[PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1
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		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Light =&gt; Light: Exotic Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: National Acrobat on 14-11-2016, 20:36:22</h2>
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				Title: <strong>[PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>14-11-2016, 20:36:22</strong>
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				7 Kythorn 1357 D.R.<br><br>It is mid-morning, and it is going to be a dry, warm day. Already the sun is bathing the Cloakwood in it's light, warming the land and illuminating the realm. It is the first real sunny day in a week. A week ago, the King was buried, and the Queen has declared a month of mourning. In that time, she has been busy, both keeping the realm running, and receiving emissaries and condolences from allies around Toril. There was a public service for the King, that was more a remembrance and joyous occasion, than a somber one, and then there was an intimate, private one that was quite subdued. Gabilgathal was loved and respected, even among those in Evereska and Evermeet, and Aglarond, that felt he was too cosmopolitan and too open to new ways. He commanded respect, and he earned trust. He was, by all accounts, a wise and benevolent ruler.<br><br>Thus, the sudden shock of his murder had caught everyone off guard. Wild speculation began being whispered in circles and behind closed doors. No one knew what to make of it. If he was so loved and respected, why was he now dead? Did some long-lost enemy strike from the shadows? Was a policy about to be announced that would have infuriated or damaged someone? Did he learn something he shouldn't have? Perhaps one of his recent actions caused bitterness and strife? None knew for sure, and the whispers continued.<br><br>For some of you the loss is more profound. The king was your blood, or a relative. For others, he was your liege. <br><br>It has come to this, however. You were summoned by the Queen. Each of you were expected to attend a private council meeting with her. Your assumption is, that she has decided that it is time to get to the heart of the matter to try to make sense of what happened, and why it happened. Your arrival coincides with others, some you know, others you may have only seen in passing, or been marginally acquainted with.<br><br>Two that are familiar to you are Enastril Moraine, Master of the Bladesong and Head Instructor at the Sword Dancer Academy. His face is neutral, unreadable, and as cold as ice as you arrive. The other is Aysia Van Ymir, Copper Elf Druidess of Alathrien Druanna, adopted daughter of the Queen's Nephew, Kess Van Ymir. She has a shirt on, which is unusual, and it covers the tattoos that normally would be visible on her arms, shoulders, back and stomach. She appears to be uncomfortable in the surroundings, which is to say, indoors. She smiles politely, knowing some of you.<br><br>The waiting chamber is Spartan, with natural light designed to show the trees and plants that are central to the palace. It is unassuming and furnished with simple wooden chairs and a table upon which are refreshments. You have been advised she will see you in ten or so minutes, and to be comfortable waiting for the duration.
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				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>15-11-2016, 09:03:57</strong>
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				Jhessail sits by her window, severe in unrelieved black. Black mourning dress, black shoes, black gemstones; even the thin chains adorning her hair are black. The only contrast comes from the ring she wears on her right hand, a flash of silver brightness against the gloom of her attire.<br><br>How has it come to this? With a trembling hand, she slides the ring from her finger and sets it upon her palm. Such a small thing to cause such agony. She takes it up and begins to place it on her finger, hesitates and sets it down. Time and again her fingers brush the ring and then withdraw. Indecision trembles like a leaf inside her.<br><br>Never before had she questioned if she should wear her most cherished possession, but that was before the king’s death. The House of Tol Galen had been attacked and it is more important than ever to show that they stand united. Is it not foolish to wear a ring that symbolizes her father’s love? When he, a condemned criminal stripped of his rank and name and sentenced to exile, is whispered to be responsible for even worse crimes? What message will she send to her queen, to her people? She can imagine the rumors that will spread: <em>Like father, like daughter</em>.<br><br>Jhessail closes her eyes, remembering a day some decades ago when, after exchanging her apprentice’s garb for a wizard’s robes, she had been surprised by a hand upon her shoulder. Setting down the frayed robe that filled her arms, she had turned to find her parents. She remembers the look of pride upon both their faces. She remembers her father’s gentle smile as he showed her the small wooden box carved with the House of Tol Galen’s sigil. She remembers him sliding the ring onto her finger, and she remembers regarding it through a veil of joyous tears.<br><br>“Oh father,” she says, clasping the ring in her hand, feeling its metal bite into her skin. And then she takes a deep breath and slides the ring back onto her finger. He is still her father, and she will not forsake him. Not until it is proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that he is unworthy of her loyalty will she abandon him. Let them gossip, let them insinuate; she cares not.<br><br>Rising from the window, she spares one last glance for the looking-glass before making her way to the audience chamber. For a week the skies have wept as if in remembrance of the king; and now that the sun shines again, its light seems almost inappropriate. It is certainly too cheerful for her melancholy; but she composes herself as she walks, reminding herself that she must be strong for the sake of her people.<br><br>It is with uncertainty in her heart and defiance upon her finger that she joins the others in the waiting chamber. “Cousin,” she says with genuine pleasure when she sees Aysia. “It has been too long.” And then she notices Enastril. “Blademaster,” she says, in cooler tones that verge on coldness. There is no love lost between them, and she does not care to feign indifference towards him, not after their latest discussion.
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				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Grizzly</strong> on <strong>18-11-2016, 05:25:13</strong>
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				Morwenna Churast sat crosslegged in the small garden, clad in the uniform of the Royal Guard.&nbsp; Her eyes were closed and her gaze was skyward.&nbsp; The warmth of the sun on her face was a pleasant comfort and her expression was serene.&nbsp; To any who saw her, she looked as if she were on the cusp of a pleasant daydream, but they would be wrong.&nbsp; Heavy thoughts weighed on her mind, threatening to break the calm that she was seeking.&nbsp; <br><br>The King was dead well over a week now and no one seemed to know what had happened.&nbsp; Morwenna could not help but wonder if she had missed some vital detail that might yield some meaning behind her Kings death. There was nothing that she could think of but it did not stop her from wondering.&nbsp; <br><br>Then there was the matter with Arion, her lover.&nbsp; He had always had a wild streak to him but Morwenna could not believe that it could have had a hand in his sudden exile from the kingdom. Another event that she had only been able to watch in astonishment.&nbsp; They had not spoken for some time, which was hardly surprising, but she was now regretting it.&nbsp; She should have sought him out.<br><br>A dead King.&nbsp; An exiled lover.<br><br>Both separate events weighed heavily upon her, causing her inner serenity to become a raging torrent of doubt and anger.&nbsp; Morwenna had taken to meditation to try and regain a semblance of calm, and bury deep the urge to scream out her frustrations and ram her fists into something or someone.&nbsp; Most days it worked, for a time.&nbsp; Today she needed to regain her calm composure for she had been summoned to an audience with the Queen.<br><br>Sometime later, Morwenna entered the waiting area.&nbsp; She knew that she was not of high enough rank with the Guard to warrant a private meeting so she was not surprised to see that there were others in the room.&nbsp; One of the occupants she was surprised to see, however.<br><br>"Greetings Master Enastril." Morwenna greeted the nearest person.&nbsp; His face was as stony as hers normally was, but his was better today.&nbsp; Colder.&nbsp; There was some history between the two but it was more due to Morwenna having been Arions lover than anything else.&nbsp; She could remember the times that Arion had opened up about his dislike of the Blademaster and she knew that the feeling between the pair was mutual.&nbsp; <br><br>It took Morwenna a moment to recognize the Druidess, so unused to seeing her wearing a top.&nbsp; "Greetings, Lady Aysia." she said in a polite tone.&nbsp; <br><br>The final person in the room actually brought a smile to Morwennas face.&nbsp; "Daughter."&nbsp; she said, walking up to Jhessail and taking both of her hands in hers. She longed to embrace her daughter but it might not be considered proper in such company.&nbsp; "It has been too long, Jhessail.&nbsp; I trust that you are well?"&nbsp; Noticing the ring on Jhessails finger, Morwennas smile brightens some more.&nbsp; It had been a gift from Arion and her and Morwenna was pleased to see that Jhessail was still wearing it.
