The Sylvan Realm #38 (#82)

[GM Mad]

Sylvan Realm #38 (#82)

December 8th, CR 571 or Deepnight 30th, 20,519 AP

The Chosen have gone their separate ways having traveled to their homes for a day of rest. Now they are starting to come together once more.

The Lady Iris:

Kylie, Lia and Talen departed with Lord Sharadin and his daughters on the Lady Iris. The first destination was the Lost Valley, the home of Lia and Talen. Several went down to visit Nightmist. Lord Sharadin wanted to meet Nightmist as she knew his father far better than he ever did since he vanished during the Great War. Several of the good drow joined Lia and would return to the Sylvan Realm with her. Nightmist joined Lord Sharadin on his expedition to Baltron's Beacon. Janice, one of Lia's new companions, has questions about the Spell Engines that power the Lady Iris.

“You would imagine correctly,” Argent easily answers. “Alphatians have been using them for thousands of years now. We've been coming across them lately. Simply put, it absorbs magic and in turn uses it to fuel whatever abilities were built into the Spell Engine. The ones on the Lady Iris allow the ship to fly, generate breathable area around us and shield us from the wind. It can even fly or turn the ship Invisible. It's a very useful item!”

“Fascinating,” Janice says in an greatly impressed voice. “Very useful indeed! I wish to know more about this.”

Nightmist reveals that not only was she given the title of Court Lady by King Victor the 5th but that she also has a street named after her in Pyris.

“Many can have noble titles,” Talen points out, “but how many of them have a street named after them? That's more impressive to me.”

"I have to admit, it is pretty cool," Kylie says.

“I was a lovely gesture on Lady Gwendolyn's part,” Nightmist will agree. “I did not seek out such rewards. Instead they were given to me due to my deeds. What we accomplished was appreciated by many.”

“Talen, Titles and streets are all well and good, but to have a grandmother such as we have is priceless. Without her, we would be by far and large, probably not who we are today.” she looks to her brother then to Nightmist, smiling.

“That's a wonderful sentiment, dear,” Nightmist will say as she tries to hold back tears of joy. She gives Lia a long hug.


The buried Elder City of Shelvestra is reached. Lia recaps the horrors that used to dwell here. Nightmist can sense the stench of death in the ruins.

"Yes, ma'am," Kylie says, memories of some of the horror they witnessed flooding back. "The Hive were feeding lizardfolk and other sentients to their filthy spawn. Fortunately, they are no more."

“How tragic,” Nightmist notes with remorse. “If only we had known, we may have been able to do something about this sooner.”

Talen activates the Portal Artifact in the corner of the city connecting it to the Elder Ruins to the north of the Sylvan Realm.

[GM Mad]

The Elfholds:

Up in the Elfholds, the elves are enjoying time at their various Clan Holds. Onas and Arlen are spending time at their parents home.

"It is our duty to fight in service to our people," Onas says quietly, remembering how that concept was drilled into him from an early age. "So shall it ever be."

“So shall it ever be,” Arlen and their parents all repeat at nearly the same time as it was drilled into all in the Red Arrow Clan and is now part of their mantra.

"It is, mother," Onas agrees. "I have been told that there is huge land of humans just to the east of the Sylvan Realm, so I doubt we've seen the last of them."

“They do seem to be everywhere,” Aerenaiadh notes with a mild distasteful tone.

“But not all humans are evil or malevolent,” Naloren adds.

“No, of course not,” Aerenaiadh agrees. “When it comes humans you never know what you are going to get until after you've meet them. By then it might be too late.”

Onas nods. "It is an ancient land, father. Not for nothing is it known as the homeland of the elves."

“I think I can speak for both of us when I say, we are looking forward to making the trip,” Naloren states.

A smile breaks across Onas' face and he glances over at his brother. "We will look forward to it. How is Rillandra? How goes her training?"

“She's at that age,” Aerenaiadh reports. “Not quite a child, not quite an adult. Unsure of what her place in the world will be. Perhaps visiting the Sylvan Realm will help her make some of those choices. Put her on her life's path.”

[GM Mad]

Shillesta:

Those who have arrived in Shillesta take in the sights for the first time. Nightmist has grandmotherly concern if Lia and company can survive here or not.

“Grandmother, you have taught us well. I am sure we are capable of surviving till the cavalry returns.”

“We did teach you all well,” Nightmist says to Lia, Janice, Viconia and Balok. “But I cannot help but be concerned.”

“Not to worry, High Priestess,” Janice tells Nightmist. “I have a full campsite stored away with an Item spell. We will have shelter for the evening. I always prepare for the unexpected.”

“A most useful spell,” Lord Sharadin notes. “Pity the duration is so short.”

“Not all of us have a flying ship to carry us around, Lord Sharadin,” Janice says with a smirk. “We who follow the Dark Maiden make due with what we can.”


The strange sight of Ironaya is taken in. The walking Elder Library only responds to Talen and does not react to anyone else. Talk of recovering the bodies of those buried in the cave in last week is discussed.

“Yes, along with the bodies or our fallen kin.” she says simply looking at her Uncle.

“I know,” Lord Sharadin states. “They will be recovered as well.”


Talen rushes down the tower stairs to demonstrate his ability to shape furniture from the red stone in the apartments below. Everyone who sees it for the first time is stunned by this ability.

“This is how you are different now, Talen?” Nightmist asks. “I didn't fully realize what you were saying earlier. There has been no side effects from this?”

“None that I have noted,” Lord Sharadin adds. “I've been keeping an eye on him as well.”

“Thank you for that, Lord Sharadin,” Nightmist says gratefully.

“That is kind of creepy,” Janice says in regards to creating mentally directed furniture. “I'd be afraid of that stone sucking me in a like some big red ooze!”

“Don't say that, Janice!” Viconia calls out in alarm. “Now you'll give me nightmares!”


Talen mentions that orcs used to live here in the Elder Ruins. Their numbers were greatly decimated between the battles with the elves and the HIVE. Some orcs, the very young and very old, along with the females were rescued from the HIVE by the Chosen. Afterwards they fled the area, putting as much distance between themselves and the Tall Tower.

“We'll investigate this, Talen,” Viconia says. “If they are as bad off as you say, then they will need our assistance. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.”

"That's a good thought, Talen. I'm happy to help look. Any idea where they might be hiding?" Kylie starts to rise into the air to get a better view of the area.

“Don't go too far, Kylie,” Lord Sharadin will advise. “We're not staying here for long.”

It's been over a week since the HIVE were encountered here in Shillesta, plenty of time for the surviving orcs to put some distance between themselves and the Tall Tower. Kylie finds the immediate area around the Tall Tower deserted. Only a few wild animal tracks are noted in the snow. However, recalling how the red stone glows when its radiating heat meaning that beings are there, Kylie will note a building glowing red far off in the distance. It's actually on a different 'island' of land to the east of the Tall Tower. Reaching it on foot would probably take most of the day.

[GM Mad]

December 9th, CR 571 or Deepnight 31st, 20,519 AP

The Sunflower:

The next morning, the Sunflower flies about the Elfholds picking up those it dropped off the day before. Onas learns that the various temples of the Elfholds will be taking turns in visiting the Sylvan Realm.

"That is an interesting arrangement, priestess. I will look forward to your visit and those of our other faithful."

“It's only logical,” Delinniel states. “Otherwise all the various priesthoods would descend on the Sylvan Realm at the same time, leaving our Elfholds Temples empty. That's not a practical approach.”


The Sunflower departs Ainsun and flies to the south and west to Shieldtree.

When they land near Shieldtree, Laucian greets Onas and Arlen. “I hope your visit was well?” he says as he grips both their hands in greeting.

“It was good to be home, even if only for a day,” Arlen says to Laucian. “To visit friends and family. I feel reinvigorated to deal with what comes next.”


Next to be picked up is Valena, followed by Gweyr.

Laucian moves to the gangplank when they reach Pinitel. He looks for the fiery redhead in the crowd. Seeing Gweyr, Laucian smiles and greets her with a hug and offers to carry some of her things if she has any.

Gweyr is waiting in the same spot she was dropped off in. Floating beside her is a three feet in diameter floating disc of translucent energy. The disc is slightly concave and is overflowing with bags and other various personnel belongings. As Gweyr approaches the ramp, the floating disc dutifully trails behind her, hovering three feet about the ground at all times.

Gweyr comes up the gangplank with a wide smile and will hug and kiss Laucian when they embrace. “I'm all packed up and ready to go!” Gweyr declares. The petite mage will move her belongings to the lower decks into one of the private rooms for safe keeping.


Andlin is the last to be picked up before making the journey to Desnae, the home of Clan Chossum and the most central town in the Elfholds.

Soon, it is time to leave the Elfholds. After boarding, the ship makes stops at several other clan homes to pick up all those who are heading to the Realm. The last stop is Desnae, where they are met by Redsword Truetalker and King Miritar. Supplies are loaded, along with a small army to battle the slavers from the stars. While the crates are loaded, Onas chats with some of the Red Arrow warriors that have chosen to join the mission. "Hail and well met, clansmen. It is good to see that so many of you will be helping to end the threat of these slavers. They cannot be allowed to continue their foul work."

The fellow Red Arrows will greet Onas and Arlen Brightsword. Most agree with the sentiments of ending these slavers while some are just looking for a good fight.

Redsword Truetalker and Lilia exchange words.

“That is excellent news, Clan Master,” Lilia happily responds. “I've also recruited several other allies as well to add us in this cause. These slavers will be taught a stern lesson.”

“The Sunflower carried the entire population of the Longrunner Clan to their Clan Hold in the Sylvan Realm,” Lilia continues. “It can handle your warband and their supplies.”

“Very good,” Clan Master Truetalker will say in a pleased voice. “We will be ready to depart soon.

Wishing to nip any scenes in the bud, Lilia will introduce Myev to new arrivals. “Everyone, this is Myev,” Lilia calls out. “While she may not look like, she is an elf, just one from very far away. A distant cousin of ours.”

“Family!” Laucian calls out.

While most are unsure about Myev, no one is outright rude. Myev's own bubbly personality wins over many in Truetalkers Warband.

Lilia speaks once the Sunflower is loaded and ready to depart.

Lilia moves up to the bridge to better observe the loading of the ship and the arrival of the new troops. Once the loading is completed, Lilia will say a few words to those going on this mission.

“As Clan Master Truetalker as no doubt told you, this is a desperate situation we are faced with,” Lilia will say loudly. “The vessel we stand on today, the Sunflower, originally belonged to the slavers were will soon be facing. They want their ship back, but to make matters worse these humans from another world specialize in enslaving elves. Since we can life so long, they deem us the perfect servants. They use a foul liquid they call vidate to numb and condition an elf.”

“We have the beginnings of a plan on how to deal with the slavers,” Lilia continues. “We will return the Sunflower to where we found it, but will remove all the valuables and Spell Engines from it. Ideally, the slavers will come, take their ship and then depart. But I doubt it will be that simple. Our goal is to battle the slavers away from the Sylvan Realm. Prevent them from even knowing that an elfin forest is nearby. Therefore, the Elder Ruins to the north of the Sylvan Realm will be our battle field.”

“We'll give'm a fight!” one of the elves calls out from the crowd. A cheer rises from the rest of the elves assembled in the Warband.

“Thank you, Your Majesty,” Lilia tells her Elfholds counterpart. “Hopefully we will be able to speak of more mundane matters after the slavers have been dealt with.”

“I look forward to it,” King Miritar. “I will be nice something other than conflict for a change. May the All-Father watch over all of you.”

Once King Miritar and those staying behind have departed the Sunflower, Lilia will address those going on this voyage once more.

“My friends, you are about to experience a wondrous way to travel,” Lilia says. “The Sunflower will rise up high into the sky to far above our world. Then it will briefly travel at unimaginable velocities that will put us over the distant Sylvan Realm. The Sunflower will then simply lower itself once more. We'll land on the Satheas River on the shores of the Elfin Palace. We have tomorrow to fully plan for the attack. The enemy arrives the day after that. Prepare yourselves.”

Lilia will nod to those, including Myev, who are controlling the Spell Engines to begin our journey back to the Sylvan Realm.

In response to the command, the Sunflower starts to rise straight up from the docks of Desnae to the amazement of those on the ship and those watching from the lands below. The ship continues to go upwards, traveling faster the higher it gets. Some ninety minutes later, the blue of the sky is gone giving away to the darkness of space. Myev checks uses her charts to determine her position and adjusts the Sunflower accordingly.

“Hang on!” Myev calls out. “Things are about to get weird!”

