters for a second as she considers the ramifications. "Myev has an elfin spirit? And Mother Tree is transforming her into an elf? I didn't know she could do that." Kylie thinks for a moment. "I know we all received incredible gifts after saving Mother Tree, and Lia was transformed into a Drow, but I always assumed that was Corellon's power working through the tree. I hadn't considered that Mother Tree might have done that herself; that she might have that kind of power..." Kylie's voice drifts off as she considers and evaluates this new information.

“You're probably right in that the transformations we witness were done by the gods themselves since they were instantaneous,” Lilia suggests. “Given that Myev was cocooned and this process seems that it will take some unknown amount of time, than it seems that they are not identical. Plus, our Mother Tree had her power boosted by the leaf of the other Mother Tree, so that might factor into it as well.”

“It is our faith in our elfin gods that gave us our gifts, not just from the All father. I don’t believe the Mother Tree could do such a feat, would the keepers of the tree not be aware of such things?”she asks with a hint of naivety.

“The High Keeper says that he gets a sense of the wants and desires of the Mother Tree, but did not know that she could speak, so I may have witnessed an extremely rare occurrence. Yet another blessing that I have seen in person in my short life. We live in an age of wonders,” Lilia concludes.

A snorting sound escapes from Kylie despite her best attempts to restrain it. "Yeah, you could say that. Mom immediately interpreted it as an attack and I activated the ship's defensive function.”

“It's not an unreasonable conclusion,” Lilia agrees. “Given the choice I would rather be prepared for an attack than be ambushed.”

"So you could see the ship's shields were up." This peaks Kylie's curiosity. "What did it look like? I've never used that option before and have no idea what it looks like..."

“Like shields interlocking of a golden turtle.” She says without a second thought. “I would be curious if the defense do anything else upon activation.”

“They glowed with magical energy,” Lilia adds. “Like a suit of armor all around the ship.”

At this point Lilia becomes aware that the human mage has made her way on deck. Given her close relationship with Myev she has more than a passing interest in what was talked about, but clearly did not hear everything said.

“What are you doing to Myev!” Argent calls out in annoyance, grasping her staff is if to defend herself. “I knew I couldn't trust you elves with her! I'm not leaving here until I know that Myev is safe! Or are you going to try and turn me into a elf against my will too?”

“Myev is perfectly safe,” Lilia calmly states. The Elf Maiden is pretty sure that human isn't any great danger when it comes to hand to hand combat. No her strength is in her spells. “An elfin spirit from her world joined with Myev when she was a baby. She's already part elf. The Mother Tree offered to take her all the way. Myev accepted. I asked her if she was sure that this was what she wanted and she said yes. The Mother Tree than put her into a cocoon and we do not know when this process will be finished. Your friend is safe and no, we are not looking to change you into an elf.”

Despite the many distractions, Kylie's thoughts eventually return to her friend Myev. "I'm glad Myev is okay. Lilia, do you know how long the transformation will take?"

“Unknown”, Lilia answers. “I told her that we would speak once she emerges.”

Looking to Lilia, “When are we to leave to help our kin? How are we supposed to get there?” she asks curiously.

“That's where the rest of my news comes in,” Lilia continues. “Right after Myev was summoned, Talen was summoned as well. The Mother Tree said that he had 'gained the knowledge of the builders of the ruins to the north and now knew how to work their devices' or words to that effect. That suggests to me that those teach columns taught Talen how to use the Pillar Artifacts and other elder devices. The Mother Tree even gave him the location for such an artifact on Myev's world. That is how we will get there. Elder artifacts.”

“But Talen himself doesn't seem to know just how to do this. Perhaps he will in time. I don't know. It seems to me that his situation is like that of Myev's. He doesn't know what his role is until the time comes. At least that is my hope.”

[Laucian]

Laucian

“I wasn't expecting to see you two here,” Valena says as she enters with her cooshee's. “I heard talk that something happened here earlier and I thought I would check it out.”

“Valena, a pleasure to see you, as always. How goes it with the Silver Maidens?” Seeing the her cooshee’s she extends his hands out in greeting so that they may smell him.

“Well, hello there,” Valena says getting down on her knees to greet Onyx. “Are you being treated well? Are you a pretty kitty? Yes you are!”