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				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>19-11-2016, 02:37:55</strong>
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				Jhessail’s smile upon seeing her mother is equally as warm. She holds onto her mother’s hands, finding comfort in their strength. In difficult times, Morwenna has always been to her as shelter in a storm. She has no closer confidante.<br><br>“As well as can be expected, mother,” she says. It is not the answer she wants to give; it is the sort of vague, polite reply she would have given anyone. There is more she would say – her fears for the House of Tol Galen; her determination to protect it, all of it – but elven ears are sharp and Enastril is standing too close for her liking. Even the magical means she knows for holding a whispered conversation may not be private enough.<br><br>“And you? How fare you, mother?” she asks.
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				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Grizzly</strong> on <strong>19-11-2016, 04:17:57</strong>
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				Morwenna exhaled and her smile faltered slightly.&nbsp; "I fear that my mood is echoing the dark times we find ourselves in.&nbsp; Uncertainty and rumors weigh heavily upon us all." she said.&nbsp; Perhaps in a more private setting Morwenna could admit how chaotic her thoughts had been of late to her daughter, but such things were not a topic for such a public place.&nbsp; "I am much the better for seeing you well."&nbsp; 
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				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>19-11-2016, 10:32:16</strong>
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				“I hope to always be a comfort to you, mother.” Jhessail gives Morwenna’s hands a gentle squeeze before releasing them. She too has fallen into despair as of late, but that is a conversation best saved for another time.<br><br>Jhessail turns her head, her gaze falling upon the table laden with refreshments. “I’m feeling a bit thirsty. Shall we see what grandmother has set out for us?”
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				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>20-11-2016, 19:03:22</strong>
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				'Your Highness' Enastril said to Jhessail, bowing stiffly when addressed. He turned and bowed stiffly to Morwenna as well. 'My lady' he added, almost as an afterthought. 'You have my sincerest condolences on the death of Gabilgathal. He was a good man' he added. After that, he was silent. It was clear that he was ignoring Aysia. He had never liked the fact that Kess had married a copper elf, and adopted her daughter as his own. Until then, the Tol Galen and Van Ymir families had been purely Moon Elven.<br><br>Aysia smiled warmly at the ladies. Even though she wasn't a blood relative, they had accepted her, and treated her well.<br><br>'It is good to see you cousin, and you as well Morwenna' she said, turning her back to Enastril.<br><br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chulanowa</strong> on <strong>27-11-2016, 00:07:15</strong>
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				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sianna had taken the news - and its implications - poorly. The burial had hit her especially sharply; something about putting the king beneath the soil struck her as wrong, and she wasn't able to pinpoint exactly why. For much of the time since that ceremony, she had been astride her horse, in the forested lands around the city. Never far, but far enough. Two days ago she had returned, her time among the trees leaving her soul at least a little more settled. King Gabilgathil was no doubt gazing on fine dawns and coursing fleet stags in the forests of Arvanaith now, free from the burden of a kingdom.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The king's <em>death</em> did not worry her so much now, as his <em>murder</em>. The summons was delivered quietly, by a young lad barely old enough to be a page. For a few hours, Sianna had left it on a table, seal unbroken. Dark worries raced through her mind. Of course it was probably exactly what she thought it was, a summons to audience. But for what? Sienna had heard the rumors that her father might even be implicated. And so, until dusk of that day the little roll of light paper sat, unopened, untouched. When finally she read it by the light of a small glow-globe, the moon's sliver was bright in the sky.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She was a contrast to her half-sister in the chambers; clad in an ash-white gown, her hair loose and unfettered, the only jewelry bedecking her being the silver sigil of Lurue worn as an amulet around her neck. Her step was light, the practiced gait of a tracker, the soft soles of her slippers barely whispering the floor. <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As she stepped into the chamber, she graced Jessail with a soft, but very genuine smile. <strong>"Oh, Sister..."</strong> she began, moving to take the other young woman in an embrace, touching forehead to forehead. Sienna's never been one for illusions of propriety, after all.<strong> "How are you holding up?"</strong> she followed, taking a half-step back to look her sister over. Despite herself a small smile teased the corner of her mouth; Jessail certainly owned a lot of silk and black jet jewelry. <em>I thought that was just a phase</em>... <strong>"You <em>look</em> like the weather. Hopefully the sun will break soon."</strong><br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It was then that the others caught her attention. They collectively got a (somewhat awkward) curtsy from her. <strong>"Distinguished,"</strong> she greeted, eyes following her sister's journey to the wine with ever-so-slight concern. All the somber faces, the dark clothing, the reserved, icy tones. She's no fool, there is plenty to worry about, but it's hard to shake the feeling of being a foreigner in her own home. 
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				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheGlyphstone</strong> on <strong>28-11-2016, 03:25:01</strong>
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				Aiven was the last of the summoned group to arrive, for all that he had left his own chambers with plenty of time to spare. At least, he had thought so, but his spectral harassers seemed unusually vexed with him this day, and had made the relatively short journey exceptionally difficult. Even as he entered the room, the door abruptly tried to swing back into his face in a gust of cold wind, but he catches it and holds it long enough to slip through.<br><br>The death of Gabilgathil had devastated him as much as anyone not of the king's own family could have felt. The King had been the first person in close to a century able to offer genuine kindness to the cursed nomad who had once been a prince, and the first to offer him a place to begin to heal. Under Gabilgathil's roof, Aiven had come to terms with his past and the haunting remnants that still pursued him from it, and returned the favor by serving as royal tutor to the Tol Galen household. He couldn't have imagined anyone wanting the King dead, let alone having the will and ability to carry out the deed, and for all that his step was light, his face was appropriately and uncharacteristically somber.<br><br>"Sianna. I'm happy to see you home again. Jhessail, you as well." To each sister he gave a proper, respectful bow, balancing out the informal address that came from having known the girls literally since they were suckling babes.<br><br>Morwenna, a similar bow. "Milady Morwenna. It cannot be said too many times, my deepest and utmost sorrows for your loss, all of you."<br><br>"Lady Ayisa, I hope you fair well." He'd always held a bit of a soft spot for the young girl, though unlike the princesses she hadn't been one of his direct students.<br><br>"Well met again, Blademaster Moraine." Aiven's nod to Enastril was cordial, of one master scholar to another - for all that their studies lay in very different fields, he'd never had any quarrels with the swordmaster.<br><br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>29-11-2016, 08:28:13</strong>
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				Jhessail's dislike of Enastril only grows keener when she observes his disdain for her cousin. Well, let him be alone with his prejudice; <em>she</em> will set a different example. Jhessail smiles at Aysia and takes her arm, bringing her to the table with refreshments. “When we have the chance, you must tell me about your latest travels,” she says to her cousin. “I’ve been marooned at the palace for so long that I’ve quite forgotten what the outside world looks like. You must tell me everything.”<br><br>And then, decorum goes awry as Sianna does what Morwenna had not thought proper, embarrassing them in front of everyone. Jhessail embraces her half-sister with as much dignity as she can, though she wants to sigh heavily.<br><br>“I’m well enough, considering we are in mourning for grandfather,” she says, studying Sianna’s garb in turn. Does Sianna truly not understand why she is wearing black? That it has nothing to do with her mood or mimicking the weather, and everything to do with respecting the queen’s wishes for a month of mourning? “And you look like the clouds.” In Jhessail’s mind, Sianna is exactly like the clouds. Here one day, and gone the next. Serenely floating at one moment and at the next, racing with all speed towards the horizon. Ever inconstant, ever unfathomable.<br><br>“Master Aiven,” she says with a smile when greeted by her former mentor. The sight of him stirs memories of childhood lessons, of her listening intently and taking notes with quill and paper, and Sianna – well, just being Sianna. “What a pleasure to see you.”<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Grizzly</strong> on <strong>02-12-2016, 00:05:31</strong>
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				Morwenna returned Aivens words with a respectful bow of her own.&nbsp; "Thank you for your kind words, Master Aiven.&nbsp; I hope that you are weathering our current troubles well."&nbsp; <br><br>The Captain of the Guard almost let an eye roll break through her stony facade at Sianna's antics.&nbsp; The girl was properly formal with everyone else in the room but seemed to have trouble maintaining decorum with her half-sister.&nbsp; There was a time and a place for such things, Morwenna thought, though she did harbour a slight bit of envy for how open the Princess could be.&nbsp; A Captain of the Guard could not afford to show such emotions however.<br><br>"Our gathering grows larger by the minute.&nbsp; Are we expecting any more?"
