Botanical Symposium/2025-07-26 - Ta'Illistim Botanical Symposium (log)

Summary

In 5125, Ta'Illistim hosted a Botanical Symposium, following the success of the Botanical Research Presentation in 5122 which led to the expansion of the Ta'Illistim Royal Arboretum. Led by Lady Rohese, in coordination with Lord Gilenir Veythorne, Ionlas Chesylrae, and Vanathys Ravistel, several leading researchers presented their latest findings for discussion.

Presentations by

Koaratos 26th 5125

• Gilenir Veythorne Illistim
• Rohese Bayvel Illistim
• Aliraswaen Nalfein
• Rivienne Mandaire Loenthra

Koaratos 27th 5125

• Vanathys Ravistel Vaalor
• Rohese Bayvel Illistim
• Elaejia Silithyr Loenthra
• Missoni Sabretache Faendryl
• Feriae Enfiel Vaalor

Logs

Lord Gilenir Veythorne Unveils the Arboretum Expansion

[Royal Arboretum, Walkway]
The column-framed walkway leads up to the arched duo of doors, the faenor-framed dome inset in honeycomb-like panels of glass. Ivy-draped partitions of blonde oak are angled between groupings of natural wicker chairs, the floral-framed portraits interspersed between slender moss-draped shelves. Framing either side of the entrance are a duo of silver-veined marble pedestals, each angular base encircled by a profusion of verdant foliage climbing upwards across the base. You also see a hulking melanistic grey wolf, a large vibrant harlequin macaw parrot, a glinting stygian scarab beetle, a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake with a wild mane of cobalt briar hair, a lazy wild deep red dog, a black-eyed purplish grey haon mandrake, a ruby-crested greater bearded vulture that is flying around, a green-eyed ridge caracal and a brass-floriated sign of pavonated vellum.
Also here: Stassy who is sitting, Celothor, Fleurs who is sitting, Emissary Thrassus, Lord Gilenir, Aubriella who is sitting, Miss Lissaya who is sitting, Bathcwyn Missoni who is sitting, Lucraine who is sitting, Loremaster Rohese, Vanathys who is sitting, Rivienne, Botanical Researcher Feriae, Lord Eruien who is sitting, Lord Teveriel, Lord Ionlas who is sitting, Arelder who is sitting, Arbeia who is sitting
Obvious paths: south

Gilenir formally announces, "Welcome, citizens and visitors of the Shining City, to our inaugural Botanical Symposium."

Arbeia smiles at Gilenir.

Rohese beams, her eyes filled with delight!

Gilenir fidgets ever so slightly as he shifts his weight, nervously smiling across the crowd.

Gilenir nervously continues, "A simple request from Lady Bayvel sprouted into a wonderful collaboration between a number of botanists, horticulturists, and artisans."

Gilenir suddenly adds, "And one very enthusiastic insect researcher."

Missoni gazes in amusement at her surroundings.

Rohese softly giggles.

Feriae jokingly says, "She's been bouncing around the arboretum all week with her companions."

Gilenir nods in agreement at Feriae.

Gilenir says, "It is our sincere hope that this Symposium inspires others to share their knowledge and passion as we journey alongside Argent Mirror Sayilla in this new age of elven culture."

Vanathys nods in agreement at Feriae.

Gilenir clears his throat several times.

Ionlas gazes at Gilenir.

Gilenir sheepishly says, "As for my presentation, I am admittedly lacking the grace and studiousness of the ladies and gentleman who have graciously joined us for this symposium, but well, please join me and I'll show you what I've been working on."

Speaking to Feriae, Teveriel confides, "I am very much looking forward to yours and Miss Aubrige's presentation."

Eruien stands up.

Eruien offers a hand up to Ionlas.

Speaking to Teveriel, Feriae exclaims, "As am I!"

Speaking lightly to Teveriel, Rohese teases, "And mine too, I hope."

Ionlas squints at Eruien.

Ionlas stands up.

Teveriel smiles at Rohese.

Gilenir nervously says, "Come come, we have a bit of a walk."

Rohese winks at Teveriel.

Gilenir says, "And I don't believe I have the upper body strength to properly drag you all."

Speaking to Gilenir, Vanathys says, "Perhaps together we could."

Gilenir thoughtfully asks, "The mandrakes maybe?"

Speaking to Gilenir, Missoni says, "They are stronger than they look."

Feriae helpfully adds, "At least they're loud."

Feriae quickly says, "Like the peahens."

Ionlas whispers something to Gilenir.

Teveriel says, "Imagine a shrieking horde bearing us all down the var."

Teveriel warns, "The peahens will take it as a challenge."

Gilenir firmly says, "Alright, then."

Lord Gilenir's group just went south.

[Royal Arboretum, Walkway]

Vert-colored ivy entwines down the white marble columns framing the cobblestone walkway, the pale pillars affixed with latticed archways draped in the five-pointed leaves. Thin loops of vaalin wire hang high across the living ceiling, the opalescent hooks suspending colorful origami flora above several glowbark benches carved in whimsical fauna. Beyond the path sits a number of canopy-covered displays, the artwork framed by tall flora-filled planters set upon the well-manicured lawn.

Also here: Lord Ionlas, Arelder, Arbeia, Lord Teveriel, Lord Eruien, Botanical Researcher Feriae, Rivienne, Vanathys, Loremaster Rohese, Lucraine, Bathcwyn Missoni, Miss Lissaya, Aubriella, Emissary Thrassus, Fleurs, Celothor, Stassy, Lord Gilenir

A bur-eyed twisted witchwood mandrake sprouting autumn beauty sunflowers toddles into the area and up to Lissaya.

A bur-eyed shaggy illthorn mandrake toddles into the area and up to Rohese.

A yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake with a wild mane of cobalt briar hair toddles into the area and up to Missoni.

A black-eyed purplish grey haon mandrake toddles into the area and up to Feriae.

Arbeia says, "Moussa..."

You murmur, "Well now we're surrounded."

Gilenir indicates a wisteria-arched entry entwined with unfurled cream-colored peonies as a possible option.

Lord Gilenir's group just went through a wisteria-arched entry entwined with unfurled cream-colored peonies.

[Arboretum, Arboreal Gallery]

Verdant-curtained foliage drapes across the fallen arboreal forms scattered along the forest floor, the various trunks and elongated branches sculpted around the archways encircling the dome. Vibrantly colored toadstools encircle the moss-covered tables nestled into the soil, the clusters framed by branch-crafted easels and twine-hung yll'suta. Birdsong echoes throughout the area, the avians hidden amongst the canopy of greenery set high above.

Also here: Lord Ionlas, Arelder, Arbeia, Lord Teveriel, Lord Eruien, Botanical Researcher Feriae, Rivienne, Vanathys, Loremaster Rohese, Lucraine, Bathcwyn Missoni, Miss Lissaya, Aubriella, Emissary Thrassus, Fleurs, Celothor, Stassy, Lord Gilenir

Obvious paths: out

Rohese beams happily at Gilenir!

Rohese gazes with interest at her surroundings.

>l tabl

Trails of spongy, verdant green moss traverse across the flat stone tables, the low-set surfaces decorated in flora arabesques painted in henna. Tucked into the shadowed grass beneath each table is a tiny clay-crafted creature, the peahens and amphibians placed neatly in wicker-woven baskets.

Thrassus leans against his black staff as he takes in his surroundings.

Rohese gazes thoughtfully at a fallen arboreal form.

>l eas

Gently curved boughs are loosely entwined with knots of colorful thread, the geometric web forming a makeshift easel. Set along the tapering ends of the branches are several twine-hung yll'suta, their iridescent silk-crafted wings shimmering in the ambient light.

Gilenir sheepishly says, "I tend to spend my time in the dirt, but here we are."

Gilenir explains, "As Feriae has been working to expand the working areas of the Royal Arboretum, we came upon these particular arboreal forms."

Puffs of earthen green moss rest across the trunks of the trees laying in quiet repose, their elongated branches creating crescentic half-domes of layered foliage. Twig-crafted nests are scattered between the splayed branches along the upper arc of the canopies, the lower sections adorned with woven garlands and wood-framed yll'suta embroidered in silk thread. Folded letters and hand-crafted trinkets are tucked into the various grooves of the expansive trees alongside a handful of nuts and berries.

Gilenir says, "Whether fallen from age, or weather, or some other happenstance, there appears to be no damage or affliction beleaguering these fine fellows."

Gilenir leans against one of the forms, then quickly blushes.

Gilenir adds, "And ladies, of course."

Gilenir says, "In fact, they appear to be quite content here, perhaps even jovial if one believes a tree can express such emotion."

Gilenir continues, "Which is why Feriae and I agreed that there particularly cheerful trees would enjoy the company of others."

Gilenir ardently says, "I believe the constant woodland companions alongside the occasional two-legged visitor would encourage further growth not only from these particular forms, but perhaps across the arboretum and it's potential expansions."

Gilenir brightly says, "Happy plants thrive in happy environs."

Gilenir concludes, "But we do hope you do stop by and spend some time with the trees, we've added a few toadstools and some tables, as well as some easels if you'd like to display some artwork for a bit, though I'm sure a woodland creature or two may swipe it at anytime."

Gilenir awkwardly announces, "And that is my presentation."

Rohese gazes thoughtfully at a branch-crafted easel.

Missoni applauds Gilenir warmly.

Rohese applauds Gilenir warmly.

Verdant Symbiosis: The Partnership between Trees and Plants. -- Lady Rohese Bayvel

[Arboretum, Arboreal Gallery]
Verdant-curtained foliage drapes across the fallen arboreal forms scattered along the forest floor, the various trunks and elongated branches sculpted around the archways encircling the dome. Vibrantly colored toadstools encircle the moss-covered tables nestled into the soil, the clusters framed by branch-crafted easels and twine-hung yll'suta. Birdsong echoes throughout the area, the avians hidden amongst the canopy of greenery set high above. You also see a thin crimson lasimor leaf illusion, an arboreal lasimor armchair sculptured from tangled branches, a sturdy oak table on a base of cubbyholes and drawers with a blush-colored glass of cardamom and rose milk tea on it, a bur-eyed shaggy illthorn mandrake, a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake with a wild mane of cobalt briar hair, a bur-eyed twisted witchwood mandrake sprouting autumn beauty sunflowers, a green-eyed ridge caracal, a lazy wild deep red dog, a glinting stygian scarab beetle that is flying around and a large vibrant harlequin macaw parrot.
Also here: Loremaster Rohese, Lord Eruien who is sitting, Arelder who is sitting, Stassy, Fleurs who is sitting, Emissary Thrassus, Aubriella who is sitting, Miss Lissaya who is sitting, Bathcwyn Missoni who is sitting, Vanathys who is sitting, Rivienne who is sitting, Botanical Researcher Feriae who is sitting, Lord Teveriel who is sitting, Lord Ionlas who is sitting, Arbeia who is sitting, Lord Gilenir
Obvious paths: out

Rohese sets a blush-colored glass of cardamom and rose milk tea on top of the oak table.

You smile at Rohese.

Rohese walks to stand behind a sturdy oak table on a base of cubbyholes and drawers.

Rohese rummages through a vellum-inset linden case covered with anatomical depictions of flora with a frantic look of loss.

Rohese nods once.

Rohese smiles.

Rohese softly says, "It's that time, I think."

Speaking lightly to Rohese, you say, "Your students are ready."

Rohese giggles softly at you.

Rohese softly greets, "Good afternoon everyone."

Rohese warmly says, "It is so lovely to see so many familiar faces on this auspicious occasion."

Rohese glances about with a cheerful expression, her misty grey eyes bright and friendly.

Rohese softly says, "Some of you may recall my Library Lecture last year on the Sentience of Trees, where I touched on the wisdom inherent in the give-and-take of nature; in its quiet agreements and search for balance."

Rohese bashfully says, "I apologise if a little of what I cover today is a repeat of that lecture but I believe the context will be helpful."

Rohese wrinkles her nose.

Rohese softly announces, "So, verdant symbiosis!"

Rohese reaches out with a complex gesture and activates the panel of her agara-fae wristlet. Colorful motes of light suddenly appear and dance in the air before coalescing and shifting into a Veythorne Manor illusion.

Rohese thoughtfully begins, "As I walk the quiet paths of Veythorne Manor, pausing often beneath the glowbark tree whose ghostly blue leaves shimmer with silent wisdom..."

Rohese removes a radiant ghostly blue leaf from in her rectangular pack.

Rohese turns her leaf over and over in her hand, studying it until a look of understanding crosses her face.

Rohese softly continues, "...or spend time here, in this Arboretum, I am reminded that the majesty of trees is not in their solitude, but in their community."

Rohese lets out a long, contemplative breath.

Rohese softly says, "Trees do not stand alone, nor do they thrive in isolation."

Rohese softly says, "Rather, they are stewards of living networks; intricate tapestries woven with threads of moss, lichen, fern, and flower, cradled in loam that has been shaped by the tireless labour of fungi and stirred by wings and mandibles of insects."

Rohese brushes her fingers lightly against her ghostly blue leaf.

Rohese sets a radiant ghostly blue leaf on top of the oak table.

Rohese softly informs, "In my paper on the Sentience of Trees, I posited that trees are more than passive guardians of time; they are sentient participants in the forest ecosystem."

Rohese softly proposes, "This afternoon, I seek to further explore how their sentience - and indeed their very survival - is interwoven with the lives of the smaller, often-overlooked flora and fauna that dwell in their shade and bark."

A talkative covey of button quails traverse across the pine needles and leaves in a series of zig-zags before disappearing behind the moss-covered trees.

Rohese softly says, "So let us begin beneath the surface."

Rohese softly says, "The roots of trees, as vast and far-reaching as their canopies, form sacred pacts with fungi."

Rohese softly says, "Right under our very noses..."

Rohese softly continues, "...cleverly concealed beneath the undergrowth is a covert messaging system made up "mushroom mailboxes" and "telegraphic threads" called mycelium that connect the roots in an intricate web."

Vanathys nods understandingly.

Rohese removes a bracket of tender nesting polypore from in her linden case.

Rohese softly says, "This pretty little thing, for example, is a polypore."

Rohese gazes thoughtfully at her tender nesting polypore.

Arbeia quietly says, "Mushroom mailboxes."

Rohese softly says, "Most polypores inhabit tree trunks or branches but some soil-inhabiting species form mychorrhiza in a symbiotic association with trees."

You lean forward.

Rohese softly says, "These silent, silk-thin filaments stretch through the soil like a network of whispers, ferrying water, minerals, and knowledge between root and root."

Rohese brushes her fingers lightly against her tender nesting polypore.

Rohese softly remarks, "It is known that a tree afflicted by blight may warn its kin through these fungal threads, allowing others to fortify their defences before the sickness arrives."

Rohese softly says, "This is not idle conjecture; I have observed such exchanges firsthand among the trees in the Glimae'den Wildwood."

Rohese softly says, "The mushrooms that rise from this underground lattice are merely the fruiting bodies of a vast mind, one whose thoughts are composed of nourishment and alliance."

Rohese sets a bracket of tender nesting polypore on top of the oak table.

Rohese brightly says, "Moving above ground now."

Rohese softly says, "Around the base and on the trunks of elder trees, especially Mother Trees, one often finds a patchwork carpet of mosses, lichens and other organisms."

Rohese glances at a fallen arboreal form.

Rohese softly says, "We see it in the glowbark with its phosphorescent residents..."

Rohese snaps out her hand with a complex gesture. A majestic glowbark tree illusion appears above the palm of her hand, wavers briefly, and vanishes.

Rohese softly continues, "...and the grey-green tufted growths on the sovereign willow of the Dryad Wildwood."

Rohese snaps out her hand with a complex gesture. A gnarled weeping willow illusion appears above the palm of her hand, wavers briefly, and vanishes.

Rohese softly says, "These are no mere adornments; again, it is a symbiotic - mutually beneficial - association."

Rohese softly adds, "We see it here too in the verdant undergrowth of the Arboreal Conservatory..."

Rohese softly continues, "...where there are some fine examples of monk's-hood lichen, shield lichens and oakmoss."

Rohese softly explains, "Mosses act as reservoirs of moisture, safeguarding the roots from drought and preserving the delicate balance of humidity necessary for the surrounding undergrowth."

Rohese softly says, "Among the most remarkable of mosses is scorpidium, a species predominant in the damp hollows and shaded root basins of Naidem, where the sky is perpetual twilight and the air is thick with mist."

Rohese removes a tangle of inky scorpidium moss from in her linden case.

Rohese notes, quietly, a few salient particulars of the moss.

Rohese softly says, "In the graveyard, woods and wetlands, scorpidium forms plush carpets beneath beech, birch and sycamore, particularly near the edges of slow-moving rivulets."

