Search for the Truth (short story)

This is a creative work set in the world of Elanthia, attributed to its original author(s). It does not necessarily represent the official lore of GemStone IV.

Title: Search for the Truth

Author: Rohese Bayvel-Timsh'l

First published on the 9th day of Olaesta in the year 5120

Following on from Eternal Knowledge, this journal is a repository of vignettes including insights into Rohese's continued story and her search for the truth about her family and, in particular, the mysteries of the Codex Ista.

Prologue

Extract from Rohese's diary, entry dated the first day in the month of Lormesta in the year 5120.

I am standing at a crossroads.  

I could choose to ignore everything that has happened to me over the past year and continue with the mundane rituals of my life - rising at dawn and humbly carrying out my duties and responsibilities until the sun sets, only to repeat it all again the next day - but taking the easy road back means I remain this Rohese forever.  

To either side of me are enticing alternatives or slight deviations where little is fundamentally different in my life but there are opportunities for growth; where I remain a widow and fully embrace a spiritual existence.

Or ... I take a step forward and then another, into the unknown.  I choose to love again and, with Aendir's strength and guidance, I search for the truth about my heritage.

Glowbark

Rohese's great-great grandmother on her father's side was of Veythorne descent. It made perfect sense that she should start her search for the truth in the grounds of the nearby family estate, and, more specifically, at the glowbark tree where her ashes had been scattered.

Rohese had recently spent a few weeks at her grandfather's house learning all there was to know about this remarkable lady. Born in 2956, Rahese Versillian (nee Veythorne) rose to become a respected Loremaster with a reputation for her rather forthright opinions on questionable study practices. Her own field of research focused predominantly on the Elanthian Moons and her only published work entitled "Where Sacred Beauty meets Divine Power" became standard text for many young academics and students of selenology. At the height of her career, Rahese served as an advisor to the Ta'Illistim royal court before stepping down to give birth to her daughter, Miramie, in the year 3464. Little is written about her after that and Rohese had to rely on household accounts to determine the date of her death and manner of her subsequent burial rite.

Whilst Rahese chose not to have a memorial tree planted in her honor, she nonetheless wished to have her memories preserved by binding herself to the familial glowbark tree and Rohese was eager to find out more from this potential source of information. She felt that Rahese held the key to learning more about the effaced writing in her grandmother's book and the peculiar text that manifested itself beneath her own skin from time-to-time; not to mention the puzzling lines of ink that permanently marked her spine.

The Lady Elaejia Silithyr had kindly agreed to be her companion and assist in the matter as she was familiar with the spiritual link between elves and trees. The intention was to commune with the glowbark in an attempt to glean some knowledge about the original source of the book and its mysteries.

A secret hope of Rohese's was that this would also enable them to form a better bond, given that she was the cousin to her own beloved Aendir. Rohese felt that she had not made a very good impression on Elaejia at the outset so was eager to rectify that as soon as possible.

I must remember not to be too effusive!

Rohese murmured this mantra to herself as she headed towards the Green in the hopes of finding Elaejia that afternoon.

The Glowbark Tree

[Ta'Illistim Green]
At the southern end of the green, the expanse of carefully manicured lawn is broken up by a low pool, set flush to the ground and surrounded with a ring of cut stone socles.  Beyond the statuary, the grass continues until hitting a low silver fence.  You also see some cushioned benches and a sterling silver serving cart with some stuff on it.

Elaejia gives a short little hum of surprise.
You glance up.
Elaejia smiles at you.
You feel your face lighten as a smile spreads across your face, the thick fabric of your lamb's wool cowl hiding the majority of the expression, though it can do nothing for your eyes.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "This is a nice surprise."

You see Lady Elaejia Silithyr Loenthra the Aristocrat.
She appears to be an Elf.
She is moderately tall.  She appears to have come of age.  She has subtly tilted cobalt-violet eyes and rose-tinted fair skin.  She has very long, silky caramel-brushed blonde hair with thick side-swept bangs.  She has a thin-boned, gracefully angular countenance, tapering to a softly pointed chin.
She is in good shape.
She is holding a gilt-spined saffron leather volume in her right hand.
She is wearing a high-collared ruched cream partlet ringed by a prismatic rose-gold fire agate medallion choker, a small abstract silver pendant, a pleated dark leather bookbag with a braided silk shoulder strap slung over her shoulder, a pauldroned dark grey suede corset with a rolled half-collar over some graduated leather banded armor, a filmy rose taupe chiffon blouse, a warm cherrywood bangle inlaid with amber bands, a gilt-inlay ebony signet band, a distressed suede specimen kit bound in mithril mesh, a heavy black silk blade harness, and some mottled grey wool leggings striped with thin pieces of leather under some slouched black leather boots set on narrow dark cherry heels.

Speaking pleasantly in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "Lady Rohese, indeed."
You close a pavonated leather-bound book.
You place your hand on your leather-bound book.
Elaejia laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.
Elaejia glances at a gilt-spined saffron leather volume in her hand.
Speaking in Elven, you softly ask, "Join me in some tea?"
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "We both came out to read this afternoon, I see."
You laugh softly, trying to hide your amusement.
You nod.
Elaejia put a gilt-spined saffron leather volume in her dark leather bookbag.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "It's a lovely afternoon for it."
You lightly pat the cushioned benches.
Elaejia smiles.
Elaejia sits down next to you.
You put a pavonated leather-bound book in your white suede satchel.
You draw the hood of your cowl off of your head, you loosen the toggles at your neckline, and pull the piece free.
You let out a sigh of relief.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia wryly notes, "Perhaps another drink, though."
Speaking hesitantly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I haven't seen you since the gathering at the Villa."
Elaejia holds her breath.
You bite your lip.
Elaejia glances away.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "Right."
You clear your throat.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you ask, "I hope you and the family are keeping well?"
You incline your head.
Speaking frankly in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "First allow me to apologize for my behaviour then, lady Rohese."
Elaejia shakes her head.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you assure, "You have nothing to apologise for."
You look at Elaejia and shake your head.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "I know it must have been uncomfortable for you, I regret that."
Speaking understandingly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I know how much you care for your brother."
Elaejia takes a deep breath.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia admits, "I am too quick to anger."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you counter, "You're just protecting your family."
You nod understandingly at Elaejia.
Speaking tentatively in Elven to Elaejia, you reassure, "I know Daevian well though and I know he wouldn't wish any harm to come to Jossarian."
You smile at Elaejia.
Elaejia smiles faintly.
Speaking in Elven, you hastily say, "But it's none of my business."
You bite your lip.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia wryly says, "So he keeps reiterating."
Elaejia makes a flicking motion with her hand.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia carefully says, "I have spoken to him, since then.  We have reached an... Accord."
You let out a sigh of relief.
Speaking sincerely in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I'm glad, he is a good soul and I would hate to see him cause a rift."
Elaejia looks thoughtfully at you.
You smile at Elaejia.
You take a tiny sip of your porcelain tea cup, warming your lips and making sure it isn't too hot to drink.
Speaking concernedly in Elven to Elaejia, you ask, "How is Jossarian?"
Elaejia closes her eyes for a moment.
You bite your lip.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia murmurs, "Master Corwyth indicates he is troubled," she pauses, glancing away, "I have not spoken to him, yet."
You incline your head.
You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia adds, "I will, when he is ready."
Speaking politely in Elven to Elaejia, you offer, "If there is anything I can to help, please do not hesitate to ask."
Elaejia inclines her head.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "It is kind of you to offer, but I hesitate to put you in such a position again."
You smile at Elaejia.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "You know where to find me."
You wrinkle your nose.
Elaejia smiles.
Speaking tentatively in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "But I'm glad that I've caught you, there is another matter I wish to discuss with you."
You glance around the area.
Elaejia gazes with interest at you.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you continue, "It's been some time but do you recall my rather hasty note a few weeks ago?"
Elaejia looks around for something.
Elaejia nods briefly to you.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you explain, "I believe I know where I can start looking for some answers."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you add, "If you are still willing to help me?"
You bite your lip.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia recalls, "It was in the gardens at Veythorne, I believe you indicated?"
You nod eagerly.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you elaborate, "I was working on my genealogy and it occurred to me that my great-great grandmother was of the Veythorne line."
Elaejia nods to you.
Speaking thoughtfully mystical in Elven to you, Elaejia asks, "Do you know what sort of questions you might have?"
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I have been led to believe that her ashes were scattered in the garden so I thought we might take a look."
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "I think so."
You nod at Elaejia.
Elaejia smiles.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "I am of course still willing to assist in whatever way I can."
You beam happily at Elaejia!
Speaking relievedly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Thank you."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you admit, "I have no idea how to reach out to her but if you can help, I would be so grateful."
You bite your lip.
Elaejia nods slowly.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia asks, "And you believe she may have bound herself to a tree?"
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "I do."
You nod at Elaejia.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "From what I can gather from family journals, Rahese asked for her ashes to be scattered around the tree."
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "That would make sense, particularly if they were closely bound."
Elaejia nods to you.
You nod in agreement at Elaejia.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "That bodes well, for learning something of use."
You smile at Elaejia.
Elaejia smiles at you.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia asks, "Have you considered what offering we may bring?"
Speaking hopefully in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Even if it gives us an idea where else to look."
Get what?
You tap a flask of pure water, which is in your right hand.
Elaejia nods approvingly.
Speaking in Elven, you softly ask, "Would this be acceptable, do you think?"
You let out a sigh of relief.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia amusedly says, "I cannot think of a plant that would be displeased with water."
You put a flask of pure water in your lamb's wool robes.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I thought so too."
You wrinkle your nose.
Elaejia tilts her head up.
Speaking sheepishly in Elven to Elaejia, you inquire, "Do I need to do anything to prepare?"
You bite your lip.
Elaejia shakes her head.
You nod faintly.
Speaking appreciatively in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Thank you so much for agreeing to help me with this."
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "Not really, the spirits of trees are not overly concerned such trifles."
You nod understandingly at Elaejia.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "And if we are on the right track, it will recognize you as her line, and be more open to you in any event."
You let out a long, contemplative breath.
You glance around the area.
You gaze thoughtfully at your signet ring.
Speaking quietly in Elven to you, Elaejia asks, "Are you nervous?"
You nod slightly.
You giggle softly.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I'm afraid of what I might learn."
You bite your lip.
Elaejia cocks her head.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia asks, "Why is that?"
Speaking anxiously in Elven to Elaejia, you ask, "What if my family has a scandal or secret that we never knew about?"
You wrinkle your nose.
Elaejia blinks.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia assures, "I cannot imagine that will be the case, lady Rohese."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you confide, "But I'm more concerned that I will be a disappointment to them."
You slowly and deliberately empty your filled lungs.
You glance away.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "Your grandmother literally wrote the book on how to avoid scandal."
You close your eyes for a moment.
You giggle softly at Elaejia.
Speaking relievedly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Very true."
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "I am equally sure your accomplishments thus far speak for themselves."
Speaking carefully in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "You should be sure, though, that you wish to proceed."
Speaking decisively in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I am.  I need to know what my legacy is."
Elaejia smiles.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "And I need to know it's not sinister in nature."
Elaejia nods understandingly.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "Removing the weight from your mind will be a boon to your path, I am sure."
Speaking in Elven, you softly agree, "It's the not knowing that worries me so much."
Speaking cryptically in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "You've seen the ..."
You glance around the area.
Elaejia nods understandingly.
You quietly whisper to Elaejia, "... markings on my back."
You clear your throat.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia murmurs, "I would be alarmed as well, I understand."
You smile at Elaejia.
You let out a long, contemplative breath.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I can't tell you how much better I feel for having shared it with you and Akenna though."
Speaking relievedly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "It was a load off my mind."
Elaejia bites her lip.
You wrinkle your nose.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia asks, "Indeed?"
Elaejia furtively glances at you.
Speaking hesitantly in Elven to you, Elaejia murmurs, "I have always found that quite difficult."
(Rohese tentatively reaches out to take Elaejia's hand but withdraws at the last moment.)
You nod faintly.
Elaejia takes a deep breath.
(Elaejia takes your hand.)
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you confide, "Whilst I have many acquaintances, I have few close friends that I can share such things with."
You let out a sigh of relief.
Elaejia smiles a bit awkwardly, fidgeting slightly.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia agrees, "On that we are similar."
(Rohese squeezes Elaejia's hand in her own, resting her other hand over the top in a gesture of sharing a confidence.)
You smile at Elaejia.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia quietly says, "I am honored to be counted among that few, lady Rohese."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "And I am honoured that you have accepted me into your family, Lady Elaejia."
Speaking in Elven, you lightly say, "But please, it's just Rohese."
You wrinkle your nose.
Elaejia chuckles to herself.
Elaejia nods in agreement.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia briskly says, "If you are ready, however, we should proceed before night falls."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "There, now we are truly friends."
Elaejia tilts her head up.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "Let's."
You nod.
You let out a long, contemplative breath.
You stand back up.
Elaejia stands up.
You smile at Elaejia.
Elaejia takes a deep breath.
Elaejia nods.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I shall be guided by you."
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia amusedly says, "Luckily I have learned my way around this city."
You giggle softly.
Elaejia steps through the gate, passing under its arch in the direction of the United Bank of City-States.
You step through the gate, passing under its arch and arriving at the steps of the United Bank of City-States.