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				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>03-12-2016, 15:58:14</strong>
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				Before Morwenna could receive an answer, the doors to the council chamber were thrust open, and several elves that were not as well known to any of them exited. More than likely representatives of the other families. None really paid too much attention to those who were waiting, it was obvious that all of them had looks of concern and deep thought on their faces as they moved on from the council chamber to whatever awaited them.<br><br>Naramis, the Queen's Brother and Chief Steward and Councilor motioned them in. Before any salutations could be given to him however, he had shut the door behind them, and he was on the outside. The council chamber reflected the simple life and style of the king and queen. Solid wood table, with matching chairs, yet not ostentatious. There was a simple pattern of leaves and trees carved into it. The walls were bare save for a couple of tapestries depicting forest scenes. There were no gaudy service sets, no gold or silver inlaid trinkets or items, and nothing in the room that would take away from those that met the king and queen. It was a simple, tastefully decorated room that had a purpose to it.<br><br>It was them, and only the Queen in this meeting. No others, which seemed odd and yet interesting at the same time. It was obvious that the Queen had something to discuss with only them, as she had the room vacated. <br><br>The Queen stood, and bade for them to sit.<br><br>Welcome. Please have a seat. I wish this meeting were happening in better times, but there comes a time when action must be had, and a time for some frank discussions. Now is that time. Please, make yourself comfortable she said. She wasn't appearing distant and cold because that was who she was, she was doing it because of the times they were in. Her granddaughters, and Morwenna knew this wasn't really her way of doing things, and the circumstances she was in, were changing a few things.<br><br>I want to thank all of you for coming, and for your support. It means more than I can express. How is everyone holding up? she asked, a bit of warmth returning to her features as she spoke.
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				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Grizzly</strong> on <strong>04-12-2016, 06:49:20</strong>
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				It did not go unnoticed to Morwenna that the Queen was meeting alone with them.&nbsp; It was not something that her Captain of the Guard sensibilities could take lightly, and she quickly gave in to her protective instincts.&nbsp; Her eyes darted about the room, taking in every detail, as she tried to show no outward signs. <br><br>"We are as well as can be expected under these dark circumstances, your majesty." Morwenna said, her gaze settling on her monarch.&nbsp; "Your composure and presence has given strength to your people.&nbsp; We pray that it will continue to do so."
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				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>04-12-2016, 09:30:19</strong>
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				Jhessail saw the court as a living thing – it had its moods, its rhythms, its usual behaviours. She had lived there almost her entire life and it was changing before her eyes. The council chamber cleared for a private audience, troubled looks exchanged between the departing elves, the queen’s own brother standing guard outside; something momentous was about to be discussed.<br><br>She might have called it an intimate gathering, just the six of them and the queen, but the imperious look in her grandmother’s eyes instantly dispelled that notion. The queen was here, not as friend or family, but as a monarch. Jhessail’s instincts warned her that every formality would be required.<br><br>“Your majesty,” she greeted the queen, and dipped into a curtsey, low and graceful. Following the queen’s suggestion, she took a seat, folding her hands in her lap.<br><br>Jhessail watched the queen as her mother spoke. It occurred to her that she might one day stand where her grandmother now stood, with similar coldness upon her face and placing duty before all else. It was what she had trained all her life to do, but the thought still unnerved her. <em>Heavy is the burden of the solitary tree atop the hill.</em><br><br>“You will always have my love and my support,” Jhessail said, meeting the queen’s eyes. “But, if I may be frank, I fear composure and presence will no longer suffice. Our people require answers. Rumors are spreading, and uncertainty and suspicion grow in many minds. We must give them what they need or we will lose their trust.”<br><br>A time for action and frankness. Jhessail touched the ring on her right hand. She knew what discussion she wished to have.
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				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chulanowa</strong> on <strong>04-12-2016, 10:41:08</strong>
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				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>"Your Highness,"</strong> she murmured, dipping another curtsy towards the queen as the doors were drawn shut behind the group. She was of a similar mind as Morwenna, it seemed, her eyes quickly darting about the chamber... No, certainly the queen's chamber had been well-warded after... after. Sianna took a deep breath and sat as the queen bade.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>"We are not the ones onto whom the kingdom's weight falls in the wake of this... assassination,"</strong> the word came from her lips like acid, though the rest were soft. She looked up to the queen with a look of sadness and sympathy. <strong>"What I mean is... <em>we</em> are not the ones who are having to hold things up, Highness."</strong> She glanced from her sister, to the others in the chamber, then back to the queen. <strong>"Any of us would be proud to help bear some of the burden though; we are ready to serve."</strong><br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She nodded at what her sister was saying. <strong>"If the conspiracy is not exposed and dealt with, the court will begin turning on itself, and the people will suffer for it."</strong> Jhessail's fidgeting with her ring caught Sianna's eye, and she reached over to take her sister's hand in a brief squeeze. 