Laucian watches as Valena greets Onyx causing a smile to come to his face. She has always had a way with animals. “As well as I can.: he says evenly to Valena.

Valena settles down with her cooshee's and leans against the chambers wall. “So what did I miss?” she asks.

“It was amazing to behold. Myev carried a leaf from a far away tree. Elora carried it here and it was given to our Tree Keepers. The leaf bound itself to our tree making a face of a Giant Treant. It summoned Myev in turn and she was given the chance to become an elf!” Indicating the cocoon that lies near, “Talen was also summon but then the magic of the leaf dissipated and the treat returned to it’s slumber.”
“The Mother tree spoke of it’s world where Myev hails from. The scro did not complete their deed of wiping out our cousins. Apparently they are still alive though incased in trees with nor way to free themselves.”
“It seems the rainbow bridge will be arriving soon, with help from the elfholds and how to reach this new world and free our kin.”

[Lia]

Lia

“The Mother Tree has limbs and roots like any other tree, so I don't see why not.”

The thought of seeing a Treant the size of the Mother tree moving about is humbling to the young drow. “That would be a sight to see!”she says back excitedly.

“None of us understood who or what she truly was,” Lilia says diplomatically. “Some of us only saw the orc side of her.”

“When she disappeared, and we thought of attack. I cannot deny I though that Myev might have been behind it. I am glad, that I was mistaken.” She says back to the queen.

“You're probably right in that the transformations we witness were done by the gods themselves since they were instantaneous,” Lilia suggests. “Given that Myev was cocooned and this process seems that it will take some unknown amount of time, than it seems that they are not identical. Plus, our Mother Tree had her power boosted by the leaf of the other Mother Tree, so that might factor into it as well.”

Lia doesn’t not answer in response but she cannot help but wonder if the Mother tree did not transfer enough energy into the cocoon what would happen to Myev. Probably some have scro elf that would be shunned or killed on sight, she muses to herself.
“That is amazing! I am sure Elora is beside herself as to where to begin depicting such a momentous occasion."

Argent wrote:“What are you doing to Myev!” Argent calls out in annoyance, grasping her staff is if to defend herself. “I knew I couldn't trust you elves with her! I'm not leaving here until I know that Myev is safe! Or are you going to try and turn me into a elf against my will too?”

Lia can’t help but see the Argent going for her staff as to protect herself but she still draws her blade in defense.

“Myev is perfectly safe,” Lilia calmly states. The Elf Maiden is pretty sure that human isn't any great danger when it comes to hand to hand combat. No her strength is in her spells. “An elfin spirit from her world joined with Myev when she was a baby. She's already part elf. The Mother Tree offered to take her all the way. Myev accepted. I asked her if she was sure that this was what she wanted and she said yes. The Mother Tree than put her into a cocoon and we do not know when this process will be finished. Your friend is safe and no, we are not looking to change you into an elf.”

“Argent, neither of us saw what happened to Myev. I trust Lilia, she was one of the first to accept me as I am.” Looking to the queen then back to the human mage. “ I to would like to see what happened to her. Perhaps we can do so together, calmly.” She says evenly.

“That's where the rest of my news comes in,” Lilia continues. “Right after Myev was summoned, Talen was summoned as well. The Mother Tree said that he had 'gained the knowledge of the builders of the ruins to the north and now knew how to work their devices' or words to that effect. That suggests to me that those teach columns taught Talen how to use the Pillar Artifacts and other elder devices. The Mother Tree even gave him the location for such an artifact on Myev's world. That is how we will get there. Elder artifacts.”

“But Talen himself doesn't seem to know just how to do this. Perhaps he will in time. I don't know. It seems to me that his situation is like that of Myev's. He doesn't know what his role is until the time comes. At least that is my hope.”

[/quote]“Columns? Pillars? I wonder if it has anything to do with the Pillars we saw on the roof of the Hives tower and the one we buried as well. I recall seeing different patterns upon the pillars, I can’t help but wonder if that is the knowledge my brother acquired.” She says looking around to the others. Looking to Argent.
“Would you recall your research with the Pillars? Perhaps have etchings or drawing of them? If you do they may help my brother.”she says hopefully to the human mage as she sheathes her sword.