TRAVELLING TO VEYTHORE MANOR

Lady Elaejia just slipped quietly down a tree-lined pathway, with her group following closely.

WANDERING THE GARDENS

Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "This garden is truly a jewel."
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "It's such a joy to wander."

[Veythorne Manor, Gardens]
Thin vines of flaeshorn curl around the gates to the west, their golden berries plump and lustrous.  An ancient sycamore tree spreads its massive limbs up toward the sky, dipping and bending into comfortable crooks before tapering out into thin leaf-strung branches.  The massive, curving roots of the sycamore arc over tiny streams that circle its base, the meandering path of the water tracing interwoven patterns along the moss-ridden ground.
Also here: Lady Elaejia

A spiny dark green leaf lazily drifts in on a soft breeze and settles to the ground.
You pick up a spiny dark green leaf.

Elaejia smiles.
You give your eyebrow a little workout.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia murmurs, "Perhaps they were expecting you..."
Speaking in Elven, you cautiously say, "I'm wondering if it's a sign."
You nod slowly.
You gaze thoughtfully at your dark green leaf.
Elaejia gazes thoughtfully at an ancient sycamore tree.
You gaze thoughtfully at an ancient sycamore tree.

The sycamore tree appears quite old -- its bark covered with clusters of deep green moss and its spindly limbs ascending towards the heavens.  Its massive branches curl around one another to form a plethora of cozy crooks, and its deep green foliage shivers briefly as the wind passes by.

You brush your fingers lightly against your dark green leaf.
You glance at an ancient sycamore tree.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "It is a good sign.  They are open to you already."
You agree with Elaejia.
Speaking in Elven, you distantly say, "I will keep it safe."

Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia explains, "Their spirits are in conversation all the time."
You smile at Elaejia.
You glance between Elaejia and an ancient sycamore tree.
Speaking curiously in Elven to Elaejia, you ask, "They are connected?"
Elaejia nods to you.
Speaking softly in Elven to an ancient sycamore tree, you say, "We will return."
You reach out and touch an ancient sycamore tree.
Closing her eyes, Elaejia lowers her forehead to an ancient sycamore tree in a reverent gesture.

MOVING ON

[Veythorne Manor, The Glowbark]
Deep shadows grip the area in perpetual night, not even a pinpoint of light winking through the velvety shroud of darkness that shifts restlessly overhead.  An ancient glowbark tree towers over the surroundings -- an ethereal radiance rhythmically pulsing outward from the deep furrows in its bark.  Sirenflowers grow along the edges of the streams trickling beneath the massive roots of the tree, sending forth eerie cries that flow into one another to form a slow, sad melody that hangs over the area like a fog.
Also here: Lady Elaejia

Speaking in Elven, you wistfully confide, "This is where my husband proposed to me."
You gaze wistfully at an ancient glowbark tree.
Elaejia gives a short little hum of surprise.

A chill draft of wind whistles by, evoking a cascade of soft, somber wails from the sirenflowers growing upon the ground.

You brush your fingers lightly against a vivid multi-hued sirenflower.
(Rohese approaches the glowbark tree slowly, her steps faltering as a pulse of phosphorescence illuminates the bark for a moment.)
You gasp.

Tiny orbs of rainbow-hued light swirl among the leaves of the tree, sending forth ethereal cries of beauty before they hide amongst its leaves once more.

Speaking quietly in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "You have many connections here, another auspicious situation."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you ask, "Did you see that?"
You nod slowly.
Elaejia nods slowly to you.

The sirenflowers whisper in soft, echoing tones to one another before rising into their eerie ballad once more.

You glance up.
You smile quietly to yourself.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "Please find a place and center yourself for a moment, Rohese."
You nod faintly at Elaejia.
You glance around the area.

The glow from the tree pulses slightly, sending forth shimmering waves of incandescence across the surroundings.

You close your eyes for a moment.
You let out a long, contemplative breath.
Speaking in Elven, you quietly murmur, "The lights are so pretty."
You glance up.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia softly agrees, "They are."

The ghostly blue leaves of the glowbark tree shiver briefly.

Speaking in Elven, you distantly add, "Almost hypnotic."
You gaze in wonder at an ancient glowbark tree.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "They are attuned to you, I think."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I do feel at peace here."
You nod at Elaejia.

The ghostly blue leaves of the glowbark tree shiver briefly.

Elaejia nods approvingly.
Elaejia grabs a wavy-bladed ritual dagger of black stone and bone from inside her leather ritual satchel.
You give your eyebrow a little workout.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia assures, "A tool, only.  Not a weapon."

The glow from the tree pulses slightly, sending forth shimmering waves of incandescence across the surroundings.

You let out a sigh of relief.
Elaejia chuckles to herself.
Elaejia leans forward.
Speaking nervously in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I would hate for anyone to get hurt."
Elaejia drags her ritual dagger through the dirt, creating a large ritual circle.
You glance down.
You gaze thoughtfully at a large ritual circle drawn in the dirt.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "They do not require such low methods."
You smile.

The ghostly blue leaves of the glowbark tree shiver briefly.

Elaejia grabs a vaalin-rimmed glass bottle containing pieces of golden amber from inside her leather ritual satchel.
Elaejia gives her bottle a hard shake, causing a piece of golden amber to fall into her hand.
Elaejia tosses a vaalin-rimmed glass bottle containing pieces of golden amber inside her leather ritual satchel.
Elaejia carefully places a piece of golden amber on the ground.
You glance down.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you remark, "Such a pretty stone."
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia explains, "Amber originates with them."
You nod understandingly.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia continues, "Both of us must bring an offering, and that is mine.. The return of something that is theirs."

The ghostly blue leaves of the glowbark tree shiver briefly.

You remove a flask of pure water from in your lamb's wool robes.
Speaking in Elven, you tentatively inquire, "Should I pour this now?"
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia quietly agrees, "Kneel in the circle and introduce yourself."
Elaejia nods to you.
You nod.
Carefully stepping over the dirt, you enter a large ritual circle drawn in the dirt and kneel down, head bowed, eyes downcast.

The glow from the tree pulses slightly, sending forth shimmering waves of incandescence across the surroundings.

Speaking reverently in Elven to an ancient glowbark tree, you say, "My name is Rohese Bayvel.  Please consider me to be a friend."

Tiny orbs of rainbow-hued light swirl among the leaves of the tree, sending forth ethereal cries of beauty before they hide amongst its leaves once more.

Elaejia takes a few steps back.
Speaking softly in Elven to an ancient glowbark tree, you continue, "I bring you life."
Elaejia inclines her head.
(Rohese passes her hand over the pure water murmuring a prayer of blessing to the elements.)
You pour the contents of your pure water on the tree.  The clear liquid quickly evaporates.
That was the last drop.

A chill draft of wind whistles by, evoking a cascade of soft, somber wails from the sirenflowers growing upon the ground.

The ghostly blue leaves of the glowbark tree shiver briefly.

(Rohese reaches out to tentatively place her hand against the trunk of the glowbark tree.  As if in response to her touch, a flare of spectral light blinds her for a moment and she retracts her hand with a start.)
You gasp.
Elaejia nods encouragingly to you.
Speaking in Elven, you anxiously ask, "Too soon?"
You bite your lip.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia quietly says, "I do not think so.  It is in the nature of the glowbark to shine."
You smile.
(Rohese hesitates for a moment before replacing her hand on the glowbark tree with a little more determination.  The slightest pressure of her palm causes pale blue phosphorescence to seep out between her fingers and bathe her skin.)