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				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>07-12-2016, 20:18:43</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled.<br><br>Kind words, all of you, and you are all correct in many ways, and I agree. First, however, I would have the report from Enastril that I had asked for. Once that is given, the rest of us will talk she said, making it clear that what she was going to propose, did not involve the Bladesinger, but did involve a decision based on the outcome of the information that she had asked for him to give her.<br><br>With that, he rose. Your Majesty he said, staying on his feet to address her, while the others took seats. He knew that he was not going to be privy to further involvement at this point, and he knew that part of it stemmed from his prejudices. He pointedly avoided looking at Arion's daughters, and especially his cousin's adopted daughter, during this time.<br><br>As your majesty requested, I checked all of the hidden and secret ways around the mythals and the hidden entrances to the area that the bladesingers use, and the areas that are 'dead' to the protective wards. There are no signs that anything was tampered with, no one has seen anyone or any evidence of anyone using them, and none of the alarms have been raised. None of the items that the King's protectors use to bypass these wards have been handed out recently, nor have any gone missing. After a thorough examination and discussion with both the Arcane Council, the Pathfinders and the Bladesingers, I have come to the conclusion that it was, as the evidence suggests, not someone inside the realm, nor was it someone that is familiar with the ways around the wards. It was, in my opinion, someone or something from the outside. Also, investigations and interviews do not place any of our people in an unusual place, or with a different schedule than normal on that day, and there is no sign of any of our people missing or acting oddly after the fact as well. Again, my conclusions are that it was not someone from our people. As you know, the King's Garden is adjacent to a large, vast expanse of forested and hilly regions, that could provide the perfect opportunity for someone cunning to enter our lands undetected, even though it would be difficult. After speaking with the Arcane Council, they have ruled out the wards being disabled. <br><br>He bowed when finished.<br><br>Thank you for your candor, and I appreciate your efforts on my behalf. That will be all for now she said, and he showed himself out.<br><br>She then turned to Aysia.<br><br>That leaves you my little panther. If I am correct, you discovered something unusual, correct?<br><br>The copper elf druid nodded. Yes your majesty. When you asked me to examine the garden, and surrounding forest with eyes and ears that only an animal could, I came upon something interesting a few miles into the woods. A clearly disturbed area, disturbed recently about the time of the King's death. Faint tracks lead from it, to the King's Garden. It would seem that the first point of examination should be there she said.<br><br>The queen smiled. Very good, very good indeed. I knew I could count on you. I would like you to take the others there. In effect, I would like you all to look into what I believe is an assassination. Aysia has provided the first real lead. Those officials I have asked to look into things, haven't been able to turn up anything really detailed yet. I believe that you all can. I hear the whispers, that my son is to blame. I do not believe that. Not at all. This is about finding out who killed my husband, your grandfather and King, and proving Arion's innocence as well. The two did not see eye to eye on the method's used to achieve the ends in some endeavors, but they did not dislike each other, not at all. Yes, you were not told of the details, and I am not sure that you want to know, although I suspect that you do. First, I will ask you, will you do this for me? ? While there is an official investigation, I know that it is tainted by the rumors, innuendo and suggestions about what my son has or has not done. I fear that the investigation will lead away from the Cloakwood, indeed far away more than likely, and that it will require travel, and danger. I need those close to me who are willing to follow every lead, to do so. <br><br>She was tired, so very tired, and sound like it.<br><br>Some would say that I am a little paranoid perhaps, but that is not the case. I want every stone unturned, instead of a witch hunt to follow, with too much focus on Arion, I fear that other leads might dry up. If my son is to blame, then justice will be done, but if he is not, I don't want anyone to get away.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>09-12-2016, 05:01:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jhessail took Sianna’s hand in her own. She and her half-sister might be as different as the colors of their mourning gowns, but in this they stood united. In their duty to bring their grandfather’s murderer to justice; in their obligation to clear their father of wrongdoing.<br><br>“I will do this, your majesty,” Jhessail declared without hesitation. “I too believe in our father’s innocence. These were the acts of a traitor and a coward, and our father is neither. He has his faults, but I cannot reconcile those actions with the elf I know him to be. I have every expectation of clearing his name. Yet, you can trust that I will not let thoughts of him cloud my judgment. I know my duty. I will conduct this inquiry with an open mind, and follow it no matter where it leads. Even if it means bringing our father to justice. I swear it, upon the moon and luminous night,” she concluded, invoking her patron deity, Sehanine Moonbow.<br><br><em>The investigation will lead away from the Cloakwood.</em> Jhessail’s mind turned over the possibilities. Who could have done this, which of their enemies? She could not shake the feeling that the investigation was more complicated than it appeared at first glance.<br><br>And now the question she had been waiting so very long to ask. “Grandmother,” she said gently. “I know you believe you are protecting us. I know you believe, as our queen, that you are right to keep certain facts from us. Perhaps you are. Even so. Should we not have the chance to decide for ourselves? You are among family and friends, grandmother. You can rely on our discretion and our silence. Will you not trust us? Will you not let us share your burden?”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Grizzly</strong> on <strong>13-12-2016, 19:55:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Wherever the investigation takes us, we will go." Morwenna said, trying to keep her voice level.&nbsp; Inside, her demeanor was growing more anxious.&nbsp; Here was a chance to help solve the murder of their king and try to find her lover Arion.&nbsp; Both were events that she had been powerless to prevent, one by the sheer surprise of it and the other by duty.&nbsp; How could she not seize this opportunity?<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>14-12-2016, 04:43:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Of course you have the right, and I will tell you, but some of it will make you uncomfortable, some of his actions occurred before you were born, or in fact, before he stayed here in the Cloakwood, trying to have some semblance of a life that was normal by most standards and she looked at Morwenna when she said that, and smiled. While I know in my heart that he is innocent, one can't look past his former life, and where it brought him. There could be some truths uncovered that lay groundwork for what has come. Your father she said, looking to the girls broke tradition of the Spelldancer school the moment he became a pupil. Your grandfather basically had to force Enastril to take him as a pupil. The Blademaster was not concerned with his ability, but his temperament and his impulsive behavior. He had already broken the first taboo of our people regarding magic by learning necromancy, and from a human, at that, after it was expressly forbidden. Two violations of our people's customs in a single stroke. When Enastril discovered him weaving necromantic magic into the Spelldance, he was expelled immediately. Your father had tried to explain the advantage that using such magic through the blade, an extension of himself, would bring. He had argued that foes had long been able to anticipate the sorts of spells and maneuvers that were part of the art, and planned accordingly. Your grandfather would have none of it, and was outraged. What remained a secret from the king at that time was the necromancer who had taught Arion. He had managed to keep that from everyone, and that ate at the King. Outside forces and prying eyes noted the dissonance at court, and here you can begin to see the seeds of doubt taking root, and outside influences noting that perhaps a crack in the armor could be exploited. If they had known at the time that a human necromancer had gained access to the realm, it would have caused major damage. Still, it was family, the blood of the firstborn, and your grandfather did not banish your father at this point, he was young, and it was thought that he needed more time to mature, and he went out into the world, and joined some friends and formed an adventuring party, that was actually quite successful she said to them.<br><br>Your grandfather changed at that point however. He was unsure of the succession, and even contemplated your father being named successor she said, looking at Aysia. However, your father joined your uncle on the road to adventure, and that was that. As you well know, your father and uncle are tight, tighter than brothers, and that is when it became apparent that Ci'ona would become the Keeper of the Cuthal. Much against her will I might add. Your father joined Kess, another elven warrior from Evereska named Elimere, a half-blooded Druid of Alathria Druanna, an insane human wizard named Berghofstrasse and a half-blood illusionist named Sombia, with whom he also had a torrid affair. Of the companions, the only one that the whereabouts are known, is Sombia, as she resides in Waterdeep. Even your father is mysteriously missing she said, eyeing Aysia again.<br><br>She paused.