Dantia/Logs/20210122 Log

Event Name: Alfar Warrior Appreciation
Event Date & Time: Friday, January 22nd, 10pm EST
Event Location: The Raven's Court, Rose Garden

Whether you are an Empath who regularly calls upon their Alfar Warrior Guardian Spirit or not, the relationship between our Guild and their kind is something to be honored. Join us for a brief discussion on what we know about this relationship, introduce your Alfar companion and meet others, and offer gratitude to those who would defend us until the end. All who would like to acknowledge the contributions these Alfar have made are welcome to attend, regardless of Guild. Questions, please contact Dantia. Directions: In Crossing, from the Raven's Court Foyer move NE, GO DOOR, SW.

[The Raven's Court, Rose Garden]
Roses of all colors grow in carefully tended beds, many mixed in with each other to build a vibrant tapestry of petals.  To the north, delicate white petals arranged in a half moon form a bed of Damaris' Dream, while to the west a flurry of pinks indicates the presence of Hodierna's Blush.  Lastly, a cluster of Smaragdaus' Glee forms a sea of crimson to the south.  A small path winds around the garden, with a wooden sign posted at the entry.
You also see a towering alfar warrior with platinum stars accentuating its skin, a svelte alfar warrior, a slim alfar warrior, a lithe alfar warrior, an alert alfar warrior, a childlike alfar warrior with an awe-struck expression, and an ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes.
Also here: Holy Titan Rhykin, Healer Korya, Master of Fate Lenaea, Bastion of Life Karthor, Philomath Miskton, Lagen Esturi Nilme, Troupe Cast Member Vixonia, Stelling, Daerlynn, Inspiration Iryta, Agalea, Steelfang, Esotericist Eyst, Squire Elurora, Gridaksma, Claribel, Malykai, Catleena, Mireillere, Ishimmer, Vekara, Frost Princess Nemy, Bone Mender Charmine, Tlus Chudin Ysia, Sea Serpent Aislynn, and Outrider Chrysagon.
Obvious paths: northeast.

You say, "I very much dislike events that do not begin on time, so we're going to go ahead and get started."

You chuckle.

Lenaea looks at you and lets out a hearty cheer on your behalf!

Nilme smiles.

You exclaim, "Welcome everyone, Empaths and otherwise, and thank you for joining us at this appreciation event!"

Stelling looks at you and lets out a hearty cheer on your behalf!

You say, "Any Empath who has formed a bond with a Guardian Spirit is invited to call them to join us today."

You nod to a towering alfar warrior with platinum stars accentuating its skin.

You say, "However, please make sure to COMMAND your WARRIOR TO BEHAVIOR PASSIVE so that they understand this is a non-aggressive gathering. Any who are not able to maintain that control will be politely asked to step outside."

> command warrior to behavior passive
You ask a towering alfar warrior with platinum stars accentuating its skin to try to remain passive.
A towering alfar warrior with platinum stars accentuating its skin smiles and tries to look as harmless as possible.
Roundtime: 2 sec.

Elurora chews on her lip, looking deep in concentration.

You exclaim, "If it helps, do let your Warrior know that I am in the process of organizing an Guardian Spirit combat tournament, so they will have ample opportunity to prove their prowess to each other soon!"

Vixonia flashes a quick grin.

You hum happily to yourself.

Iryta grins at you, her dimples flashing into view.

Claribel looks at you, obviously trying not to grin, but the dimples in her cheeks give her away.

Daerlynn grins.

You grin.

Karthor jots down some notes.

You say, "I think a great place to being would be to introduce our Warriors to one another."

You say, "For those who are unaware, you can learn your companions name by COMMANDing your WARRIOR TO NAME. It will speak it's name to you directly, which you can then share with us."

> command warrior to name
You ask the warrior for its name.

A towering alfar warrior with platinum stars accentuating its skin smiles at you and says quietly, "My name is Ahven.  Lovely weather we're having, don't you think?"

You say, "And they like to tell you about the weather."

You chuckle.

Vixonia angles her ears forward in curiosity.

Karthor chuckles.

Vixonia says, "How interesting..."

Daerlynn nods to Vixonia.

You ask, "Now who is this svelte warrior we have with us today?"

You nod to a svelte alfar warrior.

Karthor says, "That there's, er, ZerraZap, of all things."

Karthor chuckles.

You smile at Karthor.

Korya says, "That's a fine name..."

You say, "Well it's a pleasure to meet you, ZerraZap."

Karthor says, "I've no idea how common such a name is among the alfar, but there it is."

You say, "The towering alfar is with me, Ahven."