Tiny orbs of rainbow-hued light swirl among the leaves of the tree, sending forth ethereal cries of beauty before they hide amongst its leaves once more.

You close your eyes for a moment.
Elaejia kneels down.

The ghostly blue leaves of the glowbark tree shiver briefly.

(Elaejia leans forward with a bowed head, murmuring under her breath.  She places her palms flat on the ground, infusing mana into the earth around the roots of the glowbark.)
You glance nervously at Elaejia.
Speaking quietly in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "The spirit recognizes you, that is certain."
Your face lights up with joy.

The glow from the tree pulses slightly, sending forth shimmering waves of incandescence across the surroundings.

Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you ask, "That's good, yes?"

The dirt at the edges of the ritual circle shifts slightly, the overall shape becoming a little less distinct.

Elaejia nods once to you.
You let out a sigh of relief.
You gaze fondly at an ancient glowbark tree.

The glow from the tree pulses slightly, sending forth shimmering waves of incandescence across the surroundings.

Speaking quietly in Elven to you, Elaejia reminds, "Remember now.. This is a tree's spirit.  Your inquiry may be puzzling to it."
You nod understandingly at Elaejia.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "But the many connections you have here are all in our favor."
Speaking quietly in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "When you feel you are ready, make your entreaty."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I've always wondered why I felt drawn to this place."
You nod slowly.
You turn to face an ancient glowbark tree.
(Elaejia places her palms down once again, channeling another offering of mana into the earth with quiet murmurings.)

The dirt at the edges of the ritual circle shifts slightly, the overall shape becoming a little less distinct.

(Rohese rests her hands on the soil at the base of the glowbark tree.  Closing her eyes, she murmurs a blessing under her breath before sitting back on her heels to raise her eyes to the tantalising glimpses of sky overhead.)
The glow from the tree pulses slightly, sending forth shimmering waves of incandescence across the surroundings.

Elaejia gazes with interest at you.
Speaking reverently in Elven to an ancient glowbark tree, you say, "Much has happened to me over the last year.  I am hoping to find answers about the strange things happening to me."

A few ghostly blue leaves slowly sink to the ground from the huge bough of the glowbark tree, their pale light resembling wisps of gossamer in the darkness.

You glance down.
You pick up a radiant ghostly blue leaf.
You glance at Elaejia.
You smile quietly to yourself.
Elaejia slowly empties her lungs.
Speaking excitedly in Elven to Elaejia, you ask, "This is a good sign, yes?"
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia breathes, "The bond between this spirit and your line must be remarkable, Rohese."
An arctic fox pads in.
You glance at an arctic fox.
The arctic fox paws at the ground.
Elaejia looks thoughtfully at an arctic fox.
The arctic fox sits down.
The dirt on the ground shifts significantly, the ritual circle completely losing its distinct shape and effectively disappearing.
You incline your head.

The fox appears to be a magnificent specimen of his kind.  A barely perceptible aura encompasses him and a distinct look of intelligence fills his glittering eyes.
He is carrying a smooth flat pebble with an off-center hole.

Speaking in Elven, you curiously ask, "Is he with you?"
The arctic fox roots around the room.
The arctic fox barks.
You ponder the meaning of an arctic fox's existence.
The arctic fox drops a smooth flat pebble with an off-center hole.
You bite your lip.
Elaejia gazes with interest at an arctic fox.
The arctic fox paws at the ground.
You nod slowly.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia murmurs, "It seems he is."
You pick up a smooth flat pebble with an off-center hole.

(OOC) Elaejia's player whispers to the group, "The moment your hand touches the stone, you get a flash of a vision."

Speaking in Elven, you softly ask, "What an odd looking thing?"
You incline your head.
(OOC) Elaejia's player whispers to the group, "Ink appearing on skin, similar to your own, not quite identical."

(OOC) Elaejia's player whispers to the group, "And a carved wooden pendant with the image of a dogwood blossom."

You close your eyes for a moment.
Elaejia takes a moment to observe you.
Elaejia gives a sidelong glance at an arctic fox.
Speaking excitedly in Elven to Elaejia, you exclaim, "A vision!"
You ponder the meaning of an arctic fox's existence.
The arctic fox barks.
The arctic fox stands up.
The arctic fox pads off.
Elaejia slowly empties her lungs.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you elaborate, "I saw ink appearing on skin but it wasn't mine."
You shake your head.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you add, "And a carved wooden pendant with a blossom on it."
You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.
You gaze thoughtfully at your flat pebble.
You glance at an ancient glowbark tree.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "The connection is quite remarkable, Rohese."
Elaejia shakes her head, totally at a loss.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "I was confident we would learn something, but ..."
You slowly and deliberately empty your filled lungs.
(Rohese reaches out to touch the glowbark tree again, allowing its blue auric field to envelop her.  A gentle breeze stirs her hair, causing it to shimmer with an ethereal light.  The faint text beneath the skin on the back of her hand rises to the surface, the words, "seek" and "find" becoming legible for a moment before fading away.)
Elaejia gazes in wonder at you.
You glance down.
Speaking appreciatively in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I think we have a lot to think about."
Elaejia nods slowly to you.
You smile at Elaejia.
Speaking gratefully in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Thank you so much."
You gaze thoughtfully at your flat pebble.

Worn smooth by water erosion, the pale grey pebble sits comfortably in the palm of the hand.  Roughly ovoid in shape, it features a small natural hole near the edge that allows the user to peer through.

Speaking wryly in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "I cannot be certain I was needed-- the spirit was waiting for you, I think."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you exclaim, "Not at all, I wouldn't have known where to start without you!"
Elaejia smiles.
Elaejia stands up.
Closing her eyes, Elaejia lowers her forehead to an ancient glowbark tree in a reverent gesture.
You turn to face an ancient glowbark tree.
Speaking in Elven to an ancient glowbark tree, Elaejia murmurs, "We are grateful for the energy you expended this day."
Speaking wistfully in Elven to an ancient glowbark tree, you say, "Thank you."
You brush your fingers lightly against an ancient glowbark tree.
You nod.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I need to try and identify the blossom I saw on the pendant."
Speaking curiously in Elven to you, Elaejia asks, "Could you make out any detail about it, or the ink?"
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "Tapered and with a pink tinge."
You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.
Speaking in Elven, you frustratedly say, "I've seen it before, I know I have."
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "It will come to you, I am sure... perhaps try sketching it."
Elaejia nods to you.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "That's a good idea, I'll do that when I get home and send it to you."
You nod appreciatively at Elaejia.
Elaejia slowly empties her lungs.
You gaze thoughtfully at your flat pebble.
Speaking softly in Elven to your flat pebble, you ask, "And what are you all about?"
You turn your flat pebble over and over in your hands.
Speaking carefully in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "To be presented with a gift... I am not certain what to make of it."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I've seen pebbles like these at my grandfather's house."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I will write to him and ask."
You smile at Elaejia.

A pale yellow sunset closes out the cold day.

Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "Whether it comes from your kin, or from the spirit itself is the first thing that comes to mind for me."
You nod understandingly at Elaejia.
You glance up.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "You were right to make the most of the daylight."
You smile at Elaejia.
Elaejia chuckles to herself.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "They sleep in the evenings as well."
You smile quietly to yourself.

The ghostly blue leaves of the glowbark tree shiver briefly.

Speaking gratefully in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Thank you again for your assistance today."
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "I will see about finding more information on this development as well."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Let's meet again soon."

The ghostly blue leaves of the glowbark tree shiver briefly.
Elaejia nods in agreement to you.
You kiss Elaejia on the cheek.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "Good night, Rohese."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Forgive me but I had to."
Speaking in Elven, you fondly say, "Good night, Elaejia."
Elaejia smiles awkwardly.
Elaejia nods understandingly.
You reach out and touch an ancient glowbark tree.
You sigh wistfully.
(Elaejia slips away quietly.)
You rub the surface of your flat pebble, taking solace in its simple design.

Sycamore

Cradling the spiny dark green leaf in her hand, Rohese was reminded of her recent walk in the Veythorne Manor Gardens with the Lady Elaejia Silithyr. Their aim had been to commune with the ancient glowbark tree but, on route, this leaf had fluttered to the ground at their feet. Rohese was not generally superstitious but the leaf did seem to be a portent of some kind and it had played on her mind since.

The vision she had received that same day – of a carved wooden pendant with the image of a dogwood blossom – had resulted in her visiting her grandfather again to seek further answers. If anything, her time spent with him had generated more questions but she had returned home with a pale pink leaf pendant that had once belonged to her grandmother; and her great-grandmother, Miramie, before her.

Miramie was the daughter of Jhonuil and Rahese Versillian, born in 3464 and especially loved by both her parents. She was particularly close to her father and he had never truly recovered from her untimely death at the tender age of 347. Knowing that his only child was dying, Jhonuil had helped her to select a seedpod for a memorial tree and subsequently bind herself to it. He dutifully planted the seedpod in the grounds of the Veythorne Manor on the day of her death in 3811. At the same time, he ensured that both he and Rahese had made arrangements for their own memorials so that – in death - they would be reunited with their beloved daughter.

Jhonuil only outlived his wife, Rahese, by a year but in that time he had arranged for her ashes to be scattered around the glowbark tree and, in turn, bonded with a sycamore seed that he duly planted in the same garden shortly before his own death; a sturdy tree had grown over the years laden with deep green foliage.

Unbeknownst to Rohese, the leaf she was now holding was of that same tree and, today, she planned to pay it a visit to see what she could learn from it.

The Sycamore Tree

[Ta'Illistim, Weyr Var]
Curving off from the main var is a tree-lined pathway, which leads to an ornate ivory gate.  The dogwoods at the corners of the intersection of var and path are in flower with large white blossoms, which stick out from the spindly branches, growing in such profusion that they nearly obscure them altogether.

Lady Elaejia just arrived.
You smile.
Elaejia takes a deep breath.
Speaking curiously to you, Elaejia says, "You opted for privacy."
You nod.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "I did."
You bite your lip.
Speaking tentatively in Elven to Elaejia, you explain, "There is another matter I would like to discuss with you alone so I thought it best."
You glance nervously at Elaejia.
Elaejia closes her eyes for a moment.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "But first, let's find the tree."
You smile.
Elaejia nods once.