<br><br>The trouble with Arion came to a boil when the necromancer Drammach was caught within the kingdom borders. He had somehow managed to avoid a few of the Cuthal protections, slipping through the Mythal and attempting entry. Apparently your father had not agreed to the bargain to be his pupil and he had come to collect, but alas, your father was not here. The wizard was slain, but what he had come for was never revealed. What was revealed however was that Arion had made some pact with him, because of who he was, teaching your father forbidden lore was a death sentence should it ever be discovered. My son has never told me what the pact was, and if the necromancer had gotten away, I would daresay blame could easily be assigned to him, but I am not sure what to think about that. Along with that, your father and his friends managed to thwart a Thayvian incursion into Aglarond, and managed to slay a Githyanki Lich Queen threatening the Silver Marches. Any of the aforementioned events could have triggered retribution upon us here. <br><br>When Arion finally returned, the incident with the Necromancer could not be forgiven. Several of the nobles called for his execution. Your father banished him. You have no idea how hard that was for him. He couldn't make it publicly known that your father's breaking a taboo to learn forbidden magic had caused the first successful invasion of the realm in thousands of years.<br><br>She sighed.<br><br>Gabilgathal, my husband and your grandfather, was not without enemies either. He was, however, much lower key than your father. He recently had worked with Peregion of Waterdeep to thwart a drow slavery ring operating in the city, and he also helped bolster the defenses of Silverymoon against the Zhentarim. So, there are many leads that can be followed, but make no mistake about it. Your grandfather was killed by someone, with a purpose. Whether my son, your father, inadvertently had something to do with it, or whether it's payback for some of the aid that Gabilgathal rendered, ever so quietly, to goodly causes through the realms, we need to find out. The first step is to search the area that Aysia has identified, and take it from there. <br><br>She grinned.<br><br>One other thing. When he was exiled, Arion managed to steal Enastril's sword. He's never forgiven him for that.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>15-12-2016, 07:07:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Necromancy. Jhessail felt a chill travel down her spine, and could not suppress a shudder as the queen explained her father’s sins. A school of magic she had been forbidden to learn, along with every other arcanist in the Cloakwood. The ring on her finger suddenly felt cold and unwelcome. She brought her left hand to cover it, and perhaps even to remove it.<br><br>But she could not quite bring herself to condemn her father’s actions. Perhaps he’d been right. What had millennia of tradition and stubborn resistance to change brought to their people? Why had the elves diminished, while other peoples prospered? There might be merit in her father’s approach, even if the way he’d gone about it had been reckless and irresponsible. His transgressions did demand exile; but Jhessail wished she’d had a chance to speak with him before he was banished. What if there were extenuating circumstances? She might never discover them now.<br><br>Still as conflicted as when she had sat by her window this morning, Jhessail closed her eyes and took a deep breath before speaking. “Thank you, grandmother. Thank you for trusting us with his deeds. You have given us a great deal to consider. It may be that our father’s recklessness has cost our kingdom dearly. But, it may also be that these recent tragedies have nothing to do with him. As I see it, we cannot profit from further speculation. Only by following the trail left by the assassin can we hope to learn who is responsible. I suggest we do not delay. We must leave at once.”<br><br>It was certainly a formidable collection of enemies. The Red Wizards. The Gith. Drow. The Zhentarim. Enough to give even the greatest of heroes pause. But now was not a time to be intimidated or disheartened. Now was a time for resolute action.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chulanowa</strong> on <strong>15-12-2016, 08:03:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sianna took it all in, her pale brows creasing together. She knew these names, if only by rumor. The idea of her father using forbidden magic didn't stir her too much - as if no elvish wizard ever dabbled there, just to see? No, his crime was being open about it. She let out a soft sigh and reached up to caress the unicorn emblem she wears at her throat. <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>"That's... a lot to take in."</strong> She nodded as, again her half-sister said what was on Sianna's mind. She lifted her eyes to Aysia. She just now noticed the woman's apparent discomfort, and gave a sympathetic smile. Sianna wasn't at her best with a roof overhead these days, either.<strong> "Well, then, that is what we must do. It's a start at least."</strong> She rose from her seat, dipping her head to the queen. <strong>"With your leave, Grandmother?"</strong><br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sure there's probably a more cultured, polite, formal, distinguished way to part, but the trail is <em>already</em> cold... And Sianna knows she would just make more of an ass of herself if she tried to mind the fripperies.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Grizzly</strong> on <strong>17-12-2016, 05:46:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Morwennas expression was as that of a stone statue as she listened to the Queens tale.&nbsp; Her stance was not stiff because of any semblance of duty but was rather an attempt to conceal the turmoil that was raging within her.&nbsp; Some of this tale she knew, but some of the new details were disturbing.<br><br>Morwenna knew that Arion had stolen Enastrils sword.&nbsp; It was not something that she would have done but she could not condemn him of that action.&nbsp; She had just considered it an expression of the bad blood between her lover and the Blademaster, part of that wild streak of his that she loved about him.&nbsp; <br><br>The practicing of Necromancy was different story.&nbsp; Arian had not told her of his studies in this area.&nbsp; Perhaps he kept it from her because he knew that magic carried little interest for her.&nbsp; Or there may have been some other motive.&nbsp; Morwenna might have been ambivalent around magic but she was uncomfortable with the practice of the necromantic arts.&nbsp; Too often had those that studied it been twisted by that knowledge and practice.&nbsp; <br><br>Had he been practicing it when they were together?&nbsp; Had she been blinded by her passion for the Prince that she did not notice the signs?<br><br>And who was this Sombia?&nbsp; The mention of the womans name and their affair sent a dagger of jealousy through the Captain. Morwenna knew about Siannadorels mother, Emiliarana, and had accepted that the two of them both shared Arions affections.&nbsp; Emiliarana was...well...Morwenna and her did not have a conventional relationship and they were more than just friends.&nbsp; This new woman, this Sombia, Morwenna did not know.&nbsp; <br><br>Her fists clenched at the thought of Arion taking this other woman to his bed.&nbsp; Why had it happened?&nbsp; Had Morwenna done something to cause him to stray?<br><br>The more that she heard of the Queens tale, the greater the details that Morwenna had not known about and they caused little comfort.&nbsp; The tale was darker than she could have imagined.&nbsp; If it disturbed her so much, how was it affecting Jhessail and Siannadorel?&nbsp; Morwenna looked over at her daughter and the girl that, though not borne of her, she also considered a daughter. Jhessail looked to be as troubled by the story as she was.&nbsp; Sianna was eager to start.&nbsp; These two girls were so different.<br><br>"You place great faith in us, your Majesty, by telling us this tale."&nbsp; Morwenna said stiffly, turning her attention back to the Queen.&nbsp; She could feel her nails digging into the palms of her hands.&nbsp; "We will do what we can to uncover who was responsible for our Kings fate and why." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>18-12-2016, 04:44:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aysia blinked. <em>She wants me to help?</em> She'd seen some of the looks, mostly of sympathy, from the others assembled, and thought it was just polite manners that were ensuring she was included. She stammered a bit, not used to the attention. Of, of course, I would be honored to help in any way that I can she managed to say, bowing respectfully. She then went back to being quiet.<br><br>The Queen smiled. Of course my child, you are my adopted grand-daughter, and I trust you implicitly as I do all of you. I am grateful for your support, and know that you will do your best. I am in debt to you, and regardless of some of the truths that have come to light, my son loves those who provide a light in his life, and my husband cherished all of you, and trusted all of you, and I know that you will not let him or me down she said to them. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheGlyphstone</strong> on <strong>19-12-2016, 22:35:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Necromancy. For most of his life, Aiven had harbored a special hatred for necromancers, exceeded only by outright daemonologists. Too often in his nomadic days, the cause of his being rejected from a given community was the suspicion of being a necromancer. It mattered little that the ghosts intent on pursuing him and plaguing his existence were there of their own volition, not his, but he had known the prejudice directed at the dark arts as thoroughly as anyone not actively practicing it could have. To suddenly learn Arion had been tutored in the school..it put certain events of history in a different light. His haunts had always expressed atypical dislike for the adult Arion, but Aiven had assumed this was simply the petty jealously of spirits seeing a healthy elven prince when their own had been deposed so thoroughly. Now he realized they had been afraid of him, sensing the lingering power of necromancy on his person. He felt almost betrayed to learn the truth, struggling to keep the dismay from his face by focusing on the other potential leads. Whatever Arion had done, this was not about him. This was about avenging Gabilgathal, the king who had shown wisdom unparalleled by lesser elves in giving Aiven a home despite his haunts.<br><br>"I owe your husband more than can be expressed for giving me back a life to live. The very least I can do is bring his killer to justice."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>20-12-2016, 20:23:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“None were as devoted to the king as those who sit at this table. No obstacle will change our course, no danger will deter us. We will be swift and relentless.”