At her command, the Sunflower suddenly surges forward at unimaginable velocities. All color is lost and everything shifts to gray. This strange graying effect lasts for only a single heartbeat. Normal color suddenly rushes back in.

The Sunflower is now over a different part of the continent below. It is much farther to the north and west now. From this vantage point, much of this part of the world can be seen. A large mountain range separates the Sylvan Realm from much of the rest of the continent. Past these mountains to the east is the wastelands of Vassa. A few cities can been seen here and there, but much of the land is uninhabited tundra. Arctic lands can be seen further to the north.

As the Sunflower descends, it adjusts it course to come down closer to the Sylvan Realm. The Elder Ruins to the north come into sight and soon the massive Mother Tree can be picked out among the elfin forest. In time, the details of the Sylvan Realm become clearer. The Satheas River comes into view along with the island that holds the Elfin Palace. The Sunflower slows its rapid descent as it comes closer to the river. The ship flies through open areas in the trees and sits down on the river. From there, the Sunflower moves up to the docks beside Pinit.

“My friends, welcome to the Sylvan Realm,” Lilia will call out.


Now what?

[Talen]

Talen:

Kylie smiles, recalling her previous visits and looking ahead to seeing her father soon. "It's not fancy, but it's comfortable and not too bothered by the troubles in other areas."

“That's good,” Talen will agree. “Home should be someplace safe.”


Grandma reveals that she has a noble title and a street named after her.

"I have to admit, it is pretty cool," Kylie says.

“I was a lovely gesture on Lady Gwendolyn's part,” Nightmist will agree. “I did not seek out such rewards. Instead they were given to me due to my deeds. What we accomplished was appreciated by many.”

“Who is Lady Gwendolyn?” Talen will ask, unfamiliar with the name.

“Talen, Titles and streets are all well and good, but to have a grandmother such as we have is priceless. Without her, we would be by far and large, probably not who we are today.” she looks to her brother then to Nightmist, smiling.

“That's a wonderful sentiment, dear,” Nightmist will say as she tries to hold back tears of joy. She gives Lia a long hug.

“Who are you and what did you do with my sister,” Talen says half seriously.


Using the Pillar Artifact, we travel to the Elder Ruins to the north of the Sylvan Realm. Those who have never been here take in the sights. Ironaya is waiting for us.

“Jeepers!” Argent calls out in shock. “What is that?”

“That is Ironaya,” Talen explains. “A sort of walking library. It's type of golem. If I ask it a question, it answers me. But she doesn't know everything. I can hear her voice in my mind.”

“That's the world to world version?” Argent calls out point at the structure miles away.

Kylie looks where her friend is pointing. "Exactly. We don't yet know what worlds it connects to, though."

“I believe to all the other worlds that have a matching tower pillar on it,” Talen chimes in. “They were locked behind codes for protection. The only code that I know is for a place called Dreatar. That's where Myev comes from. Once we have the codes, I can take us to all those other places.”


Talen rushes down the tower stairs to demonstrate his ability to shape furniture from the red stone in the apartments below. Everyone who sees it for the first time is stunned by this ability.

“This is how you are different now, Talen?” Nightmist asks. “I didn't fully realize what you were saying earlier. There has been no side effects from this?”

“Between doing this, using the Pillar Artifacts and talking to Ironaya, that's pretty much it,” Talen reports.

“None that I have noted,” Lord Sharadin adds. “I've been keeping an eye on him as well.”

“Thank you for that, Lord Sharadin,” Nightmist says gratefully.

Talen doesn't try to argue that he does not need looking after, but he sees no reason to pursue it with his grandmother and uncle. It wouldn't get him anywhere anyway.

“That is really creepy,” Argent notes. “Furniture shaped by anothers thoughts.”

“Well, I think its neat,” Talen adds, a bit disappointed that everyone is not as impressed by this as he is.

"I recall it turning transparent in the walls up at Crimson Crest," Kylie adds, pointing in the direction of the overlook they had visited. "I'm not sure if all of it can do that, or if that phenomenon was specific to something about that construction."

“I think it only did that when exposed to sunlight,” Talen states.

"That is kind of creepy,” Janice says in regards to creating mentally directed furniture. “I'd be afraid of that stone sucking me in a like some big red ooze!”

“Don't say that, Janice!” Viconia calls out in alarm. “Now you'll give me nightmares!”

“But... but...”, Talen sputters while trying to reassure everyone that nothing bad will happen to them in regards to the furniture. “It's harmless! At least I think it's harmless.”

Looking to Talen, “ Can you make doors? Windows?” she asks curiously.

“No, just furniture,” Talen tells his sister while trying to regain his composure. “The doors and windows were already here.”

“Lots of them,” Argent says. “So many that I don't know where to begin. Far to many to ask right now. I'll have to compose my thoughts and get back to you later on Talen.”

“Yeah, I can understand that,” Talen tells the Invoker. “I tend to just ask a question and see where the answers lead me.”

A few moments later, Argent asks something that has been nagging her. “How did this happen to you, Talen? Can anyone else gain the gifts that you were given?”

“Out there in the ruins there are what we call 'teachers'”, Talen answers. “They called me and eventually I had to go find out what it was. A stone pillar grew something like a tentacle and it covered my head. All this knowledge was put into my head. After I woke up I could do all of this. I guess that anyone who hears the call could do what I can after they were taught.”


Talen notes that orcs used to live up here, but most were killed by the elves or the HIVE.

“We'll investigate this, Talen,” Viconia says. “If they are as bad off as you say, then they will need our assistance. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.”

“I imagine that they will need your help,” Talen says to Viconia.

"That's a good thought, Talen. I'm happy to help look. Any idea where they might be hiding?" Kylie starts to rise into the air to get a better view of the area.

“No idea,” Talen answers. “Its been over a week since we last saw them. Anything could have happened by now.”

[Argent]

Argent:

"Ah, is she still seeing him?" Kylie asks, thinking back to the times when he visited during her days as a student. "What was his name: Perlen... Parolin... something like that? Or was that the gardener? It seems like so long ago."

“Killian Thalamar,” Argent states. “High Priest of Tymora. He is very charming and quite dashing. They've kept a low profile for many years now. Even before I came to the Sallavarian Estate.”

“Fascinating,” Janice says in an greatly impressed voice. “Very useful indeed! I wish to know more about this.”

“There's not a whole lot more to add,” Argent explains. “When it comes to Spell Engines, experience is the best teacher. You have to touch the engine for a time to become attuned to it. That makes you the 'Engineer'. Then you can control the Spell Engine at will, tapping into the abilities it possesses for as long as it has fuel.”


Up in the Elder Ruins where Argent's 'sister' ended up at from the accident...

"Well, partly really. A fair bit of the city is still partly or fully buried," Kylie says. "I suspect a fair bit of excavation will be required to fully explore and study the city."

“Looks that way,” Argent agrees. “This will be a fascinating puzzle to solve!”

Kylie looks where her friend is pointing. "Exactly. We don't yet know what worlds it connects to, though."

“How does it even work?” Argent wonders aloud. “Presumably Talen just thinks at it to trigger it?”

“I believe to all the other worlds that have a matching tower pillar on it,” Talen chimes in. “They were locked behind codes for protection. The only code that I know is for a place called Dreatar. That's where Myev comes from. Once we have the codes, I can take us to all those other places.”

“That's a lot of potential places to go,” Argent whistles. “I could spend a life time exploring all of this.”

“That is Ironaya,” Talen explains. “A sort of walking library. It's type of golem. If I ask it a question, it answers me. But she doesn't know everything. I can hear her voice in my mind.”

“A walking library?” Argent repeats. “In the body of an indestructible golem? Those Elders built things to last! Will she answer my questions?”

“Not to worry, High Priestess,” Janice tells Nightmist. “I have a full campsite stored away with an Item spell. We will have shelter for the evening. I always prepare for the unexpected.”

“A most useful spell,” Lord Sharadin notes. “Pity the duration is so short.”

“Not all of us have a flying ship to carry us around, Lord Sharadin,” Janice says with a smirk. “We who follow the Dark Maiden make due with what we can.”

“An Item spell?” Argent parrots. “I can't say that I am familiar with the magick. What does it do exactly?”


Talen is proud to show his ability to create furniture with his mind. The others, not so much.

“That is kind of creepy,” Janice says in regards to creating mentally directed furniture. “I'd be afraid of that stone sucking me in a like some big red ooze!”

“Don't say that, Janice!” Viconia calls out in alarm. “Now you'll give me nightmares!”

Argent chuckles in response between the two drow. Argent is finding herself taking a liking to Janice. The drow reminds Argent of herself to a point.

“Yeah, I can understand that,” Talen tells the Invoker. “I tend to just ask a question and see where the answers lead me.”

“That is a logical progression to your inquiries,” Argent notes. “The answers might lead you down unexpected and unforeseen paths.”

“Out there in the ruins there are what we call 'teachers'”, Talen answers. “They called me and eventually I had to go find out what it was. A stone pillar grew something like a tentacle and it covered my head. All this knowledge was put into my head. After I woke up I could do all of this. I guess that anyone who hears the call could do what I can after they were taught.”

Upon hearing that, Argent goes to the railing encircling the Tall Tower and calls out, “Hey teacher! I'm ready to learn! Call me!”

Unfortunately, there is no such call. Argent curses under her breath in frustration. If she could do what Talen can do it would save a lot of time and lead to many great discoveries! But it appears to not to be. After all, if her 'sister' was here for weeks and didn't get the call then none will be coming.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Lilia watches as the others are picked up as the Sunflower makes it rounds across the Elfholds.

Laucian looks to Lilia quizzically, and realizes he has never asked her of her home here in the Elfholds. “So you do not plan on returning?” he asks curiously. “Myev has that effect on people at least at first.” he says with a grin upon his face.

“Not anytime soon, nor to live for any extent of time,” Lilia easily answers. “My sole focus is on the well being of the Sylvan Realm. I now have quarters in the Elfin Palace. That will be my home, so I packed those belongings I wish to have with me.”

Clan Master Redsword Truetalker's Warband, his army of elves, is picked up in Desnae. From there the Sunflower prepares for the long flight back to the Sylvan Realm. Since we cannot count in having a dragon pilot the ship all the time, we must learn to do this for ourselves. This involves using what is called the Up and Down Method. The Sunflower rises high in the sky until the breathable air is gone. Then is accelerates a tremendous velocity for a short time. After that, the Sunflower simply lowers itself back down again.

The view from this vantage point is breathtaking. The land below is easily seen, including much of the continent. The Elder City is noted along with the elfin forest. The Mother Tree is seen after a time. The Sunflower sets down on the river beside the Elfin Palace and docks by Pinit.

“We have only just begun to explore the Elfin Palace,” Lilia says. “Hopefully it has been completed in our absence. We have two days until the slavers are scheduled to arrive. I figure that first thing tomorrow, we will fly the Sunflower to the Elder Ruins and plan our defense. Until then, relax and enjoy what the Sylvan Realm has to offer.”

Lilia will make her way down the gangplank when able. She'll ask to have her belongings transported to her personal quarters. Then she'll mingle with the elves present to see what has happened while she was away.

[Lia]

Lia

“A most useful spell,” Lord Sharadin notes. “Pity the duration is so short.”

“Not all of us have a flying ship to carry us around, Lord Sharadin,” Janice says with a smirk. “We who follow the Dark Maiden make due with what we can.”

“Makes me wonder if I should have paid more attention to you Janice.” she says with a slight grin. “Though I was always better with a blade then a book.”


“That is kind of creepy,” Janice says in regards to creating mentally directed furniture. “I'd be afraid of that stone sucking me in a like some big red ooze!”

“Don't say that, Janice!” Viconia calls out in alarm. “Now you'll give me nightmares!”

“It was not a good experience. Felt quite helpless until it let him go.”

“Don't go too far, Kylie,” Lord Sharadin will advise. “We're not staying here for long.”

“That is if they want to be saved, or helped.”

[Laucian]

Laucian

With Lilia

“Not anytime soon, nor to live for any extent of time,” Lilia easily answers. “My sole focus is on the well being of the Sylvan Realm. I now have quarters in the Elfin Palace. That will be my home, so I packed those belongings I wish to have with me.”

“Hopefully the Palace is cleared and proved safe. Otherwise you may need to make other living means.”

“It was good to be home, even if only for a day,” Arlen says to Laucian. “To visit friends and family. I feel reinvigorated to deal with what comes next.”