WANDERING THE GARDENS

[Veythorne Manor, Gardens]
Thin vines of flaeshorn curl around the gates to the west, their golden berries plump and lustrous.  An ancient sycamore tree spreads its massive limbs up toward the sky, dipping and bending into comfortable crooks before tapering out into thin leaf-strung branches.  The massive, curving roots of the sycamore arc over tiny streams that circle its base, the meandering path of the water tracing interwoven patterns along the moss-ridden ground.  You also see a spiny dark green leaf.

The sycamore tree appears quite old -- its bark covered with clusters of deep green moss and its spindly limbs ascending towards the heavens.  Its massive branches curl around one another to form a plethora of cozy crooks, and its deep green foliage shivers briefly as the wind passes by.

You gasp.
You pick up a spiny dark green leaf.
You glance at an ancient sycamore tree.
Elaejia chuckles to herself.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "It's as if it was waiting for us."
You rub a spiny dark green leaf in your hand.
You gaze thoughtfully at an ancient sycamore tree.
Elaejia dryly says, "We may even need to render an apology for our tardiness."
You nod in agreement at Elaejia.
Speaking thoughtfully to an ancient sycamore tree, Elaejia says, "They are rarely in such a hurry."
(Rohese eagerly approaches the sycamore tree, her gaze drawn upward to its spindly branches.  Seeing them begin to flay wildly - a flurry of deep green foliage spiralling away into the distance - she hastily retreats, taking a few steps backwards.)
You clasp a hand over your mouth.
Elaejia gives a short little hum of surprise.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you posit, "I think it's unhappy."
You wrinkle your nose.
Elaejia frowns.
Elaejia tilts her head up.
You glance down to see a spiny dark green leaf in your right hand and nothing in your left hand.
Elaejia scans her surroundings with the alertness of a seasoned scout.
You glance warily at an ancient sycamore tree.
Elaejia slowly suggests, "Perhaps it is indeed impatient."
You nod slowly.
Elaejia takes a deep breath.
Speaking softly in Elven to an ancient sycamore tree, you apologize, "I'm sorry."
You gaze thoughtfully at your dark green leaf.
Speaking quietly to you, Elaejia asks, "You are unsettled?"
You nod slightly at Elaejia.
You hang your head.
You bite your lip.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you admit, "A little, I didn't sleep very well last night."
Elaejia reminds, "It is important to be centered, perhaps a brief meditation will help?"
You nod understandingly.
You let out a long, contemplative breath.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "I'll do my best."
You glance around the area.
(Rohese steps onto the mossy ground and slowly lowers herself.)
You kneel down.
You fold your hands in your lap.
You close your eyes for a moment.
You slowly and deliberately empty your filled lungs.
You lower your gaze.
You chant a reverent orison, asking Lumnis for wisdom and guidance.
You take a deep breath.
You slowly and deliberately empty your filled lungs.
Elaejia intertwines her fingers.
(Rohese slowly opens her eyes and raises them to look up at Elaejia standing nearby.)
You stand back up.
You dust off your ivory cotton cotehardie.
Elaejia nods slowly.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you comment, "A little better."
You nod.
You glance uneasily at an ancient sycamore tree.
Elaejia asks, "Now your offering?"
Speaking nervously in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I am ready."
You remove some essence of air from in your steel vasculum.
Elaejia grabs a vaalin-rimmed glass bottle containing pieces of golden amber from inside her leather ritual satchel.
Elaejia gives her bottle a hard shake, causing a piece of golden amber to fall into her hand.
Elaejia tosses a vaalin-rimmed glass bottle containing pieces of golden amber inside her leather ritual satchel.
You gaze thoughtfully at your essence of air.
Elaejia kneels down.
You gaze with interest at an ancient sycamore tree.
You begin to watch Elaejia intently out of the corner of your eyes, while trying not to be too obvious about it.
Elaejia says, "Do not be afraid, we know already that even this spirit seeks an audience."
Elaejia smiles at you.
You smile at Elaejia.
You nod faintly.
(Rohese cups the essence of air in her hands and tries to still her breathing.)
Elaejia rubs a piece of golden amber in her hand.
You incline your head.
Elaejia takes a moment to observe you.
You wrinkle your nose.
Speaking in Elven, you softly ask, "Now?"
You take a few steps toward an ancient sycamore tree.
You kneel down.
Speaking to you, Elaejia agrees, "When you are ready.  Take your time."
(Rohese carefully lowers the essence of air to the ground, laying it to rest in the moss.)
You carefully place some essence of air on the ground.
Elaejia leans forward.
You nod at Elaejia.
You smile.
Elaejia carefully places a piece of golden amber on the ground.
You glance up.
(Elaejia places her hands on either side of the offerings and channels mana into the earth, murmuring quietly.)
(Rohese adopts a reverent pose, her hand reaching out to touch one of the curving roots at the base of the sycamore tree.  Pressing her other palm into the damp, moss-ridden ground, she closes her eyes and murmurs a blessing to the elements of air and water.)
Elaejia whispers, "Now your introduction."
You nod slowly at Elaejia.
Speaking reverently in Elven to an ancient sycamore tree, you beseech, "We come at your beckoning to ask something of you."
Elaejia gazes thoughtfully at an ancient sycamore tree.
Speaking softly in Elven to an ancient sycamore tree, you plead, "I am looking for answers to my past and need to find my grandmother's tree."
Speaking softly in Elven to an ancient sycamore tree, you plead, "Please."
Speaking frustratedly in Elven to an ancient sycamore tree, you exclaim, "You have something to tell me, I know!"
Elaejia holds her breath.
(Rohese breathes a heavy, impatient sigh as time passes.  Sensing nothing but the uncomfortable dampness of the earth beneath her hand and knees, she adjusts her position.  In desperation, she stares up at the deep green foliage again and, pressing her hand resolutely against the moss-covered bark of the sycamore tree, she whispers a final heartfelt plea into the passing wind.)
You hang your head.
You close your eyes for a moment.
You shake your head.
Elaejia frowns.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Nothing."
You bite your lip.
You remove a spiny dark green leaf from in your steel vasculum.
Speaking tearfully in Elven to an ancient sycamore tree, you ask, "Why did you send me this if you have nothing to tell me?"
You gaze thoughtfully at your dark green leaf.
Speaking to a piece of golden amber, Elaejia asks, "Are the offerings too few perhaps?"
You glance down.
You reach out and touch some essence of air.
You glance at an ancient sycamore tree.
Speaking slowly to you, Elaejia says, "Or.. it thinks you are not ready."
You nod slowly.
You gaze longingly at an ancient sycamore tree.
Elaejia frowns.
Speaking quietly to you, Elaejia says, "They do not understand most of our emotions, you know.  They are too fleeting."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you muse, "I wonder if whomever bonded with this tree was not of my great-great grandmother's line?"
Speaking slowly to an ancient sycamore tree, Elaejia says, "It doesn't seem likely that a tree unrelated to your line would seek your attention."
Speaking to you, Elaejia says, "We can attempt to make that confirmation."
You smile at Elaejia.
You nod.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "It's worth a try."
Elaejia gazes thoughtfully at an ancient sycamore tree.
Elaejia grabs a hammered copper scrying bowl from inside her leather ritual satchel.
Elaejia takes out a small flask of water and pours it into her copper scrying bowl then stows the empty flask.
You incline your head.
Elaejia rubs a hammered copper scrying bowl in her hand.
Elaejia touches the tip of her finger to the water in her copper scrying bowl and then lightly traces it around the rim.
You fold your hands in your lap.
(Elaejia nestles the bowl at the foot of the sycamore tree, before the other offerings.)
(Rohese idly thumbs the leaf in her hand, her focus entirely on Elaejia.)
Elaejia touches the tip of her finger to the water in her copper scrying bowl and then lightly traces it around the rim.
(Elaejia places her hands to the earth, once again channeling a small amount of mana into the ground at the tree's roots.  The trunk and boughs nearest the ground vibrate perceptibly, disturbing the water in the bowl so it sloshes slightly over.)
You give your eyebrow a little workout.
You bite your lip.
Speaking to you, Elaejia whispers aloud, "Place your hands around mine, and look into the water."
You nod at Elaejia.
Elaejia closes her eyes for a moment.
Elaejia touches the tip of her finger to the water in her copper scrying bowl and then lightly traces it around the rim.
(Rohese places her hands on either side of Elaejia's and peers over the rim of the bowl.)
You surreptitiously glance at an ancient sycamore tree.
Elaejia quietly emphasizes, "You must be in your center, and then request its connection."
(Rohese continues to gaze up at the sycamore tree as its spindly branches stir and shiver.  Odd leaves drift away to disappear on a gentle breeze.)
Elaejia indicates an ancient sycamore tree as a possible option.
You nod slowly at Elaejia.
Speaking quietly in Elven to an ancient sycamore tree, you request, "Oh sacred sycamore, I beseech you, please can you reveal your bond to my family."
You close your eyes for a moment.
Elaejia tilts her head down.
(Rohese takes one last look up at the sycamore tree, her fingers grazing its moss-covered bark as if beseeching it to respond.  A shudder of its spindly branches sends a shiver through the foliage and brings with it the faint whisper of the words "Jhonuil" and "persevere," before falling still again.)
You gasp.
Speaking excitedly in Elven to Elaejia, you ask, "Did you hear that?"
Elaejia cocks her head.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you explain, "Jhonuil was my great-great grandfather."
You smile.
Elaejia uncertainly says, "Ah.."
Elaejia gazes thoughtfully at an ancient sycamore tree.
Speaking in Elven, you amusedly say, "So not a direct descendent of Rahese, he married her."
You giggle softly.
You gaze fondly at an ancient sycamore tree.
Speaking kindly in Elven to an ancient sycamore tree, you say, "I understand now."
You reach out and touch an ancient sycamore tree.
Elaejia wonders, "Do you?"
You nod at Elaejia.
Elaejia gazes with interest at you.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "The pendant in the vision.  We must persevere with that."
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "My grandfather told me that Jhonuil gave it to Rahese as a gift."
You clap your hands together in delight!
Elaejia nods slowly.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you exclaim, "So we must find the dogwood tree!"
You glance around the area.
Elaejia curiously says, "It is odd yet that this spirit sought you so much."
Speaking fondly in Elven to an ancient sycamore tree, you say, "Thank you."
You reach out and touch an ancient sycamore tree.
You nod in agreement at Elaejia.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Perhaps he just wanted to let me know he was watching."
You gaze fondly at an ancient sycamore tree.
Elaejia chuckles to herself.
(Rohese kisses her three fingertips and rests them lovingly on the bark of the sycamore tree.)
Elaejia inclines her head.
You stand back up.
You dust off your ivory cotton cotehardie.
(Elaejia recovers the bowl from the ground, tipping some of the water into the earth.)
You smile.
Elaejia gets out a flask and pours the water from her copper scrying bowl into it and then puts the flask away.
Elaejia tosses a hammered copper scrying bowl inside her leather ritual satchel.
Speaking quietly to an ancient sycamore tree, Elaejia says, "We thank you for the energy you spent this day."
Elaejia reaches out and touches an ancient sycamore tree.
You gaze fondly at an ancient sycamore tree.
Elaejia stands up.
Elaejia dusts off her tailored leggings.
Speaking sincerely in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "It means so much to me that you are here with me."
You smile at Elaejia.
Elaejia bites her lip.
Speaking tentatively in Elven to Elaejia, you ask, "May I speak frankly?"
You wrinkle your nose.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you begin, "I believe Aendir spoke with you yesterday about ... us."
Speaking slowly to you, Elaejia says, "Of course, Rohese."
You smile at Elaejia.
Elaejia breathes in slightly.
Elaejia says, "Yes, " she pauses and continues, "I have been... Remiss."
Speaking to you, Elaejia offers, "Congratulations, Rohese."
Speaking understandingly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I know it can't be easy."
You smile at Elaejia.
Speaking appreciatively in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Thank you and please, know that I love your cousin with all my heart."
You place a hand over your heart.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "And I would never wish to take him away from his family."
You shake your head.
Elaejia lowers her gaze.
You incline your head.
Elaejia quietly agrees, "My brother is often off with Master Corwyth, and my cousin with you."
You bite your lip.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "It's not my intention to part you from him."
You shake your head.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Rather that you and I become closer too."
(Rohese squeezes Elaejia's hand by way of reassurance.)
Bowed slightly westward, the flora follows the path of the afternoon sun.
(Elaejia swallows visibly.)
Elaejia looks thoughtfully at you.
You smile at Elaejia.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you ask, "Please?"
You wrinkle your nose.
Elaejia carefully asks, "May I give you something?"
You nod slowly.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "Of course."
Elaejia takes a deep breath.
Elaejia removes a small abstract silver pendant from her neck.
You bite your lip.
Elaejia offers you a small abstract silver pendant.  Click ACCEPT to accept the offer or DECLINE to decline it.  The offer will expire in 30 seconds.
You accept Elaejia's offer and are now holding a small abstract silver pendant.
You gaze thoughtfully at your abstract silver pendant.
The subtle form of a perched raven is suggested in a few thin tines of silver, its head turned as if glancing back over its shoulder.  Secured along the back of the pendant is a slender, hand blown crystal vial bearing a delicate stopper.
Speaking in Elven, you softly exclaim, "I couldn't possibly take this!"
You shake your head.
(Elaejia's breath seems to hitch, just for a moment.)
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "This clearly has significance to your family."
You offer your abstract silver pendant to Elaejia, who has 30 seconds to accept the offer.  Click CANCEL to prematurely cancel the offer.
Elaejia shakes her head.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you insist, "I couldn't."
You shake your head.
Speaking quietly to you, Elaejia says, "It should be with you.   You will be family, very soon."
(Elaejia takes your hand and closes it over the pendant.)
Elaejia has declined the offer.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Then perhaps give it to me on the eve of our wedding."
You smile.
You offer your abstract silver pendant to Elaejia, who has 30 seconds to accept the offer.  Click CANCEL to prematurely cancel the offer.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "Because I wish you to be with me on that day."
(Rohese folds Elaejia's hand over the pendant and covers it with her own.)
You nod encouragingly.
Elaejia furrows her brow, her face tensed in some inner conflict.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "I will wear it on our wedding day."
You smile at Elaejia.
Speaking in Elven, you softly urge, "Please."
You nod at Elaejia.
Elaejia slowly empties her lungs.
Elaejia has accepted your offer and is now holding a small abstract silver pendant.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "It would mean so much to me to have you by my side that day and I will proudly wear it then."
You kiss Elaejia on the cheek.
You smile at Elaejia.
Elaejia tensely echoes, "On your wedding day, then."
Elaejia closes her eyes for a moment.
You nod gratefully.
Elaejia put a small abstract silver pendant in her deep teal justaucorps.
You let out a long, contemplative breath.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "We have so much to plan and all this to deal with too."
You glance around the area.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I think we'll be spending quite some time together."
You wrinkle your nose.
Elaejia pensively agrees, "That seems likely."
You let out a long, contemplative breath.
Elaejia looks thoughtfully at you.
You smile at Elaejia.
Speaking quietly to you, Elaejia says, "You will be as Jhonuil was, to our family.  A new addition."
You smile at Elaejia.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "That is so lovely of you to say, thank you."
You reach out and touch an ancient sycamore tree.
Speaking softly in Elven to an ancient sycamore tree, you muse, "To new family members."
You glance around the area.