<br><br>Jhessail looked to either side, at each of the others sitting with her. A daunting task lay ahead of them and they would be relying on each other in the days to come. Each with their own reason to see justice done, each with their own particular skills. She felt reassured by their companionship. Whether the trail led them deep into the wilds, or to the great cities of the north, or into a stronghold of the enemy, or into uncharted lands, she was certain they would prove equal to any challenge.<br><br>“Let us go and prepare ourselves for the journey,” she suggested. “Perhaps we can reconvene at the entrance to the King’s Garden?” She rose from her chair. “Grandmother,” she said, lowering her eyes and dipping into another formal curtsey.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>22-12-2016, 14:58:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Thank you the Queen said. She was truly humbled by their show of support, and their words. She smiled at them, and bowed gracefully to them as a sign of thanks and respect. I know this will take time, I will not pester you constantly for details, but when or if you find out something momentous or that you think is important, please let me know.<br><br>Aysia bowed to her grandmother, and made ready to depart. I will meet you there. I have nothing to gather, and do not have a mount or any gear other than what's in my pack, so I will make my way there now, and I will wait for you the druid said to the others, once talk of meeting and gathering things was brought up. <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Grizzly</strong> on <strong>22-12-2016, 22:05:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"The Kings Garden it is then."&nbsp; Morwenna said.&nbsp; She bowed respectfully to the Queen and made her way out of the audience chamber.&nbsp; Her thoughts were miles away as she reviewed what had occurred in the last hour.<br><br>Morwenna had not been out adventuring from the city in quite some time, something that had become obvious to her as she started to gather her things.&nbsp; She changed out of her Guards uniform and into a less ornate travelling outfit.&nbsp; The rest of her gear was lacking.&nbsp; True she did not require a weapon but her other supplies had long since been used up or sold.&nbsp; <br><br>She would need a horse.&nbsp; Morwenna had owned a horse at one point but that had been a long time ago.&nbsp; She had little skill in riding horses and much preferred to walk on her journeys but they may be facing some time constraints that a horse would help to address.&nbsp; Slinging her pack over one shoulder, Morwenna took a last look around her quarters before heading out to the markets.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>30-12-2016, 04:34:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It had been years – no, decades – since Jhessail had traveled far from the city. She had taken care to preserve the gear she had used as a wizard’s apprentice, wrapping it with a pomander of herbs and storing it in a chest. It had served her well before and it would do so again. And for the other items that were necessary, there were servants. She wrote a list and gave it to her lady’s maid, and soon thereafter they were delivered to her chambers.<br><br>When her preparations were complete, Jhessail walked the winding path that led to the King’s Garden, leading her black mare, Haereleth. The horse’s name meant Distant Star, a traditional name for dark horses.<br><br>In place of her mourning dress Jhessail wore a dark green tunic embroidered with leaves, a matching long skirt divided for riding, and a cream-colored blouse. A grey-green cloak and a bright silver circlet with glimmering chains wound into her hair completed her wardrobe. At her belt was a sheathed dagger and a quiver of arrows, and on her back she carried a short bow. And in the leather satchel slung over her shoulder were her spellbook and spell components.<br><br>She had not been to the garden since before the king’s death. Her thoughts turned to her grandfather as she strolled along the path in pensive silence. How many times had she walked this same path, alone or with others, on the way to meet the king? She could vividly recall visiting the gardens as a child, clinging to the king’s hand; and later, walking arm in arm with him. Bittersweet memories.<br><br>Jhessail rounded a bend, and there, near the entrance to the garden proper, stood an ancient beech tree. The king had often waited for visitors beneath the deep shade of its sprawling branches. Stepping forward into its shadow, she opened the vial she’d had delivered to her from the temple of Sehanine, perfume made from the blossoms of night-blooming flowers. A heady, spicy floral aroma filled the air as she poured it at the base of the tree, a libation in remembrance of the king. She bowed her head and clasped her hands as she prayed silently, a moment of private sorrow in a world full of it.<br><br>When she was done she returned to the path to wait for the others, the scent of jasmine and moonflowers clinging to her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>30-12-2016, 21:12:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aysia was already there waiting, as she had said she would be. It was fairly obvious she traveled light, and carried only what she needed. She was also, now that they were back in the wild, out of her shoes and her top was unbuttoned. Out of respect for the others, she had kept her top on, but it was fairly well known that when she was out in the wild alone, or among the other druids, she went topless. It mainly had to do with constantly taking animal form. She was trying to adjust to the rules of society at the moment, however.<br><br>She smiled at Jhessail's arrival.<br><br>'The spot I found, is well off of the beaten path, and will take us deep into the woods. Deeper than any of you have ever been' she said to her cousin.<br><br>'You will see wonders of beauty that only a few ever see.'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>03-01-2017, 08:15:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jhessail greeted her cousin with a smile. With Aysia along, she felt the first part of the journey would go well. Few knew the woods as well as the druids, or were more at home there – a fact made all the more clear by Aysia’s state of partial undress.<br><br>“Though I wish we were seeing them under different circumstances, I will look forward to it. What are – no, let them be a surprise. I like surprises. Usually,” she clarified, thinking of some of the things her father had surprised her with in the past.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Grizzly</strong> on <strong>07-01-2017, 06:06:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Morwenna walked along the path towards the meeting place, leading her newly acquired mount by its reins. In addition to her traveling outfit, Morwenna also had a Bow and quiver on her back, several knives on her belt and, in a rare showing, the hilt of a sword rose behind one shoulder.&nbsp; The hood of her cloak was down and she greeted Aysia and Jhessail as she approached.<br><br>"I was concerned that I would be the last to arrive."&nbsp; She said with a smile.&nbsp; "It has been some time since I've set out on the road away from the castle and not as part of a Royal retinue. I had almost forgotten what to pack."&nbsp; <br>&nbsp;
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>16-01-2017, 19:54:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				'It seems' Aysia said 'that it looks like you two may be the only other ones to arrive. It may be for some reason that the others have decided not to meet us here' she said, a bit perturbed by that. She looked at the pair. 'How much experience do you have in untamed wilderness? The king had decreed that part of this preserve lay untouched by any hand, and grow as nature has intended. Some paths are barely paths at all, and there are many areas that have difficult terrain to traverse, which tells me that someone who knew him, or was at least familiar with this area, was involved in some capacity. Parts of these woods have lain untouched for thousands of years, and it is a vast expanse of land' she added.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>18-01-2017, 06:25:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“Perhaps they’ve merely been delayed.” Jhessail looked back the way they’d come, fully expecting Sianna and Aiven to come riding around the bend at any moment. Yet she was plagued by a feeling of unease that she couldn’t seem to shake. “Or it might be the queen has assigned them to another task.”<br><br>She spared a glance for the path, hope rising; then she sighed heavily when she saw it remained empty. “I have traveled the woods at length during my apprentice training, but that was decades ago,” she said to Aysia. “Since then, I’ve scarcely set foot in them. There are certain things one never forgets, of course. And I have learnt magic since then that could prove useful in navigating the terrain and avoiding danger. But when it comes to the deepest reaches of the woods, I will be relying upon your guidance.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Grizzly</strong> on <strong>20-01-2017, 03:21:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It has been a while since my own boots have touched forest floor."&nbsp; Morwenna said, finding a spot beneath a nearby tree to sit.&nbsp; She unslung the weapons from her shoulder and crossed her legs in a meditative posture.&nbsp; "I'm sure that with you as our guide, Aysia, we will be up to any challenge that we might face."<br><br>Morwenna took a deep breath and sighed.&nbsp; The air smelt different out here and it was on the verge of bringing back pleasant memories.&nbsp; "What did you two think of our queens story?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>23-01-2017, 01:31:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				'Then you shall have plenty of forest floor to get your feet reacquainted with' she said to Morwenna, smiling at the comment. Her face turned a bit more serious with the follow up question. 'I believe her. I don't think it is out of the question for the king to have enemies that are unknown to most people, and for some to find a way to breach defenses. If you think about it, all of the major elven realms of our world have pretty much the same magical defenses with regards to portals and gates, and mythals that block magic that moves people. The king was a busy man, especially in his youth, and he championed many causes that bolstered the cause of good across the realms. I have a hard time believing that my foster-uncle had anything to do with this' she said, looking at Jhessail with a sympathetic, and supportive look.