“ I understand your meaning. I visited the shrine of Ehlonna near Black Lake. Saw some of the priests that raised me. In does put things in perspective and worth fighting for. It was a good visit, though i do wish it was longer.”

Gweyr comes up the gangplank with a wide smile and will hug and kiss Laucian when they embrace. “I'm all packed up and ready to go!” Gweyr declares. The petite mage will move her belongings to the lower decks into one of the private rooms for safe keeping.

“Well aren’t you a breath of fresh air.” he says as he smiles back at her. Picks her up while hugging her. “I would help you with your things but it seems you already have that in tow.” he says nodding to the discs.

As the warband begins to depart, Laucian will make his way through his clan. Seeing who is there and what skills they have at their disposal. “Hold on this will feel weird for a moment,” he says.

As Laucian and the others land and Lilia welcomes them to the Sylvan realm. Laucian looks about to the warband. To those that wish to see the realm from the air, I make your way to the stables within the trees. Once upon the ground, Laucian will see to Gweyr then to Aura and the cooshees, if they are about.

If the Griffons are about, Laucian will ask of their dealing while he was away and then turn to the warband. “ Would any wish to go for a ride.” he asks curiously.

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

It is good to spend time with his family once again, though Onas finds that he misses the presence of his little sister more than he had anticipated.

“No, of course not,” Aerenaiadh agrees. “When it comes humans you never know what you are going to get until after you've meet them. By then it might be too late.”

Onas nods. "Sadly, that has been my experience as well. They are a curiously diverse lot."

“She's at that age,” Aerenaiadh reports. “Not quite a child, not quite an adult. Unsure of what her place in the world will be. Perhaps visiting the Sylvan Realm will help her make some of those choices. Put her on her life's path.”

"I can remember feeling that way myself, not so very long ago," Onas comments. "You may very well be right, mother. It seems that the Sylvan Realm has a way of doing just that."

===

Onas also has an opportunity to spend some time with the leader of the local shrine. She was instrumental in getting him interested in the priesthood, and Angharradh in particular.

“It's only logical,” Delinniel states. “Otherwise all the various priesthoods would descend on the Sylvan Realm at the same time, leaving our Elfholds Temples empty. That's not a practical approach.”

"You're right, Delinniel, that would not be practical," Onas replies, nodding in agreement. "Yet each will have their opportunity to visit our ancient homeland."

===

Once aboard the Sunflower, the next few stops involve picking up other members of the team and well as a detachment of soldiers from Red Arrow clan.

When they land near Shieldtree, Laucian greets Onas and Arlen. “I hope your visit was well?” he says as he grips both their hands in greeting.

“It was good to be home, even if only for a day,” Arlen says to Laucian. “To visit friends and family. I feel reinvigorated to deal with what comes next.”

Upon hearing Laucian's greeting, Onas turns and clasps hands with the fellow warrior. "It was good. Spent an evening with our parents, and visited one of my old friends in the shrine nearby. And you, Laucian, how was your visit?"

“ I understand your meaning. I visited the shrine of Ehlonna near Black Lake. Saw some of the priests that raised me. In does put things in perspective and worth fighting for. It was a good visit, though i do wish it was longer.”

Onas nods, as the woodsman's experiences mirror his own. "As do I, my friend."

Onas has a chance to talk with some of the Red Arrow clan warriors aboard the ship. It is good to hear that they are looking forward to the fight - regardless of their reason. He cannot help suspecting that the slavers are going to get more than they bargained for.

Lilia introduces Myev to those who had not previously met her. Onas will wait until the Queen's speech is done before approaching the unusual-looking elf. "Hi Myev. How are you doing? I haven't had much chance to talk with you since you emerged from Mother Tree's embrace. Are you getting used to your new body?"

It is not long before they are ready to depart for the Sylvan Realm. This trip is far, but Onas knows that it will take far less time than one would normally expect. They rise quickly into the sky and then prepare to travel northward at unimaginable velocities.

“Hang on!” Myev calls out. “Things are about to get weird!”

Instinctively, Onas does as bidden and grabs the nearby ship railing, despite knowing from experience that there is very little sensation of movement on board regardless of the ship's speed. Seconds later, they begin to descend. It is fascinating to see the Realm from so high above and watch as features become distinguishable as they descend. A few adjustments are made as they descend, and soon they settle into the river on the edge of the elven capital, Pinit.

“We have only just begun to explore the Elfin Palace,” Lilia says. “Hopefully it has been completed in our absence. We have two days until the slavers are scheduled to arrive. I figure that first thing tomorrow, we will fly the Sunflower to the Elder Ruins and plan our defense. Until then, relax and enjoy what the Sylvan Realm has to offer.”

On his last visit, they were here just long enough to load people and supplies. Onas looks forward to exploring the town a bit. His mind drifts back to his first arrival here and a small smile appears on his face at the memory of Fayrianna and the experience of being brought here by her unicorn. Truly a wondrous experience that was! He wishes she was here, but knows that he will see her soon enough.

If the Griffons are about, Laucian will ask of their dealing while he was away and then turn to the warband. “ Would any wish to go for a ride.” he asks curiously.

The woodsman's voice jerks Onas back to reality. "In truth, I would, friend Laucian." While he has ridden many a horse, Onas has never soared on the back of a griffin. It sounds exciting!

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn the Half-Elven:

Talking with Talen and Nightmist aboard the Lady Iris and in the caverns of Shelvestra:

“Killian Thalamar,” Argent states. “High Priest of Tymora. He is very charming and quite dashing. They've kept a low profile for many years now. Even before I came to the Sallavarian Estate.”

Kylie smiles at Argent's description of Jallarzi's beau. "Ahh, that's right. I always confuse him with her gardener."

“That's good,” Talen will agree. “Home should be someplace safe.”

"Yes, it should," Kylie says wistfully, thinking about her own childhood in Dog Alley.

“I was a lovely gesture on Lady Gwendolyn's part,” Nightmist will agree. “I did not seek out such rewards. Instead they were given to me due to my deeds. What we accomplished was appreciated by many.”

LIstening to Nightmist's commentary, Kylie is reminded again of how distinguished and accomplished Talen's family is. It is not lost on her that her own family, at least on her father's side, is of no real note. While her mother is now Speaker for the Sylvan Realm, Kylie isn't really sure of much beyond that. As she understands it, Allurien had been selected to lead one of the original expeditions to the Realm, but doesn't know why, or anything about her mother's parents or siblings. Maybe it's time to ask her about that...

“How tragic,” Nightmist notes with remorse. “If only we had known, we may have been able to do something about this sooner.”

"And that's really the issue, isn't it," Kylie says. "There is so much out there that we don't know about, and can only deal with when someone stumbles upon it. The hidden dangers are often the gravest."


In and around the ruins of Shillesta:

“I believe to all the other worlds that have a matching tower pillar on it,” Talen chimes in. “They were locked behind codes for protection. The only code that I know is for a place called Dreatar. That's where Myev comes from. Once we have the codes, I can take us to all those other places.”

“That's a lot of potential places to go,” Argent whistles. “I could spend a life time exploring all of this.”

Kylie considers the idea for a moment. "Once you have the codes, Talen, will you be able to assess whether it is safe on the other end, as you have with some of the local pillars? Who knows what we might find on another world."

Many are amazed and some slightly disturbed by Talen's ability to manipulate the unique stone here in the Elder city. Sharadin reassures Nightmist that he has seen no negative side effects from Talen's Elder 'learning'.

“No, just furniture,” Talen tells his sister while trying to regain his composure. “The doors and windows were already here.”

"That's an interesting point, though, Talen," Kylie says. "It seems like you should be able to reshape a wall to open a doorway. I"m not sure what would prevent that. Perhaps eventually we'll have time to investigate further the limits of this ability."

Talen mentions that the surviving orc females and young from their previous visit may still be in the area. Viconia responds, saying that they will try to help the orcs. Kylie starts to rise into the air to look around.

“Don't go too far, Kylie,” Lord Sharadin will advise. “We're not staying here for long.”

“That is, if they want to be saved, or helped.”

"I won't," Kylie says as she soars straight up into the air above the group. She rises until she has has a good view in all directions over the trees and buildings. Rotating slowly, she surveys the surrounding area. Off in the distance to the east, she spots the familiar red glow of the strange Elder stone and descends to rejoin the others.

"I saw some of the Elder stone glowing red off in the distance to the east. It appeared to be on an island or promontory, but you may be able to reach it on foot if you look around this way," she reports to Viconia, gesturing to indicate a rough route. "I suspect that it would take most of a day to get there."

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

December 8th, CR 571 or Deepnight 30th, 20,519 AP

Before Shillesta:

Kylie smiles at Argent's description of Jallarzi's beau. "Ahh, that's right. I always confuse him with her gardener."

“That's Kallen,” Argent states. “Given that one is dirty all the time, I'd never get those two mixed up!”

"And that's really the issue, isn't it," Kylie says. "There is so much out there that we don't know about, and can only deal with when someone stumbles upon it. The hidden dangers are often the gravest."

“Truer words were never spoken,” Nightmist says in agreement.


Visiting the Elfholds:

"I can remember feeling that way myself, not so very long ago," Onas comments. "You may very well be right, mother. It seems that the Sylvan Realm has a way of doing just that."

“It is a magical place,” Aerenaiadh says with a grin.


Stop Over in the Elder City:

“An Item spell?” Argent parrots. “I can't say that I am familiar with the magick. What does it do exactly?”

“It shrinks a group of items within a certain area to the size of a piece of cloth,” Janice explains. As she does so, Janice hold up what looks to be a small piece of cloth, like one would use to patch a hole in clothing. “The items are stored like this for a day or more before the enchantment fades. To bring the items back, you just toss down the patch to break the spell. I'll demonstrate when we find a good place to set up camp for the evening. The spell itself is on par for when you can learn Fireball.”

“Makes me wonder if I should have paid more attention to you Janice.” she says with a slight grin. “Though I was always better with a blade then a book.”

“You are better with a blade than I, Priestess,” Janice admits. “I'm just better at cutting others with just my words.”


Talen demonstrates his ability to create furniture to less than spectacular results. The red stone where people are standing will start to glow as it begins to radiate heat.

“But... but...”, Talen sputters while trying to reassure everyone that nothing bad will happen to them in regards to the furniture. “It's harmless! At least I think it's harmless.”

“You're not sure?” Janice says in a tense voice. “And you want us to test this for you?”

“It was not a good experience. Felt quite helpless until it let him go.”

“What!?” Viconia squeaks in alarm. “The furniture wouldn't let him go?”


Janice picks a suite of rooms where Talen didn't manipulate the stone to use as the groups quarters for the evening. It's on the north side of the tall tower, thus limiting direct sunlight. Taking her piece of cloth, Janice casually tosses it on the floor ahead of her. In a flash, an already pitched tent with the ground it sat on and an already burning campfire appears. There are half a dozen bedrolls along with food and drink for the campers and spare wood for the fire.

“A campsite in a pocket!” Janice proudly declares. “Don't leave home with out it!”

“You did pack ale?” Balok asks as he scans the campsite. “Didn't you?”

“Just for you, Balok,” Janice responds sweetly as she produces a small keg. “I'd never forget about you.”


Talen mentions that there were orcs here before, but most of the fighters died from the elves and HIVE. What remains may need help.

“That is if they want to be saved, or helped.”

“Regardless, we must at least make the attempt,” Viconia says.

"I saw some of the Elder stone glowing red off in the distance to the east. It appeared to be on an island or promontory, but you may be able to reach it on foot if you look around this way," she reports to Viconia, gesturing to indicate a rough route. "I suspect that it would take most of a day to get there."

Viconia takes in the distant sight of the building with the glowing red stone. “Thank you, Kylie. That is most helpful.”

“Once we settle in, I can go scout out the situation,” Janice will say to Lia. “Make contact and see if they are open to our assistance.”


Not long after that, another round of goodbyes is held as the visitors get ready to depart back through the Portal Artifact.

“Be well,” Nightmist will tell Lia as she hugs her granddaughter goodbye. “Hopefully we will be reunited soon.”

Lord Sharadin makes his farewells, while Sherry and Terry give Lia a hug. “We'll be back when father returns to this place,” they vow.

Talen operates the Portal Artifact, sending everyone but Lia, Janice, Viconia and Balok back to the sunken Elder City back in Cynalon.

[GM Mad]

December 9th, CR 571 or Deepnight 31st, 20,519 AP

Return to the Sylvan Realm:

The elves fly the Sunflower from the Elfholds back to the Sylvan Realm.