Rohese softly says, "Growing in dense tangles, the moss often makes its home on dead or dying trees, devouring the nutrients of its doomed host."

Vanathys nods at Rohese.

Rohese turns over her inky scorpidium moss.

Rohese smiles at Vanathys.

Rohese softly says, "Its role is both practical and profound: acting as a living sponge, it filters and retains water through the seasons, maintaining delicate soil moisture levels around the trees' root systems."

Ionlas whispers something to Eruien.

Rohese softly says, "Moreover, this moss nurtures an entire sub-community of insects: beetles, grubs, and fireflies so beloved by Naidem scholars for their ethereal beauty and translucence."

Eruien looks over at Ionlas and shakes his head.

Rohese softly says, "Their presence within the moss attracts foraging birds and encourages insectivorous flora along the margins."

Rohese softly says, "Thus, scorpidium serves as a cradle of biodiversity; its relationship with the trees is not merely one of support, but of shared vitality."

Rohese taps a tangle of inky scorpidium moss, which is in her right hand.

Rohese softly says, "In times of drought or excessive rain, it is this moss that tempers the extremes, ensuring that the roots of ancient trees remain undisturbed, as though the land itself were swaddling its giants in a soft and constant embrace."

Rohese sets a tangle of inky scorpidium moss on top of the oak table.

Rohese removes a tuft of old man's beard lichen from in her linden case.

Rohese clearly says, "Lichens, those mysterious marriages of fungus and algae, serve as the forest's alchemists."

Rohese wrinkles her nose.

Rohese softly says, "In some parts of the Wyrdeep, it is said they even glow faintly under moonlight, rumoured to be touched by fey magic."

Rohese gazes thoughtfully at her old man's beard lichen.

Rohese softly says, "Yet their truest gift lies in their enrichment of the soil for all nearby life and their sensitivity to corruption; should they wither or fade, it is often a warning of greater blight to come."

Rohese sets a tuft of old man's beard lichen on top of the oak table.

Rohese removes a feathered fern frond from in her linden case.

Rohese softly says, "It is easy to look up and see only branches, but nestled among them are ferns and epiphytic flora like orchids; those that do not draw from the tree itself but from the air and rain."

Rohese gazes thoughtfully at her fern frond.

Rohese softly says, "These tree-lodgers increase the forest's vertical diversity, forming habitats for winged insects, nesting birds, and other small creatures."

Rohese softly adds, "In some ancient groves, it is believed that these aerial gardens harbour entire ecosystems of their own, hidden from view."

Rohese waggles her fingers mystically, and a golden linden tree grove illusion appears briefly in the air.

Rohese reaches out with a complex gesture and activates the panel of her agara-fae wristlet. Sunshine yellow flurries of airy blossoms suddenly appear and dance in the air before coalescing and shifting into a spotted dark brown kestrel illusion.

Rohese softly says, "Beneath the eaves of the trees, in patches of dappled sunlight, wildflowers bloom and offer nectar."

Rohese softly says, "Bees, butterflies, and beetles answer the call - not only to feed, but to fulfill the sacred rite of pollination."

Rohese lightly adds, "Even the trees themselves are sometimes pollinated by windborne insects."

Rohese softly says, "Insects also serve as caretakers and couriers of decay."

Rohese softly says, "Ants tunnel through fallen bark, returning nutrients to the soil."

Rohese removes a miniscule red bark beetle from in her linden case.

(Rohese places the miniscule red bark beetle in the palm of her hand and holds it out to show it to the audience.)

Rohese softly says, "Insects, such as this red bark beetle, feast upon rot and keep the forest clean."

Rohese casually remarks, "I once observed a hive of bees protect a cluster of wild orchids growing in the crook of an old willow, as if recognizing the mutual benefit of their shared presence."

Rohese gives her wyrwood insect house a tiny shake, causing a swarm of pollen-fuzzed amber honey bees to crawl out and onto her inventory for a moment before retreating back inside the house.

Rohese smiles quietly to herself.

Rohese softly says, "The forest, then, is not a collection of solitary beings, but a living chorus..."

Rohese sets a miniscule red bark beetle on top of the oak table.

Rohese softly continues, "...each member in tune with the others, each leaf and root and wing participating in an unending hymnal of interdependence."

Rohese softly says, "Mother trees such as the glowbark..."

Rohese reaches out with a complex gesture and activates the panel of her agara-fae wristlet. Silvery white will-o'-wisps suddenly appear and dance in the air before coalescing and shifting into a majestic glowbark tree illusion.

Rohese softly says, "...with its luminous presence and deeply rooted wisdom, are both maestro and audience to this symphony."

Arbeia gazes with interest at a majestic glowbark tree illusion.

Rohese softly says, "Their sentience is not solitary; it is communal."

Missoni nods to a majestic glowbark tree illusion.

Rohese softly says, "It breathes through moss, whispers through lichen, is fed by fungi, and pollinated by the labour of insects."

Rohese softly opines, "We must heed these natural alliances."

Rohese gazes fondly at a majestic glowbark tree illusion.

Rohese softly says, "Because the song of the forest is one of harmony, and its melody is easily lost if even a single note is silenced."

Rohese lets out a long, contemplative breath.

Rohese softly says, "May this work serve not only as a study of the verdant kinship we walk among but also as a reminder that we too are part of this great, living and breathing whole."

Rohese smiles.

Rohese softly concludes, "And that, ladies and gentle folk, is what I would like to talk about tomorrow!"

Rohese drops into a deep curtsy, moving smoothly as her arms sweep grandly to her sides.

The Hornet & the Hollyhock: The Cultural Importance of Flowers -- Aliraswaen

Aliraswaen says, "Good day, my friends and fellow admirers of flora. I thank you, most sincerely, for joining me in this verdant jewel of the Shining City. I am Aliraswaen of Nielira Harbor, a small and sea-brushed town along the Nalfein coast, where the light falls warm and the gardens climb the stonework like music set to vine."

You see Aliraswaen.
She appears to be a Nalfein Elf.
She is of average stature and has a willowy, thin frame. She appears to be very young. She has golden, hazel-flecked cornflower blue eyes and subtly tanned skin. She has waist-length, silky caramel brown hair divided into twin reverse-weave braids that start at the temple and descend to the nape in wrist-thick lengths woven in heather grey and burgundy ribbons amid a tracery of baby's breath. She has a delicate face, an aquiline nose and high cheekbones culminating in sharply curved, pointed ears. She has bloom-painted burgundy lacquer upon her long, rounded nails.
She is in good shape.
She is wearing a pewter-strung dark burgundy hollyhock, a rosewood-boned ebon silk corset painted in spires of burgundy blossoms over a very pale dusty rose blouse with split wrist-bound sleeves, a pewter and rosewood disc girdle pyrographed in hollyhock columns, a heavy ebon organza skirt painted in heather grey bloom-laden trellises with some layered burgundy petticoats underneath, and a pair of low-heeled sandals lifted by rosewood heels.
Placed alongside her is an embossed burgundy-black suede tome edged in gilt.

Aliraswaen says, "It is an honor to be here, amidst such learned company, to speak on a flower that holds a quiet but persistent magic for me: the hollyhock."

Rohese beams happily at Aliraswaen!

Imrys smiles.

Rohese softly mouths, "So pretty."

Arbeia agrees with Rohese.

Aliraswaen says, "Now, I suspect more than a few of you have passed hollyhocks without much fanfare, nodding at their cheerful stalks as you strolled to admire something rarer, or more temperamental. And that's fair. The hollyhock doesn't pout or preen. It simply grows. Tall. Colorful. Steady. It is the sort of flower that thrives best when no one is watching too closely."

Aliraswaen suggests, "But today, I should like us to watch a little more closely. To pause. And to see."

Aliraswaen pauses politely, a thin, warm smile gracing her lips.

Aliraswaen paces to her right, moving in a circle around a low oval planter sporting white and lavender hollyhocks.

Tikba nods thoughtfully at Aliraswaen.

Aliraswaen casually says, "You see, the hollyhock has been with us a very long time."

Aliraswaen continues, "Long before gardeners bred for double blooms or marbled petals, the single hollyhock rose like a spire near doorways, chapels, and wells."

Aliraswaen thoughtfully explains, "It came to us from across sun-drenched plains, traveling by seed, by trade, and sometimes by accident, though I have found that accidents in botany are often simply miracles mislabeled."

Aliraswaen offers a soft, friendly chuckle.

Aliraswaen inquires, "Does anyone here grow hollyhocks? Or recall seeing them near childhood gates or old garden walls?"

Missoni murmurs, "Not especially."

Vanathys says, "Though, to be fair, I grow a bit of nearly everything I can."

Vanathys chuckles.

Arbeia asks, "Do they grow in the desert?"

Aubriella says, "I did collect a nice bunch on Nielira Harbor."

Gilenir admits, "I've been having difficulty getting them to properly seed."

Speaking slowly to Arbeia, Aliraswaen says, "I am uncertain."

Aubriella says, "But grow them, n o."

Rohese softly says, "I too have struggled."

Speaking to Gilenir, Vanathys says, "I will transplant some, if you wish."

Aliraswaen nods at Gilenir.

Gilenir gazes hopefully at Vanathys.

Aliraswaen says, "Sometimes they are resistent."

Arbeia says, "Cannot say I have ever seen any there."

Aliraswaen softly continues, "In Ta'Nalfein, where refinement is expected and gardens are often judged as much as gowns, the hollyhock holds a strange place."

Aliraswaen smiles quietly to herself.

Aliraswaen says, "It is seen as rustic by some. Sturdy. Perhaps even coarse. But I argue otherwise. There is grace in its reach. Poise in its persistence."

Aliraswaen affirms, "The hollyhock does not demand beauty it becomes it."

Aliraswaen picks up an embossed burgundy-black suede tome edged in gilt from alongside her.

Aliraswaen says, "I've gathered my reflections, woven through with a tale from the Nieliran coast, in a book titled The Hornet and the Hollyhock. It is part fable, part meditation, and fully a love letter to the way wildness and grace often reside side by side. Copies are available to you all, with my compliments. I hope it may plant a little seed of delight, or curiosity, or wonder."

Aliraswaen offers Rohese an embossed burgundy-black suede tome edged in gilt.

Rohese accepts Aliraswaen's suede tome.

Aliraswaen offers you an embossed burgundy-black suede tome edged in gilt. Click ACCEPT to accept the offer or DECLINE to decline it. The offer will expire in 30 seconds.

Missoni appreciatively says, "How generous."

Aliraswaen nods at Rohese.

Rohese holds an embossed burgundy-black suede tome edged in gilt in her hand close to her body.

Aliraswaen smiles.

[Aliraswaen gives everyone a tome]

You accept Aliraswaen's offer and are now holding an embossed burgundy-black suede tome edged in gilt.

You incline your head.

You say, "This is very kind, thank you."

>L tome
Corbeau green marked in gilt lettering decorates the edge of the spine, transitioning to burgundy-black on the back and cover beyond a clearly delineated line of silver. Decorative embossing upon the flat plane of the cover creates the raised impression of hollyhock stalk, its upper section still furled while its middle is in full bloom. Faenor-hued paint create a sheen of color near the upper right corner where a hornet rests. The words "The Hornet and the Hollyhock" stretch across the lower section.

Tikba politely says, "Thank you very much."

Imrys murmurs, "How lovely. Thank you for sharing your work with us."

Speaking to Gilenir, Ionlas whispers aloud, "Will you read it to me, too?"

Speaking to Aliraswaen, Aubriella says, "Oh, thank you."

Eruien gives a sidelong glance at Ionlas.

Speaking pointedly to Ionlas, Gilenir says, "But you're literate."

>read my tom
The Hornet and the Hollyhock

Introduction ................................... 2
The Hollyhock .................................. 4
The Hornet ..................................... 7
Signals in Bloom and Stone ..................... 15
In the Nest of Stories ......................... 22
In Word and Warning ............................ 29
Closing Reflections ............................ 36
 Page 1

Vanathys just nudged Gilenir.

Vanathys whispers something to Gilenir.

Ionlas frowns.

Gilenir says, "Oh."

Speaking to Gilenir, Ionlas says, "Yes, I suppose I am."

Speaking to Ionlas, Gilenir says, "I mean... yes."

Gilenir surreptitiously glances at Vanathys.

Vanathys gazes up into the heavens.

Eruien mutters, "Smooth."

Vanathys says, "Thank you. This will be excellent for my collection."

Rohese smiles at Vanathys.

Rohese giggles softly at Eruien.

[Arboretum, Arboreal Gallery]

Verdant-curtained foliage drapes across the fallen arboreal forms scattered along the forest floor, the various trunks and elongated branches sculpted around the archways encircling the dome. Vibrantly colored toadstools encircle the moss-covered tables nestled into the soil, the clusters framed by branch-crafted easels and twine-hung yll'suta. Birdsong echoes throughout the area, the avians hidden amongst the canopy of greenery set high above. You also see an embossed burgundy-black suede tome edged in gilt, a low oval planter sporting white and lavender hollyhocks, a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake with a wild mane of cobalt briar hair, a lazy wild deep red dog, a vexed wasteland spirit that is flying around, a large vibrant harlequin macaw parrot and a green-eyed ridge caracal.

Also here: Loremaster Rohese who is sitting, Bathcwyn Missoni who is sitting, Lord Gilenir who is sitting, Rivienne, Tikba who is sitting, Imrys who is sitting, Lord Ionlas who is sitting, Aubriella who is sitting, Fleurs who is sitting, Vanathys who is sitting, Oirisu who is sitting, Arbeia who is sitting, Lord Eruien who is sitting, Aliraswaen, Stassy

Obvious paths: out

Speaking amusedly to Vanathys, Oirisu says, "Because they clearly are the same type of literature."

Aliraswaen continues, "Now, to the flower's habits. Hollyhocks are biennial, or sometimes short-lived perennials, depending on their treatment. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and though they grow tall, often taller than most elves I know, they begin in modest rosettes. Their strength, like that of so many things, is in what lies quietly at the base."

Gilenir grins wryly at Ionlas.

Ionlas leans softly against Gilenir.

Ionlas rolls his eyes.

Aliraswaen lightly says, "Some gardeners see their susceptibility to rust as a flaw, but I find it an invitation to companion plant, to rotate, to learn. Nature rarely gives us perfection without asking us to participate."

Speaking sheepishly to Aliraswaen, Rohese says, "And to think I pulled them all when I spotted rust."

Aliraswaen knowingly says, "And there is something rather dear about seeing bees and beetles nestle deep into those open blooms. They're almost cup-like. They hold things. Like stories. Or secrets."

You see Lord Eruien Lithavir the Living Canvas and Most Esteemed Representative of Ta'Loenthra.
He appears to be a Loenthra Elf.
He is tall and has a lithe body. He appears to be young and robust. He has subtly tilted, azure-flecked sea green eyes and unlined pale skin. He has long, silky ginger hair drawn into a loose half-braid by a loop of naefira-carved resaeun. He has a long, softly angled face, a straight nose and broad shoulders.
He is in good shape.
He is wearing a translucent filament strung with a single drop of fused glass, a cropped sueded jacket dyed a rich larkspur blue hue, a deep-plunging charcoal brocade waistcoat cut short at the ribs over a sheer chiffon shirt veiled in floral embroidery across the chest, a finger-spanning coiled silver ring kissed with powdered amethyst, a pair of pearl grey twill trousers slit at the calves to reveal lace godets, and a pair of mirror-shined leather brogues with cutout vamps.

Aliraswaen politely inquires, "Would any of you like to ask a question? Or perhaps share a memory of hollyhocks in your own garden or another flower that, to you, holds the same sort of quiet, unexpected grace?"

(Rohese tentatively raises her hand.)

Vanathys glances at Rohese.

Rohese points at Vanathys.

Aliraswaen amusedly asks, "Come, surely you have favorites... Or why are we at this symbosium?"

Vanathys says, "Ladies first."

Rohese insistently says, "No, no, you were first."

Vanathys says, "I insist that you go first."

Rohese whines at Vanathys!

Rohese reluctantly says, "As you wish."

Rohese hesitantly says, "I'd like to share a rose, if I may."

Aliraswaen delightedly exclaims, "Of course!"

Rohese softly begins, "One of the common funeral customs in Ta'Illistim is the Selanair, which is as old as the Elven Houses themselves."

Rohese softly continues, "It means dusk's light and it is essentially the observance of displaying a deceased love one so those who wish to show their respect can do so."

Rohese smiles.

Rohese softly says, "This beautiful blossom, the asuleriel, is a unique variety of blue rose that represents peace and hope."

Rohese taps a pale-veined deep blue asuleriel, which is in her right hand.