WALKING BACK TO THE GATE

[Veythorne Manor, Gardens]
A small hill ascends to the southwest, and growing atop it is a small dogwood tree -- its arcing branches swept with immaculate pale pink leaves that flutter like feathered wings with each passing breeze.  Dark violet windflowers sprout along the ground, their numerous petals glimmering with a faint velvety sheen.  Pale crimson leaves litter the ground, mere droplets of color upon a carpet of healthy green.
Obvious paths: north, east, south
Elaejia followed.

A few of the pale crimson leaves upon the ground are picked up by an errant current of wind, swirling about in a whirling dance before settling to the ground once more.

You gaze thoughtfully at a small dogwood tree.

The dogwood tree is slightly larger than a bush, its branches arcing off in every direction to form a cloud of pale pink leaves that rustle in perfect synch with one another at any faint disturbance.

Elaejia raises an eyebrow.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "That looks like ..."
You gasp.
Elaejia nods slowly to you.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "And so close to the sycamore."
You glance north.
Speaking to you, Elaejia asks, "Do you think it could be..?"
You let out a long, contemplative breath.
You giggle softly.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I wouldn't put it past him."
You wrinkle your nose.
You gaze thoughtfully at a small dogwood tree.

Speaking to a small dogwood tree, Elaejia says, "It must be a lovely thing, to be so near the sycamore, if so."
(Elaejia's breath hitches again, slightly.)
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "To be so close to his own daughter."
The dogwood tree rocks back and forth slowly, its pale pink leaves rustling back and forth like gossamer wings.

You reach out and touch a small dogwood tree.
Speaking amusedly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I think we know where to come next."
You giggle softly.
Elaejia nods slowly.

Butterflies flit about the tree and the dark violet windflowers, their tiny wings adding delicate swaths of vivid color to the surroundings.

You sigh happily.
You pick up a radiant ghostly blue leaf.
You smile quietly to yourself.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I think Rahese approves."
Elaejia smiles.

Dogwood

The resemblance was uncanny. Gazing at her own reflection in the mirror and back at the portrait of Miramie Anuviel in her hand, Rohese could barely tell the difference. The portrait had accompanied a recent letter from her grandfather in which he had attempted to answer some of her questions about the family.

He had shared his memories of Miramie's untimely death and how Rohese’s grandmother, Sahese, had grieved for a year. During that time, she had visited a dogwood sapling in the grounds of Veythorne Manor each day to tend it. Nothing was ever said about the cause of Miramie's death but he had been conscious of hushed conversations between his wife and her own grandmother, Rahese, that had ceased abruptly whenever he had entered the room. It had also struck him as odd that Miramie's husband, Astania, never talked about her; perhaps his memories were too painful.

Memories; so powerful yet so fragile. Rohese was reminded of her own recent foray into them and how she too had recalled hushed conversations during her childhood.

Her grandfather's letter had gone on to explain how fond Sahese was of the dogwood blossom pendant he had given Rohese during her last visit and how he understood why she had gifted it to Elaejia. He had closed by asking after Aendir and requesting that they both visit again soon.

Rohese folded the letter and slipped it into her journal. Annotating the page with the day's date, she added a few lines:

"Dogwood. A tree of renewal and beginnings.
It begins with me finding Miramie’s dogwood tree."

The Dogwood Tree

[Ta'Illistim, Weyr Var]
Curving off from the main var is a tree-lined pathway, which leads to an ornate ivory gate.  The dogwoods at the corners of the intersection of var and path are in flower with large white blossoms, which stick out from the spindly branches, growing in such profusion that they nearly obscure them altogether.

A tapered deep green leaf lazily drifts in on a soft breeze and settles to the ground.

You glance down.
You glance at Elaejia.
Elaejia gazes thoughtfully at a tapered deep green leaf.
You pick up a tapered deep green leaf.
You gaze thoughtfully at your deep green leaf.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "So it seems my great-great grandfather is happy we're back today."
You brush your fingers lightly against your deep green leaf.
You smile quietly to yourself.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "It's a good sign."
Elaejia nods in agreement to you.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "So much so that it greeted you even before we truly arrived."
You nod enthusiastically!
You put a tapered deep green leaf in your leather bag.
You glance at a tree-lined pathway and slowly exhale.

WANDERING THE GROUNDS

[Veythorne Manor, Gardens]
A small hill ascends to the southwest, and growing atop it is a small dogwood tree -- its arcing branches swept with immaculate pale pink leaves that flutter like feathered wings with each passing breeze.  Dark violet windflowers sprout along the ground, their numerous petals glimmering with a faint velvety sheen.  Pale crimson leaves litter the ground, mere droplets of color upon a carpet of healthy green.
Obvious paths: north, east, south

You let out a long, contemplative breath.
Elaejia gazes thoughtfully at a small dogwood tree.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia murmurs, "The dogwood is a curious tree."
You nod in agreement at Elaejia.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "Look at the beautiful leaves."
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "Even in age, they seldom grow large."
You glance around the area.
Elaejia nods to you.

The dogwood tree rocks back and forth slowly, its pale pink leaves rustling back and forth like gossamer wings.

You gaze thoughtfully at a small dogwood tree.
You smile.
Speaking in Elven, you reflectively say, "So pretty."
Elaejia nods in agreement to you.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I've seen a picture of Miramie."
You smile at Elaejia.
Speaking interestedly in Elven to you, Elaejia asks, "Indeed?"
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "And I think I know why her father keeps leaving me leaves."
You remove a tapered deep green leaf from in your leather bag.
Elaejia cocks her head at you.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Apparently I look just like her."
You wrinkle your nose.