“Well aren’t you a breath of fresh air.” he says as he smiles back at her. Picks her up while hugging her. “I would help you with your things but it seems you already have that in tow.” he says nodding to the discs.

“I do brighten a room up,” Gweyr will admit with a grin. “The Floating Disc spell is useful when it comes to carrying things. Alas it does not last very long. I could use your help to unload when we reach the Sylvan Realm. I have a place in Pinit all picked out for myself.”

Lilia introduces Myev to those who had not previously met her. Onas will wait until the Queen's speech is done before approaching the unusual-looking elf. "Hi Myev. How are you doing? I haven't had much chance to talk with you since you emerged from Mother Tree's embrace. Are you getting used to your new body?"

“Hi Onas!” Myev will answer energetically. “I'm not hitting my head as much. Its all starting to feel normal to me know.”


The Sunflower lands on the Satheas River once more and slowly moves up to the main dock.

“We have only just begun to explore the Elfin Palace,” Lilia says. “Hopefully it has been completed in our absence. We have two days until the slavers are scheduled to arrive. I figure that first thing tomorrow, we will fly the Sunflower to the Elder Ruins and plan our defense. Until then, relax and enjoy what the Sylvan Realm has to offer.”

“Actually Your Majesty,” Clan Master Truetalker will say, “I am of the opinion that we should travel to the battle site as soon as possible. To get the lay of the land, scout out defensible locations and where troops are going to be positioned for optimal efficiency.”

The area around the docks is mostly quiet as the Sunflower docks. The elves were not expecting the ship to return at this moment. Runners fan out to alert the others.

While that is going on, Laucian announces that there are griffons to ride for those who wish to try it. All you need to do is climb up to the griffon stables that ring the Elfin Palace. Griffons have been returning there on their own for days now. Those who do take a ride on a griffon find it to be an easy and amazing experience. These griffons are most gentle with elves, unlike those found in the wilds.

“Can they be used in battle?” Clan Master Truetalker will ask. “The provide a whole new dimension to warfare!”


Laucian looks for his own griffon and his companion cooshees, but then remembers that there were left in the care of Elder Treelife back in Telsun along with Onyx. Valena brought Laucian to Pinit via her unicorn River Blossom when the call to battle the HIVE came. Likewise, Valena's companions are nowhere to be found.

However, a cooshee does come up to greet Gweyr. It is the one she befriended when Clan Longrunner first arrived in Pinit.

“Hello there!”, Gweyr says with a bright smile. “Those one adopted me. I call her Blaze.”

A small pack of cooshees call Pinit home and they come forth to greet the new arrivals. The elfin cats keep their distance, but watch to see what is going on. There is also a treant in the center of town, but it sleeps most of the time.

An elf Maiden on the back of a Unicorn rides up to the new arrivals and spots Valena. Some of the Elves have met a few of the new Silver Maidens, Laucian and Onas mostly, but this one is unknown to them.

“I'll alert the others that you have returned!” With that the Silver Maiden vanishes once more.

More elves start to arrive as the passengers of the Sunflower disembark. Speaker Allurien is among the first wave of arrivals from the Elfin Palace. “Kylie!” She calls out as she vainly searches for her daughter.

Not long after that, the Silver Maidens start to arrive. There are twelve in all, counting Valena. Laucian spots Annelwin and Visara, the Silver Maidens who belong to Clan Grunalf who helped out in the battle against the spiders. Onas notes a trio of Silver Maidens who hail from Clan Red Arrow. They are Fayrianna, Maylia, and Umara.

The remaining new Silver Maidens are Elwina and Kali of Clan Erendyl, Jylrana and Yara of Clan Longrunner, Leandra of Clan Mealidil and lastly Janwen Alastra, member of that small Elf Clan. Yara is the one who went and retrieved the other Silver Maidens. River Blossom appears as well.

“How may we serve?,” Fayrianna will proudly announce.


GM Notes:

Probably a good time to start discussing tactics for the battle to come!

Now what?

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

After a whirlwind day of visiting her home and her home temple, Valena is at the docks of Feadil, the Clan Hold for the Feador's. The leader of the Silver Maidens has a few extra bags with her; a few items she'll be returning to the Sylvan Realm with. Before long, the Sunflower comes into view and lands close to the dock. Many more elves are present to witness this today that there were yesterday. The gangplank is lowered and Valena comes on board.

“Hail, Forest Brother,” Valena calls out to Laucian. “Did you enjoy your day at Bear Lake?”

“There is already talk of the followers of the Lady of the Forests coming to visit the Sylvan Realm,” Valena continues. “It will be good to have them see the forest shrine as it is no doubt much older than any of the Elfhold temples. But another thought has occurred to me. There is another place that those who follow Ehlonna will need to see. Jewel's cottage. It was a place where the power of Our Lady dwelled, if only for a short time. Some might consider it a holy place now.”

Valena stores her meager belongings down below. Buy the time she returns to the main deck, we are in Desnae. The Red Arrow Clan Master and his army are there waiting, along with many supplies. Food, drink and weapons no doubt.

Finally, the Sunflower is on its way home. A new and strange way to travel is revealed and we suddenly move much faster that one would seem possible. The ship slowly descends to the Sylvan Realm below.

“It'll be good to be back,” Valena notes wistfully. “I miss my animal companions dearly.”

The Sunflower docks at Pinit once more without much fanfare. Some cooshees are spotted, but they are not the ones who adopted Valena all those weeks ago. No, Taure and Duin were back at the Mother Tree with the rest of Clan Feador along with Aerie. River Blossom, Valena imagined, was wherever she wanted to be.

After a time, one of the new Silver Maidens appears on her unicorn mount. It is Yara.

“I'll alert the others that you have returned!” With that the Silver Maiden vanishes once more.

“Thank you, Yara,” Valena calls out right before they blink away.

Others start to arrive and in time the rest of the Silver Maiden blink in. Finally, Valena spots River Blossom. She greets her companion with a hug and stroking her mane.

“It is good to see you again, my friend,” Valena tells River Blossom. “I've missed you so.”

Looking back, Valena can see that many of the new arrivals are stunned to see a unicorn in person. Not just one, but twelve of them! Valena chuckles to herself as she approaches the rest of the Silver Maidens.

“How may we serve?,” Fayrianna will proudly announce.

“We will be engaging the slavers in two days,” Valena announces. “I will be splitting our forces for this mission. Four of the maidens, myself, Fayrianna, Annelwin and Jylrana will be going to battle the enemy. The rest of you have the task of protecting the Sylvan Realm in our absence. And if we should fail, then you are the next line of defense.”

Valena will store her extra belongings here in Pinit for now and will be ready to depart on the Sunflower.

[Talen]

Talen:

“That's a lot of potential places to go,” Argent whistles. “I could spend a life time exploring all of this.”

“Probably,” Talen agrees.

Kylie considers the idea for a moment. "Once you have the codes, Talen, will you be able to assess whether it is safe on the other end, as you have with some of the local pillars? Who knows what we might find on another world."

“The pillars do seem to let me know if what is on the other side is dangerous,” Talen notes. “Like the one that leads to the Lamina asking if I want to turn on life support, or like the one that goes to the sunken Elder City. Perhaps both are underwater?”

“A walking library?” Argent repeats. “In the body of an indestructible golem? Those Elders built things to last! Will she answer my questions?”

“She only respond to my questions and only I can hear her answers,” Talen explains. “I have to act as a translator.”

“That is a logical progression to your inquiries,” Argent notes. “The answers might lead you down unexpected and unforeseen paths.”

“They usually do,” Talen notes.

Upon hearing that, Argent goes to the railing encircling the Tall Tower and calls out, “Hey teacher! I'm ready to learn! Call me!”

Talen lets out a small laugh at Argent's antics, but suspects it really isn't that simple when it comes to determining who is worthy of learning the ways of the Elders. Although he does wonder if anyone else can learn to do what he can do.


Talen's demonstration has not gone the way he had hoped.

“You're not sure?” Janice says in a tense voice. “And you want us to test this for you?”

“What?! No!” Talen counters. “I wouldn't put others at risk!”

“It was not a good experience. Felt quite helpless until it let him go.”

“What!?” Viconia squeaks in alarm. “The furniture wouldn't let him go?”

“You're not helping!” Talen tells Lia as he throws his arms up. “Oh forget about it!”

Talen causes the furniture to meld back into the stone and stalks off.

"That's an interesting point, though, Talen," Kylie says. "It seems like you should be able to reshape a wall to open a doorway. I'm not sure what would prevent that. Perhaps eventually we'll have time to investigate further the limits of this ability."

“My guess is that they just didn't want to deal with furniture and could just make what they wanted,” Talen notes. “But I could be wrong.”


Later on, Talen will say goodbye to his sister and her new companions before returning to the Lady Iris.

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

“Hi Onas!” Myev will answer energetically. “I'm not hitting my head as much. Its all starting to feel normal to me now.”

"That's a good thing!" Onas replies with a smile. "I'm glad you're adjusting so well, Myev. I can imagine that it has been quite a strange experience. At least your meeting with Mother Tree seems to have been a very fortuitous event."

“It'll be good to be back,” Valena notes wistfully. “I miss my animal companions dearly.”

"Aye, I know what you mean, Valena," Onas states. "I always hate being parted from Carad Orod. He has been my closest companion for many years now."

===

“Actually Your Majesty,” Clan Master Truetalker will say, “I am of the opinion that we should travel to the battle site as soon as possible. To get the lay of the land, scout out defensible locations and where troops are going to be positioned for optimal efficiency.”

Onas overhears Clan Master Truetalker discussion the coming battle with the Queen and approaches the pair. "If you don't mind me saying so, I think it would be beneficial to bring some of the Forest Riders, as well as the Golden Griffons. The question is whether or not we can afford the time to go pick them up. The Silver Maidens can easily get here in time on their own, but the others are more restricted in their movement." As he talks, Onas feels keenly the pangs of separation from his companion, Carad Orod.

Seeing them around the town, Onas enjoys the presence of both the cooshies and the elfin cats. Both are noble creatures, and it just feels right living in a place where they are. This is how an elven homeland is meant to be. He can feel the presence of the elven deities' grace just being here.

As he is watching the cooshies play, Onas notes the arrival of Fayrianna and her Silver Maiden sisters. He gives her a smile as she goes to report in to Valena. There will be plenty of time to talk to her when she is done with official business. Still, it is heartwarming to see her.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

After a day of rest, we begin the journey back to the Sylvan Realm picking up friends along the way.

“Hopefully the Palace is cleared and proved safe. Otherwise you may need to make other living means.”

“I'll adapt if need be,” Lilia simply states. “Those who stayed behind are more than capable and can handle whatever problem arises. We do not have to solve every problem on our own any more.”


The Sunflower reaches the Elfin Palace and Pinit. Lilia mentions traveling to the battlefield in the morning, but the Red Arrow Clan Master has other ideas.

“Actually Your Majesty,” Clan Master Truetalker will say, “I am of the opinion that we should travel to the battle site as soon as possible. To get the lay of the land, scout out defensible locations and where troops are going to be positioned for optimal efficiency.”

Lilia regards the Clan Master of the Red Arrows for a few moments. The battle prowess of Redsword Truetalker is almost legendary among the elves. It would be foolish for Lilia to think she knows more about war than him. He's already assembled a Warband that is his to command.

“There is wisdom to your words, Clan Master,” Lilia will agree. “We shall continue onward as soon as feasible. After the the Sunflower is unloaded and those going with us are on board.”

Onas overhears Clan Master Truetalker discussion the coming battle with the Queen and approaches the pair. "If you don't mind me saying so, I think it would be beneficial to bring some of the Forest Riders, as well as the Golden Griffons. The question is whether or not we can afford the time to go pick them up. The Silver Maidens can easily get here in time on their own, but the others are more restricted in their movement." As he talks, Onas feels keenly the pangs of separation from his companion, Carad Orod.

“I am in agreement, Onas,” Lilia will say. “However logistics may limit what we can do.”

Many elves enjoy their first griffon ride.

“Can they be used in battle?” Clan Master Truetalker will ask. “The provide a whole new dimension to warfare!”

“Indeed, they can and do!” Lilia will agree. “Unfortunately, the Elder Ruins are to far away from here for the Griffon's to reach in the time we have.”

Some commotion in town attracts Lilia's attention. A unicorn and an unknown rider are spotted! They are quickly gone as fast as they appeared.

“I'll alert the others that you have returned!” With that the Silver Maiden vanishes once more.

“It looks like we'll have a unit of Silver Maidens to aid in the battle to come,” Lilia notes.