Rohese softly says, "It is associated with such remembrance ceremonies and the petals often cover the form of the deceased."

Rohese softly says, "They're very rare in the wild but can be nurtured in gardens."

Rohese softly says, "This was grown in the rose garden at Ailanthus Manor out on Whistler's Pass."

Fleurs nods appreciatively.

Rohese gazes thoughtfully at her deep blue asuleriel.

Aliraswaen respectfully says, "It is a lovely specimen."

Rohese smiles at Aliraswaen.

Rohese softly says, "It has taken centuries of cultivation by the gardeners there and it is there pride and joy."

Oirisu looks thoughtfully at Vanathys.

Rohese softly exclaims, "Lumnis forfend anyone who attempts to pick them without permission!"

Rohese softly says, "And it is worth noting that a florist of any worth would never charge when being purchased for a deceased loved one."

Eruien begins chuckling at Rohese!

Rohese softly says, "They are always given freely."

Aliraswaen quietly says, "An amazing honor and gift."

Speaking to Rohese, Vanathys teases, "You said the same thing I was going to."

Speaking appreciatively to Aliraswaen, Rohese says, "It took a lot of persuasion to have this one."

Rohese softly says, "Ah, then I am sorry."

Aliraswaen understandingly says, "Well can I imagine."

Aliraswaen nods slowly.

Aliraswaen asks, "Did anyone else wish to share?"

Vanathys says, "I had a question."

Aliraswaen politely admonishes, "Please."

Aliraswaen thoughtfully says, "I imagine that some could, however, many tales are tied to its nature being a repelent for many demons. I suppose most planters and growers prefer it to remain in an un-refined state to ensure it does not lose these qualities."

Eruien stifles a yawn behind the back of his hand.

Missoni glances appraisingly at Aliraswaen.

Rohese surreptitiously glances at Eruien.

Rohese shakes her head at Eruien and clucks her tongue.

Tikba surreptitiously glances between Aliraswaen and Missoni.

Vanathys looks thoughtfully at Aliraswaen.

Aliraswaen says, "Let me see if I can find that..."

Vanathys says, "Superstitions getting in the way of progress..."

Vanathys says, "Interesting."

Aliraswaen says, "In the wake of the Sea Elf War, as Ta'Nalfein reeled from both shared grief and sharpened self-preservation, new symbols took root amid the scarred soil."

You interestedly ask, "Do the tales provide more detail on that repellent effect?"

Rohese looks thoughtfully at you.

Eruien gives a sidelong glance at you.

Missoni murmurs, "I wonder if that has been extensively tested."

Aliraswaen says, "A moment, I am trying to find the excerpt."

You twitch your darkened fingers in a display of your irritation.

Aliraswaen says, "It is a quiet defender, a symbol of survival, and a lingering echo of the dark tides that once swept near their shores."

Aliraswaen says, "Ah, here it is."

Aliraswaen clearly reads, "Favored for its height and fragrance, the blossom was said to aggravate the senses of certain demons, encouraging them to wander away. Whether apocryphal or true, its planting near thresholds and walls became a ritual not of beauty alone, but of unseen defense and memory. In the preservation of life, the hollyhock found purpose. In the preservation of dignity, it found a lasting place in Nalfein hearts."

Aliraswaen says, "You say superstition, I say tradition."

Speaking to Aliraswaen, Vanathys says, "A fair enough distinction, I think."

Vanathys says, "A tradition I do not hold, of course. Perhaps I will make some attempts of my own, then."

Speaking to Aliraswaen, Vanathys says, "That was my only question."

Aliraswaen says, "As you see fit, though I would caution that not all perenials like to be tampered with."

Speaking softly to herself, Rohese notes, "I must try and grow them again."

Aliraswaen says, "Sometimes, the simple rustic beauty is the best."

Speaking mildly to Aliraswaen, Vanathys says, "It is my specialty."

Aliraswaen politely says, "As you will, of course."

Aliraswaen inquires, "Did anyone else have a question or wish to shaer?"

Missoni raises her hand.

Missoni says, "I have always been fond of the peony. I suppose I do not have such a...ah... traditional reason."

Missoni says, "But its relationship with ants reminds me a bit of how the hornet and the hollyhock often work in tandem."

Speaking to Rohese, Missoni admits, "And also, the blooms are quite lush."

Missoni flushes slightly, some color reaching her cheeks.

Rohese nods enthusiastically at Missoni!

Aliraswaen says, "How intereting. I had not thought you one to be basheful, for that is its meaning, though its interaction and requirement of the ant is very synonymous of the Hollyhock."

Ionlas briefly glances at Gilenir's shoulder.

You see Lord Gilenir Veythorne Illistim.
He appears to be an Elf.
He is taller than average and has a muscular, able-bodied physique. He appears to be in the spring of life. He has vibrant hazel green eyes and tanned skin. He has short, tousled ashen blonde hair parted at a slant, leaving the unruly bangs to brush against the forehead. He has an angular face and well-defined cheekbones.
He is in good shape.
He is holding an embossed burgundy-black suede tome edged in gilt in his right hand.
He is wearing a gilt-marbled white jade signet draped from a waist-cut chain, a jaw-framing blue jacquard collar affixed with twin brooches, a broad-shouldered doublet of smoked sapphire blue maedatha over a deep-cut vellum ivory silk tunic, some charcoal-tinted mykal trousers cinched down each hip, and a pair of suede-cuffed ebon suede knee-boots.

Aliraswaen says, "They have such a delicate fragrance to them, not showy or heady but light and fragile."

Speaking to Aliraswaen, Missoni says, "Yes, I do like that they are not overpowering in a garden."

Rivienne raises her hand.

You add, "And they bloom quite early, which I look forward to each spring."

Aliraswaen smiles at you.

Rivienne says, "Your fondness for the hollyhock, a flower that many find common or rustic, reminds me of my own fondness for dandelions, which most consider and outright nuisance."

Aliraswaen asks, "But don't then go to seed with such a charming nature?"

Rohese nods in agreement.

Aliraswaen delightedly says, "The little seeds on the wind, the childhood memories of endearing wishes and hopes."

Rivienne says, "They are like a small sun that refuses to be forgotten. Even when it's pulled up, it returns, not out of spite but because it persists, even through the cracks in cobblestones."

Rohese softly exclaims, "Like tiny fairies!"

Aliraswaen says, "Yes, they are definitely resilient."

Rivienne says, "Not to mention all the wishes they've carried for me."

Aliraswaen says, "We have given them the meaning of "respect and chivalry" or 'spiritual"."

Aliraswaen smiles at Rivienne.

Aliraswaen says, "I once saw a painting, it was in only three colors.... the lower right of the painting was awash in golden yellow, and the dandelion took center stage, a slash through its center to show its duality of growth. The lower half was it in full bloom, the other half was it going to seed and being tugged by a gentle wind that carried its cypselae up to the right corner..."

Aliraswaen says, "The seeds transformed near the top into dark birds."

Aliraswaen says, "It was title: When wishes turn to wings."

Missoni lightly says, "How clever."

You cock your head.

Eruien nods approvingly.

Aliraswaen says, "Such a lovely, persistent flower."

Aliraswaen says, "Thank you for sharing."

Aliraswaen asks, "Did anyone else have one?"

Fleurs raises her hand.

Fleurs says, "I am especially fond of the plumeria. Lush, fragrant, and tropical, it always reminds me of good times. I find the scent very relaxing."

Aliraswaen says, "And it is such an amazing specimen as it almost seems fake due it its almost waxy petals."

Rivienne says, "Their blossoms are always so perfect, they almost seem fake."

Rivienne nods at Aliraswaen.

Aliraswaen smiles at Rivienne.

Fleurs glances between Rivienne and Aliraswaen.

Fleurs grins.

Aliraswaen says, "They have such gradient change to them, too."

Ionlas says, "I'm not sure if you've noticed this, but the blossoms almost seem fake."

Aliraswaen says, "Always almost blushed with other hues."

Ionlas's face breaks into a cheeky grin.

Eruien gives a sidelong glance at Ionlas.

Eruien just nudged Ionlas.

Rivienne begins chuckling at Ionlas!

Aliraswaen says, "I do appreciate their spiced undertones. A lovely citrus pop...."

You see Rivienne Mandaire Loenthra of the Shining City.
She appears to be an Elf.
She is subtle in stature and has a balletic body. She appears to have come of age. She has demure violet eyes and lightly tanned skin. She has long, undulant starling black hair that falls to shadow her form. She has a fine-boned face and narrow, delicately pointed ears. Her aspect embodies a fluid symmetry of sharp angles and gentle curves.
She is in good shape.
She is holding an embossed burgundy-black suede tome edged in gilt in her right hand.
She is wearing a vial-shaped glass pendant containing a preserved emerald green leaf, a gilded silk cincher over a green silk kaftan patterned with a fall of botanical-interspersed arabesques, a vine-wrought gold handflower, and some golden leather thong sandals.

Speaking politely to Arbeia, Aliraswaen inquires, "What is the blossom you hold so dearly?"

Arbeia says, "Oh."

Arbeia glances at a budding pale yellow creosote flower in her hand.

Arbeia asks, "This?"

Arbeia says, "This is a creosote flower."

Arbeia says, "From the desert."

Arbeia says, "I always think of home when I have this with me... for..."

Arbeia says, "When the monsoons come."

Aliraswaen says, "Such a delicate, small bloom."

Arbeia says, "They release the most amazing smell."

Arbeia smiles.

Aliraswaen asks, "May I?"

Arbeia offers Aliraswaen a budding pale yellow creosote flower.

Aliraswaen accepts Arbeia's yellow creosote flower.

Aliraswaen sniffs at her yellow creosote flower.

Aliraswaen says, "Hmmm..."

Aliraswaen thoughtfully says, "Musky...."

Aliraswaen sniffs at her yellow creosote flower.

Arbeia says, "The air fills with that smell after the rains come."

Aliraswaen says, "Almost like fres--- yes."

Aliraswaen offers Arbeia a budding pale yellow creosote flower.

Arbeia accepts Aliraswaen's yellow creosote flower.

Arbeia turns over her yellow creosote flower.

Speaking to Vaelani, Aliraswaen asks, "Did I remember that you raised your hand?"

Speaking encouragingly to Vaelani, Aliraswaen asks, "Had you a bloom to share?"

Speaking jokingly to Vanathys, Oirisu says, "We'll end up with more perfume notes at this rate."

Speaking to Oirisu, Fleurs says, "You can never have too much perfume."

Vaelani tentatively says, "Yes... I was going to mention red feather clover. I'm afraid I don't have one on me to share, but I can best describe it as looking like pinky crimson fox tails when they bloom."

Speaking to Oirisu, Vanathys whispers aloud, "Perhaps a seasonal line at some point."

Oirisu leans softly against Vanathys.

Speaking to Vaelani, Aliraswaen says, "I believe we call those trifoliums."

Vaelani nods at Aliraswaen.

Aliraswaen says, "They rather resemble the thistle in many ways."

Aliraswaen says, "Their tops are silver and white tipped, much like a fox tail as you said."

Vaelani nods in agreement.

Aliraswaen says, "They have a subtly herbaceous smell and a sweet honey-ness to them."

Missoni curiously says, "Where do they grow? I am not certain I have seen them."

Speaking happily to Vaelani, Aliraswaen says, "I lovely bloom indeed."

Aliraswaen says, "They are typically a glade plant, if my memory is any good."

Missoni says, "I shall be more observant."

Aliraswaen asks, "Did anyone else have anything to share?"

Aliraswaen offers Vaelani an embossed burgundy-black suede tome edged in gilt.

Vaelani accepts Aliraswaen's suede tome.

Speaking to Vaelani, Aliraswaen says, "I think I missed you when we were handing these out."

Aliraswaen says, "Thank you. Every story shared reminds me that gardens are as much about memory as they are about soil. And the hollyhock, for all its humble roots, is a memory keeper."

Fleurs happily says, "I do love flowers, of all types."

Aliraswaen continues, "It grows beside kitchens, beneath bedroom windows, along roads where loved ones once walked."

Missoni applauds Aliraswaen warmly.

Aliraswaen says, "So, I thank you again for your time, your presence, and your willingness to walk this short garden path with me. May you find beauty in the ordinary. May you nurture what rises quietly beside you."

Aliraswaen offers, "And may your hollyhocks grow tall."

An Introduction to the Quiet Beauty of Night Gardens -- Lady Rivienne Mandaire Loenthra

Rivienne says, "Alright then, I'll get started."

You see Rivienne Mandaire Loenthra of the Shining City.
She appears to be an Elf.
She is subtle in stature and has a balletic body. She appears to have come of age. She has demure violet eyes and lightly tanned skin. She has long, undulant starling black hair drawn into fluid whorls ensnaring a lustrous full moon ornament before spilling in waves down the back. She has a fine-boned face and narrow, delicately pointed ears. Her aspect embodies a fluid symmetry of sharp angles and gentle curves.
She is in good shape.
She is wearing a tiny arathiel sphere illuminating the hollow of the throat, a corseted jet silk coat swept back at the hips into a composed train, a sleeveless tulle gown descending in drifts of ivory chiffon, and a pair of almond leather slippers on sculpted bone heels.

Arbeia turns to face Rivienne.

Wylnar plops down to the ground in a sitting position.

Your face goes blank.

Rivienne begins, "As light falls away, the world grows both sharper and softer, and our senses rise to meet the darkness."

Lissaya's eyes glaze over as she stares, unfocused, into the distance.

Arbeia nods to Wylnar in greeting.

You give a sidelong glance at Wylnar.

You see Wylnar the Shadowbroker.
He appears to be a Half-Elf from Ta'Vaalor.
He is average height and has a lithesome, nimble build. He appears to be an adult. He has kohl-lined jade green eyes and ghostly pale skin. He has waist-length, silken white blonde hair threaded sparsely with leather beads and left to flow freely over his broad shoulders. He has an angular face, a scar-crossed, straight nose and subtly pointed ears.
He is in good shape.
He is wearing a vivid pink linen cape with arabesque-stitched edging, a multi-strapped onyx suede harness over some sleek ebon shadarl armor banded in tonal suede, a pair of stygian half-gloves, a niello silver signet worn on the right pinky, a black leather tool kit, and some thin black leather boots wrapped in dark linen scraps.

Rivienne says, "Scent unfurls in the cooling air, carried more potently as the humidity increases. Sound, too, stretches farther, unbroken and unbothered by the hum of day."

Wylnar reclines back, supporting himself on his palms.

Rivienne thoughtfully asserts, "Darkness asks something of us. Few are taught how to move within it, how to relate to it. More often, we are taught to banish it."

Lissaya shifts her eyes to Rivienne.

Wylnar nods in agreement at Rivienne.

Rivienne says, "But darkness is not an absence. It is a force, a subtle shaping hand that turns familiar land into a foreign country. It is a balm, a companion to light rather than its enemy."

Rivienne calmly explains, "And shadows, far from being voids, are proof of presence. The way light flows around form, the way ripples reveal stones beneath a river."

Bathcwyn Missoni flounces through an arched duo of stained glass doors leading to the walkway amidst a diffuse cloud of prismatic glitter.

Wylnar waves to Missoni.

Rivienne lightly says, "I was raised on a Loenthran estate known for its perfumers' craft, where vast fields of botanicals were cultivated for distillation and trade, but the gardens closest to the house were created for something more personal."

Missoni glances appraisingly at Wylnar.

Missoni gives a short little hum of surprise.

Lissaya gazes forlornly at Missoni.

Rivienne recalls, "I remember my parents spending many of their evening hours together, walking the paths as the night breeze carried shifting waves of scent to meet them."

Rivienne shares, "They would pause beneath an arbor or lean over a cluster of blooms, exchanging thoughts about which notes might blend well or which fragrances would linger or vanish too quickly."

Rivienne says, "Aspiring poets, musicians, and painters under our family's patronage would wander those paths in search of inspiration, sit beneath a lantern to practice their work, or even weep quietly when their art betrayed them."

Wylnar furtively glances at Lissaya.

Rivienne smiles slightly.

You glance down.

Missoni nods sympathetically at Lissaya.

Rivienne explains, "These night gardens, interspersed across the grounds, belonged to everyone in the household."

Lissaya appears to be ignoring everything going on around her.

Rivienne wistfully murmurs, "And the parties...they belonged to the night. We would line the paths with foxfire, just enough to make the gardens glow like something enchanted."

Rivienne softly reminisces, "Somewhere in the dark, a quartet would play, and always, the perfume of the gardens, wild and shifting, would thread itself into the evening."

Missoni gazes with interest at Rivienne.

Wylnar looks thoughtfully at Rivienne.