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

“I don't know,” Argent says. “I've seen Jallarzi teleport enough to know that it wasn't something Myev did on her own. She was taking a bite and then she was there!”

Kylie can picture in her mind the surprise that Argent must have felt. "We must hope that she will be okay..." In the tangle of emotions that floods through her, she can think of little else to say.

It takes Argent a moment to comprehend what Kylie and the elf are saying to each other. “This is your mother?” Argent asks of Kylie.

Kylie opens her mouth to respond, but then shuts it as embarrassment flushes her cheeks. "I'm sorry, Argent; I thought you had already met. Yes, this is my mother, Allurien Feador. Mom," she says, looking to her mother, "this is Argent, who was in training with Jallarzi at the same time as I was."

Argent tries to follow along with what Kylie is telling her mother, but gets lost in a few places. “That sounds like a very nice magic item,” Argent says with more than a little awe.

In other circumstances, Argent's comment would bring a chuckle from Kylie. However, if they are under attack, then there is no laughing matter. "It is what powers this ship, and it is extraordinary." Argent offers to help defend the ship, to which Kylie gives a sharp nod as she focuses on and activates the Spell Engine.

===

“Indeed,” Lilia responds. “Clearly, there is much that we do not know when it comes to the Mother Tree. Even the High Keeper was stunned that she could speak and form a face. It might have never happened before.”

Kylie sighs. "It seems we live in momentous times..."

“There is more to that part of the mission,” Lilia says. “I know that this all comes as a huge shock, so I was trying to not bury you in all the news at once.”

"I- I understand, Lilia," Kylie replies. "Perhaps we will be able to discuss it more tomorrow, after we've had a chance to consider what we have learned."

“You're probably right in that the transformations we witness were done by the gods themselves since they were instantaneous,” Lilia suggests. “Given that Myev was cocooned and this process seems that it will take some unknown amount of time, than it seems that they are not identical. Plus, our Mother Tree had her power boosted by the leaf of the other Mother Tree, so that might factor into it as well.”

Kylie nods her understanding. "What you say makes sense."

“What are you doing to Myev!” Argent calls out in annoyance, grasping her staff is if to defend herself. “I knew I couldn't trust you elves with her! I'm not leaving here until I know that Myev is safe! Or are you going to try and turn me into a elf against my will too?”

Argent's words cause Kylie to turn in her direction. She sees the concern and confusion on her face. However, Lilia speaks up before Kylie can respond.

“Myev is perfectly safe,” Lilia calmly states. The Elf Maiden is pretty sure that human isn't any great danger when it comes to hand to hand combat. No her strength is in her spells. “An elfin spirit from her world joined with Myev when she was a baby. She's already part elf. The Mother Tree offered to take her all the way. Myev accepted. I asked her if she was sure that this was what she wanted and she said yes. The Mother Tree than put her into a cocoon and we do not know when this process will be finished. Your friend is safe and no, we are not looking to change you into an elf.”

"Argent, like you, I am very concerned for Myev. I have not known her as long as you have, but I have come to care for her as a friend. I have also come to know and trust Lilia. Let us both learn more of this situation and not make any rash decisions." Kylie can only hope that her friend will see sense and reign in her emotions.

Lia also urges calm in this stressful moment. Kylie gives her a worried smile, but says nothing more.

“It seems my mistrust was misplaced. I will have to apologize for my thoughts to her.” She says thoughtfully. “It will be a sight to see her emerge from her cocoon. But, to imagine a world far from here that elves are still alive. Who could have imagined.”
...
“When she disappeared, and we thought of attack. I cannot deny I though that Myev might have been behind it. I am glad, that I was mistaken.” She says back to the queen.

Hearing Lia's words, Kylie places a comforting arm about her shoulders. "I, too, am anxious to see the new form that Mother Tree gives her. I cannot help but wonder whether she will retain any trace of her previous self by which we may recognize her."

===

“It is our faith in our elfin gods that gave us our gifts, not just from the All father. I don’t believe the Mother Tree could do such a feat, would the keepers of the tree not be aware of such things?”she asks with a hint of naivety.