More elves start to arrive as the passengers of the Sunflower disembark. Speaker Allurien is among the first wave of arrivals from the Elfin Palace. “Kylie!” She calls out as she vainly searches for her daughter.

Lilia hears the voice of Speaker Allurien among the crowd and will approach her.

“Your daughter is safe, Speaker,” Lilia will call out. “The HIVE were defeated and we had a day of rest before meeting Truetalker's Warband in Desnae. Kylie took the opportunity to visit her father among other stops. I expect her to arrive at the Elder City sometime tomorrow via the Portal Artifact there. What transpired while we were away?”


If the elves were surprised to find a Silver Maiden riding a unicorn, they are absolutely stunned to see a dozen of them!

“You've been busy,” Lilia tells Valena. The last she knew there were only three Silver Maidens.


After the excitement of seeing so many unicorns has settled down, Lilia will speak.

“My friends, at the urging of Clan Master Truetalker, we shall be departing for the Elder Ruins to engage the slavers soon,” Lilia announces. “This will give us extra time to prepare for the battles to come. Those who are coming along will need to grab your gear and board the Sunflower.”

“We should be able to take a compliment of griffons with us to aid in the battle,” Lilia continues. Lilia could go on about how she thinks that this could be possible, but it would be meaningless to most present. The fact that it can be done is all that they need to know for now. “Likewise as many cooshee's as we can carry would be beneficial. Time is short. We need to be moving soon!”

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn the Half-Elven:

“That's Kallen,” Argent states. “Given that one is dirty all the time, I'd never get those two mixed up!”

Kylie laughs. 'That's my Argent...' she muses silently.

“Truer words were never spoken,” Nightmist says in agreement.

Kyliie is pleased that Talen's grandmother seems to agree with her thoughts on the matter. Best not to look a fool in front of your boyfriend's family.

In Shillesta:

“It shrinks a group of items within a certain area to the size of a piece of cloth,” Janice explains. As she does so, Janice hold up what looks to be a small piece of cloth, like one would use to patch a hole in clothing. “The items are stored like this for a day or more before the enchantment fades. To bring the items back, you just toss down the patch to break the spell. I'll demonstrate when we find a good place to set up camp for the evening. The spell itself is on par for when you can learn Fireball.”

Kylie doesn't really know Janice, but finds herself impressed by the dark elf's creativity in her use of magic. "I like the way you make use of that spell, Janice. I will have to put more thought into ways to take advantage of it's flexibility."

“The pillars do seem to let me know if what is on the other side is dangerous,” Talen notes. “Like the one that leads to the Lamina asking if I want to turn on life support, or like the one that goes to the sunken Elder City. Perhaps both are underwater?”

Kylie considers Talen's words. "That's a good point, Talen. We don't really know what it meant by 'turn on life support', how it functions, how long it lasts, or what causes it to be needed. Hopefully we won't be dependent on using that pillar artifact before we can investigate it."

“My guess is that they just didn't want to deal with furniture and could just make what they wanted,” Talen notes. “But I could be wrong.”

"Unfortunately, guessing is really all we can do regarding what they did millions of years ago," Kylie replies with a shrug.

Viconia takes in the distant sight of the building with the glowing red stone. “Thank you, Kylie. That is most helpful.”

“Once we settle in, I can go scout out the situation,” Janice will say to Lia. “Make contact and see if they are open to our assistance.”

"You're welcome, Viconia." Kylie turns to Janice, "I hope they're willing to accept help. It may be the only way they'll survive here."

The time comes for them to leave on the next leg of the trip. "Be well, Lia," Kylie says. "We'll see you soon." She steps through the portal just before Talen, since he usually chooses to be the last one through. They still have a bit of a walk to return to the Lady Iris; it would be a more pleasant walk if it weren't for the unpleasant recent events here.

[Laucian]

Laucian

“Hail, Forest Brother,” Valena calls out to Laucian. “Did you enjoy your day at Bear Lake?”

“It was good to see home again. Though it maybe for the last time I see it.” he says in return to his forest sister. “How was your time at home?” he asks curiously.

“Actually Your Majesty,” Clan Master Truetalker will say, “I am of the opinion that we should travel to the battle site as soon as possible. To get the lay of the land, scout out defensible locations and where troops are going to be positioned for optimal efficiency.”

Overhearing the Queen and Warchief, Laucian cannot help but say, “Perhaps we should see if the others have any other paralyzing arrows. If these ships are to land and retrieve perhaps we target their casters, limiting their ability to raise the shields.”


“Can they be used in battle?” Clan Master Truetalker will ask. “The provide a whole new dimension to warfare!”


“ They have been. Their was a unit known as the Golden Griffons, they were reborn upon the rainbow bridges return. We are a small group but our numbers do grow as time goes on.”

However, a cooshee does come up to greet Gweyr. It is the one she befriended when Clan Longrunner first arrived in Pinit.

“Hello there!”, Gweyr says with a bright smile. “Those one adopted me. I call her Blaze.”

Kneeling down, Laucian says hello to Blaze and pets it. “ They are fine animals, most loyal and true.”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

December 8th, CR 571 or Deepnight 30th, 20,519 AP

The elves are enjoying a well earned day off.

Stop Over in the Elder City:

Talen used the Portal Artifact in the Elder City in the Great Swamp to take Lia and her new companions to the Elder City north of the Sylvan Realm. Lord Sharadin and his daughters also go through for a quick look around. Janice, a drow sorceress, demonstrates the usefulness of the Item spell.

“It shrinks a group of items within a certain area to the size of a piece of cloth,” Janice explains. As she does so, Janice hold up what looks to be a small piece of cloth, like one would use to patch a hole in clothing. “The items are stored like this for a day or more before the enchantment fades. To bring the items back, you just toss down the patch to break the spell. I'll demonstrate when we find a good place to set up camp for the evening. The spell itself is on par for when you can learn Fireball.”

Kylie doesn't really know Janice, but finds herself impressed by the dark elf's creativity in her use of magic. "I like the way you make use of that spell, Janice. I will have to put more thought into ways to take advantage of it's flexibility."

“Just think what this spell could do to for merchants,” Argent adds excitedly. “To be able to shrink down cargo to the size of a patch and then teleport it to a distant location to sell for profit! This is a really intriguing notion!”


Talk turns on how the Pillar Artifacts seem to let Talen know if there is dangerous conditions at the destination.

“The pillars do seem to let me know if what is on the other side is dangerous,” Talen notes. “Like the one that leads to the Dreatar asking if I want to turn on life support, or like the one that goes to the sunken Elder City. Perhaps both are underwater?”

Kylie considers Talen's words. "That's a good point, Talen. We don't really know what it meant by 'turn on life support', how it functions, how long it lasts, or what causes it to be needed. Hopefully we won't be dependent on using that pillar artifact before we can investigate it."

“It sounds like a sensible safe guard,” Argent states. “After all, using the artifact is much like a mage teleporting. You have no idea what is waiting for you on the other side. It's only sensible to put in safe guards to prevent injury or worse. In this particular instance, I would say 'yes' to turning on life support when asked.”


Talen talks about Ironaya.

“She only responds to my questions and only I can hear her answers,” Talen explains. “I have to act as a translator.”

“Pity,” Argent notes. “That will make things take longer. But there seems to be no way around it and the Elders don't seem to think I am worthy of being empowered like you are Talen. I will consult with my sisters and we'll come up with a list of questions.”


Janice is concerned that Talen wants the drow to test out the furniture that he can fashion.

“What?! No!” Talen counters. “I wouldn't put others at risk!”

“I should hope not,” Janice coolly states. “Good then. We understand each other.”


Orcs living nearby is noted.

"You're welcome, Viconia." Kylie turns to Janice, "I hope they're willing to accept help. It may be the only way they'll survive here."

“As Viconia said,” Janice reiterates, “we shall make the offer. Its up to them to accept or not.”


Goodbyes are said as Kylie, Talen, Lord Sharadin and his daughters pass back through the Portal Artifact leaving Lia, Janice, Balok and Viconia alone in the Elder Ruins. Janice already set up her Item'd camp for the evening. She did include fuel to keep the campfire burning, but its not needed. The red stone the Tall Tower is constructed of puts out enough heat to make the area comfortable even on this sub-freezing night.

Janice casts a Fly spell on herself and takes some supplies to where the orcs appear to be held up. A located noted by the red glowing stone on a different island of land from the Tall Tower. As suspected, most of the orcs are either very old or very young or female. While they do have enough food to survive from the fall crops, they are limited in being able to protect themselves. They will consider Janice's offer for assistance. Janice reports this to Lia and how she wishes to proceed on this matter.


December 9th, CR 571 or Deepnight 31st, 20,519 AP

The night in the Elder Ruins passes quietly. Next morning, Viconia is up before everyone else. She's standing on the balcony that opens up to the outside of the Tall Tower. She's simply staring off to the north as if lost in thought.

A few hours after sunrise the Portal Artifact activates and Kylie and Talen return. No sign of the orcs since Janice did her visit yesterday, but they are relatively far away.

[GM Mad]

Return to the Sylvan Realm:

Elsewhere, the elves are doing a fair bit of traveling. The Sunflower flew around the Elfholds to pick up the others and a Warband to help defend the Sylvan Realm.

"That's a good thing!" Onas replies with a smile. "I'm glad you're adjusting so well, Myev. I can imagine that it has been quite a strange experience. At least your meeting with Mother Tree seems to have been a very fortuitous event."

“Yes, it has,” Myev says with a laugh. “It has been strange but pleasant as well.”


With the Sunflower loaded up, the trek back to the Sylvan Realm is made by employing the Up and Down Method of travel. The entire trip takes about ninety minutes. The Sunflower docks at Pinit, the Clan Hold for the Longrunners that is across the river from the Elfin Palace. Laucian meets Gweyr's new friend: a cooshee she has named Blaze.

Kneeling down, Laucian says hello to Blaze and pets it. “ They are fine animals, most loyal and true.”

“That they are,” Gweyr easily agrees. “Aren't you girl?”

Gweyr unloads her belongings and will transport them to the modest home she picked out for herself earlier. Its a typical elfin tree house with a porch surrounding it. There is plenty of room for Gweyr to settle into.


Lilia hears Allurien calling out for her daughter.

“Your daughter is safe, Speaker,” Lilia will call out. “The HIVE were defeated and we had a day of rest before meeting Truetalker's Warband in Desnae. Kylie took the opportunity to visit her father among other stops. I expect her to arrive at the Elder City sometime tomorrow via the Portal Artifact there. What transpired while we were away?”

Allurien's concern fades away. “Since she can now cast Teleport, she can go almost anywhere,” Allurien notes in a motherly tone. “It is good that she is keeping contact with her father.”

“We mostly finished up the exploration of the Elfin Palace,” Allurien continues. “Other than a few traps left behind by Moorkroft is now safe for use. There is a great deal of room in the palace and we've started to designate what areas are for what use. I am told that the Priests of Corellon will be able to take down the defensive growth when we wish. We've keep it up for now. Otherwise, it has been quiet. Most are settling into their new homes.”


The Elfholds Red Arrow Clan Master Truetalker wishes to travel to the battlefield today to prepare for what is to come.

“There is wisdom to your words, Clan Master,” Lilia will agree. “We shall continue onward as soon as feasible. After the the Sunflower is unloaded and those going with us are on board.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty,” Truetalker says with a slight bow. “Battles can be won and lost based solely on preparation.”


Talk then turns to using the griffons in the battle to come.

“Indeed, they can and do!” Lilia will agree. “Unfortunately, the Elder Ruins are to far away from here for the Griffon's to reach in the time we have.”

“They have been. Their was a unit known as the Golden Griffons, they were reborn upon the rainbow bridges return. We are a small group but our numbers do grow as time goes on.”

Onas overhears Clan Master Truetalker discussion the coming battle with the Queen and approaches the pair. "If you don't mind me saying so, I think it would be beneficial to bring some of the Forest Riders, as well as the Golden Griffons. The question is whether or not we can afford the time to go pick them up. The Silver Maidens can easily get here in time on their own, but the others are more restricted in their movement." As he talks, Onas feels keenly the pangs of separation from his companion, Carad Orod.

“It is a good start,” Clan Master Truetalker will say. “The more forces we have at our command the greater the advantage we will have.

Overhearing the Queen and Warchief, Laucian cannot help but say, “Perhaps we should see if the others have any other paralyzing arrows. If these ships are to land and retrieve perhaps we target their casters, limiting their ability to raise the shields.”