Ionlas lets out a soft, wistful sigh.

Rivienne reflectively adds, "It always felt, to me, as though the garden itself was hosting the gathering, and we were simply guests."

Rivienne measuredly says, "Around nine elven, our sense of smell naturally sharpens, almost as if the body is tuned to meet the moment when night-blooming flowers begin to release their perfume. The effect feels intentional, like a signal."

(Rivienne lets a smile linger.)

Rivienne knowingly remarks, "The finest night gardens hold their fragrance just beyond reach, letting it drift in waves rather than overwhelm."

Wylnar lets his gaze wander over to you, his attention lingering for a few beats, one pale brow slightly arched.

Rivienne says, "Clusters of scented plants are arranged near seating areas so that each breeze carries a different note, a subtle composition of layered aromas."

Rivienne explains, "Container plants make this art easier, allowing scents to be moved and rearranged as the season shifts, or as one note grows too dominant."

Rivienne notes, "Herbs, sharp, green, and grounding, are part of the design, tempering the sweetness of white blossoms and adding a crisp edge that keeps the garden's breath alive and balanced."

Rivienne thoughtfully states, "The shape of a night garden is defined first by its structure. Hedges, topiary, trees, and shrubs lend the garden a sense of age and permanence, the kind of maturity that makes a garden feel lived in."

Rivienne says, "Paths and patios frame how it is walked, while arbors and lattices rise to lift climbing plants into moonlight."

Lissaya surreptitiously glances at you.

Rivienne notes, "Movement is part of the design, the rustle of grasses bending in the breeze, the faint chime of wind bells, or the mirrored flicker of candlelight in a shallow basin of water. Every element is placed not just for beauty, but to invite pause."

Rivienne evenly says, "Lighting in a night garden is meant to guide, never to dazzle. A single lantern, or the low flicker of candles, can soften the edges of every shape, making faces glow, skin luminous, and eyes catch the light."

Rivienne continues, "The placement of light becomes an art in itself. Grazing light brushed against textured stone, uplighting that gives a tree subtle majesty, shadowing that turns a statue into a silhouette on the wall."

Rivienne states, "Moonlighting, hung high in the overstory of branches, mimics the pale dapple of a clear night. Especially when the sky is overcast. The trick is restraint. To light only what needs to be seen, and let darkness carry the rest."

Missoni smiles.

Rivienne says, "The plants of a night garden are chosen for the way they transform in the dark. Whites, silvers, and pale hues seem to hold the light, while blues and violets deepen into something luminous under the stars."

Wylnar nods approvingly.

Vanathys looks thoughtfully at Rivienne.

Rivienne removes a richly pleated eburnean moonflower from in her jet silk coat.

Rivienne says, "A hedge of yew or other dark foliage serves as a backdrop, making its pale blooms appear to glow. Night-blooming jasmine climbs arbors and trellises, releasing its heady perfume in intervals."

(Rivienne idly traces the moonflower's soft petals as she speaks, her words unhurried.)

Rivienne says, "Tuberose, the 'mistress of the night', sends up spires of fragrance while moonflowers unfurl in a sudden rush, their large, white petals open for only one night before they close forever."

(Rivienne unfurls her fingers into an open palm, splaying them briefly before closing them back into a soft fist.)

Rivienne says, "Silver leaves of lavender, lamb's ear, and white sage catch light like brushed metal, and add herbal notes and a dry spice to the melange."

Rivienne remarks, "You are likely all familiar with petunias, yet may not realize that their sweet vanilla-like fragrance is released almost exclusively at night."

Arbeia smiles.

Rivienne put a richly pleated eburnean moonflower in her jet silk coat.

Rivienne says, "Honeysuckle, too, softens into its full sweetness after dusk, weaving threads of scent through the cooler air."

Rivienne adds, "Evening primrose and night phlox, flowering tobacco and heliotrope, wisteria and nightshades, each one adding its own note to the symphony. The plants are planned to blossom in succession, so that each evening offers something new."

Rivienne continues, "A night garden lives not only through its plants but through the creatures it draws."

Rivienne removes a marbled green luna moth from in her jet silk coat.

Rivienne says, "Moths, pale-winged and restless, are guided by fragrance and the steady light of the moon. Other light sources confuse them, but in the darkness of a true night garden, they follow their ancient rhythms, pollinating far more widely than bees."

Ionlas glances at Gilenir.

Rivienne explains, "Every moth is bound to a plant, often a tree, that completes its life cycle. Without it, the moth cannot exist. This luna moth, for instance, begins and ends its life entwined with the persimmon tree. Its larvae feed on its leaves, and it took its first flight from its boughs. The tree and the moth are part of one anothers story."

Ionlas squints at Gilenir.

Eruien gazes at Rivienne.

(Rivienne tilts the moth slightly, tracing the arc of an eye spot with a hovering fingertip.)

Rivienne observes, "The markings on their wings are often quiet warnings, mimicking the unblinking eyes of snakes or the wide gaze of owls, reminders of what else moves in the night."

Gilenir nods sagely at Ionlas.

Ionlas folds his arms over his chest as he leans back in his chair.

Rivienne says, "Fireflies appear as living sparks, rising and falling, each species flashing in a pattern as unique as a signature."

(Rivienne slowly uncups her hands, revealing the steady blue glow of a ghost firefly.)

Arelder gazes in wonder at Rivienne.

Rivienne states, "This is a unique species of firefly, called a blue ghost. Unlike the golden flicker of common fireflies, their light is a steady, ethereal blue that can last for nearly a minute at a time. They do not flash in patterns but drift like will-o'-wisps through the dark, their glow constant and haunting."

Wylnar reclines back even further, propped up on his elbows now as he listens to the lecture.

(Rivienne remains unfazed as the firefly slips free of her cupped hands, its light weaving upward before it veers toward the faintly glowing arathiel at her throat.)

Rivienne explains, "In certain places, entire colonies of fireflies flash in perfect unison, as though a single pulse runs through them all. It is not a strict rhythm but a wave, like candlelight being passed from one to another, flowing through the dark. The more they gather, the more their lights align, until an entire swath of forest or meadow seems to breathe, inhaling light, exhaling shadow."

Rivienne remarks, "Which, in a way, is exactly what they do. When they draw breath, compounds within their bodies meet the air and ignite, glowing until they release it again."

(Rivienne cuts short the firefly's flirtation with the arathiel and slips it back into her coat.)

Rivienne put a tiny lucent blue ghost firefly in her jet silk coat.

Rivienne says, "Glowworms weave a faint steady glow along moss beds or damp crevices, while foxfire, which refers to more than a single species of bio-luminescent fungi, lines fallen branches or old logs."

Rivienne says, "These glows are subtle but they lend the garden a sense of being alive. The presence of these creatures is proof of balance, a sign that the garden is part of something greater."

Rivienne says, "Water brings both movement and reflection to a night garden. A still, dark-lined pool can mirror the stars, becoming a moongazing basin."

Rivienne says, "Fountains and spills of water soften noise from beyond garden walls and the drift of floating candles moves the light."

Rivienne says, "The sky, too, is part of the design. Openings in the canopy frame constellations, and telescopes invite guests to look upward. Even circular paths and garden features can be arranged to echo the passage of the moons. A nod to the idea, as above, so below."

(Rivienne moves her hand, using her fingertips to trace the line of an invisible circle in the air before her.)

Rivienne says, "The influence of the moons stirs both groundwater and growth, and the night garden, like the tides, responds to their phases."

Rivienne elaborates, "Their shifting cycles set the pace for planting, tending, and harvesting, especially for botanicals meant for magical or alchemical use."

Rivienne warns, "No planting is done on the day or night of the new moon, when energy is unsettled and the pull is at its lowest."

Rivienne says, "As the moon begins to wax, so do the plants, drawing in moisture and strength, marking the the time to sow seeds and encourage new growth."

Rivienne notes, "The full moon is a moment of culmination, its broad light drawing water to the surface of the soil, making it the ideal time for harvesting botanicals at their peak potency."

Rivienne says, "As the moon wanes, the garden enters a phase of release and preparation. Pruning, clearing, and readying for the next cycle."

Rivienne says, "Thank you for listening, for walking this garden path with me in thought and memory."

Wylnar sits up straight.

Wylnar applauds Rivienne.

Arbeia applauds politely.

Rivienne shares, "I believe every scent carries a story, and a night garden tells a new story with every nightfall."

Rivienne proudly states, "In Loenthra, some of us hold that the highest art is to become a muse unto others."

Speaking to Rivienne, Ionlas says, "I need one now."

Rivienne gently concludes, "If my words have stirred something in you, a wish to create or to see the ordinary differently, then my purpose here is complete."

Vanathys agrees with Ionlas.

Eruien applauds Rivienne.

You applaud Rivienne warmly.

Pruned, Twisted, and Bewitched: An Overview of Magically Altered Flora -- Professor Vanathys Ravistel Vaalor

Vanathys begins, "Good afternoon. I'm Vanathys Ravistel, Royal Botanist to Ta'Vaalor. Today, we will discuss an overview of magical plant alteration, touching briefly on a range of techniques, their theoretical bases, and ethical implications."

Ionlas gazes at Vanathys.

Arbeia turns an inquisitive ear toward Vanathys.

Vanathys glances at a rectangular slate board propped on an easel.

You gaze with interest at Vanathys.

Vanathys says, "A brief outline is available on the board."

>read board

In the Common language, it reads:

 Pruned, Twisted, and Bewitched:
An Overview of Magically Altered Flora

 I. Techniques
   A. Symbiotic Grafting
   B. Elemental or Spiritual Infusion
   C. Rune-Grafting
   D. Transpositional Binding
   E. Emotional or Empathetic Imprinting
 II. Inheritance
 III. Ethics and Sentience

Vanathys points out, "This is meant to be more of a survey to establish a foundational knowledge rather than an exhaustive exploration of the topic."

Lissaya shifts her eyes to a rectangular slate board propped on an easel.

Vanathys folds his hands behind his back.

Ibar takes a moment to observe a rectangular slate board propped on an easel.

Vanathys says, "The first technique will be perhaps the most familiar to you, as it can also be done to lesser effect without magic--symbiotic grafting."

Eruien glances at Ionlas.

Vanathys explains, "Symbiotic grafting is favored by nature-attuned practitioners, druids, and the Greengair. It's considered the gentlest of techniques, as it involves binding compatible plants together using naturally aligned magical fields."

[Arboretum, Arboreal Gallery]
Verdant-curtained foliage drapes across the fallen arboreal forms scattered along the forest floor, the various trunks and elongated branches sculpted around the archways encircling the dome. Vibrantly colored toadstools encircle the moss-covered tables nestled into the soil, the clusters framed by branch-crafted easels and twine-hung yll'suta. Birdsong echoes throughout the area, the avians hidden amongst the canopy of greenery set high above. You also see a flying black portfolio, a vexed wasteland spirit that is flying around, a large vibrant harlequin macaw parrot, a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake covered in star anises, a lazy wild deep red dog, a green-eyed ridge caracal, a rectangular slate board propped on an easel and a low oval planter sporting white and lavender hollyhocks.
Also here: Ibar who is sitting, Adjutant Yunni, Rivienne who is sitting, Tikba who is sitting, Loremaster Rohese who is sitting, Stassy, Feriae who is sitting, Lord Gilenir, Aubriella who is sitting, Fleurs who is sitting, Oirisu who is sitting, Bathcwyn Missoni who is sitting, Riend who is sitting, Miss Lissaya who is sitting, Arbeia who is sitting, Lord Eruien who is sitting, Lord Ionlas who is sitting, Vanathys
Obvious paths: out

Vanathys eloquently says, "Rather than forcing traits from one onto the other, it encourages mutual adaptation over time through shared root systems, entwined stems, or joined vascular systems."

Vanathys offhandedly notes, "I've found growth cycles and lunar or seasonal conditions can affect the success rate, though the exact conditions required vary by plant."

Vanathys suggests, "It's best to keep a detailed log of your attempts."

Vanathys shares, "Symbiotic grafting relies on the principle of life resonance or the idea that living organisms with compatible energetic rhythms can merge gradually without trauma."

Eruien squints at Vanathys.

Eruien whispers something to Ionlas.

You see Lord Eruien Lithavir the Living Canvas and Most Esteemed Representative of Ta'Loenthra.
He appears to be a Loenthra Elf.
He is tall and has a lithe body. He appears to be young and robust. He has subtly tilted, azure-flecked sea green eyes and unlined pale skin. He has long, silky ginger hair drawn into a loose half-braid by a loop of naefira-carved resaeun. He has a long, softly angled face, a straight nose and broad shoulders.
He is in good shape.
He is wearing a translucent filament strung with a single drop of fused glass, a cropped sueded jacket dyed a rich larkspur blue hue, a deep-plunging charcoal brocade waistcoat cut short at the ribs over a sheer chiffon shirt veiled in floral embroidery across the chest, a finger-spanning coiled silver ring kissed with powdered amethyst, a pair of pearl grey twill trousers slit at the calves to reveal lace godets, and a pair of mirror-shined leather brogues with cutout vamps.

Rohese lowers her gaze.

Vanathys says, "Unlike sorcerous grafting, which we will discuss later, this process fosters balance and longevity, albeit the results can take time to manifest."

Gilenir nods in agreement.

Vanathys says, "This symbiotic grafting can be used to build disease or weather-resistant hybrids, share resources between plants with different root depths, and amplify the traits of hybrid plants through this harmony."

Yunni looks lost in thought.

Vanathys paces before the crowd as he gets more into the lecture, his hands talking with him.

Vanathys says, "An example of symbiotic grafting that is done with and without magic is apple and pear grafting. These fruit trees are closely aligned genetically, and as such, they have been successfully grafted onto shared rootstocks and harmonize quite well."

Vanathys says, "While symbiotic grafting is a slow process intended for long-term use, there are other methods that will return results quite quickly, albeit temporarily."

Rohese cocks her head at Vanathys.

Vanathys adds, "The first, and perhaps most common, is through elemental or spiritual infusion. This is most closely aligned to how the Farming Circles of magic work."

Vanathys asks, "Anyone here from an agricultural family?"

Speaking to Tikba, Vanathys says, "You will likely be familiar with some of this."

Vanathys nods at Rivienne.

Vanathys explains, "Those aligned with elemental or spiritual manas may induce temporary changes in plants by exposing them to controlled magical fields, typically in saturation."

Vanathys continues, "There are innumerable ways to do this, but in all cases, the magical energy must be gradually introduced in low doses to avoid a violent reaction from the plant's essence. After all, infusions rely on resonance harmonization with the plant's natural energy."

Vanathys holds up two fingers and slowly pinches them together until they are almost touching.

Vanathys says, "Slow and steady, as they say."

Vanathys evenly elaborates, "Individual practitioners will typically use a spell circle or a channeling apparatus aligned with their chosen element or spiritual frequency, alongside catalytic materials. Depending on the plant, the changes intended, and the plant's temperament, this can be a long and exhausting process, taking anywhere from minutes to hours."

Vanathys says, "In a larger farming setup, generally much of this becomes automated through the use of attuned crystals bound to the mana flows that give off a low, steady stream of energy to the plants."

(Rohese gives you a slight nod with a hopeful smile.)

Vanathys says, "The intended changes include accelerated growth, elemental or disease resistance, or sometimes even bioluminescence."

Vanathys says, "If you are into glowing plants, at least."

Vanathys notes, "This interaction does not restructure the plant's core essence, it is more of an overlay, so the effects are not enduring beyond the magical influence, and as such, not inheritable."

Vanathys continues, "Where symbiotic grafting and elemental or spiritual infusion are more flow magic, rune-grafting is a more rote form of flora manipulation."

Vanathys clears his throat.

Vanathys says, "Transitory in nature, this is most commonly completed on trees or shrubs, though it can be done on other types of plants if the surrounding soil is used or they have a taproot or some other larger structure to work on."

Vanathys adds, "Cacti are agreeable to this, for example."

Vanathys simply shares, "Though this is likely obvious, this method involves inscribing magical symbols or embedding enchanted runes into a plant's bark--or roots, or soil."

Vanathys emphatically says, "This can be used to great effect to enhance traits such as growth rate, environmental reactivity, or minor autonomous movement; essentially, you have turned the plant into a spellbook, so there are few limitations to what you can make it do, but it is far more specific and guided than in the prior, more naturally driven techniques."

Vanathys gives a sidelong glance at Oirisu.

Vanathys sheepishly admits, "The weeping willow at my estate once slapped anyone who lied nearby. Delightful at parties, really, though I can't say I enjoyed it when I was on the receiving end."

Oirisu appears to be trying hard not to grin.

Arbeia gawks at Vanathys.

Vanathys laughs softly, trying to hide his amusement.