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheGlyphstone</strong> on <strong>24-01-2017, 21:44:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The noises of Aiven approaching were noticeable long before he himself drew into view - even someone without an elf's keen senses would have known he was coming. He rode carefully around the corner, his horse taking each step with unusual care. All the same, it seemed like branches bent to get in his way, and even small holes appearing out of nowhere to trip up the horse. Seeing the others gathered, he stopped and dismounted to lead it by hand; the branches, roots, and other obstacles now impeding only him instead of his mount.<br><br>"Apologies, it took me an excessive amount of time as usual to gather all my scattered belongings, then regather them, and rearrange them the way I had put them the first time. I was quite happy to adopt a household lifestyle again, in large part from the hassle involved with packing. On the bright side, I also found my old traveling spoon, so we won't lack for meals along the way to our destination. Do we know what that might be, incidentally?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>28-01-2017, 18:34:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				'I think' she said to Aiven 'that we will start in the woods, with what I had initially discovered. From there, if we find enough clues, we should have some idea. I know the Queen mentioned Waterdeep, but if we find something that counters that, then we should consider following up that lead first' she said. <br><br>She was ready to lead them if they were ready to go.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>29-01-2017, 22:11:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“I think there is much I did not realize,” Jhessail replied to her mother. Her mood turned contemplative, her gaze turning to the horizon. “I never imagined we had so many enemies. Grandfather and grandmother have done well to keep our realm peaceful. But now I wonder if our isolation is dangerous. The world turns, and so much of it is hidden from us.”<br><br>Her father had once traveled the world. Not everyone admired his adventures, but perhaps there was wisdom to be found in them? Learning about other lands, making friends, making alliances – as a member of the royal family, perhaps that could be her role. “I think it’s time I saw what lies beyond the forest,” she reflected.<br><br>“Master Aiven,” she said, smiling at her tutor. “I’m glad you were able to join us.” She wondered if Aysia was aware of Aiven’s affliction. She decided she’d better take Aysia aside when she could and explain that even small obstacles could be troublesome for Aiven, and to avoid them when possible.<br><br>Jhessail nodded. “I am ready.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Grizzly</strong> on <strong>31-01-2017, 05:40:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Morwenna smiled at her daughter.&nbsp; "Perhaps your father and I should have taken you out more often on travels, Jhessail." she mused out loud.&nbsp; How nice would it have been for the three of them to travel the world together?&nbsp; It was unfortunate that Morwennas duties kept her close to the city and Arion...well Arion was far more free than she had been.&nbsp; Still, it might be something to consider for a future time, once they'd managed to uncover just what was going on with the exiled Prince.&nbsp; "We would both be better acquainted with the ground beneath us."<br><br>Slowly, with the grace of a cat, Morwenna rose to her feet.&nbsp; "I believe that we are ready, Aysia.&nbsp; Master Aiven, will you be requiring any assistance?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheGlyphstone</strong> on <strong>04-02-2017, 23:18:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'll be fine, but I appreciate the concern you show. This will not be my first trip through the wilderness, even if it has been some time. Let us delay no further then."<br><br>Aiven's confidence was mostly unfeigned. The haunts never entirely let up, but they did grow bored easily, and the journey out to reach the others had provided ample opportunity to drop sticks and nuts on his head or trip him up with snarling roots, in addition to the joy they had gotten out of repeatedly scattering his belongings across his room while he packed. The rest of the day would be smoother, at least in body.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>11-02-2017, 01:02:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				'Very well' Aysia said 'follow me, stick to the trail, eventually it gets to the point where it doesn't look like a trail at all but trust me, it's there' she said to them, and she stepped into the woods, and onto a faint, yet discernible trail for them to follow. Initially, it was light, and there was enough room among the canopy for light to filter down to the forest floor. There were a few other trails visible as well, indicating that this part of the royal preserve was visited often, and had permanent trails for the king and his family to enjoy should they wish to. After ten minutes or so, things began to get decidedly darker, the trees and foliage was thicker, and the brush began to get more overgrown. This part of the woods was old, ancient and almost seemed to be alive, possibly brooding. There was no doubt that out here, were some older fey inhabitants, although they were choosing to remain aloof and hidden at the moment. No doubt there was a treant or two making this area home as well. As they moved, true to her words, the trail almost disappeared, and then after a few more minutes, they emerged into a clearing. It was at this point that they knew they were far from the center of the community, and truly getting into the wild and undisturbed part of the realm. In the center of the clearing, was a stone marker, an obelisk roughly six feet high.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Grizzly</strong> on <strong>22-02-2017, 04:29:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Morwenna led her horse along the trail with a strange feeling about the woods.&nbsp; It was nothing that she could put a finger on, perhaps just an underlying solemness with being in such an ancient wood.&nbsp; No doubt she was but a babe in age to some of these trees.<br><br>She paused at the edge of the clearing, looking around.&nbsp; "What is this obelisk, Aysia?&nbsp; What does it mark?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>23-02-2017, 06:22:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Whilst the journey at first resembled a pleasurable ride through the forest, at no time did Jhessail let familiarity bring her guard down. If their conclusions were right, the murderer would have traveled one of these trails.<br><br>One of them led to her grandfather’s killer. One of them would bring them a step closer to justice.<br><br>It would have been easy to relax and ride lightheartedly through the forest, but Jhessail did no such thing. Her eyes were intent upon the trail and the surrounding woods, searching for anything out of place. And every so often she would intone a few words and make a gesture and scan her surroundings for the presence of magic.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OOC</div><div class="spoiler_body">Jhessail will cast Detect Magic if she notices anything unusual or suspicious.</div></div><br><br>She was glad for the need to search and to be alert. It kept her from being alone with her thoughts.<br><br>When they reached the clearing, she looked to the others before dismounting and drawing nearer to the obelisk. “Is this the place you found, cousin?” she asked Aysia. “Is this where the trail begins?”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>27-02-2017, 18:41:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				'The obelisk marks where the orginal mythal and gate were located when the kingdom was first founded' she said to Morwenna.<br><br>'And it is where the trail ends and begins' she said. 'There are tracks that lead from here, back to the quiet grove where the king was found, and they come back to this place. However, the do not leave this area. This is a clearing, so the canopy of trees is open' she said. 'I have deduced the tracks are a humanoid, likely elven, human or something similar, and there is but a single pair. Medium weight boots, so I would guess the weight of the individual is between one hundred and forty, and one hundred and seventy pounds' she said to them. 'My guess is male, based on that, but that could be wrong. Anyway, the tracks end here. I searched beyond this point for days, and couldn't find anymore. Whoever made those tracks entered the forest here, did what they came to do, and exited the forest here, at least by foot.'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Grizzly</strong> on <strong>01-03-2017, 05:06:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Morwenna looked around the clearing.&nbsp; This was not her element for she was not a tracker but the open canopy of the trees gave her an idea.&nbsp; "The weight that you have deduced is very light, perhaps too light for any serious armor or equipment.&nbsp; I would think, given how thick the forest was on our walk here, that our suspect may have flown out of here.&nbsp; Perhaps they are able to shape shift?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>25-04-2017, 07:06:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jhessail stepped fully into the clearing, looking from trees, to sky, to obelisk. "It's quite the puzzle, isn't it? Tracks leave, tracks return, and then they vanish. I cannot think how that was accomplished, if by magic. Perhaps it's as you say, mother. Flight or shapeshifting. And yet..."<br><br>Looping her horse's reins about a branch, she walked closer to the obelisk, drawing near enough to study it in earnest. "You say the mythal once resided here," she said, turning to Aysia. "Do you know what became of it? Was it destroyed or moved? Or was it made to go dormant, its magic sealed?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>28-04-2017, 03:16:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				'From what I understand, and your mother may know more, the focus for it moved when the kingdom grew, and the need for strengthening the wards became apparent. The foci for it are located with the mage's council, and it's more of a permanent structure now' she said. 