“The High Keeper says that he gets a sense of the wants and desires of the Mother Tree, but did not know that she could speak, so I may have witnessed an extremely rare occurrence. Yet another blessing that I have seen in person in my short life. We live in an age of wonders,” Lilia concludes.

Kylie listens to the words of both Lia and Lilia. "While not truly a god, it seems that Mother Tree is capable of amazing things, perhaps beyond those of mortals such as ourselves."

“Like shields interlocking of a golden turtle.” She says without a second thought. “I would be curious if the defense do anything else upon activation.”

“They glowed with magical energy,” Lilia adds. “Like a suit of armor all around the ship.”

Kylie marvels at what it must have been like. "Sounds glorious. I shall have to arrange to see if for myself someday."

“That's where the rest of my news comes in,” Lilia continues. “Right after Myev was summoned, Talen was summoned as well. The Mother Tree said that he had 'gained the knowledge of the builders of the ruins to the north and now knew how to work their devices' or words to that effect. That suggests to me that those teach columns taught Talen how to use the Pillar Artifacts and other elder devices. The Mother Tree even gave him the location for such an artifact on Myev's world. That is how we will get there. Elder artifacts.”

“But Talen himself doesn't seem to know just how to do this. Perhaps he will in time. I don't know. It seems to me that his situation is like that of Myev's. He doesn't know what his role is until the time comes. At least that is my hope.”

Kylie pauses to consider once again. "Talen will do the best that he is able - I know he will. However, I think we must be prepared for the possibility that it may take some time. In the meanwhile, we will prepare to the best of our ability."

[Talen]

Talen:

Laucian smirks at the half elf as he says, “If that were the case we would all live normal uneventful lives. I understand your dilemma my brother. At times like these it is how you react that defines you, shapes you into the person the fates see you as.”

“Things seemed so much simpler back in Lost Valley,” Talen laments. “Neither Lia or myself could have ever imagined where our journey to the outside world would have taken us.”

Arriving aboard a griffin some short while after the queen, Talen's comment draws a happy laugh from Kylie. The sound is pleasant, though not quite musical. "Hi Talen," she says with some affection in her tone. "We were just talking about that. How are you doing? It sounds like a lot happened back at Mother Tree."

“Hi,” Talen says noting Kylie's tone. What is she up to now? “I'm okay. I was just walking out in the forest and then I'm face to face with the Mother Tree. It was shocking!”

“Seems like we missed all the excitement, brother. Are you okay?”

“Oh I didn't miss it,” Talen tells his sister. “I got dragged into it as well. Something about me knowing how to get everyone to Myev's world. Can you believe it? It's not like I'm a tracker or anything.”

“Anyway, I just came back to the Sunflower to settle in for the night on a bed that fits me. Maybe this will all make more sense in the morning.”

“Oh,” Talen adds at the last moment. “I think I heard that the Rainbow Bridge is opening up tomorrow too. Lots more elves should be arriving!”

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

Laucian smirks at the half elf as he says, “If that were the case we would all live normal uneventful lives. I understand your dilemma my brother. At times like these it is how you react that defines you, shapes you into the person the fates see you as.”

“Things seemed so much simpler back in Lost Valley,” Talen laments. “Neither Lia or myself could have ever imagined where our journey to the outside world would have taken us.”

Onas listens as Laucian and Talen discuss the latter's experiences. "I understand what you mean, Talen. When I volunteered to join my brother's mission team to come to the Sylvan Realm, I had no idea that we would be trapped in the Rainbow Bridge for years - even though, for us, it seemed like no time passed at all. And the experiences I've had just in the short time since we were freed by you and your companions have been beyond anything I could ever have anticipated or imagined."

===

“They have been with me for sometime, Ever watchful, courageous and loyal. I have not given them names as of yet.” He adds thoughtfully as he pets each of the cooshee’s flanks in turn. Petting the female, “Perhaps Sana,”and then to the Male, “And Conall. This little one I found half dead amongst an orc camp.” Picking up Onyx and stroking his back, “I healed him and fed him, he has been at my side ever since.”
“My griffon, Aura, is another of my companions.” He says simply, looking up at Onas. “She was given to me and the knowledge of riding, flying and fighting from her back by our Patrons. It was then that I heard of the Golden Griffons, and the rest you know.”