“We brought enchanted arrows as well,” Truetalker states. “Its the best way to counter enemy spell casters. A sound tactic.”


All the Silver Maidens arrive and they now number an even dozen. Valena calls out for herself and her commanders to join the battle against the slavers. Joining them is a forth Silver Maiden no one has met yet. She is Jylrana and she is part of the Longrunner clan. She has long dark brown hair and eyes and is very beautiful. But the most striking part of is that she wears chain mail armor and carries a shield emblazoned with the the symbol of the crescent moon; the holy symbol of the All-Father of the elves himself. For not only is Jylrana a Priestess of Corellon, but also one of the rarest things a elf can be: Jylrana is also a Paladin of Corellon!

“We will be engaging the slavers in two days,” Valena announces. “I will be splitting our forces for this mission. Four of the maidens, myself, Fayrianna, Annelwin and Jylrana will be going to battle the enemy. The rest of you have the task of protecting the Sylvan Realm in our absence. And if we should fail, then you are the next line of defense.”

“Ready for battle,” Jylrana will confidently say from atop her unicorn Snow Flake.

“You know it sister,” Fayrianna adds with a smirk.


Lilia then announces for all the change in plans.

“My friends, at the urging of Clan Master Truetalker, we shall be departing for the Elder Ruins to engage the slavers soon,” Lilia announces. “This will give us extra time to prepare for the battles to come. Those who are coming along will need to grab your gear and board the Sunflower.”

“We should be able to take a compliment of griffons with us to aid in the battle,” Lilia continues. Lilia could go on about how she thinks that this could be possible, but it would be meaningless to most present. The fact that it can be done is all that they need to know for now. “Likewise as many cooshee's as we can carry would be beneficial. Time is short. We need to be moving soon!”

“I'll grab my gear!” Allurien calls out as she dashes back to the Elfin Palace.

“Valena,” Lilia calls out. “Can the Silver Maidens help Laucian and Onas retrieve their mounts?”

“We can!” Valena answers as she turns to Laucian. “Come Forest Brother, let us return Einsun to retrieve your companions.”

Fayrianna rides up beside Onas and offers her hand. “Shall we return home, Clansman?”

“Regroup at the Mother Tree!” Lilia will call out. “We'll stop there along the way to the ruins. Once the battle force has been dropped off, the Sunflower will return to pick up any stragglers at the Mother Tree.”

Turning to her chief aide, Doriath the former King of the Elfholds, “Have all the Spell Engines transported on to the Sunflower immediately,” Lilia directs. “They will be needed for what is to come.”


Organized chaos follows as those items staying behind are unloaded while others are added. Some of the cooshee's board the Sunflower to travel along with the elves. You can't be sure, but Umbra might be one of them. The Silver Maidens blink away with their passengers taking them to other places in the Sylvan Realm.


GM Notes:

My apologies for the delays. Worked several weekends in a row, so trying to move things further along. Valena will take Laucian to Einsun so he can retrieve his griffon and cooshee's. Fayriana does the same with Onas and they return to Shieldtree. The plan is them to move to the Mother Tree to try and catch the Sunflower when it stops there. If not, the Sunflower will return after dropping everyone else off at the Elder Ruins to the north.

Now what?

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Lilia agrees with Clan Master Truetalker's idea of traveling to the battle site now to properly scout it out.

“Thank you, Your Majesty,” Truetalker says with a slight bow. “Battles can be won and lost based solely on preparation.”

“And this is a battle that we cannot lose,” Lilia adds.

Overhearing the Queen and Warchief, Laucian cannot help but say, “Perhaps we should see if the others have any other paralyzing arrows. If these ships are to land and retrieve perhaps we target their casters, limiting their ability to raise the shields.”

“We brought enchanted arrows as well,” Truetalker states. “Its the best way to counter enemy spell casters. A sound tactic.”

“We should check to see if any of the other griffon stables are stocked with the magical arrows,” Lilia adds. “I'd rather have more than I need.”

“They have been. Their was a unit known as the Golden Griffons, they were reborn upon the rainbow bridges return. We are a small group but our numbers do grow as time goes on.”

[quote="Truetalker]“It is a good start,” Clan Master Truetalker will say. “The more forces we have at our command the greater the advantage we will have.”[/quote]

“Several of the older orders have been reborn along with the Sylvan Realm,” Lilia proudly states. “The Golden Griffons, the Forest Riders and of course the Silver Maidens. All stand in defense of the Sylvan Realm.”


Lilia intercepts Speaker Allurien who is looking for her daughter.

Allurien's concern fades away. “Since she can now cast Teleport, she can go almost anywhere,” Allurien notes in a motherly tone. “It is good that she is keeping contact with her father.”

Lilia simply nods her understanding. “That reminds me that I will have to prepare new spells lists for the battles to come,” Lilia says. “I learned Teleport and a few other new spells while at Karn's Keep.”

“We mostly finished up the exploration of the Elfin Palace,” Allurien continues. “Other than a few traps left behind by Moorkroft is now safe for use. There is a great deal of room in the palace and we've started to designate what areas are for what use. I am told that the Priests of Corellon will be able to take down the defensive growth when we wish. We've keep it up for now. Otherwise, it has been quiet. Most are settling into their new homes.”

“Excellent progress,” Lilia compliments. “We can sit down and work out the details after we have dealt with the slavers. It'll be good to focus on some mundane work than what we've endured since the journey to the Sylvan Realm began.”

All the Silver Maidens arrive and they now number an even dozen. Valena calls out for herself and her commanders to join the battle against the slavers. Joining them is a forth Silver Maiden no one has met yet. She is Jylrana and she is part of the Longrunner clan. She has long dark brown hair and eyes and is very beautiful. But the most striking part of is that she wears chain mail armor and carries a shield emblazoned with the the symbol of the crescent moon; the holy symbol of the All-Father of the elves himself. For not only is Jylrana a Priestess of Corellon, but also one of the rarest things a elf can be: Jylrana is also a Paladin of Corellon!

Lilia is mildly shocked to see that the one called Jylrana is a follower of Corellon Larethian as well. Lilia approaches.

“We met, Fey Sister,” Lilia calls out once close enough. “I don't believe that we have met before. I did not see you among the other Priests when they made the journey to the Elfin Palace a few days ago.”


Lilia announces that we will departing for the Elder Ruins very soon.

“I'll grab my gear!” Allurien calls out as she dashes back to the Elfin Palace.

“Good to have you along, Speaker,” Lilia calls out.

Realizing that speed is now suddenly of the essence, Lilia directs her attention towards Valena.

“Valena,” Lilia calls out. “Can the Silver Maidens help Laucian and Onas retrieve their mounts? And alert any others who wish to join the fight?”

The Commander of the Silver Maidens indicates that she can comply.

“Those wish to ride griffons into battle,” Lilia continues, “have them ready for when the Sunflower takes flight. Stay as close as you can to the ship. You should be carried along with us.”


“Regroup at the Mother Tree!” Lilia will call out to everyone. “We'll stop there along the way to the ruins. Once the battle force has been dropped off, the Sunflower will return to pick up any stragglers at the Mother Tree.”

Turning to her chief aide, Doriath the former King of the Elfholds, “Have all the Spell Engines transported on to the Sunflower immediately,” Lilia directs. “They will be needed for what is to come.”

Lilia boards the Sunflower once more and gathers up those who have been controlling the ship.

“The Sunflower will be flying all night if necessary to deliver our forces to the battle site,” Lilia explains. “We'll need extra mages for back up and their spells to empower the engines.”

“When we do take flight, whomever is controlling the Life Support function needs to extend it out as far as it will go,” Lilia commands. “It creates a bubble around the ship. I'm betting that if the griffons stay close enough to the Sunflower that they will be carried along with the rest of us. Stay vigilant.”

Lilia than returns to her customary spot near the helm of the Sunflower. She watches and waits as the Sunflower is made ready to fly.

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

“It was good to see home again. Though it maybe for the last time I see it.” he says in return to his forest sister.

“I am sure you'll see your home temple once more,” Valena confidently states. “After all, we go where Ehlonna takes us. Perhaps one day it will be your temple to control.”

“How was your time at home?” he asks curiously.

“It was fine,” Valena says. “Got to see many whom I have not seen in years. It's been a long time since I was home. Like you I am not sure when I will be able to return.”

"Aye, I know what you mean, Valena," Onas states. "I always hate being parted from Carad Orod. He has been my closest companion for many years now."

“After a time they become as precious as family," Valena notes.


After we've returned to the Sylvan Realm, all the Silver Maidens gather in public for the first time.

“You've been busy,” Lilia tells Valena. The last she knew there were only three Silver Maidens.

“It was the will of the unicorns that these ladies join the Silver Maidens,” Valena responds. “They will make a powerful force to protect the Sylvan Realm for many years to come.”


Alas the reunite will be short lived as we will be moving to the ruins soon. Valena has the two senior Silver Maidens along with one of the new recruits travel along.

“Ready for battle,” Jylrana will confidently say from atop her unicorn Snow Flake.

“You know it sister,” Fayrianna adds with a smirk.

Valena chuckles to herself at such confidence. However, other tasks are first required.

“Valena,” Lilia calls out. “Can the Silver Maidens help Laucian and Onas retrieve their mounts?”

“We can!” Valena answers as she turns to Laucian. “Ladies, we have work to do! Come Forest Brother, let us return Einsun to retrieve your companions.”

Once Laucian is ready, River Blossom will blink to Einsun.

[Lia]

Lia

Janice casts a Fly spell on herself and takes some supplies to where the orcs appear to be held up. A located noted by the red glowing stone on a different island of land from the Tall Tower. As suspected, most of the orcs are either very old or very young or female. While they do have enough food to survive from the fall crops, they are limited in being able to protect themselves. They will consider Janice's offer for assistance. Janice reports this to Lia and how she wishes to proceed on this matter.

Lia watches as Janice takes some supplies and leaves to the see the orcs. “ Take care my friend. Do not let your guard down.” she says seeing the mage take off and leave.

Janice comes back and tells her of her interaction with the orcs.. “I have an idea, but it will take a little bit of work.” she says looking to the others.. “If we give these orcs a place to live, their freedom and safe passage,as well as food perhaps they can help us in our endeavor. They are weak, wounded, scared, and lost. If we extend our hand in friendship perhaps they will join the cause of living in the Lost Valley. Their alternative would be worse than what we offer..that is if they do no betray us.”

“ In short, we use them as a decoy for when the slaver arrive… Ready a fly spell for tomorrow,Janice. Send them our message, a message of friendship and the promise of supplies and a better life then they can dream of on their own.”

Lia wakes and stretches going through her daily routine and rituals to her deity. Cracking her neck afterward, Lia looks and sees Viconia staring off on a balcony to the north. Approaching, Lia asks, “Are you okay my friend, You seem lost this morning.” as she looks to the young elf then to where she is looking. “ What is on your mind?”

After speaking to Viconia, Lia will find Janice, “Our time is short, Please see to the orcs. If they are agreeable to our proposal have them come to us. No harm will become of them, unless they start it. I swear to it, if needed.” she say to the mage with a smile and look of determination.

A few hours after sunrise the Portal Artifact activates and Kylie and Talen return. No sign of the orcs since Janice did her visit yesterday, but they are relatively far away.
(Dunno if this will hold or not based on her actions earlier in the day.) But reactingto it.

Kylie and Talen soon arrive back. Lia greets them warmly and then says, “ Word and supplies were sent to the orcs. I sent Janice to speak with them once more. I seek their assistance in return they have a peaceful life within the Lost Valley. We can use them as decoys for the slavers.”

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

“Yes, it has,” Myev says with a laugh. “It has been strange but pleasant as well.”

Myev's laugh is infectious, and Onas finds himself chuckling along with her. It feels good to be so happy and carefree.

The trip back to the Sylvan Realm is quick and uneventful. Still the strange means of traveling such vast distances is just a bit mind-boggling. On the other hand, the views are truly incredible!

“After a time they become as precious as family," Valena notes.

"Aye, that they do," Onas concurs, nodding agreeably.

===

Discussion of preparations for the battle to come arise and Onas gets drawn in.

“I am in agreement, Onas,” Lilia will say. “However logistics may limit what we can do.”

"As you say, my Queen," Onas replies courteously. The possibility of including the Golden Griffins as well as the Forest Riders is also bandied about. It is clear that evolving circumstances will weigh heavily in making final decisions on these matters. Master Truetalker definitely seems to favor having more forces, if that can be accomplished without too much delay.