Missoni gazes in amusement at Vanathys.

Vanathys adds, "It was very, very sensitive to untruths."

Vanathys remarks, "But, eventually, and most fortunately, the bark grew over it."

Vanathys says, "This form of plant alteration must be constantly maintained, lest the plant outgrow them and the magic is lost."

Arbeia says, "Perhaps not use that on a cacti."

Arbeia says, "Being slapped by one would..."

Vanathys laughs!

Vanathys agrees with Arbeia.

Missoni glances over at Arbeia and winces.

Vanathys sweeps his gaze over the crowd, his demeanor becoming more serious.

Vanathys says, "The last two methods we'll discuss today are discussed purely in an intellectual capacity, as I do not suggest you ever use either of these techniques."

You glance at a rectangular slate board propped on an easel.

Missoni cocks her head.

Vanathys quietly inquires, "Have you ever seen a rose that grows from lichen and smells like grief?"

Vanathys grimly shares, "I have. Not by my hand, mind you, but it was a victim of transpositional binding."

Vanathys expounds, "Also known as sorcerous grafting, transpositional binding is an experimental method that utilizes minor planar rifts to graft traits between species or bind... external attributes."

Vanathys frowns.

Aubriella says, "That sounds dangerous."

Vanathys seriously warns, "The issue is that planar rifts do not ask permission. They do not ask for direction. They splice and scramble as they will. The results are... unpredictable and dangerous, albeit often memorable."

Rohese nods faintly.

Fleurs glances about with a look of concern on her face.

Vanathys says, "Transpositional binding typically results in spontaneous hybridization or unintended mutation. This is considered an extremely volatile practice."

Arbeia says, "Do not try this Missoni."

Rohese interestedly interjects, "I will actually be touching on that later."

Vanathys warningly adds, "It's also ethically questionable when involving unstable planes, which it often does."

Vanathys cautions, "Prolonged exposure to demonic valences may create hostile or predatory botanical forms. Most academic institutions severely restrict or completely ban this practice."

Arbeia quietly says, "A hostile cactus...."

Speaking to Arbeia, Missoni reassures, "I mostly only create planar rifts I can control."

Arbeia shudders.

Vanathys says, "On that serious note, the last method we'll discuss today seems most innocent and well-intentioned, perhaps particularly when juxtaposed with sorcerous grafting. However, it can be just as, if not at times more, controversial."

Vanathys warmly remarks, "Some botanists and other enthusiasts, usually those with soft hands and softer hearts, enjoy whispering, talking, singing, or praying to their plants."

Rohese softly giggles.

Vanathys evenly elaborates, "If intentionally driven by empathic projection or spiritual resonance, emotion can be imprinted into a plant. This is done through meditative or emotionally focused states to bond with the plant over prolonged and repeat periods of time."

Vanathys continues, "To condition the plant, the individual may then use a variety of techniques, including (but not limited to) aura synchronization, ritual verbalizations of stories or chanting, musical entrainment, or behavioral reinforcement."

Vanathys explains, "For example, a vine may learn to recoil from cruelty. A rose may be conditioned to bloom to music or laughter. It's gentler work."

Ionlas looks thoughtfully at Vanathys.

Vanathys grimly adds, "And sometimes, more dangerous."

Vanathys says, "You see, emotional or empathetic imprinting alters the plant's behavioral response matrix rather than its structure."

Vanathys paces slowly as he continues explaining.

Vanathys postulates, "This treads a fine line between adaptive behavior and... well, emergent cognition, straying precariously close to sentience and raising serious moral concerns."

Vanathys seriously reminds, "A flower that mourns when picked is not a success story."

Vanathys glances around the area.

Eruien nods slowly.

Lissaya shifts her weight.

Vanathys says, "On the note of altering structure and behaviors, let's briefly discuss inheritance."

Vanathys says, "Many ask, 'If I grow a luminous cabbage, will its seedlings grow?' The short answer is, no."

Vanathys chuckles.

Vanathys corrects, "Glow, even."

Vanathys amusedly adds, "The longer answer is still no, unless you are working ritualistically, repeatedly, and with enough time to convince the plant it was always that way."

Vanathys explains, "Generally speaking, a magical alteration is an overlay that exists atop the natural essence, not a genetic change."

Vanathys says, "Exceptions typically occur only with extensive, generational magical reinforcement."

Vanathys says, "Another exception is during major magical events. Think Maelshyve or Old Ta'Faendryl or Toullaire. Excessive exposure to high levels of magical energy will typically mutate any plants it does not kill, at an essential and genetic level, but this is not typically directed by an individual to obtain desired results."

Missoni adopts an agreeable expression.

Vanathys offhandedly theorizes, "The influx of energy at leylines could accelerate the acceptance of magical reinforcement, but this is still up for debate."

(Rohese perks up at the mention of leylines.)

Vanathys adds, "The inheritable effects of transpositional binding are still being studied by a highly regulated few, as the resulting plants are typically too unpredictable and dangerous to manage to breed."

Vanathys says, "...Minus the ones that repeatedly self-replicate at astonishing speed."

Vanathys says, "This brings us to the last topic--sentient flora and ethical concerns."

Vanathys jokes, "Let's be frank: If your azalea cries when you prune it, maybe don't."

Vanathys says, "Sentience in plants is rare, but not unheard of, particularly around high-energy regions near spiritual or elemental nexuses."

Missoni gazes in amusement at Vanathys.

Vanathys says, "Recognizable signs of sentience include reactive movement, vocalization, response to pain or praise, and memory-like behavior."

Vanathys jokingly says, "It may even scream at you or ask for a hug."

Vanathys glances at a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake covered in star anises.

Vanathys emphasizes, "Ethically, the line is drawn at response to harm. A vine that recoils, whimpers, or heals itself is not merely alive--it's aware."

Vanathys pointedly repeats, "It's aware."

Vanathys instructs, "At this point, avoid forcing magical compliance--or what we often call sympathetic dominance. You should be treating cognitively responsive flora as living subjects with autonomy and potential rights."

Vanathys says, "That being said, I've provided the standard definitions for sentience as generally accepted in the botanical studies community. There are ethical debates even about that."

Vanathys gently notes, "Some believe all plants have a spirit or a soul, and as such, all could be considered sentient--essentially, not reacting as we expect to stimuli does not mean they are not having a response we cannot see or feel or hear. These people are generally opposed to magical alteration."

Vanathys carefully reminds, "In cultures where flora play religious or ancestral roles, this form of magic may be considered a sacrilege. As such, always consult local custom and spiritual doctrine before experimenting."

Vanathys warningly points out, "Finally, introducing awareness--whether you mean to or not--carries a moral responsibility."

Arbeia nods knowingly.

Lissaya wrinkles her nose.

Vanathys delicately reflects, "Is a flower that blooms only for praise truly bettered, or is it imprisoned by need?"

Vanathys raises an eyebrow.

Vanathys glances around the area.

Vanathys sincerely counsels, "Magical manipulation of plant life represents a delicate intersection of arcane methodology and natural order. It requires respect, restraint, and rigorous ethical consideration at all times."

Vanathys concludes, "Our role is not to dominate, but to collaborate with nature with both responsibility and humility."

Vanathys appreciatively says, "Thank you for your attention. I will now open the floor for questions."

Arbeia says, "What are your personal thoughts on...."

Arbeia asks, "The magical... root vegetables?"

Vanathys glances at a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake covered in star anises.

Arbeia says, "Those odd little...singing ones."

Arbeia says, "No no."

Arbeia says, "Not the mandrakes."

Arbeia says, "The...potato."

Fleurs pets a budding sentient potato wearing a plush brown teddy bear costume.

Lissaya wrinkles her nose in distaste.

Vanathys says, "Oh, the potatoes..."

Arbeia nods at Vanathys.

Vanathys says, "I honestly have not studied them. I expect they are some form of transpositional binding that managed not to kill someone."

Vanathys says, "But, it is only an educated guess."

Vanathys asks, "Any other questions?"

Fleurs raises her hand.

Rohese raises her hand.

Fleurs asks, "Is the volatility of the plants in the Confluence due to the magical energy you speak of?"

Fleurs says, "Some of them can... explode... if mishandled."

Vanathys nods.

Fleurs nods understandingly.

Vanathys says, "Excessive exposure to high-levels of energy does multiple things to plants... If they are resilient enough not to expire, it tends to mutate them in violent ways."

Vanathys says, "They are more volatile, more resistant to damage or poor conditions..."

Vanathys says, "Exploding, poison, burning, rash-causing irritants... all more common."

Vanathys nods.

Arbeia shudders.

Vanathys says, "Particularly when, as mentioned with the elemental and spiritual infusion, it's not done slowly."

Yunni quietly murmurs, "Exploding?"

Vanathys says, "Saturation is possible but it needs to be gradual to avoid the reaction."

Fleurs says, "Oh, things shift in there all the time."

Fleurs nods in agreement.

Rohese wrinkles her nose.

Arbeia quietly says, "Exploding cacti..."

Speaking to Rohese, Vanathys asks, "Did you have a question?"

Speaking to Arbeia, Fleurs says, "Almost."

Rohese softly exclaims, "I do!"

Speaking softly to Vanathys, Rohese asks, "In the case of a grafting experiment that someone else is undertaking - where it is likely to take quite some time to complete - is it possible for another to take it over in their absence or would you recommend leaving that project to fend for itself - for want of a better term?"

Ibar whispers aloud, "As if i dont have to worry about exploding enough."

Speaking to Rohese, Vanathys says, "That's complicated and depends on your philosophical thought about the nature of plants on a more spiritual level."

Speaking quietly to Rohese, Feriae admits, "I've been watering it a bit when doing the rounds."

Arbeia fiddles with her mesquite case before lifting the latch and flipping the cover open.

Arbeia removes a diminutive camel-shaped topiary from in her mesquite case.

Speaking gratefully to Feriae, Rohese says, "Thank you."

Arbeia removes a pair of silver pruning shears from in her mesquite case.

Speaking to Rohese, Vanathys says, "I would say it's entirely possible, without issue, if you know what you are doing. However, there are many that think it would require some sort of spiritual bond with it, after it has been altered by another."

Arbeia prunes her topiary.

Arbeia smiles.

Speaking to Rohese, Vanathys says, "Also possible to take over, I would think, but you may need to do so more slowly, gently, and intentionally."

Rohese softly says, "I am inclined to tend it out of affection as it was - is - my husband's work."

Rohese softly says, "So with care then."

Speaking to Rohese, Vanathys says, "I would say that if the latter is true, then, that you are already a step ahead in the bond."

Fleurs says, "Watering seems quite gentle."

Vanathys asks, "Any other questions?"

Missoni raises her hand.

Eruien raises his hand.

Speaking appreciatively to Vanathys, Rohese says, "Thank you, I shall endeavour to live up to his intentions."

Speaking to Eruien, Vanathys says, "No."

Speaking to Missoni, Vanathys asks, "Yes, Missoni?"

Missoni gazes in amusement at Eruien.

Eruien laughs!

Oirisu surreptitiously glances at Eruien.

Missoni says, "You have mentioned that magical manipulation often has volatile effects, such as creating more poisonous specimens."

Speaking to Missoni, Vanathys says, "If done improperly, yes."

Oirisu whispers something to Eruien.

Speaking to Vanathys, Missoni asks, "Has such manipulation been used to make poisonous plants perhaps...safer?"

Speaking to Missoni, Vanathys says, "It absolutely has and can be done. Symbiotic grafting is a good way to handle it, but so is spiritual infusion."

Speaking to Missoni, you ask, "Would that be in pursuit of uncovering useful qualities that may be guarded beyond a perilous gate?"

Vanathys says, "It may be difficult to find a compatible symbiotic graft, but if you can find one that has natural properties that resist poison, it could be technically used to dampen rather than amplify the poisonous effects of the hybrid."

Speaking to you, Missoni says, "Yes, or even to address concerns in an ecosystem. If a monarch could eat something besides milkweed, perhaps such populations could be bolstered."

Vanathys says, "Otherwise, I would say you could use spiritual infusion to dampen them, but keep in mind that once the fruit or leaf or other structure is severed from the plant, it would likely lose that dampening effect."

Speaking to Missoni, Vanathys says, "However, it would work in that context."

Missoni nods thoughtfully at Vanathys.

You nod understandingly.

Aubriella says, "There are some berries and plants that naturally remove poison."

Speaking to Vanathys, Missoni asks, "That is quite fascinating. So once you plucked the berry from the magically altered plant, it would become poisonous again?"

Missoni says, "I suppose that does makes sense. The influence of the rune or other means of manipulation is gone."

Missoni leans forward and rests her chin in her hand, a thoughtful expression on her face.

Speaking to Missoni, Vanathys says, "It could. Though, there's a possibility if you start a continuous infusion from seeding, perhaps it would never formulate the poisonous aspects."

Missoni nods slowly.

Vanathys says, "I've never tried."

Vanathys says, "I probably will now."

Vanathys laughs!

Aubriella begins chuckling at Vanathys!

Speaking to Vanathys, Missoni exclaims, "I hope you will let us know how it goes!"

Vanathys says, "In truth, most of my work for Ta'Vaalor goes into building resistances for crop yields."

Speaking to Vanathys, Fleurs says, "It was nice knowing you."

Riend slowly empties her lungs.

Vanathys asks, "Any other questions, other than from Lord Lithavir?"

Arbeia begins chuckling at Vanathys!

Eruien says, "It was only mildly sarcastic."

Arbeia says, "Mildly."

Speaking softly to Eruien, Rohese commends, "Mildly is an improvement."

Vanathys says, "Excellent. If there are no other questions, I'll conclude so we have time to rest our brains before Rohese's upcoming lecture."

Verdant Symbiosis: Communion, Ritual and Reverence -- Lady Rohese Bayvel

Rohese softly says, "Well, I've finished my tea so I don't have an excuse now."

Arbeia smiles at Rohese.

Rohese glances around the area.

Rohese softly greets, "Good afternoon, everyone!"

Yunni beams happily at Rohese!

Rohese folds her hands.

Rohese softly says, "In yesterday's lecture, we briefly explored how the sentience and survival of trees is interwoven with the lives of the smaller, often-overlooked flora and fauna that dwell in their leafy shade and furrowed bark."

Rohese softly says, "It would be remiss to speak of symbiosis and sentience within our forests without reflecting on our place in it..."

Rohese wrinkles her nose.

Rohese softly continues, "...how we also participate in the verdant orchestra of Elanthia."

Rohese softly remarks, "We are not merely observers of the wild, nor masters over it; we are collaborators, interpreters, and sometimes even supplicants."

Tikba looks thoughtfully at Rohese.

Rohese softly says, "Across Elanith, we have long cultivated bonds with the natural world; not only through stewardship, but through communion, ritual, and reverence."

Rohese softly says, "And it is this latter part that I wish to cover today."

Rohese brightly says, "Let us start close to home."

Rohese softly says, "Among the elves of Ta'Illistim, our relationship with trees is one of careful observation and scholarly deference."

Rohese softly informs, "We tend to view the world as a great library and trees are some of the books whereby we may read and see the traits attributed to the Arkati: their supposed power, wisdom, goodness, and malevolence."

Rohese softly adds, "For as trees are books, so likewise in the same sense they have a voice and speak plainly to us and teach us if we are willing to listen."

Rohese softly elaborates, "During our Udienaeun, we consult the language of leaf, bark and branch as we might consult a library, for trees have long memories, and their patterns of growth and flowering can reveal more than soil or season."

Rohese softly says, "Some among the Loremasters - particularly the palaeoreaders - practice dendromancy, the art of divination by the reading of bark fissures that are said to predict cycles of unrest or renewal."

Rohese softly says, "The glowbark tree in the Veythorne Manor grounds, beloved to me and woven deeply into my own work, has become both muse and oracle."

Rohese reaches out with a complex gesture and activates the panel of her agara-fae wristlet. Silvery white will-o'-wisps suddenly appear and dance in the air before coalescing and shifting into a majestic glowbark tree illusion.

Rohese purses her mouth, pondering a majestic glowbark tree illusion. The expression on her face speaks volumes.

Rohese softly says, "Its luminous canopy pulses brighter during times of emotional or magical turbulence, leading some to believe it responds to more than just moonlight."

Rohese softly says, "In Ta'Nalfein, the elves there, who are more attuned to cultivation and refinement, have preserved a courtly tradition of floromancy, using the arrangement, colour, and bloom-time of flowers for both communication and prediction."

Gilenir nods once.

Rohese softly says, "A blossom out of season is viewed as a subtle portent, while the emergence of a second bloom on a fading vine may be taken as a sign of renewal or resurgence."

Vanathys gives a sidelong glance at Oirisu.