You hug the towering alfar warrior.
The warrior returns your hug gingerly, being careful not to hurt you with its weapons or armor.

Rhykin grins at you.

Vixonia waves to a towering alfar warrior with platinum stars accentuating its skin.

You say, "Many do not understand the unique relationship that we Empaths share with the Alfar, even some within our Guild."

Frost Princess Nemy just arrived.

You say, "The Alfar are a type of Fae, a creature from another plane, created by the Goddess Faenella."

You tap a whimsical pewter fae charm that you are wearing.

You say, "Legends say that long before even the Imperial Healers Guild was founded, one or more Empaths did a great favor for the Fae."

You say, "The details of this event have been lost to time, but whatever the favor was, it was so great that the Alfar continue to feel indebted to us and still honor our summons many generations later."

Lenaea smiles.

You say, "Indeed, my introduction to Ahven came about because I found an item that had been lost to its people for many years. Ahven promised that he would come whenever I should call, forever in my debt."

You nod to a towering alfar warrior with platinum stars accentuating its skin.

You hopefully exclaim, "Perhaps someone here tonight will be inspired to investigate this relationship further. I know I would certainly love to hear more about it from an aspiring Guild researcher!"

Karthor nods in agreement.

You proudly say, "Before we continue, I have the honor of introducing Langen Esturi Nilme Iondu'il, of the Tavern Troupe, who has written a song especially for this event."

Nilme smiles.

You respectfully say to Nilme, "The stage is yours."

(Nilme walks over to a spot where she is easily seen, smiles softly and sits down. She lovingly retrieves a lap harp and positions it carefully. Leaning her ear close, she quietly plucks a string or two to insure it is in tune before looking up and smiling at you.)

(Nilme nods slightly in approval.)

Nilme recites:

    "I'm honored to be here with you. My song is simply entitled, "The Guardian."


(Nilme bows her head slightly in reverence.)

Nilme effortlessly begins a quiet psalm on her lap harp, her eyes sparkling with pride at her hard-won skill.

Nilme reverently sings in a soprano voice:

    "I call to you when danger's close and I find myself in need.
     Tranquil, graceful, stern or majestic, you arrive to intercede.
     Silent protector at my side, all harm to me you will impede.
     Your faithfulness a mystery, you honor a forgotten deed."

(Nilme's fingers glide over the strings of her harp, a delicate melody blending with her voice and rising into the air.)

Nilme respectfully sings in a soprano voice:

    "I thank you, my Alfar Warrior.
     This ancient debt you feel you owe-
     That holds you to this life I lead,
     In far more ways than I can say,
     Was paid in full so long ago."

(Nilme emphasizes her words with the music flowing from her harp.)

Nilme solemnly sings in a soprano voice:

    "My enemies fall one by one, and to your strength they must concede.
     Ethereal or imposing, with little effort, you succeed.
     When I am faced with those who'd hurt me, you step in with ernest speed.
     That you come at my summons, to what bargain did the fae accede?"

(Nilme's hand pauses above the strings allowing the tones to resonate briefly, then plays an intricate passage leading into the chorus.)

Nilme respectfully sings in a soprano voice:

    "I thank you, my stalwart Champion.
     This ancient debt you feel you owe-
     That holds you to this life I lead,
     In far more ways than I can say,
     Was paid in full so long ago."

(Nilme meets the eyes of one of the warriors and returns its smile.)

Nilme gratefully sings in a soprano voice:

    "Your weapons ever at the ready as into battle you proceed.
     Whether fierce or serene your unspoken warning my foe must heed.
     Your watchful eyes stay fixed upon me while I tend to those who bleed.
     I ponder about the code of honor that holds you to your creed."

With a slight tremor in her voice, Nilme reprises the last few words of the chorus of her infectious tune, drawing out the final note of each phrase and letting it gradually fade.

(Nilme's underlying chords become more prominent and the entire song more uplifting.)

Nilme respectfully sings in a soprano voice:

    "I thank you, my Guardian Spirit,
     This ancient debt you feel you owe-
     That holds you to this life I lead,
     In far more ways than I can say,
     Was paid in full so long ago."

Sea Serpent Aislynn just arrived.

(Nilme's melody gradually diminishes, its tempo slowly winding down and harmonies resolving as the song nears it's conclusion.)

Nilme softly sings in a soprano voice:

    "Yes, This ancient debt you feel you owe..."

Nilme slowly sings in a soprano voice:

    "Was paid in full so long ago."

Nilme seems to be waiting for something.

(Nilme's voice fades into a respectful silence.)

Nilme finishes playing a quiet psalm on her lap harp.