Overhearing the Queen and Warchief, Laucian cannot help but say, “Perhaps we should see if the others have any other paralyzing arrows. If these ships are to land and retrieve perhaps we target their casters, limiting their ability to raise the shields.”

“We brought enchanted arrows as well,” Truetalker states. “Its the best way to counter enemy spell casters. A sound tactic.”

Onas likes the idea of these paralyzing arrows that Laucian mentioned. Hopefully, he will be able to get ahold of a few for the coming battle.

His first ride on a griffin, at Laucian's offering, proves to be an amazing experience. His many years on horseback truly didn't prepare him for the experience. It is both exhilarating and terrifying at the same time. The wind whips through his long hair, and his heart lurches as the beast dives and swerves. Landing, Onas dismounts, happy to be back on firm ground. Carad Orod is definitely the mount for him.

As he returns from the griffin stables, Onas notes Lilia talking with Speaker Allurien. A cooshee appears to be keeping the Speaker close company. Perhaps she has made friends with one of those here in the village. Then again, he hadn't seen Dapple with Kylie on the trip to Karn's Keep or thereafter. Perhaps this is he then, staying close to Kylie's mother...

A Silver Maiden appears and quickly disappears. Not long after, around a dozen of the unicorn-mounted warriors return. Fayrianna is among them, as well as a few Onas hasn't seen previously.

“My friends, at the urging of Clan Master Truetalker, we shall be departing for the Elder Ruins to engage the slavers soon,” Lilia announces. “This will give us extra time to prepare for the battles to come. Those who are coming along will need to grab your gear and board the Sunflower.”

“We should be able to take a compliment of griffons with us to aid in the battle,” Lilia continues. Lilia could go on about how she thinks that this could be possible, but it would be meaningless to most present. The fact that it can be done is all that they need to know for now. “Likewise as many cooshee's as we can carry would be beneficial. Time is short. We need to be moving soon!”

Time to move out, as his commander used to say. Onas collects his pack from where he had left it before riding the griffin and begins moving toward the Sunflower. There is a great battle coming, and it is wise to get as familiar as possible with the lay of the land beforehand.

Fayrianna rides up beside Onas and offers her hand. “Shall we return home, Clansman?”

The Silver Maiden's sudden appearance startles Onas for a moment just as he was preparing to board the Sunflower. "Ah! Yes," Onas laughs, mastering his sudden alarm. "I will most happily accompany you, Fayrianna." Onas gives her a quick bow before taking her hand. At least he now knows to expect the sudden jolt to come...

“Regroup at the Mother Tree!” Lilia will call out. “We'll stop there along the way to the ruins. Once the battle force has been dropped off, the Sunflower will return to pick up any stragglers at the Mother Tree.”

Onas just has time to hear the Queen's words before the universe seems to swirl around him and Fayrianna, and instantly they are far away.

===

The next moment, Onas finds himself and Fayrianna in Shieldtree. Though he has only been gone for about a day, much progress has been made in cleaning up the clanhome and making it suitable for elven habitation again. A certain pride in his clansmen swells in his breast, and a smile breaks out on his face. Turning to Fayrianna, he says, "Let's go have a word with Argus and see how many of our warriors he can spare."

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn the Half-Elven:

The team stops over in Shillesta:

“Just think what this spell could do to for merchants,” Argent adds excitedly. “To be able to shrink down cargo to the size of a patch and then teleport it to a distant location to sell for profit! This is a really intriguing notion!”

Kylie grins at her friend's enthusiasm. "You never stop thinking about money, do you...?"

“It sounds like a sensible safe guard,” Argent states. “After all, using the artifact is much like a mage teleporting. You have no idea what is waiting for you on the other side. It's only sensible to put in safe guards to prevent injury or worse. In this particular instance, I would say 'yes' to turning on life support when asked.”

"Cannot argue with that," Kylie admits, nodding.

“Pity,” Argent notes. “That will make things take longer. But there seems to be no way around it and the Elders don't seem to think I am worthy of being empowered like you are Talen. I will consult with my sisters and we'll come up with a list of questions.”

"Uh oh," Kylie whispers to Talen. "Better be ready for a lot of questions..."

===

The next morning, Kylie and Talen return via the pillar artifact, having portalled there from Karn's Keep. From the top of the tower, they have a great view in every direction. To the east, the the sun has just risen over the treetops, casting long westward-leaning shadows everywhere. There is a definite nip in the air, but it is the view that captures Kylie's attention. "Beautiful, isn't it," she says to Talen with a dreamy smile.

Kylie and Talen float down through the central shaft of the tower together rather than trudging down all those stairs. Reaching the suite where their friends set up camp, They find Lia and a couple of the others. Noticeably missing is Janice.

Lia greets them warmly and then says, “ Word and supplies were sent to the orcs. I sent Janice to speak with them once more. I seek their assistance in return they have a peaceful life within the Lost Valley. We can use them as decoys for the slavers.”

"Hello, Lia. Good to see you," Kylie says in greeting to Talen's sister. "Hi, Viconia." Kylie listens as
Eilistraee's follower provides the latest update on events here. "Use them as decoys?" Kylie asks with a tinge of concern in her voice. "What do you have planned?" She really hopes that Lia isn't planning to put them in harm's way, and she knows that Lia is usually more judicious than that.

[Talen]

Talen:

Kylie considers Talen's words. "That's a good point, Talen. We don't really know what it meant by 'turn on life support', how it functions, how long it lasts, or what causes it to be needed. Hopefully we won't be dependent on using that pillar artifact before we can investigate it."

“It sounds like a sensible safe guard,” Argent states. “After all, using the artifact is much like a mage teleporting. You have no idea what is waiting for you on the other side. It's only sensible to put in safe guards to prevent injury or worse. In this particular instance, I would say 'yes' to turning on life support when asked.”

"Cannot argue with that," Kylie admits, nodding.

“When you put it that way, than it makes sense to use it,” Talen agrees. “There are some safe guards with the Pillar Artifacts. It will clean off the arrival area of any debris. So anything on the platform is destroyed before the travelers arrive.”

“Pity,” Argent notes. “That will make things take longer. But there seems to be no way around it and the Elders don't seem to think I am worthy of being empowered like you are Talen. I will consult with my sisters and we'll come up with a list of questions.”

"Uh oh," Kylie whispers to Talen. "Better be ready for a lot of questions..."

“I better pack a lunch a too,” Talen adds with a laugh.

“I should hope not,” Janice coolly states. “Good then. We understand each other.”

“Perfectly,” Talen answers in an equally icy tone and lets the matter drop.

The next morning, Kylie and Talen return via the pillar artifact, having portalled there from Karn's Keep. From the top of the tower, they have a great view in every direction. To the east, the the sun has just risen over the treetops, casting long westward-leaning shadows everywhere. There is a definite nip in the air, but it is the view that captures Kylie's attention. "Beautiful, isn't it," she says to Talen with a dreamy smile.

“Yes,” Talen answers as he stands behind Kylie and puts his arms around her. “I wouldn't mind having this view at the time.”

"Hello, Lia. Good to see you," Kylie says in greeting to Talen's sister. "Hi, Viconia."

“Hey sis,” Talen adds after the float down the Tall Tower's central shaft.

Kylie and Talen soon arrive back. Lia greets them warmly and then says, “ Word and supplies were sent to the orcs. I sent Janice to speak with them once more. I seek their assistance in return they have a peaceful life within the Lost Valley. We can use them as decoys for the slavers.”

Kylie listens as Eilistraee's follower provides the latest update on events here. "Use them as decoys?" Kylie asks with a tinge of concern in her voice. "What do you have planned?" She really hopes that Lia isn't planning to put them in harm's way, and she knows that Lia is usually more judicious than that.

“Yeah, I'm not so sure about the whole decoy thing,” Talen parrots. “I mean, they just went through a terrible ordeal having been attacked the elves and the HIVE. They probably lost many of their loved ones as well. Putting them potentially in harms way again doesn't sit well with me. Would grandma do something like that?”

“I do like the idea of giving them passage to the Lost Valley,” Talen continues. "That's a real good idea. Get them away from these ruins and to some place safe.”

[Lia]

Lia

"Hello, Lia. Good to see you," Kylie says in greeting to Talen's sister. "Hi, Viconia." Kylie listens as
Eilistraee's follower provides the latest update on events here. "Use them as decoys?" Kylie asks with a tinge of concern in her voice. "What do you have planned?" She really hopes that Lia isn't planning to put them in harm's way, and she knows that Lia is usually more judicious than that.

“Yeah, I'm not so sure about the whole decoy thing,” Talen parrots. “I mean, they just went through a terrible ordeal having been attacked the elves and the HIVE. They probably lost many of their loved ones as well. Putting them potentially in harms way again doesn't sit well with me. Would grandma do something like that?”

“I do like the idea of giving them passage to the Lost Valley,” Talen continues. "That's a real good idea. Get them away from these ruins and to some place safe.”

“We do not know how much they have scyed upon the Sunflower and the Orcs. For all we know they have not seen us elves yes. Yes they have suffered, yet they can still be our enemy. I am not asking them to pick up arms. I am merely thinking that they can be near the ship as if camped. Perhaps the slavers will see them and lower their guard allowing our forces to possibly take the ships’ spell engine users out before their shields can be activated. If all goes well they would not be in harms way to much, aside from suffering whatever wrath these slavers have for taking their ship.” she adds honestly.

Looking to Talen, “We do not know everything in which our grandmother has done. Only what she has told us or the stories we have heard. Surely there are things she may have kept secret, much like her title…” she says simply. "My words were already given to them. They may not agree or perhaps they will. Time will tell."

[Laucian]

Laucian

Gweyr unloads her belongings and will transport them to the modest home she picked out for herself earlier. Its a typical elfin tree house with a porch surrounding it. There is plenty of room for Gweyr to settle into.

“ Do you need help?” Laucian asks as Gweyr looks to unpack her things.

“We brought enchanted arrows as well,” Truetalker states. “Its the best way to counter enemy spell casters. A sound tactic.”
“We should check to see if any of the other griffon stables are stocked with the magical arrows,” Lilia adds. “I'd rather have more than I need.”

Laucian watches as Valena and the other Silver Maidens gather. Among them is a new one who has a way about her.Noticing the cloak and symbol of Corellon Larethian, Laucian looks with intrigue.

“Those wish to ride griffons into battle,” Lilia continues, “have them ready for when the Sunflower takes flight. Stay as close as you can to the ship. You should be carried along with us.”

“Valena,” Lilia calls out. “Can the Silver Maidens help Laucian and Onas retrieve their mounts? And alert any others who wish to join the fight?”

“We can!” Valena answers as she turns to Laucian. “Ladies, we have work to do! Come Forest Brother, let us return Einsun to retrieve your companions.”

Laucian inclines his head to both Valena and to her mount, “ I thank thee.” he says simply, “Have your order spread word of the griffon stables cashes, we will be needing whatever Feather fall armor we can find as well.”

Looking at Valena’s mount, Laucian slowly reaches out to Valena’s hand. “ When you are ready Forest Sister, I am in your care.”

As soon as they appear from their blink, Laucian will set off to get Aura, the cooshee, search the stables and gather whatever riders and additional help that they can get.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

December 8th, CR 571 or Deepnight 30th, 20,519 AP

Stop Over in the Elder City:

Kylie grins at her friend's enthusiasm. "You never stop thinking about money, do you...?"

“My parents are merchants,” Argent counters with a shrug. “I grew up working in their store. Merchandising is in my blood. More specifically, I am thinking about is ways to make my parents life easier to provide them with the means to retire on their terms instead of working in the store for the rest of their lives. Not everything I do is about me. Well, most of them are, but not all of them.”


After the brief visit the others depart leaving Lia and her new companions behind. Kylie and Talen are expected to arrive the next day with the elves and the Sunflower the day after that. Janice gets ready to depart to contact what remains of the orcs that lived in these ruins.

Lia watches as Janice takes some supplies and leaves to the see the orcs. “ Take care my friend. Do not let your guard down.” she says seeing the mage take off and leave.

“Never do,” Janice answers back. “I've done dozens of these first contacts. I'll be fine.”

Janice comes back and tells her of her interaction with the orcs.. “I have an idea, but it will take a little bit of work.” she says looking to the others.. “If we give these orcs a place to live, their freedom and safe passage,as well as food perhaps they can help us in our endeavor. They are weak, wounded, scared, and lost. If we extend our hand in friendship perhaps they will join the cause of living in the Lost Valley. Their alternative would be worse than what we offer..that is if they do not betray us.”