Rohese smiles at Oirisu.

Speaking softly to Oirisu, Rohese says, "Perhaps you might share more on that some time."

Vanathys smiles quietly to himself.

Rohese softly says, "Nalfein terraced gardens are planted not just for aesthetic or alchemical use, but with patterns intended to resonate with prophetic dreams."

Oirisu nods briefly at Rohese.

Rohese softly says, "Their diviners often sleep in glass arboreta to receive such visions more clearly, surrounded by carefully curated flora."

Rohese softly says, "And it comes as no surprise that flora figures significantly in their Black Rose Decks."

Rohese removes a vine-edged hunter green deck painted with a black rose from in her linden case.

Ionlas murmurs, "Interesting."

Pulling the first card of the deck, Rohese slowly turns it over and presents it for all to see. The decorative placard has a tangled vine border sporting black tea roses, while the center colorfully displays the image of a pale dark yellow daffodil crown upon a long green stalk. After a brief moment, she carefully adds it to the bottom of her deck.

Rohese smiles.

Stassy says, "That sounds amazing."

Pulling the first card of the deck, Rohese slowly turns it over and presents it for all to see. The decorative placard has a tangled vine border sporting black tea roses, while the center colorfully displays the image of a delicate violet surrounded by wide leaves. After a brief moment, she carefully adds it to the bottom of her deck.

Rohese put a vine-edged hunter green deck painted with a black rose in her linden case.

Rohese softly says, "In contrast, the Ardenai elves of the Darkling Wood preserve a raw, ancient form of plant symbiosis, often centred around the deep groves of their homeland, as well as their more widely known custom of floral symbolism."

Rohese surreptitiously glances at Yunni.

Rohese softly says, "To them, all things speak, given the correct stillness to listen."

Rohese softly points out, "As well as Wind-sight - the simple release of natural debris and subsequent interpretation of its fall - they also practice rhyllomancy, an oral tradition of interpreting the creaks, groans, and leaf-fall of ancient trees."

Ibar surreptitiously glances at Yunni.

Rohese snaps out her hand with a complex gesture. An ethereal illusion of a sun-dappled forest glade appears above the palm of her hand, wavers briefly, and vanishes.

Rohese softly says, "Certain practitioners are known to sit unmoving beneath the same tree for days, awaiting the forest's reply to questions unspoken."

Rohese softly repeats, "Days!"

Rohese softly says, "Sylvans embody a more intuitive communion."

Rohese softly says, "Their seers listen to the rustle of wind through leaves or the cadence of falling pinecones."

Rohese softly says, "Some practice aeromancy by interpreting the spiral of windblown petals or the song of migratory birds overhead."

Rohese softly says, "I have been privileged to witness them drawing fate-lines in the dew of morning leaves and reading droplets like the starstones of the Burghal Gnomes spread upon a table."

Rohese softly says, "And we must not forget the Forest Gnomes, whose bond with the wild is as practical as it is magical."

Rohese softly continues, "They turn to lichenomancy or the "ohoc nuu," divining outcomes by the shape and spread of lichen on stones and fallen logs."

Rohese softly says, "The Inyexat, on the other hand, have perfected myco- and sporemancy, interpreting the growth patterns of fungi clusters or the colour of mycelial threads in the soil."

Rivienne smiles.

Rohese softly says, "It is said that some gnomes divine safe routes through the forest not with map or compass, but by watching how certain mosses curl when touched at dawn."

Rohese interestedly says, "Their bond with insects too is woven into their augury: a swarm's movement across a stump, or a single beetle pausing atop a seed, may mean more to a gnome than a hundred words."

Rohese wrinkles her nose.

Rohese softly says, "Together, these traditions form a kind of collective wisdom, diverse in method, united in intent."

Rohese softly says, "They remind us that nature is not passive matter, but a partner."

You nod slowly.

Rohese softly says, "It offers signs, patterns, and omens for those with the patience to perceive them."

Rohese softly says, "To read a tree's leaf is not so different from reading a rune."

Rohese smiles quietly to herself.

Rohese softly says, "To sit in close proximity to a Mother Tree in silence is to place one's trust in the world's older rhythms."

Rohese softly says, "Beyond their role in divination, the plants of Elanthia also offer us gifts more immediate and tangible..."

Rohese softly says, "...their virtues of healing, restoration, and gentle remedy."

Rohese softly says, "Long before empaths mastered the binding of flesh or bones, the forest offered poultices, tinctures, and infusions to soothe both the body, mind, and spirit."

Rohese softly says, "Though spell casting may offer swift cures, many still turn to herbal alchemy for its subtle touch and natural rhythm."

Rohese softly notes, "Basal moss, for example, grows on the bark of deciduous trees and can repair minor bruising, cuts and scrapes to the eyes and torso."

Missoni smiles.

Rohese softly says, "And red lichen, a symbiotic combination of algae and fungus, is often found crawling along the bark of fir trees."

Rohese softly informs, "When brewed as an infusion, it is a good cure for minor nerve damage."

Rohese softly says, "Magic breathes through stone, metal ore, and plant alike and our relationship to the natural world is never neutral."

Rohese softly says, "We are guests, yes, but also kin."

Rohese softly opines, "The trees may outlive us, but they remember our kindness or our neglect."

Rohese nods faintly.

Rohese reluctantly admits, "Though it is in my nature to dwell on harmony, beauty, and connection, I must turn now, however briefly, to the shadows that gather when such kinship is forgotten."

Arbeia raises an eyebrow in Rohese's direction.

You cock your head.

Rohese softly says, "Some ancient forests still bear the scars of war or over-zealous timber production."

Rohese softly laments, "The once-thriving groves beyond Talador's borders were reduced to nothing - not by axe, but by unchecked ambition and reckless magic."

Tikba nods somberly at Rohese.

Yunni winces.

Rohese sadly remarks, "I have wandered their ashen grey mounds, and I did not hear birdsong."

Arbeia reaches out and touches her silver locket.

Rohese tightly says, "There are also some that seek to twist nature by cross-breeding plants and other materials via mundane methods or chaotic magical tempering."

Rohese softly reminds, "Lord Ravistel touched on this earlier in his fascinating lecture."

(Rohese nods in acknowledgement to Vanathys.)

Aubriella glances at Vanathys.

Rohese disgustedly says, "Mutated weeping willows and thew bark trees, like the monstrosities in Goblyn's so-called garden, do not belong in this world."

Vanathys nods at Rohese.

Rohese softly says, "There are also those who walk blindly or boldly across hallowed ground."

Rohese snaps out her hand with a complex gesture. A stately lasimor tree illusion appears above the palm of her hand, wavers briefly, and vanishes.

Rohese thoughtfully says, "How many give thought to the rare and towering lasimor - with its deep and spiritual resonance - as they head through the forest to the Mistwatch shore."

Rohese softly points out, "The tree is a living embodiment of sacred geometry."

Rohese softly elaborates, "Its trunk, formed from the entwining of at least three distinct saplings, reflects the principle of unity through multiplicity; a triadic form resonant with Elanthia's most ancient magical symbology."

Rohese softly says, "The intertwining pattern of its growth and the spiral alignment of its bark is believed to align with ley energy."

Vanathys nods slightly.

Rohese softly discloses, "The largest recorded lasimor, formed from seven interwoven trunks, is considered to be a sacred expression of the septenary; symbolizing wholeness, harmony, and elven superiority."

Eruien looks thoughtfully at Rohese.

Rohese softly reminds, "There were originally seven Elven Houses."

Rohese softly notes, "And seven colossal modwir trees in Yuriqen."

Rohese softly says, "But not all harm is wrought from malice."

Rohese smiles.

Rohese softly says, "More often, it is the footfall that does not pause to listen, the flame lit for convenience without thought for what lies nearby."

Rohese softly assures, "Yet, in naming these things, I do not seek to scold but to remind."

Rohese softly says, "For if we are capable of harming, we are equally capable of healing."

Rohese warmly recalls, "Just ask the Greengair Gnomes of the Yasrenila Compound in Ta'Vaalor."

Rohese softly says, "So let us choose reverence, and in so doing, become part of the same sacred pattern that threads through lichen, moss, flower, insect, and root."

Rohese softly concludes, "May we listen. May we learn. And may we always return to leaf shade with humility."

Rohese clasps her hands in a reverent gesture.

Rohese softly murmurs, "Thank you."

Missoni applauds Rohese warmly.

Gilenir applauds Rohese warmly.

Rohese nods appreciatively.

Rivienne applauds.

Rohese relievedly says, "And now I need more tea."

Rohese lets out a sigh of relief.

Speaking excitedly to Rohese, Gilenir exclaims, "That was wonderful, thank you!"

 

Lost Arts: Healing Secrets of Ardenai Folklore -- Lady Elaejia Silithyr

You see Lady Elaejia Silithyr Loenthra the Benefactress.
She appears to be an Elf.
She is perfectly postured and has a muscled, but soft physique. She appears to be of indeterminate age. She has subtly tilted cobalt-violet eyes and waxen-looking, pale skin. She has very long, silky caramel-brushed blonde hair woven in a labyrinthine spiral braid, the length faintly illuminated by a series of viridian arathiel rings. She has a pair of horn-rimmed eyeglasses perched upon her nose and a noticeably drawn face. Faint shadows haunt the hollows of her eyes. She has a thin-boned, gracefully angular countenance, tapering to a softly pointed chin.
She has a band of silver-inked sigils on her wrist.
Umbral darkness writhes from her fingertips, a stain on her skin that seeps down from her knuckles and drifts languidly into the air from the ends of her pointed nails.
She is in good shape.
She is wearing a braided golvern necklace suspending a starburst of bronze-rayed emerald, a shoulder-caught hunter green wool cape, a ring-bound trio of sepia leather straps over a garnet maedatha blouse, a slim band of vaalin-cradled aragless glinting from the left ring finger, some long-cut wool trousers dyed in dark tones, and some sepia leather boots fitted with gilt toe-caps.

You lightly say, "I don't believe I shall wait the customary few moments, it seems most of our attendees have made their way back already."

Teveriel unfolds his chair and carefully places the chair on the ground.

Settling himself onto an arboreal lasimor armchair sculptured from tangled branches, Teveriel leans back, cradled beneath a lifelike canopy of carved leaves.

You take a deep breath.

You evenly introduce, "Good afternoon scholars. For those who do not know me, I am Elaejia Silithyr Loenthra. Among other things, I have been researching the intersection between botany, mana foci, and ancient wisdom for the past four years."

You fold your hands behind your back, waiting patiently.

You continue, "I have previously had the honor of presenting some of my findings, such as those from the Broken Lands, and those from the folklore of Ta'Nalfein. Since then, I have continued my investigations and lately turned my attention most recently into folk remedies."

You say, "As we all know, botanical remedies are daily shown to be imbued with remarkable power to heal the body of even the most profound physical trauma. One need only show some patience, and most injuries can be healed completely with a combination of well-understood and readily available herbs."

You nod appreciatively at Rohese.

You affectedly say, "However, there remain other afflictions--" she pauses for three heartbeats, then resumes stiffly, "Other afflictions that defy our understanding. Limbs that refuse to regrow, eyes that remain clouded, exhaustion that resists all recuperation, even spirits sapped by some implacable force."

You close your eyes for a moment.

You say, "It is in this area that I have lately focused my efforts in looking for forgotten understandings hidden in folklore, and having made some strides, I will share my initial findings today. It is my hope that the seeds of inspiration for further research will quicken in others' hands, hastening any discoveries that await."

Missoni furrows her brow.

Rohese looks at you with concern.

You tilt your head up.

You say, "I have broken my notes on Ta'Ardenai's remedies into three parts. First order insights, those which are easily discerned from common tales and knowledge, point to flora useful in many applications. This knowledge tends to be presented straightforwardly, uncomplicatedly--"

You gently brush your caramel-brushed blonde hair away from your eyes and, with a deft twist of your wrist, tuck it back into its bindings.

You rattle off, "Thilban, a variety of thistle long admired by herbwives for its resiliency, is beneficial to the stomach and liver. Acipha bark, useful for minor aches and pains. Pixiebell berries, a mild soporific."

You continue, "Imiren toadstools, which feature heavily in fairy-ring tales, and thuja, indispensible to the druidic ceremonies of the northern Ardenai. Toxic larkspur, mentioned in a well-known Ardenai legend of Zelia dancing upon a hillside, is known to brighten the spirits in tiny doses."

You smile at Yunni.

You say, "For second order insights, we must be more discerning. These are sometimes mentioned in some tales alongside other obfuscating factors, clouding their uses but still leading one to look closer at possibilities. Or they may be called by unfamiliar names, or even warned away from as poisonous. Some examples include red wormwood, chaga fungus, roseroot and witchwood."

>l on work
On the haon-framed worktable:
Misc [3]: a twine-bound laboratory notebook, a sheaf of hastily scribbled notes, a haphazard array of half-filled vials and jars
Total items: 3

You reach out and touch a haphazard array of half-filled vials and jars on a haon-framed worktable.

Rohese nods slowly.

You briskly expound, "Therefore, modern herbalists have already deduced many of their uses which range from red wormwood expelling parasites, to chaga tea reducing swelling, to roseroot - a distinct plant unrelated to roses - combating fatigue and improving endurance," she appears ready to move on, but a distracted look crosses her features and she adds with a shake of her head, "...And witchwood berries -- quite toxic, but with proper preparation can be used medicinally."

Missoni gazes thoughtfully at a haphazard array of half-filled vials and jars on a haon-framed worktable.

Riend settles her gaze on you, watching you intently.

You bite your lip.

You nod.

You say, "Additional forms of second order insights found in some tales include particular modes of preparation or admixture, such as those highlighting the potency differences between tisanes and potions."

You note, "Look for examples there to the remedies common to Pinefar."

You say, "So, the method of gleaning clues thus established, it is onward to seek third order insights that we head, to those that lie hidden in seemingly irrelevant asides and digressions, or those that lead the mind in wholly new directions."

You remove a smooth ebon leather portfolio edged in copper from in your glossy leather satchel.

You carefully remove your white transcript from one of the sleeves in your leather portfolio.

You put an oversized white transcript on a haon-framed worktable.

You put a smooth ebon leather portfolio edged in copper in your glossy leather satchel.

Gilenir looks thoughtfully at you.

You inform, "The farthest reaches of Ta'Ardenai present the very earliest known beginnings of civilization on Elanith. It is an area of the world called first home by other cultures as well - some Kindred clans, Truefolk tribes, and others - and the interplay between them has not always been peaceful. Fraught history has resulted in folklore from diverse perspectives combining and changing in complex ways, making the distillation of knowledge into useful connections challenging."

>read trans

In the Common language, it reads:

The Wayfaring Tree

 Think on the days of your grandsire's long-gone beginnings,
And on the time when his grandsire hunted the forest.
Autumn had come, and the leaves had begun their withering;
There rose a hunter named Maelen, keen-eyed and steady.
He would impress the new court at the Winter Crossing Springs,
Bringing them pelts of the finest and silkiest feeling.

 Words of his grandsire still echoed beneath his memory:
"Though you may wander and never find road or return-way,
If you have brought your luck the Wayfaring tree will guide you,
Look for its silver-backed leaves, and be found in its shadow."
Hand to his pocket he reached and he touched the small token,
Felt the soft weight of his luck, and stepped into the forest.

Dralys'Vaen welcomed him, old with its breath full of secrets.
Three leagues he traveled the first night, through hush and twilight,
Set down a snare, then lay under the low-hanging cedar,
Closed his eyes slowly and drifted to deepening slumber.
Dreams came to Maelen: a hand on his shoulder with power,
Guiding him onward or warning of what lay before him.

Morning had broken - a hare in his snare lay waiting.
Still he walked deeper, his hunger not yet diminished.
 Six leagues he strode on the second day into the shadow.
Found him a rowan with skirts drooping low over mosses,
There set a snare, and soon slept in darkling silence.

Voices whispered in his dreams, though their meanings eluded.
Morning had come, and a fat little polecat was captured
Still he pressed onward, the call of the hunt still upon him.
Nine leagues behind him, the third dusk closed in with silence.
Juniper trees rose around him, with branches like curtain,
Blue-grey and heavy; he slept in their fragrant enclosure.

This time he dreamt of a flame, barely burning but holding,
Fending off fingers of frost reaching in from the blackness.
Woke he at dawn, and his snare was in tatters and ruined;
All of the needles had dropped from the juniper's branches.
 Fear now gripped him fast. He turned, but could find no direction.

Chill in the air, and a dampness that sank in his sinews,
And too his strength now was fading. Eyes closed, he touched his small token.
"Luck," he cried out, "bring me home through the forest unending!
Guide me once more to the tree with its silver-leaf branches -
Wayfaring Tree, may your blessing yet shine on my footsteps!"