Lenaea applauds.

Raising her Katamba-black whiskey to Nilme, Iryta gives her a toast.

Elurora looks at Nilme and applauds!

Nilme stands up.

Raising his Bardic blue wine to Nilme, Stelling gives her a toast.
 
Raising her Troupe coffee to Nilme, Lenaea gives her a toast.
 
Nilme sinks into a deep curtsy.

Ysia looks at Nilme and applauds!

Raising his Troupe Reserve ale to Nilme, Karthor gives her a toast.

Steelfang says, "So many alfar.. they should have a tea party."

Daerlynn applauds.

Claribel beams at Nilme!

Claribel looks at Nilme and applauds!

Nilme smiles.

Catleena beams at Nilme!

Iryta beams at Nilme!

Daerlynn lets out a hearty cheer for Nilme!

Vixonia lets out a loud "Huzzah!" for Nilme!

Eyst looks at Nilme and applauds!

Raising his Katamba-black whiskey to Nilme, Steelfang gives her a toast.

Daerlynn praises Nilme.

Vixonia looks at Nilme and applauds!

Catleena lets out a loud "Huzzah!" for Nilme!

Miskton applauds.

Nilme smiles.

An ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes says, "Ah, so this is the place."

Elurora says to Nilme, "That was a really pretty song, Miss.  And your harp is pretty too."

Mireillere lets out a hearty cheer for Nilme!

Lenaea bows to an ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes.

Nilme blushes, the tips of her ears turning a delicate scarlet hue.

You beam at Nilme!

Nilme says to Elurora, "Thank you so much."

Karthor waves to an ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes.

Claribel says to Nilme, "Yes, it really was, exactly as Miss Elu said."

You smile.

Eyst gives an ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes a studious look.

You appreciatively exclaim to Nilme, "Very beautiful, thank you so much for sharing that with us!"

Nilme smiles at Claribel.

Nilme smiles at you.

An ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes says, "Dantia, I would like to thank you for this organization.  Your words of praise traveled far. "

You smile.

You say, "You do us the honor of joining us today."

Eyst says, "This one doesn't look quite so martial."

Karthor nods in agreement.

> look ancient alfar
Bent and wrinkled, the creature's milky eyes betray a glimmer of humor.  Dressed in elegant emissary's robes cut to allow its frail wings to protrude, the alfar leans on a gnarled wooden staff, softly smiling.

You nod to an ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes.

The emissary bows respectfully.

An ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes says, "It is, and always has been, our pleasure to serve."

You beam!

You say, "WIth that performance completed, we will continue."

You smile.

You say, "The strength of the Empath and Alfar relationship has even transcended Guilds. For the last several years, there have been a number of Moon Mage visions involving a blue-clad Empath and her Warrior, putting their companionship on full display."

Miskton gets a worn chestnut leather journal embossed with a lotus blossom from inside his scholar's valise.

Miskton opens his leather journal.

Miskton jots down some notes.

You get a length of blue batik fabric from inside your blue backpack.

You say, "Over the course of nearly a dozen visions, this duo was shown standing their ground in defense against an ever growing number of soldiers..."

Iryta ponders.

Elurora gazes thoughtfully at you.

Iryta leans forward and rests her chin in her hand and directs a thoughtful expression at you.

Karthor strokes his beard in thoughtful contemplation.

You exclaim, "...and if you have not witnessed the capacity for a combat-trained Empath and their Warrior to defend themselves, it truly is something amazing to behold!"

Vixonia angles her ears forward, gazing curiously at you.

Miskton closes his leather journal.

Mireillere nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

Aislynn nods to you.

Catleena grins, revealing her dimples.

You quietly say, "But despite their perserverence, these two were overcome. The Empath was murdered, and her Warrior was tortured and chained, forced to watch her as she succumbed to wounds too great for healing."

Daerlynn gazes at you.

Agalea nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

A pained expression crosses Aislynn's face.

Vixonia's ears droop for a moment.

Iryta frowns.

Lenaea frowns.

Karthor frowns.

Miskton frowns.

Daerlynn sighs.

You sadly say, "It was a heartbreaking vision, but especially for those of us who work so closely with our Warriors. Indeed anyone with a particularly strong bond with a friend, family member, or spouse can imagine the horror of being forced to watch them die..."

You sigh.

Iryta chews on her lip, looking deep in concentration.

Claribel studies the ground for a moment.

You firmly say, "But... the tenacity of the Warrior's spirit would not be defeated. The Alfar broke free, tracked down those responsible for the Empaths murder, and exacted its revenge in incredible displays of stealth and combat."