Laucian reveals a bit about his own past as well as introducing his companions, and Onas enjoys the opportunity to get to know this warrior a bit more. "Those are good names," he says, introducing himself to each of the animals that are willing to accept his touch and scent. "You have had an interesting life so far, Laucian. I hope to be able to see more of the world and participate in more great events.

"My companion of many years is an elfin warhorse named Carad Orod," which Laucian will know means 'Red Mountain' in Elvish. "We have fought together in many battles and saved each other's lives multiple times. I believe him to be as smart and loyal as any cooshee. I also have another horse for general riding named Kuune Ithil ('Crescent Moon')."

Not long after, Valena shows up.

“I wasn't expecting to see you two here,” Valena says as she enters with her cooshee's. “I heard talk that something happened here earlier and I thought I would check it out.”

“Valena, a pleasure to see you, as always. How goes it with the Silver Maidens?” Seeing the her cooshee’s she extends his hands out in greeting so that they may smell him.

"Indeed, it is wonderful to see you again so soon, Valena."

“It was amazing to behold. Myev carried a leaf from a far away tree. Elora carried it here and it was given to our Tree Keepers. The leaf bound itself to our tree making a face of a Giant Treant. It summoned Myev in turn and she was given the chance to become an elf!” Indicating the cocoon that lies near, “Talen was also summon but then the magic of the leaf dissipated and the treat returned to it’s slumber.”
“The Mother tree spoke of it’s world where Myev hails from. The scro did not complete their deed of wiping out our cousins. Apparently they are still alive though encased in trees with nor way to free themselves.”
“It seems the rainbow bridge will be arriving soon, with help from the elfholds and how to reach this new world and free our kin.”

Laucian provides a quick highlight of the events of the evening. Onas does his best to fill in a few details. "Apparently, despite being a scro, Myev has carried an elven soul ever since she was a young child; thus, she was already partly an elf. I think this is why she was given the opportunity to become an elf in full.

"Also, as I understand it, Talen is the key to reaching this other world to rescue the elves, and maybe even the other Mother Tree. Unfortunately, he seems uncertain about how he will accomplish that."

[Argent]

Argent:

Kylie opens her mouth to respond, but then shuts it as embarrassment flushes her cheeks. "I'm sorry, Argent; I thought you had already met. Yes, this is my mother, Allurien Feador. Mom," she says, looking to her mother, "this is Argent, who was in training with Jallarzi at the same time as I was."

Taking a closer look at Allurien, Argent can see some of the family resemblance. “Yes, we spent a great deal of time working in the kitchen while not training. I think we both had a lot of fun back in those days. I am very happy that she found you.”

Argent emerges onto the deck of the ship, daring being close to those nasty griffons! The other elves are speaking about Myev, but thanks to her earrings, Argent can understand what they are say. While the elfin leader speaks calmly, the drow goes for her weapon.

“Myev is perfectly safe,” Lilia calmly states. The Elf Maiden is pretty sure that human isn't any great danger when it comes to hand to hand combat. No her strength is in her spells. “An elfin spirit from her world joined with Myev when she was a baby. She's already part elf. The Mother Tree offered to take her all the way. Myev accepted. I asked her if she was sure that this was what she wanted and she said yes. The Mother Tree than put her into a cocoon and we do not know when this process will be finished. Your friend is safe and no, we are not looking to change you into an elf.”

“I'm not sure if I believe you or not,” Argent answers carefully, “but Myev didn't act like any orc I had ever seen before. Not that I'm an authority on orcs, but she did seem very out of place among her own kind.”

“Argent, neither of us saw what happened to Myev. I trust Lilia, she was one of the first to accept me as I am.” Looking to the queen then back to the human mage. “ I to would like to see what happened to her. Perhaps we can do so together, calmly.” She says evenly.

“I would like that,” Argent replies still a bit shocked to be talking to a nice drow, “but as I understand it that is not really possible. I'm not supposed to leave the Sunflower as the elves get all flighty about non-elves near their giant tree.”

"Argent, like you, I am very concerned for Myev. I have not known her as long as you have, but I have come to care for her as a friend. I have also come to know and trust Lilia. Let us both learn more of this situation and not make any rash decisions." Kylie can only hope that her friend will see sense and reign in her emotions.