Butterflies flit about the tree and the dark violet windflowers, their tiny wings adding delicate swaths of vivid color to the surroundings.

Elaejia smiles quietly to herself.
Speaking in Elven, you sadly say, "She died so young."
You gaze with interest at a small dogwood tree.

The dogwood tree rocks back and forth slowly, its pale pink leaves rustling back and forth like gossamer wings.

Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "He must have been heartbroken."
Speaking softly in Elven to you, Elaejia agrees, "That must have been wistful for the sycamore's spirit."
You agree with Elaejia.

A few of the pale crimson leaves upon the ground are picked up by an errant current of wind, swirling about in a whirling dance before settling to the ground once more.

Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia asks, "Do you know much else of her?"
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "So I'm hoping between them, we can find some answers.  Perhaps even why she did die."
You shake your head.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "Only that she was their only daughter."
You bite your lip.

The dogwood tree sways back and forth as a current of wind whips through the area, and a few of its feathery leaves flutter to the ground.

Elaejia frowns.

Butterflies flit about the tree and the dark violet windflowers, their tiny wings adding delicate swaths of vivid color to the surroundings.

Elaejia gazes thoughtfully at a feathery pale pink leaf.

Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "And whatever secret my family is keeping, I think she is the key."
You gasp.
You pick up a feathery pale pink leaf.
Speaking softly in Elven to a small dogwood tree, you say, "Thank you."
You hold your pale pink leaf close to your body.

The dogwood tree rocks back and forth slowly, its pale pink leaves rustling back and forth like gossamer wings.

Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "This is auspicious."
You smile.
Elaejia smiles at you.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "I am truly glad this journey has been so marked with good fortune."
You smile at Elaejia.
Speaking affectionately in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I couldn't do this without you."
Elaejia smiles quietly to herself.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "Alright."
You smile.
Elaejia takes a deep breath.
Elaejia grabs a wavy-bladed ritual dagger of black stone and bone from inside her leather ritual satchel.
(Rohese takes a few tentative steps towards the dogwood tree.  A zephyr of pale pink leaves rise into the air to swirl around her with soft whispered words of welcome before settling down on the ground again.)
You smile quietly to yourself.
Elaejia holds her ritual dagger out in front of her, and as she whispers quietly, she brings her dagger down to the ground, dragging it through the dirt to create a large ritual circle.
Elaejia tosses a wavy-bladed ritual dagger of black stone and bone inside her leather ritual satchel.
You glance down.
You also see a large ritual circle drawn in the dirt.
Speaking quietly in Elven to you, Elaejia reminds, "It is time to center your awareness."
You nod slowly.
You take a deep breath.
You slowly and deliberately empty your filled lungs.
Carefully stepping over the dirt, you enter a large ritual circle drawn in the dirt and kneel down, head bowed, eyes downcast.
Elaejia kneels down.
You reach out and touch a small dogwood tree.
Speaking quietly in Elven to a small dogwood tree, you introduce, "Hello Miramie, I am Rohese, your great-granddaughter."
Elaejia closes her eyes for a moment.
Speaking reflectively in Elven to a small dogwood tree, you continue, "I think you've been waiting for me."
You smile quietly to yourself.
You lower your gaze.
You close your eyes for a moment.
Elaejia grabs a large bronze tobacco jar from inside her leather ritual satchel.
Elaejia screws off the lid of her bronze tobacco jar.
(Rohese runs the pale pink leaf gently through her fingers a few times as she tries to calm her thoughts.)
(Elaejia pinches some tobacco from her jar and sprinkles it at the base of the tree.)
Elaejia screws the lid of her bronze tobacco jar back on.
Elaejia tosses a large bronze tobacco jar inside her leather ritual satchel.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I think my offering has been decided for me today."
You carefully place a tapered deep green leaf on the ground.
Speaking curiously in Elven to you, Elaejia asks, "Oh?"
Elaejia nods understandingly.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "Her father wishes to join us."
You smile.
You reach out and touch a tapered deep green leaf.
You nod faintly.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia approvingly murmurs, "I think you are quite right."
You glance up.
You gaze thoughtfully at a small dogwood tree.

The dogwood tree rocks back and forth slowly, its pale pink leaves rustling back and forth like gossamer wings.

(Elaejia nods encouragingly to you, and leans forward to place her hands upon the ground.)
You lean forward.
(Rohese rests her hands at the base of the tree, one over the green leaf, the other holding the pink leaf alongside.)
Elaejia leans over and whispers, "I think you need only open yourself, when you are ready.  She knows what she will say."
You nod slightly at Elaejia.
You let out a long, contemplative breath.
Speaking tentatively in Elven to a small dogwood tree, you begin, "Miramie ..."
Speaking gently in Elven to a small dogwood tree, you inquire, "I am seeking answers to my family's heritage and, in particular, any knowledge you may have about my grandmother's secret - your daughter?"

The dogwood tree sways back and forth as a current of wind whips through the area, and a few of its feathery leaves flutter to the ground.

Speaking softly in Elven to a small dogwood tree, you correct, "Our secret."
You sigh.
Speaking fretfully in Elven to a small dogwood tree, you urge, "Please, can you guide me and help me to find out what is happening to me?"

Sparks spill from the shadows, spiraling about in the air before coalescing into a floating orb of silver flame.

Flickering tongues of fire erupt from the surface of a floating orb of silver flame as its light steadies.

(Elaejia hums in a low, droning tone reminiscent of the thrum of bees, and channels mana into the earth at the base of the dogwood.)
You blink.
Elaejia holds her breath.
You gaze thoughtfully at a floating orb of silver flame.
(Rohese tentatively reaches out to cup the flame in her hand, allowing its silvery glow to envelop her.  A gentle breeze stirs her hair, causing it to shimmer with an ethereal light.  Faint text begins to emerge on the back of her hand but the words move too quickly to be legible.)

A feathery pale pink leaf lazily drifts in on a soft breeze and settles to the ground.

You glance at a feathery pale pink leaf.

A floating orb of silver flame darts about through the air, giving a final wobble before shooting north!

A feathery pale pink leaf is suddenly caught up in an errant breeze and swirls east.

You glance north.
Elaejia glances east.
Elaejia gives a sidelong glance at you.
You bite your lip.
Speaking in Elven, you softly ask, "Did you see it too?"
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia asks, "The flame?"
You let out a sigh of relief.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "I wasn't imagining it then."
Speaking softly in Elven to a small dogwood tree, you ask, "Where should we look, what are we missing?"
You close your eyes for a moment.

(OOC) Elaejia's player whispers to the group, "This vision strikes you - A view of Miramie in a candlelit drawing room with facing mirrors so she is seen in infinite reflections...Her myriad reflections are each doing different things - studying a tome, weaving a chain of cords, polishing a lens, lighting a candle  in each reflection, she is lit in a shaft of moonlight."

Speaking hesitantly in Elven to Elaejia, you exclaim, "I think she's trying to tell me something!"

A few of the pale crimson leaves upon the ground are picked up by an errant current of wind, swirling about in a whirling dance before settling to the ground once more.

Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I see her in the mirror ... lots of mirrors."
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia asks, "Guess it seems there is something to find... northeastward.. ?"
You nod slowly.
Speaking in Elven, you softly exclaim, "I think so!"
Elaejia gazes thoughtfully at a small dogwood tree.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "I can see a book and ribbons ..."
You shake your head.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "No, not ribbons."
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "String."
You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.
Elaejia gazes with interest at you.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "Candles."
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "So many candles."
You bite your lip.
Speaking carefully in Elven to you, Elaejia asks, "Do these things mean anything to you?"
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "She's so pretty but she looks so sad."
You bite your lip.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I think she's studying something and it's troubling her."

The dogwood tree rocks back and forth slowly, its pale pink leaves rustling back and forth like gossamer wings.

(Rohese starts as a movement in the undergrowth catches her attention.  A squirrel scampers across the grass towards her and sits up on its hind legs.  Dropping a small acorn at her feet, it scurries away.)
You glance down.
You pick up a small acorn.
You gaze thoughtfully at your small acorn.
Speaking wryly in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "You have more in common than your visages, it seems."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I think Miramie is the key."
You nod in agreement at Elaejia.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you ask, "An oak tree?"
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "I wonder ..."
You bite your lip.
Elaejia looks thoughtfully at you.
Speaking softly in Elven to yourself, you say, "Silver haired."
You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "Perhaps Wilver was trying to tell me something too."
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia asks, "About your grandmother's hair?"
Elaejia furrows her brow.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "And that silver flame."
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia quietly says, "The flame was quite curious."
Speaking frustratedly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I'm more confused than ever."
(Elaejia reaches a hand out, motioning at your hands.)
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia asks, "May I see.. Your hands?"
You nod slightly.
You put a feathery pale pink leaf in your leather bag.
You put a small acorn in your leather bag.
Speaking quietly in Elven to you, Elaejia asks, "Did you note the script, in the silver light?"
(Rohese reaches out with her hands to place them gently into Elaejia's.)
You nod slowly.
Elaejia surveys her surroundings before looking disappointed.
Elaejia lowers her gaze.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "It was moving so fast that I couldn't read it though."
You sigh.
(Elaejia holds your hands in cool fingers, studying them closely, turning them over and back.)
You bite your lip.
Elaejia frowns.
(Rohese relaxes her hands in Elaejia's grasp and faint lines of text writhe beneath the surface of her pale skin.)
Elaejia breathes in slightly.
Elaejia squints.
You bite your lip.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia breathes, "There.. just there."
You nod.
Elaejia narrows her eyes.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "If only it would settle so I could read it."
(Elaejia traces an invisible line across the back of your hand with a finger, but shakes her head in frustration.)
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "Indeed. I can't make it out at all."
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia murmurs, "In form it looks Elven.. but it is illegible."
(Rohese turns her hands over to expose her palms.  Odd words bubble to the surface; some reversed, some overlapping and others quite bold.)
You act puzzled.
Elaejia cocks her head.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you explain, "It's the same as the writing I found in my grandmother's book."
Elaejia nods slowly.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I couldn't understand that either."
You shake your head.
You glance at a small dogwood tree.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "I wonder if that was the book Miramie was reading too."

The dogwood tree rocks back and forth slowly, its pale pink leaves rustling back and forth like gossamer wings.