Ysia shivers.

You nod to an ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes.

You tap a length of blue batik fabric that you are holding.

You say, "...all with a strip of blue tied in commemoration around its bicep."

Elurora chews on her lip, looking deep in concentration.

You say, "Eventually, with the fire of revenge finally cooled, the Warrior discarded its blade and fell to weeping."

The emissary nods in agreement.

You quietly say, "The last we saw of it, it was untying the now-faded strip of blue from its arm."

You rub a length of blue batik fabric.

You reverently say, "This is why we gather here today."

Vixonia nods.

You put your fabric in your blue backpack.

You say, "The relationship between an Empath and Warrior is not simply one of convenience, but one of deep respect, trust, and unwaivering commitment. We owe it to them to show our appreciation for all that they give for us."

The emissary smiles at Dantia and nods in agreement.

You say, "I'd like to invite Iryta and Daerlynn, both of the Tavern Troupe Performing Order, to share a very special performance they have prepared for us... with a little aid from Nilme and myself."

You nod to Iryta.

You nod to Daerlynn.

Nilme grins.

Nilme stands up.

Iryta stands up.

Iryta dusts herself off.

Daerlynn smiles.

Iryta gets a flamewood violin with inlaid ebony swirls over the body from inside her musician's case.

Iryta gets a polished rakazel instrument bow inlaid with tiny obsidian eighth notes from inside her musician's case.

Nilme smiles.

Daerlynn stands near Nilme.
Nilme gets an inlaid pearwood naqqara from inside her musician's case.

You take in a great breath of air.

You slowly and deliberately empty your filled lungs.

Nilme gets a cherry drum stick from inside her musician's case.

(Dantia strolls quietly and sedately to the center of the room, taking a seat and crossing her legs over each other, settling her hands in her lap and gazing down at her open palms contemplatively.)

(Daerlynn begins with a low drone on her cittern, then begins to play a driving beat above it in an intricate pattern, gazing at Nilme with a smile, challenging her to add to the complex rhythm.)

(Nilme gives a quick grin first to Daerlynn, then to Dantia as she takes her drum stick in hand and begins to play her naqqara, the deep sound of the percussion complementing the sound of the cittern.)

Nilme begins a confident bolero on her pearwood naqqara.

Daerlynn picks up the pace of her chant, letting each measure roll after the other with a simple grace excelled only by the precision at which she performs it.

Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:

    "As I wander the world that only we see
     Who truly knows what I feel?
     Many just see a trope and not me
     That I live, but only to heal."

Nilme continues to chant the infectious strains of Faenella's Grace, seeming to lose herself in the very rhythms she produces.

(Dantia assumes a meditative stance, concentrating on something. A gentle jingling tone comes from around her, seemingly out of nowhere, seamlessly blending in with the soft melody flowing from the cittern and percussion of the naqqara.)

(Iryta, a towering Alfar Warrior with platnium stars accentuating her skin and black leathern wings that hang in sweeping tatters calmly strides in and surveys the area. She glides towards Dantia and stops suddenly, dropping to one knee before her. She bows solemnly before rising gracefully to her feet and taking a sharp step back. She draws a long, slender bow from behind her and sweeps it across her still form, raising it to the shining cerulean violin strapped to her shoulder and around her upper torso. She nods silently to Dantia and assumes first position, as if awaiting the instructions of her Empath.)

Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:

    "The people around me bring life and bring death
     And always, they bring me their pain.
     As I fight to prevent yet one more last breath
     Will the cacophony now drive me insane?"

(Daerlynn smiles at Nilme, as they trade off the syncopated beats, still with the unending drone also on the cittern.)

Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:

    "And still there is one, both stalwart and true
     Replete with grim understanding
     Frivolities of the world does this warrior eschew
     Sedate and yet somehow commanding."

(Dantia turns her head towards the Alfar and almost impercetibly jerks her chin up to the side, gazing into her eyes.)

(Iryta immediately adopts a wary stance, taking a solid step forward into a warrior pose, scrutinizing each face in the room. Drawing her bow across the strings of her violin, she begins a quiet but fierce fantasia. She pulls herself into a releve, balancing nimbly on her toes and throwing a leg forward to take a leap forward, turning swiftly on her foot in a precise piroutte. She repeats this motion once-twice-three times and more in a dizzying circle around her Empath, but keeps her eyes and violin pointed threateningly in the direction of the audience, her intent to protect Dantia clear.)

Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:

    "My champion, protector, a fae - tall and fair
     Unlike others, with a serious mien
     A loyalty, a bond, an oath we do share
     Grave honor, both sharp-edged and keen."