“I have an idea!” Argent announces as relaxes her grip on her staff. “I have a Crystal Ball. I can use that to check in on Myev and find out if what you are saying is true. Regardless, I am not leaving your lands until I know that Myev is safe. No matter what her form is once she hatches.”

Argent is ready to go back below and retrieve her Crystal Ball when the tall half-elf Talen arrives. Somehow he is the brother of the drow! Lilia explains that they believe that those teaching columns back in the ruins gave him the ability to work the Elder Artifacts! If Argent was thinking more clearly right now she would be amazed and a bit jealous of him.

“Columns? Pillars? I wonder if it has anything to do with the Pillars we saw on the roof of the Hives tower and the one we buried as well. I recall seeing different patterns upon the pillars, I can’t help but wonder if that is the knowledge my brother acquired.” She says looking around to the others. Looking to Argent.

“Would you recall your research with the Pillars? Perhaps have etchings or drawing of them? If you do they may help my brother.”she says hopefully to the human mage as she sheathes her sword.

“I recall everything,” Argent says offhandedly. “My gift and my curse to remember everything in every detail. I have a book of notes back in my cabin from my research of the Pillar Artifacts. Let me scry for Myev first than we can see if my notes are any help.”

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

Valena has returned from her patrol and gone to the Heart of the Tree to see what transpired earlier.

“Valena, a pleasure to see you, as always. How goes it with the Silver Maidens?” Seeing the her cooshee’s she extends his hands out in greeting so that they may smell him.

“We just returned from patrolling the grounds around the base of the Mother Tree,” Valena reports. “All is quiet, but we cannot venture too far away since there are so few of us.”

Valena's cooshee's get close enough to Laucian to say hello, while Valena will pet and greet each of Laucian's companions.

"Indeed, it is wonderful to see you again so soon, Valena.”

“Why thank you, forest rider,” Valena wryly responds. “Unfortunately, I didn't see any horses while out on patrol. I'm not sure if they are native to the Sylvan Realm or not.”

Laucian watches as Valena greets Onyx causing a smile to come to his face. She has always had a way with animals. “As well as I can”, he says evenly to Valena.

“Hmm, that's not what Onyx says,” Valena counters in a serious tone. “He'd like more attention and more mice to munch on.”

After settling in, Laucian tells the tale of what Valena missed.

“It was amazing to behold. Myev carried a leaf from a far away tree. Elora carried it here and it was given to our Tree Keepers. The leaf bound itself to our tree making a face of a Giant Treant. It summoned Myev in turn and she was given the chance to become an elf!” Indicating the cocoon that lies near, “Talen was also summon but then the magic of the leaf dissipated and the treat returned to it’s slumber.”

“The Mother tree spoke of it’s world where Myev hails from. The scro did not complete their deed of wiping out our cousins. Apparently they are still alive though encased in trees with nor way to free themselves.”

“It seems the rainbow bridge will be arriving soon, with help from the Elfholds and how to reach this new world and free our kin.”

“That is amazing,” Valena answers in a excited tone. “Truth be told, I never gave the Mother Tree's origins any thought. She simply has always been there like a quiet companion. That she can speak is astounding!”

“I admit I didn't see much worth in Myev myself, but clearly she is important. If she can help us recover those elves who remain on this other world, than that would be wonderful. It is good news that the Rainbow Bridge will open tomorrow! Guard duty no longer suits me. The chance to explore a whole new world is a tempting one.”

Laucian provides a quick highlight of the events of the evening. Onas does his best to fill in a few details. "Apparently, despite being a scro, Myev has carried an elven soul ever since she was a young child; thus, she was already partly an elf. I think this is why she was given the opportunity to become an elf in full.

"Also, as I understand it, Talen is the key to reaching this other world to rescue the elves, and maybe even the other Mother Tree. Unfortunately, he seems uncertain about how he will accomplish that.”

“Myev was very odd for an orc, or a scro as they called themselves,” Valena notes. “I guess that must have been her elfin side coming through. Seems that she wasn't happy with what she was either since she is changing into an elf. If that makes her happy, then I am happy for her.”