Speaking in Elven, Elaejia hazards, "If you place your hand upon the tree, perhaps?"
You reach out and touch a small dogwood tree.
Elaejia leans forward.
(Rohese presses her hand hard against the rough surface of the dogwood tree.  Using her fingertips, she adds more pressure as if pleading for the tree to respond.)
You give a sigh of frustration.
Elaejia shakes her head.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I wonder ..."
You glance north.
Elaejia nods slightly to you.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia murmurs, "There is certainly some path you are required to tread."
Elaejia stands up.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you muse, "Miramie was reading by candlelight ... I may need to as well."
Elaejia ponders.
Speaking in Elven, you exasperatedly say, "But I've done that before."
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "I read by candlelight all the time."
You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.
Elaejia chuckles to herself.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia wryly says, "Naturally."
You giggle softly.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "There has to be something I'm missing."
You remove a small acorn from in your leather bag.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "It seems you've an appointment with an oak tree."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I think there must be an oak tree somewhere that has the answer."
You smile at Elaejia.
Speaking appreciatively in Elven to a small dogwood tree, you say, "Thank you."
Closing her eyes, Elaejia lowers her forehead to a small dogwood tree in a reverent gesture.
You murmur some prayers under your breath.
You reach out and touch a small dogwood tree.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Thank you too."
Speaking quietly in Elven to a small dogwood tree, Elaejia echoes, "We are grateful for the energy you expended this day."
Elaejia smiles a touch awkwardly.
Speaking softly in Elven to a small dogwood tree, you promise, "I will come back, you won't be forgotten."
You smile.
You stand back up.
You dust off your velvet cotehardie.
You kiss Elaejia on the cheek.
Elaejia breathes in slightly.
Elaejia smiles at you.
You smile.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "I expect there are lots of oak trees in this garden too."
You wrinkle your nose.

The dogwood tree rocks back and forth slowly, its pale pink leaves rustling back and forth like gossamer wings.

Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "I'll take a walk in the morning and see if anything reaches out."
You gaze fondly at your surroundings.
Elaejia nods slowly to you.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I don't know about you but I need some tea."
You smile at Elaejia.

Oak

"The mighty oak is considered the most powerful and sacred of trees.  It holds the true alignment of balance, purpose and strength."

Rohese traced an annotated illustration of an oak tree with her finger and resumed reading. She wanted to learn as much as she could before venturing out in search of such a tree. Elaejia had sent word that she was free that afternoon so the search for the truth could resume.

She reached for the genealogical notes she had made on her great-grandfather, Astania Anuviel. Born in Ta'Illistim in 3342, he had apparently fallen in love with Miramie at first sight and they had married in the year 3679. Rohese's grandfather had spoken about the strength Astania had shown after the unfortunate death of Miramie in 3811 and how his life had been given new purpose in bringing up their daughter, Sahese, alone. Astania had doted over her and it had taken all of Earion's persuasive skills to get his permission for he and Sahese to wed.

It made sense to try and find his memorial tree after the visit to Miramie’s had yielded an acorn. As tenuous as it seemed, Rohese was sure it was a message and everything pointed towards an oak tree. She had a good idea where to start.

Picking up the acorn - a little wrinkled in places but still whole - she slipped it into her bag and reached for the smooth flat pebble that it had been sitting on. She had been using it as a paperweight on her desk for over a year, still unsure of the reason why her grandfather had sent it to her via his familiar. Worn smooth, the pale grey pebble sat comfortably in the palm of the hand. Roughly ovoid in shape, it featured a small natural hole near the edge, just big enough to look through. For no particular reason, other than she had no idea what else to do with it, she dropped it into her bag along with the acorn and gathered her notes together.

Now she just needed to find something to offer to the tree.

The Oak Tree

Speaking in Elven, Elaejia asks, "Indeed -- have you made any progress since last summer on discovering anything on your own?"
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Only that I still have this ..."
You remove a small acorn from in your leather bag.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "And I believe we need to find the tree from which this dropped."
Elaejia looks thoughtfully at you.
Elaejia nods in agreement to you.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I have had so little time to search but I did happen to notice an oak tree on a recent walk that I think we can start with."
You smile at Elaejia.
Speaking in Elven, you softly ask, "If you'd be willing to accompany me?"
You incline your head.
You gaze thoughtfully at your small acorn.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia pleasantly says, "Of course."

[A WALK TO VEYTHORNE MANOR]

[Veythorne Manor, Walkway - 13413]
Creeping vines of ivy twine along the gaps in the cobblestones underfoot, trailing towards the base of a large, gnarled oak tree upon the crest of a small, verdant green hill.  Pale ivory blossoms line the path, their thin petals casting a soft, bluish light over the grass as sunlight passes through them.

Speaking in Elven, you softly ask, "A fine specimen, don't you think?"
Rohese smiles as the trill of lively birdsong floats down from the nearby oak.  Across the garden, the song is echoed by another, matching the melody note for note.  The pair serenades one another back and forth across the garden, the chorus continuing until the first begins an alternate tune and the echoing begins anew.
You gaze with interest at your surroundings.
Speaking pensively in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I think this might be the right place."
You gaze thoughtfully at your small acorn.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia curiously asks, "And you believe this may be the oak linked to your grandmother?"
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Let me see ..."
(Rohese lifts her gaze to the verdant crown of the large oak tree.  Stepping into the shadow of its leaf-laden branches, she reaches out to rest both hands on the rough bark.)
You close your eyes for a moment.
Elaejia scans her surroundings with the alertness of a seasoned scout.
Speaking in Elven, you tentatively begin, "I believe you might have been waiting for me."
Speaking in Elven, you softly apologize, "I am sorry it has taken me so long to come but much has happened since Elaejia and I spent time at Miramie's tree and I was left this."
For the briefest of moments, your gaze alights on the acorn.
Elaejia smiles quietly to herself.
(Rohese cradles the small acorn in her palm and murmurs an elven prayer of remembrance.  As if in response, a gentle breeze stirs the foliage overhead, bringing with it the sharp scent of fresh greenery blended with an earthy, nutty aroma.  The sound of birdsong fades away and an eerie stillness settles around you.)
You let out a long, contemplative breath.
Elaejia grabs a large bronze tobacco jar from inside her leather ritual satchel.
Elaejia screws off the lid of her bronze tobacco jar.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you confirm, "It's the right place, it brings back so many memories."
You smile.
Elaejia smiles at you.
Speaking wistfully in Elven to Elaejia, you explain, "I am reminded of summers spent with my family; walks in the woods and picnics in an oak grove."
You hold your small acorn close to your body.
(Rohese gazes intently at the oak tree.)
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia quietly says, "Your connection to their spirits has always been strong, I am not surprised these recollections come to you so easily now."
You smile at Elaejia.
Elaejia picks idly at a large bronze tobacco jar.
You let out a long, contemplative breath.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia lightly asks, "Did you remember to bring your offerings?"
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "I did."
You nod.
You remove some essence of water from in your leather bag.
You smile.
Elaejia gazes with interest at her surroundings.
Elaejia bites her lip.
You incline your head.
Elaejia kneels down.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "I have brought the seed and the nutrients with which to give life to it."
You glance between some essence of water and a small acorn.
(Elaejia takes a small handful of tobacco from her jar and sprinkles it at the base of the oak with a murmured offer of thanks.)
Elaejia screws the lid of her bronze tobacco jar back on.
Elaejia tosses a large bronze tobacco jar inside her leather ritual satchel.
(Rohese follows Elaejia's lead and steps closer to the tree.)
You kneel down.
You carefully place a small acorn on the ground.
You carefully place some essence of water on the ground.
(Rohese rests a hand over the small acorn and murmurs a prayer of thanks.)
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia quietly says, "The garden here is even more peaceful than the other groves we've visited."
Elaejia tilts her head up.
You smile.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "It's especially quiet today."
You glance around the area.
Speaking quietly in Elven to you, Elaejia asks, "Do you know what you will ask today?"
Speaking tentatively in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I think so."
You nod slowly.
You take a deep breath.
You close your eyes for a moment.
Speaking in Elven, you calmly say, "I'm ready."
You smile.
(Rohese turns towards the oak tree.)
Elaejia inclines her head.
Speaking in Elven, you gently say, "I know how hard it is to lose someone you love." Gazing up at the leaves again, she adds an insistent tone to her voice.  "I'm here to learn more of Miramie and your daughter, Sahese, if you are willing to tell me."
You glance up.
(Rohese brushes the heavily-ridged surface of the tree trunk with her fingers, pausing to trace a few distinctive patterns within the bark.  Her curiosity piqued, she leans closer to examine the silvery scars.)
You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.
(Elaejia leans forward and places her palms upon the ground at the base of the oak, humming faintly and channeling mana into its roots.)
Sparks spill from the shadows, spiraling about in the air before coalescing into a floating orb of silver flame.
Wobbling lazily, a floating orb of silver flame dims about its edges, although the core remains bright.
You gasp.
Elaejia breathes almost without making a sound.
(Rohese tentatively reaches out to cup the flame in her hand.  Bright silvery light bursts all around her in a protective cocoon of arcane energy and reveals the clear outline of dendroglyphs in the bark of the oak tree.  The silvery gleam illuminates a crescent moon above an elven runic symbol.)
The core of a dimly radiant floating orb of silver flame brightens as it soars higher into the air.
Speaking in Elven, you softly ask, "This symbol is unfamiliar to me. Do you recognise it?"
You peer quizzically at Elaejia.
(Elaejia stares at the tree, brow furrowed.)
Elaejia shakes her head.
The core of a brightly luminous floating orb of silver flame brightens as it soars higher into the air.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia quietly says, "The moon crescent is interesting though."
You agree with Elaejia.
Elaejia pauses and studies a brightly luminous floating orb of silver flame with thoughtful consideration, moving to observe it from multiple angles.
Speaking in Elven, you softly speculate, "I'm wondering if it means we need to read it by moonlight?"
A brightly luminous floating orb of silver flame bobs through the air with a sound like a crackling fireplace.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia slowly agrees, "The orb does.. resemble a moon as well."
Speaking in Elven, you distantly say, "I wonder…"
You rummage through a dual-strapped leather bag.
You remove a smooth flat pebble with an off-center hole from in your leather bag.
You turn your flat pebble over and over in your hands.
You gaze thoughtfully at your flat pebble.
(Rohese hesitantly lifts the flat pebble to her eye, her embarrassment evident by her flushed cheeks and nervous giggle.  Just as she peers through the hole, she gasps in astonishment and almost drops it.)
Elaejia nods slowly to you.
Motes of indigo light wash through the center of the floating silver flame, multiplying and spiraling outward until they have completely overwhelmed its hue with their own.
Speaking in Elven, you uncertainly read, "Beloved."
You nod eagerly.
Speaking in Elven, you softly repeat, "It says, "Beloved!"”
You gaze thoughtfully at your flat pebble.
Your face lights up with joy.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia breathes, "The spirit's gift."
You squeal.
The core of a floating orb of indigo flame brightens as it soars higher into the air.
Elaejia laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.
Speaking tentatively in Elven to Elaejia, you ask, "Do you think there might be dendroglyphs on the dogwood tree?"
You rub the surface of your flat pebble, taking solace in its simple design.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "I think that is quite likely indeed."
A brightly luminous floating orb of indigo flame floats overhead, its bulk wan against the sun's radiance.
(Rohese returns her attention to the oak tree, resting her hands back down on the damp earth over its roots.)
(Elaejia gazes at the runes curiously.)
Speaking in Elven, you gratefully ask, "I understand.  Do you have anything else you wish to tell me?"
You glance up.
Motes of red light wash through the center of the floating indigo flame, multiplying and spiraling outward until they have completely overwhelmed its hue with their own.