(Iryta ACT executes a steady double branle as she whirls about her Empath, stamping out the beat of the naqqara with her bare feet, her toe-bells jingling a faint tintinnbulation in accompaniment. She continues her improvised harmony on the cerulean violin as she dances, creating a flashy companion to the bard's melody. Her swiveling feet cause dust to rise into the air and catch the rush of wind beneath her wings, becoming gently twinkling motes of light, adding a hint of the mystical to the spectacle before you.)

Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:

    "Standing beside me, my holy defender
     I gain strength from my Guardian's gaze
     Steadiness 'gainst chaos that pain does engender
     Enabling me to get through my days."

(Daerlynn stands straight and tall, tossing her head in tempo as her fingers fly on the cittern, her long blue-black hair flowing with the rhythm.)

Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:

    "My Warrior defends me, supports me, upholds me
     Bringing an ease to the strife
     Pain and death twirl around me, alfar strength is my key
     Strengthening me to give of my life"

(Dantia gracefully rises to her feet and turns to face her Alfar, stretching a delicate hand out to her.)

(Iryta twirls to a full stop and turns to face Dantia. She stoops and lowers her bow to the ground, reaching out to grasp the Empath's hand with the tips of her long, slender fingers.  Nodding solemnly at her, the towering alfar warrior takes her through a few sedate turns of a stately waltz around the violin bow beneath them. Iryta smiles gravely, then bows over Dantia's hand, picking the bow back up and taking a guard position at her side once more. She returns her nonchalant yet wary gaze back to the crowd, gliding through a harmonic glissando on her instrument.)

Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:

    "The good that I do, keeping life, taking pain
     Are guarded by one white as a dove
     My Guardian Spirit keeps me alive, keeps me sane
     So I can heal, I can laugh, I can love."

(Dantia brings her feet together, bows her head, and lets out a slow, deep breath as quietly as she can. Her hand makes a small dismissive gesture, so slight you are not sure it even happened, and she raises her head slowly to gaze wistfully out at her Alfar.)

(Iryta gradually brings her song to an end, gazing back at her Empath with a silent stare. She suddenly appears less real somehow, like a reflection seen in an antique mirror. She sighs and you close your eyes to blink away the image of the dizzying apparition, and when you open them the creature is gone, a gentle jingling sound fading into silence.)

(Daerlynn ends with a long, rhythmic flourish on her cittern.)

You beam at Daerlynn!

You beam at Iryta!

You applaud.

Stelling gets an impish expression on his face, and lets out a hearty cheer.

Miskton applauds.

Daerlynn curtsies.

Aislynn applauds.

Nilme smiles at Iryta.

Vixonia lets out a loud "Huzzah!"

Karthor applauds.

Ishimmer applauds.

Nilme smiles at Daerlynn.

Chrysagon applauds.

Vixonia looks at Daerlynn and applauds!

Catleena gets an impish expression on her face, and lets out a hearty cheer.

Eyst applauds.

Nilme sinks into a deep curtsy.

Vixonia looks at Iryta and applauds!

Ysia applauds.

Vixonia's chant soars through the air like the ringing cry of a wild hawk as she comes to a high point in her song.

Iryta bows to you.

Vixonia looks at Nilme and applauds!

Steelfang gets an impish expression on his face, and lets out a hearty cheer.

Catleena applauds.

Claribel gets an impish expression on her face, and lets out a hearty cheer.

Vekara applauds.

Vixonia looks at you and applauds!

Ishimmer gets an impish expression on his face, and lets out a hearty cheer.

Iryta tucks a razaksel instrument bow into the pocket on her musician's case.

You smile.

Nilme smiles.

You appreciatively exclaim, "Thank you Iryta and Daerlynn for preparing such a performance!"

Korya gets an impish expression on her face, and lets out a hearty cheer.

Iryta beams at you!  What a warm feeling!

Daerlynn beams at Iryta!

Malykai applauds.

You quietly say, "...and for your patient lessons to help me perform to your level."

Vixonia exclaims, "Wonderful performance!!"

You slowly and deliberately empty your filled lungs.

You giggle.

Iryta winks at you.

Claribel says, "That was delightful!  Well performed, all of you."

Claribel beams!

Nilme smiles.

Vekara gazes at you.

Malykai nods in agreement.

You warmly say, "Now, if anyone would would like to offer their own thanks either to your Warrior specifically or to all those in attendance, now would be the time to begin preparing your words. I will start to get the ball rolling."

(Dantia turns toward a towering Alfar warrior with platinum stars accentuating its skin, reaching out to place a hand on its arm.)