“Talen always seems uncertain of things,” Valena continues. “He is young and unsure of himself. Nervous before any sort of battle or engagement, but he steps up when the times comes. I am sure he will in this as well.”

“Oh,” Valena utters. “Where are my manners? This is Taure.” Valena pats the back of the cooshee on her left. “And this is Duin.” Valena indicates the other cooshee. “While I wasn't there when Laucian encountered their pack, those two took to me once we had reunited.”

[Lilia]

Lilia:

The thought of seeing a Treant the size of the Mother tree moving about is humbling to the young drow. “That would be a sight to see!”she says back excitedly.

“Indeed it would,” Lilia answers. “The legend goes that when the elves had to abandon Evergreen that they carried the Mother Tree-- for decades-- until they reached the Sylvan Realm. I now have to wonder if that is a exaggeration and that the reason it took so long is that the Mother Tree walks very slowly.”

“When she disappeared, and we thought of attack. I cannot deny I though that Myev might have been behind it. I am glad, that I was mistaken.” She says back to the queen.

“It is easy to assume the worst,” Lilia tells Lia. “I find myself doing it frequently. Skepticism, in moderation, is not a bad thing. Things are not always as they appear to be. Sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worst.”

[quote="Lia:]“That is amazing! I am sure Elora is beside herself as to where to begin depicting such a momentous occasion."[/quote]

“She was,” Lilia agrees, “until she realized that we elves do not leave any records of the Mother Tree. So she will not be able to transcribe this historical event. Although it will be passed down to our ancestors just like our forefathers passed stories of the Mother Tree to us.”

The human mage comes to the defense of Myev.

“I'm not sure if I believe you or not,” Argent answers carefully, “but Myev didn't act like any orc I had ever seen before. Not that I'm an authority on orcs, but she did seem very out of place among her own kind.”

“So I have witnessed,” Lilia nods. “She was treated poorly by her kind, as I imagine you were as well. Your loyalty to your friend is commendable.”

“Argent, neither of us saw what happened to Myev. I trust Lilia, she was one of the first to accept me as I am.” Looking to the queen then back to the human mage. “ I to would like to see what happened to her. Perhaps we can do so together, calmly.” She says evenly.

“I would like that,” Argent replies still a bit shocked to be talking to a nice drow, “but as I understand it that is not really possible. I'm not supposed to leave the Sunflower as the elves get all flighty about non-elves near their giant tree.”

“Argent speaks truly,” Lilia adds. “The conditions for her and Myev to stay in the Sylvan Realm was that they remain on the Sunflower. For now at least. As far as Myev goes, the Mother Tree outranks me.”

"Argent, like you, I am very concerned for Myev. I have not known her as long as you have, but I have come to care for her as a friend. I have also come to know and trust Lilia. Let us both learn more of this situation and not make any rash decisions." Kylie can only hope that her friend will see sense and reign in her emotions.

“I have an idea!” Argent announces as relaxes her grip on her staff. “I have a Crystal Ball. I can use that to check in on Myev and find out if what you are saying is true. Regardless, I am not leaving your lands until I know that Myev is safe. No matter what her form is once she hatches.”

“A fair compromise,” Lilia states. Although the Elf Maiden is unsure if the Mother Tree blocks scrying or not.

Hearing Lia's words, Kylie places a comforting arm about her shoulders. "I, too, am anxious to see the new form that Mother Tree gives her. I cannot help but wonder whether she will retain any trace of her previous self by which we may recognize her."

Lilia wonders that as well. “It seems to me that those of us who were changed in some manner, mainly Lia and myself, really didn't change all that much as people. Let us hope that same will apply to Myev.”

“I recall everything,” Argent says offhandedly. “My gift and my curse to remember everything in every detail. I have a book of notes back in my cabin from my research of the Pillar Artifacts. Let me scry for Myev first than we can see if my notes are any help.”

“A very handy trait for a scholar,” Lilia observes. And a horrible one as well as it seems that the human mage will never forget what the scro put her through.

“Oh,” Talen adds at the last moment. “I think I heard that the Rainbow Bridge is opening up tomorrow too. Lots more elves should be arriving!”