'I'm not terribly sure how it actually works, but the King is also the Gatekeeper so to speak, so I would wager the closer to the palace area, the better the chance for finding the actual key so to speak' she said.<br><br>The obelisk itself is remarkably plain. Likely to not draw attention to it. There are no markings on it, and there are no openings on it. Detect Magic yields that it is inert and has no magical aura at all.<br><br>'My guess is that someone used magic to get here, or can shape change.'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>02-05-2017, 06:35:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“And in either case, whether by magic or by shapeshifting, they would not leave clues for us to follow,” Jhessail concluded grimly. “No tracks, no trail, no lingering magic for us to detect. Discovering from whence they came will be a daunting task.” Her expression was somber as she contemplated the task ahead of them. Finding the assassin was proving to be a challenge.<br><br>Yet, she reminded herself, it was far too soon to be thinking of failure. No one was perfect; everyone made mistakes. One chance discovery, one flash of insight – that was all it would take to set them on the trail of the killer.<br><br>“I am troubled by what this implies, cousin,” she said, turning away from the obelisk and back to Aysia, her uneasiness reflected in her eyes. “Whoever did this knew of this place. That it was near the city, that it was clear and uninhabited. A perfect staging ground for their plot. Our adversary must be thoroughly informed about our history and our traditions.”<br><br><em>Father would have known about this place,</em> she thought, feeling her blood run cold. <em>He was the crown prince. He was heir to the mythals and their use. He would know.</em><br><br>Letting go of that troubling thought, she closed her eyes for a moment and heaved a sigh. She must not let her feelings cloud her judgment. “I know you have left no blade of grass or twig unturned, but perhaps we should look again. Fresh eyes might see what others could not.”<br><br>Jhessail began examining the rest of the clearing carefully, looking for anything out of the ordinary or out of place.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>05-05-2017, 03:12:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Your father might know she said quietly. It seemed the others had gone off to explore and examine the area leaving the pair behind at the moment.<br><br>I overheard your grandmother speaking with some of the others earlier. I think she knows where he was last seen she said to her. I think that instead of initially looking for the killer, perhaps we should be trying a different tactic. She looked at her adoptive cousin to see what sort of reaction that garnered before saying anything else.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>08-05-2017, 07:54:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“What?” Jhessail exclaimed, all of her courtier’s discretion and manners forgotten in an instant. She stared at her cousin in disbelief. “If this is a joke, it isn’t very funny,” she added, but the somberness of Aysia’s expression quickly convinced her that this was no joke. “You’re serious.”<br><br>Hope surged within her; if they could only find her father, he would explain everything and prove his innocence, she was sure of it. And Aysia knew where to find him. Their journey, previously so fraught with uncertainty, now had a clear path and purpose.<br><br>And yet…<br><br>As Jhessail contemplated further, she realized what else her cousin’s words meant. If true, then the queen had lied to them. Misled them. Why? She could not imagine why the queen had withheld that information, and she felt her insides grow cold with doubt; and beneath the doubt lay simmering anger. Had the queen not called them friends and family? Had she not said she trusted them implicitly? Then why had she not told them?<br><br>Hope and doubt and anger warred within her, a conflicting, confusing whirlwind of emotion. The world seemed to tilt alarmingly as she struggled for understanding, and as a last resort she stepped closer to Aysia and placed a hand on either of her cousin’s shoulders, both to steady herself and to emphasize the seriousness of what she was about to say.<br><br>“Tell me, cousin,” she said, looking directly into Aysia’s eyes. “Tell me everything you heard. Leave nothing out. I must know every detail, no matter how small.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>National Acrobat</strong> on <strong>13-05-2017, 16:20:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It is true. Because I am not a blood relative, your uncle is my step-father, I get treated a bit differently at court, sometimes it's as if they don't see me, so I get to hear things at times she said. It was just the way it was. A relative by marriage, sometimes many of the royal family ignored Aysia, and that came in handy at times like this.<br><br>All I really overheard was that they had a sighting of him in Waterdeep, and he was likely following someone that was involved with his getting banished, and likely for revenge she said, shrugging. He was sighted there a week ago. Your grandmother also mentioned not bringing it up, because she didn't want him to be the focus of finding your grandfather's murder. She didn't want his name preventing other leads from being followed. I am certain, however, now that I think about it, that I was probably supposed to hear that, and tell you.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Grizzly</strong> on <strong>16-05-2017, 05:33:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As the little party broke up to explore the clearing, Morwenna had started to walk a slow circle expanding outwards from the obelisk.&nbsp; There was nothing here that she could see.&nbsp; If their quarry had shape shifted and flown away, there was little that they could do to follow.<br><br>"This trail is cold."&nbsp; She said stonily.&nbsp; "Unless we have some method of divining our quarry's current location, I do not believe that there is anything else to be learned here.&nbsp; We can at least infer that there was only one individual and that the individual has access to magic of some manner."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dormouse</strong> on <strong>21-05-2017, 10:49:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>OOC:</strong> Hey Grizzly! Glad to see you're here.<br><br><br>“So it’s true,” Jhessail breathed. Letting her hands fall to her sides, she turned away so Aysia could not see the bitterness upon her face. “How could she deceive us? How could she sit calmly before us and lie to her own granddaughters! I don’t understand – no, that isn’t quite right. I <em>do</em> understand. Even if I wish I didn’t.”<br><br>Jhessail sighed deeply. She felt her anger drain away, replaced by weariness and a sensation like she was going to be ill. “Perhaps it’s as you say, that she wanted all possibilities considered. Or perhaps there is a spy at court and she believed deception was necessary to protect my father, and to protect us. I suppose the reason doesn’t matter. She acted in accordance with her duty as ruler. She acted as the crown demanded. Even though it meant deceiving and manipulating her own family. It was a clever ruse. I might even have admired it, were I not its object.”<br><br>Jhessail knew well the uses of deception. Misinformation, misdirection – weapons of politics and of war. But she had never considered that she might one day have to use these weapons against her own relatives. Would she do it, if it were necessary? <em>Could</em> she? She did not know. Despite long years spent in training, there was still much for her to learn about being queen.<br><br><em>Heavy is the burden of the solitary tree upon the hill…</em><br><br>“In any case, I suppose <em>how</em> we learnt it does not matter now. We know where my father is, and as there is nothing more to learn here, our next move should be to find him. In a way, it makes sense. Grandmother mentioned he had a lover in Waterdeep. My father has rarely gone without female company; it is perhaps the most predictable thing about him.”<br><br>Out of the corner of her eye, Jhessail saw her mother returning from her search. Oh moon and luminous night, this wasn’t good. She imagined her mother would take this news even less well than she had.<br><br>Jhessail turned to greet Morwenna as she approached. “Mother, we have news to share,” she said with a glance at her cousin. “Aysia overheard the queen speaking about father. It seems she’s known all along where he is, but decided not to share it with us for reasons of her own. It appears he is in Waterdeep. We know little else, only that he is searching for someone who has wronged him.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheGlyphstone</strong> on <strong>03-06-2017, 23:49:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aiven appeared out of the trees from the other direction, wincing a bit with each step. His hands, forearms, and face were covered in dozens of small swollen sting marks. It wasn't just from unfamiliarity that he had preferred to stay indoors; outside in the natural world, his haunts had a vastly larger assortment of potential mishaps with which they could plague him. In this case, they had managed to dislodge a beehive from a tree just as he crossed underneath, and the panicked insects had vented their fear appropriately. And he hadn't even found anything useful to make the incident worthwhile, either, further fueling a bout of atypically ill temper.<br><br>"Did I perhaps hear correct? Arion was sighted in Waterdeep?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [PF][Faerun]-The Elf King is Dead-IC-1.1</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Grizzly</strong> on <strong>29-06-2017, 00:09:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Morwennas expression remained passive as Jhessail spoke.&nbsp; "I'm sure that our Queen had her reasons for keeping this from us, though I cannot pretend to fully understand them."&nbsp; she said with all the warmth of a cold stone.&nbsp; Part of her wanted to head for Waterdeep and find Arion.&nbsp; There were questions that needed to be answered and she suspected that his reckless ways would get him into more trouble without her to rein him in.&nbsp; On the other hand, they were tracking the one who may have killed the King, and that was a duty that she could not shirk so easily.&nbsp; <br><br>It was so much easier to remain objective when they didn't know where Arion was.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
		</dl>
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