You tenderly say, "Thank you, Ahven, for being my stalwart companion. My heart is at ease knowing that when I call, you will answer. When I command, you will respond. And when I should eventually fall, you will honor me."

You loudly say, "And to all those Alfar gathered here today: we Empaths may not remember the details of why you have pledged yourself to our service, and perhaps your kind does not remember, either."

You firmly say, "But I have seen you come to our aid in the most dire of circumstances. You have fought at our side against our enemies, with no question or complaint. And -that- I will remember. Thank you, to each and every one of you."

You curtsy.

You curiously ask, "Would anyone else like the opportunity to speak?"

An ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes asks, "Dantia, if I may?"

You nod.

You say, "Of course, please. The floor is yours."

An ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes says, "My brethren stand at the ready I can see.  I do not wish to distract from their accomplishments.  But I was sent to pay respects.  Our courts are complex, and untangle themselves in an effort to come speak, tripping over themselves in debate.  My House lacks patience for such affairs.  "

An ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes says, "We heard of your prophets visions, and hoped to ensure that you knew we alfar stand ready and committed.  Our pact remains."

An ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes says, "You have always honored the pact, and we will continue to dedicate our lives pledged in service.  In time, I hope, more of my kind will come visit.  "

An ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes says, "I will leave you to your revelry, and hope to see you soon."

The emissary bows respectfully.

Lenaea bows to an ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes.

Miskton nods politely to an ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes.

Iryta smiles at an ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

You say, "Thank you, emissary, for reaffirming that vow. I assure you we will continue to uphold our end of things as best we can, too. By teaching our next generations what we know, and making sure they, too, are appreciative."

An ancient alfar dressed in emissary's robes just went northeast.

Steelfang says, "Can't say I've ever heard one speak, that was a new experience."

You nod to Steelfang.

You say, "That is a fantastic point to make. It is said in our history that should you hear an Alfar speak to take heed, because they do not do so lightly."

You say, "I would urge those of the Empath Guild to share that message with others who were not here. It's important that they hear, too."

You say, "I'm going to give a few moments here in case anyone decides they would like to add their own voice of thanks."

You say, "Feel free to either speak up, or let me know and I will introduce you."

You smile.

You say, "This is my polite way of giving someone a moment to think who was considering speaking..."

Korya stands up.

Korya clears her throat.

Korya says, "Thank you, Cordy, for leading me when I was weak and afraid and lost... I'm sorry we don't spend much time together anymore, as I've grown able to take care of myself. I hope you have a nice happy time when you're on your own, er, plane, and doing fae things without me! Or helping other empaths maybe! We'll fight some more things together someday! And I'll try to remember you when I'm lost again. And thank you for the whirly-hugs. Those are the best."

You beam at Korya!

Korya hugs the alert alfar warrior, who returns the gesture carefully.

Iryta dimples at Korya.

Aislynn chuckles at Korya.

Aislynn makes a chirring noise in Korya's direction.

Ysia flashes a wide grin.

You ask, "Any more before I continue?"

Korya settles herself on a gingham picnic cloth edged in heartstring lace.

You nod.

You respectfully say, "One of our fellow Empaths, Cote Rudel, was not able to be with us today, but she asked me to read a thanks to her Warrior Hornet."

You get a sheet of dappled rose paper from inside your blue backpack.

Ysia gazes at you.

You recite:
    "To my warrior - I owe you my life.  Not because you've saved it.  You have, of course, but this is not where my debt of gratitude comes from."

You recite:
    "No, I owe you my life for giving me my claws back.  For standing by me as I grew and helping me keep true to my oath."

You recite:
    "I chose, years ago, to do no harm.  After a childhood of stalking scorpions and pouncing on vipers in my desert home, I sheathed my claws.  I vowed to heal."

You recite:
    "I did this so I would never have to see those closest to me suffer.  I sacrificed the thrill of the kill to instead take the pain of others."

You recite:
    "I did not become defenseless, no.  I trained in every way my new life offered, preserving life while combating death.  Carefully, so as not to squander the gift I'd been given.  But well enough so that I could be self-sufficient.  That I could take care of those I cherished."

You recite:
    "But there was always something missing, some sense of safety I felt was vacant.  And then I learned... about you.  About this Fae warrior we Empaths could call to our sides.  About this companion that would stand by us in battle."

You recite:
    "And there you were."

You recite:
    "I can feel you coming when I call... I hear that little ringing in my ears as though something is pressing in on me and then you're there.  Silent, and stoic, but in those quiet moments when you hum to only me I know you feel our bond."