“Yes, that slipped my mind in all of the excitement,” Lilia speaks up. “The Mother Tree told us that the Rainbow Bridge will be arriving tomorrow. We shall, hopefully, have many guests tomorrow. This means that we won't have to be personally responsible for the Mother Tree's safety and that we can move on to other projects.”

“There are so many things that come mind that I almost don't know where to begin. The Elfin Palace needs to be reclaimed. We need scout the lands around the Sylvan Realm to see if they hold any dangers for us. We must return to the Elder Ruins and make sure the Hive have not returned. So much to do...”

Lilia will chat for a time, but will eventually say her good nights and fly back up to Golden Peak for the evening. Much to prepare for!

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

Taking a closer look at Allurien, Argent can see some of the family resemblance. “Yes, we spent a great deal of time working in the kitchen while not training. I think we both had a lot of fun back in those days. I am very happy that she found you.”

Kylie chuckles, thinking back to some of their antics. It seems so long ago, even though it was less than a year.

===

“Argent speaks truly,” Lilia adds. “The conditions for her and Myev to stay in the Sylvan Realm was that they remain on the Sunflower. For now at least. As far as Myev goes, the Mother Tree outranks me.”

Lilia makes a very interesting point. Even though she is the queen here, she is not the highest authority. Kylie suspects that the Mother Tree occupies a position somewhere between the gods and mortal beings. She will have to keep this in mind when she advises Lilia.

“I have an idea!” Argent announces as relaxes her grip on her staff. “I have a Crystal Ball. I can use that to check in on Myev and find out if what you are saying is true. Regardless, I am not leaving your lands until I know that Myev is safe. No matter what her form is once she hatches.”

"That's a great idea, Argent!" Kylie says enthusiastically.

Lilia wonders that as well. “It seems to me that those of us who were changed in some manner, mainly Lia and myself, really didn't change all that much as people. Let us hope that same will apply to Myev.”

"Lia changed drastically in appearance due to her choice, but your appearance didn't change at all," Kylie replies. "I can still see similarity in Lia's features from before; perhaps the same will be true of Myev. Of course, I suspect the transformation from orc, or scro, to elf may be an even greater amount of change than from half-elf to dark elf. I guess we won't really know until she emerges from the cocoon."

“Hi,” Talen says noting Kylie's tone. What is she up to now? “I'm okay. I was just walking out in the forest and then I'm face to face with the Mother Tree. It was shocking!”

"I can imagine it was, Talen," Kylie sympathizes. "We were quite startled and alarmed when Myev suddenly vanished. We thought the ship might be under attack."

“Oh I didn't miss it,” Talen tells his sister. “I got dragged into it as well. Something about me knowing how to get everyone to Myev's world. Can you believe it? It's not like I'm a tracker or anything.”

Kylie listens as Talen tells his tale. The pieces are starting to fit together. "I think that may be connected to when that stone pillar up north grabbed your head and left those small burns on your temples. There were quite a few pillar artifacts out there of various sizes, including one where we found the ship that was the size of a lighthouse. Since they seem to function as teleporters, we suspect that the size of the pillar may have something to do with their range. Perhaps the giant one will be able to reach Myev's home world where the trapped elves are."

“Yes, that slipped my mind in all of the excitement,” Lilia speaks up. “The Mother Tree told us that the Rainbow Bridge will be arriving tomorrow. We shall, hopefully, have many guests tomorrow. This means that we won't have to be personally responsible for the Mother Tree's safety and that we can move on to other projects.”

“There are so many things that come mind that I almost don't know where to begin. The Elfin Palace needs to be reclaimed. We need scout the lands around the Sylvan Realm to see if they hold any dangers for us. We must return to the Elder Ruins and make sure the Hive have not returned. So much to do...”

This is very interesting news indeed. The influx of elves will open up many more possibilities. "Once we have a sense of who all has come through, we can start figuring out priorities and assignments for various tasks."

“Anyway, I just came back to the Sunflower to settle in for the night on a bed that fits me. Maybe this will all make more sense in the morning.”

Kylie smiles warmly. "Have a good night, Talen. I'll check in with you tomorrow after we get back from Karn's Keep."

Once the conversation winds down, Kylie will return to the Feador clan home with her mother. She is really looking forward to learning some more spells before going to bed!

[GM Mad]

Post Closed