“That is a very good solution to this problem, Priestess,” Viconia will agree. “From what you told us, this forthcoming battle between elves and slavers will be nasty and destructive.”

“In short, we use them as a decoy for when the slaver arrive… Ready a fly spell for tomorrow,Janice. Send them our message, a message of friendship and the promise of supplies and a better life then they can dream of on their own.”

Viconia seems stunned at this notion. “The Dark Maiden does not bargain for aid. We give it freely.”

“There are three obvious problems to this proposal,” Janice will note skeptically. “One, while it is true that these slavers prefer elves, is there any reason to believe that they would not take orcs as well? A slaver is a slaver. Secondly, it would take days for them to move down closer to the shore below. It would take most of the day just to reach them on foot from here. Thirdly, they would never agree to such a thing. I certainly wouldn't. The logical choice is to keep them far away from the battle and any potential danger. We do not barter with the lives of others.”


December 9th, CR 571 or Deepnight 31st, 20,519 AP

Next morning, Lia notes Viconia standing on the balcony looking out towards the north.

Lia wakes and stretches going through her daily routine and rituals to her deity. Cracking her neck afterward, Lia looks and sees Viconia staring off on a balcony to the north. Approaching, Lia asks, “Are you okay my friend, You seem lost this morning.” as she looks to the young elf then to where she is looking. “What is on your mind?”

“It's calling me!” Viconia utters in a panic. “Something out there is calling me! Just like they did with Talen! I don't want to be eaten by furniture!”


A few hours later, Kylie and Talen arrive via the Portal Artifact.

[GM Mad]

To the south in the Sylvan Realm, the Sunflower has returned along with a Warband of Elves. Preparations are in place to move the elfin army up to the ruins so that today can be used to scout out locations for troop placement. For now personal belongings are being unloaded and new stores added for the trip to come.

Laucian assists Gweyr in moving her belongings to her new home.

“Do you need help?” Laucian asks as Gweyr looks to unpack her things.

“I'll never turn away your assistance,” Gweyr says with a smile. “Thank you so much!”

It only takes two trips to move of the petite fire mage's belongings to her new home. Blaze happily trots along side them as they work. The bags are set down just inside Gweyr's home.

“I was going to use this room for entertaining,” Gweyr explains as she gives Laucian a tour. “Over there will be good for my mage studies. I have a guest room as well for you to use when you are here. But I suppose such things will have to wait for now. We should return to the Sunflower and get ready to travel again.”


Elsewhere, Lilia speaks to Speaker Allurien.

“Excellent progress,” Lilia compliments. “We can sit down and work out the details after we have dealt with the slavers. It'll be good to focus on some mundane work than what we've endured since the journey to the Sylvan Realm began.”

“Agreed,” Allurien adds. “A sense of normality would be nice.”


The entire compliment of Silver Maidens appear, including many that have yet to be seen. Valena announces that four of the Silver Maidens will be traveling to battle the slavers. Valena herself along with Fayrianna and Annelwin, the first of the Silver Maidens. Joining them will be Jylrana who is not only a Priestess of Corellon, but a Paladin as well.

Lilia is mildly shocked to see that the one called Jylrana is a follower of Corellon Larethian as well. Lilia approaches.

“We met, Fey Sister,” Lilia calls out once close enough. “I don't believe that we have met before. I did not see you among the other Priests when they made the journey to the Elfin Palace a few days ago.”

“Your Majesty,” Jylrana answers as she bows her head while still on top of her unicorn. “No, we did not meet before. I heard about the Silver Maidens and sought out more knowledge about them. Thus instead of traveling here, I traveled to the Silver Maiden Order Hall. I will make a point to be at the Temple when my duty permits it.”


Lilia announces that the Sunflower will take flight again once everything is made ready. The Silver Maidens will be moving others across the Sylvan Realm to gather more reinforcements. Such reinforcements are to gather at the Mother Tree, as the Sunflower will stop there on its way to the Elder Ruins. After dropping everyone off, the Sunflower will then return to the Mother Tree to pick up anyone missed the first time around.

The Silver Maiden's sudden appearance startles Onas for a moment just as he was preparing to board the Sunflower. "Ah! Yes," Onas laughs, mastering his sudden alarm. "I will most happily accompany you, Fayrianna." Onas gives her a quick bow before taking her hand. At least he now knows to expect the sudden jolt to come...

Fayrianna gives a knowing smile as she takes Onas' hand. In just a blink of an eye they are gone, teleported away by her unicorn Aeolus.

The next moment, Onas finds himself and Fayrianna in Shieldtree. Though he has only been gone for about a day, much progress has been made in cleaning up the clan home and making it suitable for elven habitation again. A certain pride in his clansmen swells in his breast, and a smile breaks out on his face. Turning to Fayrianna, he says, "Let's go have a word with Argus and see how many of our warriors he can spare."

“Sound thinking,” Fay agrees. “At least the smell of dead wyverns is not as prevalent.”

The pair find themselves near the center of Shieldtree where much of the fighting against the human wyvern riders took place. The bodies of the dead have been removed over the last two days and the blood cleaned up. Clan Master Argus Bloodmoon is located not to far away, directly the clean up. He is quickly brought up to date on the situation.

“Had we more time we could put together a proper force,” Argus notes. “Alas there are only a handful of Red Arrows in Shieldtree. The others are escorting the rest of the clan back from Mealiel where they waited out the battle against the humans. But we should be able to field a few warriors. Give us a few minutes to prepare.”

Clan Master Argus will join the battle, along with three other Forest Riders and a pair of griffon riders including Golden Griffon Commander Valis. Onas will be reunited with his elfin horse, Carod Orod.

Fayrianna will speak up as the force gather. “There is a limit to how many Aeolus can travel with at a time. He's unsure if something as big as a horse or a griffon is something he can move. He's never tried something that large before.”


Valena takes Laucian to the Grunalf Clan Hold. The pair arrive in Einsun a heartbeat later. There are more of the clan in town now since the spiders were dealt with. The clean up from the spiders is in progress and will most likely take a few more days to complete. In short order, Clan Elder Treelife is located along with Laucian's companions: the mated pair of cooshee's Conall and Sana along with Onyx the cat. The cooshee's rush to greet Laucian, followed by Elder Treelife who carries Onyx.

“Welcome home, son,” the Elder says in greeting. “Good to have you back home once more. I trust your trip away was a success?”


Back at Pinit, the Sunflower is ready to take flight once more. The Spell Engines that Lilia earlier had removed are returned. They'll be used as defensive shields at key spots around the battlefield. Similar to the way Lord Sharadin used a Spell Engine to shield the Pillar Artifact in the Elder City infested by the HIVE. The plan thus far is to fly the Sunflower back to where it was found and leave it for the slavers to find. All the Spell Engines would have been removed along with the treasure left on the ship. The elves would then hide and wait for the slavers to arrive. Ideally, the slavers will come, reclaim their ship and then depart once more.

But things are rarely that simple, the Elfin Warband will be on hand to attack should it come to battle. Plus Lilia has already made plans for other allies to be on hand.

Once everyone is on board, the Sunflower rises up into the air over the Satheras River. The ship points itself in the direction of the Elder Ruins. While that is happening, a dozen griffon riders approach the Sunflower and hover as close as they dare to it. The Life Support sphere that surrounds the ship is extended to its maximum range. The Sunflower starts to move forward, slowly at first to give the griffon riders an idea just how close they need to be. The griffon riders who are inside the invisible sphere are carried along with the Sunflower with out the griffon having to exert itself. To those watch, the Sunflower speeds ahead with a flock of griffons traveling with it.

The Sunflower will reach the Mother Tree in just two hours.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

I didn't cover Janice's return to the orcs given just how poorly Lia's idea was received. As Janice pointed out, it would take them longer just to get down there on foot then it would for the slavers to arrive. Plus battle plans have been going in the background for a long time. They may or may not have been noticed. The Sunflower is going to be left where it was found, BUT there won't be any Spell Engines on it. Those will be elsewhere, so the enemy forces won't have the Sunflower's Spell Engines to make use of. Lilia has no intention of losing them. As Lia herself noted, these orcs could face whatever wrath the slavers inflict upon them. Did she consider enslavement or death among them? She should have. Trust me when I say, you do not want to do this. The choice is yours of course, but the consequences could be dire.

Now what?

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

Just before he takes Fayrianna's hand, he sees Laucian do the same with Valena and the pair disappear. Turning, he sees the look in Fay's eyes and cringes internally for just a moment before taking her outstretched hand.

===

Despite knowing what to expect, Onas' stomach does a bit of a flip-flop as they materialize in Shieldtree. Once he gets his faculties back under control, he proposes that they start by speaking to Argus.

“Sound thinking,” Fay agrees. “At least the smell of dead wyverns is not as prevalent.”

Onas looks about as they make their way to Argus. "They do appear to have make good progress on removing the befoulment perpetrated by those uncouth humans. Ah, there he is!" Spotting the new Clan Master, Onas walks purposely toward him. "Greeting, battle brother!" Onas exclaims as they approach Argus. It takes a few minutes to fill him in on the details of what is to come and the Queen's request.

“Had we more time we could put together a proper force,” Argus notes. “Alas there are only a handful of Red Arrows in Shieldtree. The others are escorting the rest of the clan back from Mealiel where they waited out the battle against the humans. But we should be able to field a few warriors. Give us a few minutes to prepare.”

"Of course, Clan Master," Onas replies with a nod. "It is good that our people were kept safe and will be able to make Shieldtree the respected clan home that it once was."

As the small troop is gathered, Onas goes to collect his beloved warhorse, Carad Orod. The elfin horse has been well cared for and whickers in delight when Onas appears. Onas spends several moments greeting his old friend and giving him an extra bite from his pack.

"Fayrianna, I don't know that I properly introduced you before. This is Carad Orod, my companion of many years. Carad Orod, I"d like you to meet Fayrianna; she is special to me, so be good to her."

Returning to the center of town, Onas finds that Argus has gathered the forces available. It is a small but very capable squad; the slavers may well rue the day that they came here.

Fayrianna will speak up as the force gather. “There is a limit to how many Aeolus can travel with at a time. He's unsure if something as big as a horse or a griffon is something he can move. He's never tried something that large before.”

"Good point, Fay," Onas says with a nod to the lovely Silver Maiden. He then turns to the gathered troop. "The rest of you please make your way to Mother Tree and gather those there, including any Golden Griffins and Forest Riders in the area. The queen said that the Sunflower will return for a second load of combatants after the first group is delivered to the Elder city. Let's stamp out these slavers once and for all!"

Once everything is ready, Onas turns to Fayrianna. "If you can bring Carad Orod, that would be wonderful. If not, he can accompany the second group. I'm ready any time you are." Looking at her, he once again is amazed by his luck in finding such an amazing and beautiful woman. Hopefully, this friendship will grow into a much deeper relationship with time...

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn the Half-Elven:

“My parents are merchants,” Argent counters with a shrug. “I grew up working in their store. Merchandising is in my blood. More specifically, I am thinking about is ways to make my parents life easier to provide them with the means to retire on their terms instead of working in the store for the rest of their lives. Not everything I do is about me. Well, most of them are, but not all of them.”

Kylie nods. "That's fair, Argent. I was just teasing, as I tend to do. I hope I didn't offend you; your friendship is too important to me."

“When you put it that way, than it makes sense to use it,” Talen agrees. “There are some safe guards with the Pillar Artifacts. It will clean off the arrival area of any debris. So anything on the platform is destroyed before the travelers arrive.”

"That's pretty convenient, actually," Kylie says. "Of course, it won't help much if the platform is underwater or in lava. I wonder if the 'life support' function would help at all in those kinds of situations..."

“I better pack a lunch a too,” Talen adds with a laugh.

Talen's response draws a chuckle from Kylie.

===

Talen and Kylie are taken aboard Sharadin's ship to Orlane, where they visit her father and step-mother. From there, they travel to Crossroads, to visit the Argent that was rescued from Shillesta. In the morning, they Teleport to Karn's Keep and spend a little while in the mage guild library there. Once they're had lunch, Talen returns them to Shillesta via the portal artifact. Due to the time difference, it is still morning here.

“Yes,” Talen answers as he stands behind Kylie and puts his arms around her. “I wouldn't mind having this view at the time.”

Sunrise from the tower is spectacular. Kylie snuggles into Talen's arms. "Perhaps someday we can arrange that."

After rejoining the others, there is some discussion of Lia's plan for the escaped orcs. Having said her piece, Kylie chooses to stay out of the rest of the discussion. She is confident that they will come to a good decision.