You recite:
    "I don't know why your kind still feels indebted to the Empaths, but I am not one to question such loyalty.  To me it is a gift - you are a gift.  For me to preserve what I've worked so hard for, you step forward."

You recite:
    "There is no longer a hole in my strengths.  You have become an extension of my abilities, and you have become a dear friend."

You recite:
    "And one day... one day you will let me give you a smooch for this kindness."

You chuckle.

Iryta chortles softly at some secret joke.

You smile.

You put your paper in your blue backpack.

You exclaim, "Thank you to Cote for sharing this message with us all!"

Korya applauds.

Ysia looks at you and lets out a hearty cheer on your behalf!

Vixonia lets out a loud "Huzzah!"

Daerlynn applauds.

Catleena grins, revealing her dimples.

Claribel looks at you and applauds!

Lenaea beams!

Stelling applauds.

Chrysagon applauds.

Malykai applauds.

Iryta applauds.

You say, "And that, friends, is the end of today's ceremony. I thank you for joining us, especially those not of the Empath Guild."

Raising her Troupe coffee to you, Lenaea gives you a toast.  Cheers!

Vixonia lets out a loud "Huzzah!"

Elurora smiles at you.

Miskton smiles.

Nilme looks at you and applauds!

Vixonia exclaims, "Delightfully done!"

You say, "If anyone has any questions about the Alfar, the visions I spoke of, how to work with your Alfar, or anything else, I would be happy to linger to answer questions."

Ysia praises you.

Daerlynn exclaims, "That was wonderful!"

Raising his Katamba-black whiskey to you, Steelfang gives you a toast.  Cheers!

Korya says to you, "I wanted to learn more about where they come from, and you said that, so I'm happy."

You say, "And please do make sure to consider the Tavern Troupe for any of your events, they were fantastic to work with and shared some very amazing performances that I will not forget."

You nod.

Vixonia trills softly at you.

You smile at Vixonia.

You exclaim, "Otherwise, thank you again for attending, and I hope you join me at another event soon!"

You exclaim to Korya, "I'm glad you found that little bit of information helpful!"

Karthor says, "Outstandin', thanks fer pullin' this together. Hearin' from the emissary was particularly interestin', though now I can't help but wonder what doom awaits us. I s'pose that's typical when visions're involved though."

Lenaea says, "I would like to know more of the pact the emissary spoke of."

You chuckle at Karthor.

Korya says, "If you know more about what their land is like, I'd like to know... the kind of grass and trees, is there snow? What do they eat--do they eat? Cordy doesn't eat noodles."

You say to Karthor, "I have made it a rule to not do vision research right before bed, else I might scare myself up all night."

Karthor nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

Lenaea says to you, "Safer that way."

Lenaea nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

You nod at Lenaea, in complete agreement with her views.

Eyst says, "Ah, I actually have a few questions you might be able to answer."

You nod to Eyst.

You say to Eyst, "If I can answer, I would be happy to."

You say to Korya, "I unfortunately do not know more about the land from which they come from. Perhaps a Moon Mage could help us on that front one day."

You grin at Korya.

Eyst asks you, "They all have a rather ambiguous build to them. Androgynous even, have you been able to tell if they have a gender?"

You shake your head at Eyst.

You say to Eyst, "They are neither male nor female, as we understand it."

You say to Eyst, "It's why I try to avoid calling them 'him' or 'her', even though 'it' sounds a bit rude."

You chuckle.

Iryta grins at you, her dimples flashing into view.

Korya says, "They."

Korya nods.

Eyst says, "Interesting. I wondered at that given some of the speculated origins I've read about."

Agalea says to you, "They are so very interesting."

Lenaea says to you, "Perhaps they come from a place where such things have no significance.  As far as we are aware, creatures from the plane of probability are much the same in thar regard."

You nod to Lenaea.

Claribel says to Korya, "Yes!  They, or them.  And of course by their given name, if they don't mind."

You exclaim to Lenaea, "It could very well be. There is still so much we do not know about them!"

Lenaea nods to you.

Eyst asks you, "That older alfar had wings. Have you seen others with wings?"

Korya asks, "That's a little sad, isn't it? Do they love each other at all? Do they date?"

You nod to Eyst.

You say to Eyst, "They all have wings, although some are smaller than the others."

Claribel says, "We could ask them, I suppose."

Korya says, "Cordy doesn't say much..."

Claribel says, "Though it may not be as we would understand it."

Lenaea says, "It wasn't the time or place today, but at some point I'd love to pepper the ancient alfar emissary with questions."

Lenaea chuckles.