Then, from the juniper rose a bird clothed in color
Feathers like feylight and skyfire in endless commotion.
Maelen gave chase, for he knew it was drawn from his fortune,
Led through the wood, to the tree with the silver-backed foliage,
Crimson its berries and rooted in ancient remembrance.
There at its base lay the trail that he knew from his youth.
Quickly he followed it, rushing back through the dark wood.

 Nine leagues he walked to return to the rowan's enclosure.
There heard he whispers, now clear in the voice of the forest:
"Free now the polecat you slew for your pride and ambition."
He set it loose, and it blinked and then darted to shadow.
Coldness withdrew, like a mist burned away by the morning.

Back to the Wayfaring Tree did he run without resting.
Three leagues he walked and arrived at the cedar of dreaming.
Now felt the hand on his shoulder again, gently urging:
"Free now the hare that you smothered, and walk without burden."
He set it down, and it waked, fleeing to the hush of the forest.
All of the cold that had clung to his body was lifted.

 Back to the silver'd tree one last time, lighting the path home;
Three final leagues, and there! His house in the distance,
He had no trophies nor prize in his hand for the nobles -
Only his luck, and the memory pressed hard in his soul.

You say, "One such legendary connection is to a large shrub known as a Wayfaring Tree, known less poetically as viburnum. Some more prosaic tales of the Wayfaring Tree say it leads one to treasure, or to the heart's desire. Still other superstitions say they lead departed spirits from Geldliran onward to their destination."

Elaejia smiles slightly.

You aver, "This legend," she pauses with a glance toward the transcript, "Hails from the Ardenai who call the area around the Vernal Court their home, where the Darkling Wood meets the steppe. With the Darkling Wood forming one border and the frozen wastes another, the unforgiving landscape inspires thoughts of darkness, fear, and ill-omen in many of its tales."

Rohese leans forward.

Rohese gazes thoughtfully at an oversized white transcript on a haon-framed worktable.

You say, "It does make mention of several common tree species, though we currently know of few medicinal properties of note. However, these trees - cedar, rowan, juniper - they have long-held associations that are indeed featured here. The towering cedar embodies strength, the rowan guards ancient mysteries, and the juniper is a powerful symbol of protection."

You fold your hands behind your back, waiting patiently.

You interestedly say, "Additionally, I draw your attention to to notion that the Wayfaring Tree apparently leads the hunter either backward through time, or else has the power to restore life to his catch. For its toll, it strips him of all his prizes, and when he returns home, he is left largely as he began, though perhaps a little wiser," she pauses with a long look around at those gathered. "A powerful ability indeed to find oneself at the mercy of."

Yunni nods slowly.

You say, "Let us take another moment to consider the themes present: Ambition and pride. Dreams and talismans. Protective nature versus malevolent spirits. The warping of time. Sacrifice and rebirth. Circularity - traveling far but ending up where you started."

(Elaejia taps a pointed fingernail on the desk after each listed item.)

You lecture, "Of the mentions I found, I believe this titular tale speaks to a unique connection and indeed opportunity in the Darkling Wood. A place where the flora may well occasionally be empowered to truly embody the associations they still carry to this day."

You say, "It may not be through some concrete link from a specific flower or tree noted in a certain tale, but simply an openness to the ideas and links that underlie these stories. That these oldest places still maintain that connection to the numinous that the ancients observed, and through our connection to those places, we may yet still grasp the link."

You animatedly say, "All these powerful forces captured in one simple tale. They speak to something more at play - in this place," she stops, apparently gathering her thoughts for a moment, "We heard from Lady Bayvel about the interconnectedness of all things, and from Lady Mandaire yesterday on the importance of the timing and mode of harvesting when gathering ingredients for alchemical preparation."

You remind, "We also know that place has a known impact on the power and usefulness of remedies we gather even today for modern alchemists. It seems evident to me that a place with such a deep and powerful connection to us, one with primal powers we left behind in stories and legends amid our rush to expansion and conquest, should still remember and see us with the same clement regard as the Wayfaring Tree."

You forcefully say, "All legends start somewhere and though the passage of time might obscure their beginnings, I am confident that scholarship and experimentation can uncover and tap into the wisdom of the ancients."

You slowly and deliberately empty your filled lungs.

You incline your head.

You politely say, "I thank you for your kind attention."

 

Botanical Forms and Geometry in Glasswork -- Bathcwyn Missoni Sabretache Faendryl

Missoni warmly introduces, "Fair afternoon everyone, and thank you for continuing to join us on what has been an enlightening series of presentations. I am Bathcwyn Missoni Sabretache Faendryl."

Missoni continues, "We have been fortunate to have this space opened to us, to learn of the intricate relationships of trees, to understand the cultural significance of blossoms, to be transported to the beauty of night gardens, to contemplate the meeting of magic and botany, and to learn of connections between folklore and place."

Yunni turns an inquisitive ear toward Missoni.

(Missoni meanders about the gallery for a moment, brushing fingertips along the moss-covered forms.)

Missoni says, "And so, this afternoon I will further examine botanical forms, the geometry that builds them, and their use by glassworkers in sculpture and wearable art."

Missoni remarks, "To create botanical forms in glass is a challenge. Though a natural material in and of itself, the types of glass we are familiar with have their own geometry. To try to make glass go against its own nature is, at times, to become frustrated, and to see our work shatter."

Teveriel gazes with interest at Missoni.

Missoni says, "However, jagged edges can be smoothed petal-like by the sea and fragments can splinter like tree bark, if only we have the patience and understanding to draw these shapes forth."

Missoni states, "Recognizing the basic shapes that appear so often as we traverse gardens and woods is an essential starting point for replicating them in any medium. To that end, we will focus on several planar forms that repeat often in these settings."

Rohese nods enthusiastically at Missoni!

Missoni says, "At times, a tangle of vines or a ravel of mycelium might seem chaotic, but an examination of planar--or two-dimensional--geometry shows repeated shapes in that chaos. To borrow a metaphor from Lady Bayvel's talk yesterday, it is these common melodies that allow us to make sense of the greater symphony."

Missoni nods appreciatively at Rohese.

Missoni curiously asks, "Would anyone like to mention a few shapes they often see repeated in botanical specimens?"

Missoni glances appraisingly around the area.

Oirisu helpfully asks, "Spirals?"

Speaking softly to Missoni, Rohese says, "It would be cheating for me to offer one."

Tikba suggests, "Spirals?"

Missoni nods enthusiastically!

Missoni cheerfully says, "Yes, spirals are one such shape, and we will be discussing those."

Missoni says, "But to being a bit more simply, one of the most recognizable forms in planar geometry. The circle."

Missoni says, "Begin, rather."

Missoni gazes in amusement at Giogionni.

Missoni reaches out and touches a branch-crafted easel.

Missoni says, "We see roundness in the centers of many flowers, in seed pods and fruit, and even in some mushrooms, but where I find this shape to be exceptionally fascinating is in its imperfect form."

(Missoni steps toward the branch-crafted easel, her fingertip tracing the bumpy lines that make up the cross section of tree trunk upon the canvas set within its arms.)

Missoni brushes her fingers lightly against a glass and vaalorn-bound painting accented with jade vines on a branch-crafted easel.

Missoni remarks, "Tree rings tell the biography of a specimen, but also a story of the wider environment. From them, we can learn when a winter was particularly cold or a summer especially dry. That they are sometimes inconsistent in their width and shape is telling; every aberration has a meaning."

>l paint
Defined lines of blank ink form a detailed cross section of a tree trunk. The bark, rings, and heartwood have all been labeled with precision. Next to the cross section, a lor tree is painted in silvery watercolor. The larger specimen includes vert leaves and a complex root system.
In the Common language, it reads:
"Study of the Lor" -- by Missoni Sabretache

Rohese nods in agreement at Missoni.

Missoni takes a few steps toward a moss-covered table.

Missoni says, "Similarly recognizable, triangular shapes appear nearly everywhere. We can see its form in flora such as the trillium, so named for its triad of leaves that together form a triangular outline."

Missoni brushes her fingers lightly against a velvety dark red trillium on a moss-covered table.

Rohese gazes thoughtfully at a velvety dark red trillium on a moss-covered table.

On the moss-covered table:
Forageables [4]: a blood orange, a spiraled rainbow-striped mushroom, a fiddlehead fern, a gold-flecked velvety red sunflower
Clothing [1]: a velvety dark red trillium
Special [1]: a lace-wrapped bouquet of peach-frilled lavender tulips

Missoni says, "The lily and tulip," she pauses to gently fold back one of the tulip's petals on the table, "prior to opening, arrange themselves around a triform stigma."

Missoni surreptitiously glances at a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake covered in star anises.

Missoni murmurs, "Come here a moment, Sprout."

Stretching her arms up at Missoni and tilting her head back, the mandrake displays toddler-like excitement at being scooped up and silently giggles.

A yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake covered in star anises suddenly grabs Missoni's hand and inspects it with deep interest. She turns her hand over, looking at the back, between the fingers, and then finally back at the palm. She places her own hand in Missoni's and then looks up at her with both wonder and confusion.

Missoni says, "And finally, many seed pods, such as the grape hyacinth and star anise," she prods the seed pods on the mandrake, causing the little plant to giggle, "display triangular forms."

Missoni lowers the mandrake to the ground, causing her to wiggle her root-haired toes and to squirm as she places herself on the ground. The moment her feet hit the ground, she teeters as if she may fall over but manages to maintain her footing and throws her arms in the air in obvious excitement.

Missoni nods appreciatively to a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake covered in star anises.

Missoni says, "Still, more complex geometry also abounds. What appears as the circular center of the sunflower, when taken from a closer perspective, is a fractal."

Missoni brushes her fingers lightly against a gold-flecked velvety red sunflower on a moss-covered table.

(Missoni holds up the sunflower a moment, tracing the tiny florets filling its center.)

Missoni says, "As you can see, each part of the pattern, splaying out from the flower's center, is a minute part of the whole. Looking even more closely under magnification would reveal the exact same pattern, rendered even smaller."

Speaking to Rohese, Missoni says, "And as we have seen from your maps, the same patterns are repeated yet larger."

Missoni notes, "These are patterns also often seen to occur naturally in Tehir lightning glass, or zhiqietz, which makes it excellent for rendering flora."

Missoni removes a bifurcated zhiqietz fractal from in the iriswood trunk placed alongside her.

Missoni tilts her zhiqietz fractal side to side, making the light play off it.

Rohese raises an eyebrow.

Missoni says, "Recognition of such patterns, and even an understanding of their mathematical underpinnings, can help the artisan render more lifelike forms. And, of course, as artists we know that with such understanding comes and ability to bend such rules, creating the sort of organic chaos one expects from nature."

Missoni put a bifurcated zhiqietz fractal in the iriswood trunk placed alongside her.

Missoni removes a fiddlehead fern from on a moss-covered table.

Missoni carefully states, "0, 1, 1, 2," she lightly runs a fingertip around the curly end of the frond, "3, 5, 8, 13, 21."

Rohese's silver-lashed misty grey eyes suddenly grow round and wide.

Missoni explains, "The golden ratio spiral is often found in nature, and can be identified mathematically by a growth rate of one point six one eight for every quarter turn of the spiral."

Rohese softly exclaims, "I know this!"

Rohese softly murmurs, "Thank you Magister."

Rohese places a hand over her heart.

You gaze in amusement at Rohese.

Missoni murmurs, "It is helpful to know a Magister."

Rohese nods in agreement at Missoni.

Tikba gazes in amusement at her surroundings.

Missoni says, "In botanicals, we see this spiral on the tops of ferns." She pauses to hold up the fiddlehead frond, drawing attention to its curled top. "And also in markings such as those found on this mushroom native to Naidem."

Missoni taps a spiraled rainbow-striped mushroom on a moss-covered table.

Missoni put a fiddlehead fern on a moss-covered table.

Missoni takes a few steps to her left.

Missoni muses, "How, then, does one replicate these form in a rigid medium? How can glass, so fragile, be as willowy as the stalk, as soft as the petal?"

(Missoni takes a few steps toward the chart, drawing attention to a section depicting several long strands of glass.)

Rohese gazes with interest at a densely inked chart of glassworking techniques propped on a burnt velvet ribbon-wrapped easel.

Missoni explains, "A technique called pulling cane is one that can be used toward this purpose. Long rods of glass are heated and stretched. Different colors and widths can then be placed next to each other in the piece while the material is still malleable, creating curves and striations."

(Missoni points to a sketch of an arboriform clock another segment of the chart as she explains, "In this example, which you can see if you visit the Twilight Gallery, pulled cane is used to create the twisting ridges of bark on this sculptural timepiece.")

Rohese gazes thoughtfully at a densely inked chart of glassworking techniques propped on a burnt velvet ribbon-wrapped easel.

Missoni says, "I have also used it in my cuff to create the tangled forms of the dirge vaon."

Missoni brushes her fingers lightly against her dirge-vaon cuff.

You look closely at Missoni, examining a multitudinous vaelfyren dirge-vaon climbing the forearm in a raveled cuff. You can tell nothing else about it from here.

Missoni says, "Certain types of glass are, of course, more suited to particular shapes. Pane glass, such a skyglass, works well when employed in the angular forms of leaves, as does vaelfyren, which can readily be molded to a form."

Missoni takes a few steps toward a lor scaffold displaying a trio of mountain chickadees amid vaelfyren foliage.

Missoni nods to a lor scaffold displaying a trio of mountain chickadees amid vaelfyren foliage.

Missoni says, "I have noted, in my travels, a tendency toward such wearable and sculptural pieces of glass in natural forms. I believe glass can be an effective means of preserving and displaying that which we love about nature. Similarly, glass can enhance a garden by adding elements of light, color, and depth to the landscape."

Oirisu takes a moment to observe a lor scaffold displaying a trio of mountain chickadees amid vaelfyren foliage.

Missoni notes, "If you have visited the Yasrenila Compound near Ta'Vaalor, there are several sculptural glass pieces on display that demonstrate this practice."

Missoni says, "Likewise, in New Ta'Faendyl, our household gardens of course tend to include plants native to the Southron Wastes. Succulents, scrub bushes, flowering cacti and the like. We call these collections of native plants sand gardens, or erya'ortus."

Missoni notes, "Some translate this to waste gardens, but that sounds rather...unpleasant."

Missoni grins sheepishly.

Missoni remarks, "However, many households commission or purchase pieces of colorful vaelfyren to add hue and height to the more traditional garden, leading to a trend we call vael'ortus, or glass gardens."

Missoni says, "Faendryl aesthetic philosophy has been long divided on issues of practicality versus beauty for its own sake, and so many households incorporate glass pieces in botanical forms that have other uses, such as lighting a path at night or providing additional irrigation."

You cock your head.

Missoni amusedly says, "But the debate on form and function in our philosophical schools is best saved for another time."

Rohese softly remarks, "How pretty."

Missoni says, "For now, I leave you with a hope that you will examine the shape of things more closely. Take in the splendor of a garden from afar, of course, in all its color and movement, but do not neglect the angles of a single stamen or the arrangement of a seed pod."

Missoni concludes, "These repeating motifs can speak wonders to the artist who wishes to create. Thank you."

Missoni performs a bow characteristic of those from Solhaven.

Rohese applauds Missoni warmly.

Teveriel applauds Missoni.

Gilenir applauds Missoni.

Missoni flushes slightly, some color reaching her cheeks.

Speaking softly to Missoni, Rohese gushes, "Wonderful!"

Missoni cheerfully asks, "Does anyone have any questions?"

Speaking curiously to Missoni, Oirisu asks, "When will you be sending me your designs?"

Missoni flashes a quick grin at Oirisu.

Speaking happily to Oirisu, Missoni says, "Whenever you wish."

Speaking to Missoni, Aubriella asks, "Which is your favorite type of glass to work with?"

Rohese softly corrects, "When will you be sending us all your designs!"

Rivienne asks, "Yes, do you take commissions?"

You note, "The Arboretum does have an art display that might someday be in want of a new exhibition."

Speaking to Rivienne, Missoni says, "Of course."

Speaking to Missoni, Aubriella says, "Oh, of course."

Speaking softly to Missoni, Rohese asks, "No baleglass?"

Speaking to Rohese, Missoni says, "They are the same. Baleglass is simply the Common name."

Rohese sheepishly says, "Oh of course, silly me."

Turning her gaze downward, Rohese comically stares at her nose.

Rohese sticks out her tongue.

Missoni says, "I should dearly like to learn more about how arathiel is created, but it is so closely guarded."

Stassy says, "It is so pretty, with the flame."