A vision of Sahese making a final notation into a pavonated book and then murmuring a low incantation as she wipes an opal-ringed hand across the page. The text vanishes, and she picks up a new quill, commencing to fill the page again.

You bite your lip.
Speaking tentatively in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I see ... my grandmother."
Elaejia blinks at you.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you continue, "She's writing in a book.  My book!"
You close your eyes for a moment.
Wobbling lazily, a floating orb of red flame dims about its edges, although the core remains bright.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia urges, "What does it say?"
Elaejia leans forward.
(Rohese presses her hands into the grass, her fingers sinking into the earth as she concentrates on the vision forming in her mind.)
Speaking frustratedly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I can't read it, it vanished before I could see it."
You sigh.

A blizzard of cottonwood catkins obscures the view of Sahese and the book.

The flame wobbles sullenly before going out in a tiny explosion of light.
You gasp.
Elaejia flinches.
Elaejia slowly empties her lungs.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you exclaim, "The cottonwood tree!"
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia confusedly asks, "The what?"
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Where I used to play with my sister as a child."
You bite your lip.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "It's all happening so fast, I can't make anything of it."
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia understandingly asks, "You saw it?"
You vigorously shake your head.
You sigh.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "I saw the catkins that used to feel like snow."
You wrinkle your nose.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I wonder what it can mean."
You remove a pavonated leather-bound book from in your dark cerulean shrug.
For the briefest of moments, your gaze alights on the book.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "She was writing in this book and it ... vanished."
You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.
(Elaejia glances at the oak tree and back at the book in your hand.)
You glance up.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia hazards, "Perhaps..."
You bite your lip.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you ask, "What are you thinking?"
You brush your fingers lightly against your leather-bound book.
(Elaejia motions to the flat stone in your hand.)
You offer your flat pebble to Elaejia.
You smile at Elaejia.
Elaejia gives a short little hum of surprise.
You raise an eyebrow in Elaejia's direction.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "Oh no-- I dare not take the spirit's gift in my hand."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you urge, "Do it."
You nod at Elaejia.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia asks, "But perhaps…it revealed something from the tree.  Why not the book?"
Elaejia slowly empties her lungs.
Elaejia has accepted your offer and is now holding a smooth flat pebble with an off-center hole.
You nod encouragingly.
You offer your leather-bound book to Elaejia.
You smile at Elaejia.
Elaejia furrows her brow.
Elaejia has accepted your offer and is now holding a pavonated leather-bound book.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "See if you can see anything."
Elaejia frowns at a pavonated leather-bound book.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "At least then we'll know if it's only meant for me."
Elaejia just opened a pavonated leather-bound book.
Elaejia holds her breath.
You begin to watch Elaejia intently out of the corner of your eyes, while trying not to be too obvious about it.
(Elaejia holds the stone up to her left eye and peers down at the open page for a moment, but finally shakes her head.)
You slowly and deliberately empty your filled lungs.
Speaking in Elven, you disappointedly ask, "Nothing?"
(Elaejia turns to look at the oak in a similar manner, then shakes her head once more.)
You snap your fingers disappointedly.  Rats!
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "It was worth a try."
Elaejia smiles at you.
You smile at Elaejia.
Speaking in Elven to you, Elaejia says, "And we have learnt something as you said."
Elaejia offers you a smooth flat pebble with an off-center hole.  
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "So, I'm guessing grandmother meant for only me to read it."
You accept Elaejia's offer and are now holding a smooth flat pebble with an off-center hole.
You smile at Elaejia.
Elaejia nods in agreement to you.
Elaejia offers you a pavonated leather-bound book.  
You put a smooth flat pebble with an off-center hole in your leather bag.
You accept Elaejia's offer and are now holding a pavonated leather-bound book.
You hold your leather-bound book close to your body.
(Rohese returns her attention to the oak tree, gazing into its dark green canopy.)
Speaking in Elven, you softly mouth, "Thank you."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I guess we'll have to come back at night and spend some time at the dogwood tree."
(Elaejia lowers her head reverently to the oak tree, leaning forward once more to channel mana into the ground.)
You put a pavonated leather-bound book in your dark cerulean shrug.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia curiously asks, "And what of the cottonwood?"
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "We should definitely visit that too."
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I'm assuming it's still there, it's been a while since I last played there."
You wrinkle your nose.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia ponders, "It is curious that these spirits are so engaged with the night."
You nod in agreement at Elaejia.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia teases, "Perhaps they will make a night owl of you yet."
You laugh softly, trying to hide your amusement.
Speaking playfully in Elven to Elaejia, you echo, "Perhaps."
You wrinkle your nose.
Speaking in Elven, you softly say, "The moon is rather beautiful to behold, after all."
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "There is a reason they feature in poetry so often.. Even the humans recognize their beauty."
You nod faintly.
Elaejia surreptitiously glances at you.
You glance up.
Elaejia smiles quietly to herself.
You smile quietly to yourself.
You clear your throat.
Speaking appreciatively in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "Thank you so much for this."
Elaejia smiles at you.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "It means the world to me that you're here."
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "I am honored you asked for my help, truly."
(Rohese returns her gaze to the silvery scars in the bark of the oak tree.  Tracing them with her fingers, she nods slowly and repeats her gratitude to the spirits within.)
You smile at Elaejia.
You stand back up.
You dust off your blue velvet gown.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia carefully says, "This is...this seems as though it will be something quite personal.  Your forebears took pains to lead you on a specific journey."
You nod slowly.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "And I sense we're getting close to answers."
You glance around the area.
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia says, "The time alone to bond to these spirits enough.. It is a wonder, truly."
(Rohese lifts her hand up and watches as the faint lines of text ripple beneath her pale skin.)
You smile at Elaejia.
Elaejia stands up.
Speaking softly in Elven to Elaejia, you say, "I should probably start documenting my experiences too."
You remove a feathery pale pink leaf from in your leather bag.
You gaze thoughtfully at your pale pink leaf.
Speaking in Elven, you softly exclaim, "I would never have thought that leaves could convey so much meaning!"
Speaking in Elven, Elaejia agrees, "Indeed.  I suspect in hindsight some elements may be instructive that now seem confounding."
You brush your fingers lightly against your pale pink leaf.
You nod at Elaejia.
Speaking softly in Elven to your pale pink leaf, you say, "We have some work to do."
You let out a long, contemplative breath.

Author's Notes

The Elven Connection with Trees

A tree in its infancy sends roots down into the earth even as it reaches and opens to the sky above, in search of nourishment from the elements. In the same way, elves connect with the world and the Palurin Fea with elemental and spiritual strands that keep them connected. Just like a tree, an elf seeks the sustenance needed to survive and thrive. Both serve as conduits for the intermingling of the opposite and complementary elements of air, water, fire, and earth.

Trees will often grow around other trees or even through rock, shattering it, in their effort to reach the air and light they need to survive. Elves are similarly resilient with a built-in propensity for growth and the conditions that promote it. Elves find creative ways around the obstacles they confront as they follow their own paths, moving toward that which sustains them. Long ago exiled after the Undead War, dark elves' skin grew dark from exposure to the mana foci of Rhoska-Tor and they mastered spiritual and elemental magic as no other race ever could.

Contemplating the ways in which trees and elves mirror one another brings them into alignment with the reality that they are all part of the Palurin Fea. Elven progenies, and the trees and their offspring, will live together on Elanthia as long as they all survive, sharing the elements and serving together to forward the Arkati's plan.

Trees Remember

File:Ancestors of Rohese Bayvel-Timsh'l.JPG

Family Tree

There has always been a spiritual link between elves and trees, and elves who are grieving find in trees an unspoken solace and a solemn comfort. The planting of memorial trees is longstanding tradition throughout the Elven Nations, and usually given in memory of a life well-lived, or as a symbol of everlasting affection. The planting of trees symbolizes peace, life, growth, and hope for the future.

Whilst Rohese's family are not of a high enough station to have memorial trees planted in places of honor, they nonetheless have preferred locations where their seedpods are planted or favoured trees where their ashes are scattered.

Memorial Trees

An extract from an essay written on Memorial Trees by Elaejia Silithyr

An elf wishing a memorial tree prepares one for herself by selecting a seedpod and binding herself to it before her death. If she does not plant it herself, or take it with her to her death, her family is enjoined to plant the seedpod in a place where it will thrive.

Having been bound to the spirit of an elf, the seedling assumes some of the life force of that elf and is granted an even longer life than even trees generally enjoy. They are also more resistant to blights and other vegetable dangers.

They may blossom in atypical colors or with unusual vibrancy, especially on the anniversaries of the death of their elf.

The earlier in an elf's life she chooses to bind herself to a seedpod, the more connected their spirits become, as the tree's spirit has longer to know her.

Even if an elf only chooses and binds herself to a seedpod on her deathbed, her tree will always remember her name, and will whisper it into the wind occasionally. Some older elven mortuary houses provide this service upon request.

The most connected trees assume some of the knowledge of their elf, though in general the things of interest to trees are not typically very interesting to non-sessile mortals. There are a great many trees with memories of particularly beautiful wildflower meadows and enthusiastic honeybees from aeons past, for example.

In general, the spirits of memorial trees are more open, and interested in the lives of non-sessile mortals than other tree spirits are. One might think of them as "partially domesticated," such as like felines.