You chuckle at Lenaea.

Eyst says, "Hm. Perhaps they grow."

You say to Lenaea, "I was very surprised they sent an emissary. To my knowledge we have never met with their kind in any sort of official capacity like that."

Lenaea says to you, "Truly an honor for us all."

Lenaea nods.

You nod at Lenaea, in complete agreement with her views.

Eyst says, "All of them gathered is quite an opportunity to get a sense of the variety of their forms. Worth documenting.."

You nod at Eyst, in complete agreement with his views.

You say, "Did I miss any questions? They were coming in kind of quick there for a few minutes."

You giggle.

Korya asks, "Does it snow where they live when they're not here?"

You smile at Korya.

You say to Korya, "I know for a fact that they know what snow IS, they will comment on the miserable weather when you speak to them during a snowstorm."

You chuckle.

(Eyst walks among the gathered Alfar, taking moments to study them from different angles.)

Korya asks, "Miserable?"

Korya frowns.

Claribel asks Korya, "Do you think they would build snow fae if it did?"

You nod to Korya.

Korya asks, "Is that you saying snow is miserable, or is that what yours has told you?"

Korya folds her arms across her chest.

You exclaim to Korya, "But that tells us that wherever they are from it does not snow constantly!"

You say to Korya, "Oh, just what mine has told me."

You nod.

Korya says, "Yours has awful taste in weather."

You laugh!

Claribel looks at Korya, obviously trying not to grin, but the dimples in her cheeks give her away.

You say to Korya, "I will make sure to tell him that."

You nod.

You hug the towering alfar warrior.
The warrior returns your hug gingerly, being careful not to hurt you with its weapons or armor.

Korya nods emphatically.

You glance up at the sky.
The sky is nearly filled with cold, grey clouds.

> command warrior to name
You ask the warrior for its name.

A towering alfar warrior with platinum stars accentuating its skin smiles at you and says quietly, "My name is Ahven.  Lovely weather we're having, don't you think?"

Korya says, "Snow is fun... they seem like they'd enjoy fun, when they're not on duty."

You say, "He believes these cold, grey clouds are lovely weather."

You nod.

Korya says, "So he has SOME sense."

You laugh at Korya!

You say to Korya, "I'm glad he's not completely on your bad side. Just a little."

Korya asks, "Does he like being called a he?"

You say to Korya, "He's never expressed displeasure, but I do try to remind myself that he's neither a 'he' nor a 'she'. It's an incredibly hard habit to break."

You smile at Claribel.

Eyst says, "You know, it occurs to me that the old one mentioned that the Empaths are still upholding their side of the pact."

You nod at Eyst, in complete agreement with his views.

You ask Eyst, "Makes you wonder what we agreed to, hm?"

You quietly say, "Sounds like I've found my researcher."

Aislynn grins at you.

You grin at Eyst.

Malykai grins.

Eyst asks, "Indeed, is there anything in gaining the favor of your alfar or in summoning them that strikes you as fulfilling some part of a bargain?"

You ponder.

You say to Eyst, "Not that I can think of, to be honest. This is the first time I'm hearing of any sort of obligation that we are upholding on our end."

You nibble on your lip.

You say, "And I feel like I've read -everything- on the Alfar at this point."

You chuckle.

Aislynn quietly says, "To gain Albriel's assistance, I had returned a particular salad fork. It was important to her - their! Their family, or so they said."

You say to Eyst, "Perhaps we could sit down and talk about it in more depth sometime? I could tell you what I know, and you could point out areas that I might be overlooking."

Malykai says, "It sure does seem like the Alfar have aware of the research you've been doing."

You chuckle.

Korya says, "I just had to sit through Salvur teaching me a spell..."

Malykai asks, "There courts all abuzz...whatever their courts?"

You say to Malykai, "I feel like I talk about it non-stop, I'd wonder if anyone -doesn't- know by now."

Eyst says, "Certainly, that's a discussion I would be interested in having."

You laugh!

You say to Malykai, "Another great point, this is one of the first times I'm hearing about any of their society or hierarchy."

Malykai nods.

Malykai says, "Governing courts, noble houses."

Malykai says, "Who would have thought."

You smile at Malykai.

You exclaim, "I'm excited by how much awareness this has brought to them!"

You smile.

Malykai asks, "Hopefully we'll have more opportunities to learn about them. It did seem from the ancient ones words that we could see more?"

You nod to Malykai.

You say to Malykai, "That was my impression as well, although I'll need a bit more time to mull over it all."

You say, "Now, you are all very kind for staying but a good host can't leave until you all leave."

You grin.