Missoni amusedly says, "I keep hoping for my invitation."

Speaking softly to Missoni, Rohese exclaims, "Soon, I'm sure!"

Rivienne says, "I'll try to pull some strings."

Rohese gazes in amusement at Rivienne.

Missoni uses her pinky to scratch at a spot near her left temple. She sighs as several coils of rainbow ombre hair fall out from her normal hairstyle. She quickly brushes her fingers through her hair and puts everything back in place.

You wryly say, "It's a close secret even from other artists in Loenthra, I would like to know it as well."

Rivienne agrees with you.

Lissaya nods in agreement.

Rohese softly says, "I'll just stand in awe of the glassworkers talents and pay handsomely for their creations."

You nod in agreement at Rohese.

Missoni says, "I suppose the mystery adds a bit to it."

Speaking curiously to Missoni, you ask, "Does the molten nature of glassworking make it easier, or harder, to make botanical forms?"

Speaking to you, Missoni says, "That depends on the glass, I think. Some are really best suited to working with in panes, such as skyglass and glyriss."

You nod understandingly at Missoni.

Missoni says, "They work well in two dimensional forms, but lack the malleability to make elaborate sculpture."

You ask, "When you say working in panes, you mean along the lines of stained glass?"

Speaking to you, Missoni says, "Baleglass is quite suited to more fluid forms, as it is shaped in fire."

Missoni nods to you.

You nod.

Missoni says, "Last year at the Faendryl Symposium I demonstrated a technique that uses an extraplanar mist to help shape a baleglass form."

You regretfully say, "I am sorry to have missed a live demonstration."

Lissaya nods in agreement to you.

Missoni says, "But more traditional glassblowing can use paddles, heating, and reheating the glass to achive a smiliar end."

Speaking wryly to Missoni, Tikba exclaims, "Less efficiently!"

Speaking to you, Missoni says, "Ah, perhaps I will have to reprise it! I did not think such a demonstration would be as well received here."

Giogionni says, "Laws."

Giogionni waves his hand in a dismissive gesture.

You wryly say, "All the same, perhaps traveling to see it would be for the best."

Speaking to Missoni, Giogionni says, "Could be fun."

Speaking to you, Missoni agrees, "The Alabaster Spire is out in the Hills, and well warded in case of any mishaps."
 

The Solitude Bee - Variations Along the Eastern Seaboard -- Feriae Enfiel and Miss Aubrige

A town crier steps in and announces, "The Botanical Symposium concludes with Miss Aubrige and Feriae Enfiel's presentation at the top of the hour. Interested guests may gather at the Botanical Garden at the Royal Arboretum." He then rushes off.

You see Aubrige the Member of the Rumplesnoots Adventuring Company.
She appears to be a Halfling.
She is tiny and has a wiry frame. She appears to be youthful. She has large jade green eyes and freckled rosy skin. She has short, curly brunette hair twisted into an intricate knot at the nape of her neck and secured by a pair of enruned bone hairsticks. A pair of dimples adorn her pudgy cheeks.
She is in good shape.
She is holding a doodle-covered set of notecards covered in notations in her right hand.
A tiny eyepatch-clad baby raccoon drapes over her shoulder, snuggling into her neck.
She is wearing a pair of enruned bone hairsticks, an oversized jade wool frock coat covered in scroll-filled cylinders, a tiny iron catapult pin, a side-strapped specimen board slung over her shoulder, a blanket-affixed pale leather backpack with fur-lined straps, a high-necked vanilla ruhani wool shirt with suede-buckled sleeves, some belted black suede trousers wrapped in strips of oilcloth, and a pair of knee-high dark buckskin boots.

You see Rumplesnoots the Very Brave Catcher of Bugs.
He appears to be a Halfling.
He is shorter than most and has an adorably rotund shape. He appears to be young and robust. He has thickly lashed mahogany brown eyes and freckled skin. He has short, curly dark rowan hair with a pair of tiny mithril horns sticking out. He has a round face, a slightly bumpy nose and deep laugh lines. He has a matted woolly rolton charm with ivory horns dangling from one of the tiny mithril horns on his head and a blue-spotted toadstool beetle charm from the other.
He is in good shape.
A rotund miniature rolton totters forward and back on his shoulder, shaking its tail to maintain balance.
He is wearing a poppy orange silk hat wreathed with violets and ferns, an ivy green mervaer cloak embroidered with chubby bumblebees, a rose red linen shirt with silver bumblebee buttons, a furry brown goat pin, some rumpled dark linen breeches adorned with tiny mithril rolton-shaped buttons, a pair of lily white silk socks stitched with tiny pansies and roly-polies, and a pair of leather boots stamped with tiny ladybugs reading books.

You see Feriae Enfiel.
She appears to be a Vaalor Elf.
She is short and has a lithe build. She appears to be very young. She has gilt-flecked lapis blue eyes and pale skin. She has side-shaven, silken blue-green hair brushed back into a neat collection of reverse plaits, the braids looped and affixed with leaf-framed florals. She has an angular face and a freckled nose. Vert-colored leaves are inked across her high cheekbones, interwoven in curling vinework.
She is in good shape.
She is wearing a chain-strung brass compass backed in pale linden, an angular hunter green wool robe covered in subtle fern embroidery, a set of braided leather suspenders over a collarless natural linen shirt, a simply woven bracelet of swirling orbs and carved wyrm's-tooth nodules, a cylindrical leather-set vasculum, a pair of copper and tan-woven tweed leggings, and some thigh-high boots crafted from oiled sepia leather.

Aubrige excitedly greets, "Good afternoon everyone! I am Aubrige, one of the founding members of the Rumplesnoots Adventuring Company."

Feriae warmly adds, "And I'm Feriae Enfiel, a botany student as well as one of the caretakers of the Royal Arboretum."

Rumplesnoots lets out a cheer!

Feriae says, "Although Aubrige was adamant that I contribute to the presentation, it was through her research and her extensive observational skills that we are able to unveil such a discovery."

Missoni mouths, "Discovery?"

Aubrige proudly says, "Observing is what we do best at the Rumplesnoots' Adventuring Company."

Rumplesnoots squeakily says, "Ands running."

Aubrige laughingly exclaims, "We run *so* fast!"

Rumplesnoots adopts an agreeable expression.

Feriae agrees, "And with the influx of scholars, merchants, and visitors to the Shining City, we've introduced a variety of plants to the research facilities of the Royal Arboretum to better understand the conditions, both physical and magical, needed to allow said specimens to thrive."

Feriae says, "From the mineral compositions of the soil to the exact sourcing of the water that nourishes the sapling, one of our particular focuses at the Arboretum is to embrace the minutiae of the plant life cycle, and the nuances that create the variations of well-established biological species across the continent."

Feriae adds, "Some say boring, we say tell us more."

Aubrige gazes thoughtfully at her set of notecards.

Aubrige says, "Similiar to the adaptations in flora, pollinators of the insect variety, such as wasps, ants, and beetles evolve in order to survive changes to climate, food sources, and locations."

Speaking to Rumplesnoots, Aubrige murmurs, "I sound so smart when I read it, right?"

Aubrige says, "Our particular focus for this afternoon is the solitude bee, a species of pollinator living independently, unlike their social cousins the honey bees and bumblebees. Solitude bees certainly live up to their moniker. They exude a gentle demeanor, working alone, building a single nest in an isolated, yet protected bower or cliff."

Aubrige says, "My obvious emphasis being that this particular species lived alone, worked alone, and thrived alone."

Tikba nods encouragingly at Aubrige.

Aubrige mouths, "Alone."

Rohese pouts.

Feriae says, "Which then leads us to our recent discovery."

Feriae says, "Botanical acquisitions from the T'Kirem Bear Clan and the researchers located at Nielira Harbor, both locales placed hundreds of miles away from one another along the Eastern Seaboard, share similar conditional markers for growth: drier summers closer to the coastline, while the hardier varieties closer to the Dragonspine require heavier rainfall in the previous seasons to account for potential snow."

Missoni looks thoughtfully at Feriae.

Feriae says, "I'll spare the particulars for now, but it is fascinating how the simple changes in soil composition or even the waste products of the particular variety of bird in the quantities amassed alongside the... anyway."

Aubrige says, "These newly acquired seeds and saplings harbored small stowaways: specifically varieties of the solitude bee which we have labeled the uhl-claw bee and the nythien bee in tribute to the unique variations of their colors due to places of origin."

Rohese softly mouths, "Nythien."

Aubrige says, "T'kirem Clan Uhl-claw bees are most often found in earthen tones, the greens and greys blending into the sepias and bistres of the woodland foliage surrounding them."

Aubrige says, "Their cocoons are typically crafted from layers of squash blossoms and dotted with gooseberry blossoms; the framework occasionally wrapped meticulously by a flexible pine needle."

Aubrige flips to her next notecard.

Aubrige continues, "Nalfein Nythien bees, on the other hand, are colored ever-so-slightly different than their uhl-claw bee cousins; their abdomens tinted in darker jewel tones often found in varieties of taerethil."

Aubrige says, "Their cocoons are crafted from layers of ebony-tinted taerethil and naefira, the framework occasionally reinforced by bits of resaeun bark."

Aubrige excitedly exclaims, "And now that you understand the differences, the fantastical part is that we've discovered that these particular solitude bees have begun to cohabitate within the Royal Arboretum!"

Aubrige squeals excitedly alongside Feriae.

Rumplesnoots squeakily exclaims, "Stowaway bees!"

Missoni casually observes her surroundings.

Speaking excitedly to Rumplesnoots, Aubrige exclaims, "Exactly!"

Feriae happily agrees, "A very interesting development, indeed. In fact, you can see some of the more prominent groupings of cocoons by the walkways, though the specimens are still developing in our research facilities and within Veythorne Manor's greenhouses."

The voice of Gilenir says, "They seem to prefer the Arboretum, though we'd like to see if we can coax them towards Veythorne at some point."

Rohese excitedly exclaims, "How wonderful!"

Feriae agrees with Gilenir.

Missoni nods approvingly.

Gilenir says, "They're non-confrontational with other varieties."

Feriae adopts an agreeable expression.

Aubrige excitedly exclaims, "Several varieties of the uhl-claw and nythien bees have been thriving within Botanical Garden, alongside a handful of other garden-friendly insects that we hope shed more light on the ability of pollinators to adapt to sudden shifts in their environments, both physical and magical!"

Rumplesnoots squeakily asks, "Do you gets very close to see their tummies to know which one is which? And how angries do theys get?"

Speaking to Rumplesnoots, Aubrige exclaims, "They are very calm! Like Doubery after a lot of sweets!"

Aubrige put a doodle-covered set of notecards covered in notations in her jade wool frock coat.

Rumplesnoots squeakily says, "Oh, I likes those bees then."

Aubrige removes a wire-handled clear glass jar from in her jade wool frock coat.

Aubrige says, "In fact, I'm sure there's a few right here."

You ask, "Are they of a size with most other bees?"

Rohese glances about with a cheerful expression, her misty grey eyes bright and friendly.

Missoni removes a large rainbow-whorled jar from in her alligator skin case.

Tikba apprehensively asks, "Do these bees sting?"

Speaking to you, Aubrige says, "Just a tad smaller than bumblebees."

Aubrige looks over at Tikba and shakes her head.

Missoni murmurs, "I see a lovely moth..."

You withdraw a wire-handled clear glass jar from its secure location within a feather-branded roll of soft hunter green leather.

Missoni exclaims, "Ah!"

Feriae mentions, "There are some other varieties of garden-friendly insects that have joined the solitude bees as well, I suppose they're also here to stay."

Peering through the jar, you notice a fuzzy smoke blue nythien bee in this area. If you would like to capture its likeness, then please SHAKE the jar in the next 30 seconds.

Feriae notes, "The nythien bees do tend to have the more jewel-toned colorations."

Removing the lid of his obsidian jar, Teveriel easily plucks a matte pine green uhl-claw bee out of it and then seals it back up.

Rumplesnoots squeakily exclaims, "Bugs like plants!"

Shaking the jar over the floor, you watch as ethereal skeins of light solidify within the vessel and slowly transform into a fuzzy smoke blue nythien bee.

Missoni brushes her fingers lightly against her garnet nythien bee.

Removing the lid of your clear glass jar, you easily pluck a fuzzy smoke blue nythien bee out of it and then seal it back up.

Rohese beams happily at Teveriel!

Teveriel comments, "Fascinating indeed."

Missoni whispers aloud, "I expect this is a nythien bee, then."

Etched in minute detail, the crystalline piece is a perfect replica of a fuzzy smoke blue nythien bee and takes up no more than a roughly one-inch spherical space.

Speaking softly to you, Rohese exclaims, "Oh, look at it, it's adorable!"

Speaking to Rohese, you agree, "The blue coloration is quite lovely."

You offer your blue nythien bee to Rohese, who has 30 seconds to accept the offer. Click CANCEL to prematurely cancel the offer.

Rohese nods in agreement to you.

Rohese beams at you, her eyes filled with delight!

Rohese has accepted your offer and is now holding a fuzzy smoke blue nythien bee.

Riend offers Lissaya an ebon-banded garnet nythien bee.

Speaking softly to her blue nythien bee, Rohese purrs, "Aren't you just the cutest."

Speaking to Rumplesnoots, Feriae asks, "We've acquired quite a variety of foliage as the researchers have sent their samples, might we send you lot out to study the insects we find for comparisons?"

Lissaya offers Riend an ebon-banded garnet nythien bee.

Rumplesnoots squeakily exclaims, "Ooh a hunts? Yes!"

Rumplesnoots squeakily asks, "It is whats we do, rights, Aubrige?"

Removing the lid of his obsidian jar, Teveriel easily plucks a saffron and bistre uhl-claw bee out of it and then seals it back up.

Speaking squeakily to Feriae, Rumplesnoots says, "We meets for tarts one days and discuss."

Speaking happily to Rumplesnoots, Aubrige exclaims, "I'm supposed to be back at the Library next week to start digging through those dusty crates again!"

Missoni tilts her head down.

Aubrige suddenly asks, "Oh, were there any questions about the solitude bees?"

Feriae laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.

Speaking squeakily to Feriae, Rumplesnoots says, "You sidestracked her with adventure thoughts."

Rumplesnoots nods.

Teveriel approvingly says, "This one's coloration is beautiful."

Speaking to Rumplesnoots, Feriae admits, "I did have those intentions, yes."

Speaking squeakily to Feriae, Rumplesnoots exclaims, "We have expandeds into birds too!"

Speaking to Rumplesnoots, Feriae exclaims, "Oh, that's wonderful!"

Speaking softly to Rumplesnoots, Rohese says, "My, you are keeping busy."

Teveriel quietly jests, "Like bees."

Speaking to Rumplesnoots, Feriae says, "We have a number of fledgling ornithologists, I'm sure they'd love to join your Company."

Rumplesnoots squeakily says, "I needs to get better at climbing trees though."

You thoughtfully say, "A compendium of Elanthian birds would be a wonderful addition to the library, someday."

Missoni agrees with you.

Aubrige nods enthusiastically to you!

Missoni raises her hand.

Speaking squeakily to you, Rumplesnoots says, "We cans supply the feathers."

Speaking softly to Rumplesnoots, Rohese says, "Time to start writing a book."

Aubriella giggles at Rohese.

Missoni asks, "Aside from the difference is coloration, have you noticed much difference in the behavior of the bees? Or have their similar environments cause them to act similarly?"

Speaking softly to Aubrige, Rohese says, "I suspect you'll be the one ending up writing it though."

Aubrige exclaims, "Oh, I can answer that one!"

Missoni carefully says, "Differences in coloration."

Speaking to Missoni, Aubrige says, "They still continue to gather individually, the other noted difference for now is that their cocoons seem to be in closer proximity."

Missoni nods thoughtfully at Aubrige.

Aubrige says, "Whereas the ones we've noted in Nielira are at least several yards, if not miles, apart."

Rumplesnoots squeakily says, "That is too alone."

Speaking to Missoni, Feriae says, "But we will be continuing to make observations and see if they begin to pollinate the same sources as well."

You murmur, "Well-named, then."

Speaking to Aubrige, Missoni says, "I suppose given the close quarters here, they had to adjust."

Aubrige nods in agreement at Missoni.

Feriae says, "They do seem to be a delightful addition to the Arboretum."

Oirisu just came through an arched duo of stained glass doors leading to the walkway.

Rohese softly says, "I am looking forward to examining them more closely."

Oirisu delightedly says, "Oh, good, you're all still here."

Speaking to Gilenir, Oirisu asks, "Did you want to say anything before?"

Gilenir formally says, "Thank you all for attending our Botanical Symposium, I truly hope this ushers in more uh... discussions in the future between us."