The gentle, moonlit tide lapped against the hull of the stolen skiff as Laitherel's slender fingers gripped tightly onto the roughhewn rudder. She closed her eyes for a moment, focusing her mind and connecting her will to the glowing crystals at the rear of the small craft.
EMPOWER PSI-CRYSTAL III
Cost: 4 Fatigue
Activation/Duration: 1 round/1 Scene
Range/Area of Effect: 3 meters/3 Crystals
Concentration Required: No
System: Reason + Imprint vs CR 5
Description/Effect: This meta allows the user to send a pulse of their own Psi Energy into an existing Psi-Crystal and activate it’s imbued power. At this level of the Meta the user can activate more Psi-Crystals from a longer distance.
With a surge of power, she activated them, sending pulses of shimmering psi energy into the water. The skiff responded eagerly, gliding forward with increasing speed and propelling Laitherel further away from the fading lights of the Myst Isles. As she sailed on, her heart beat rapidly in her chest, like a caged bird desperate for flight. The salty sea air filled her lungs and the cool mist brushed against her cheeks, heightening her senses and filling her with an exhilarating sense of freedom and adventure.
The moment of truth had arrived. The point of no return. As the pulsating waves of energy from the psi crystals propelled the boat forward, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness in her heart. This was it, saying goodbye to the only home she'd ever known. With each passing moment, she left behind the memories and comforts that had once defined her existence. But she held onto hope for a new beginning, fueled by the power of the crystals and the unknown adventures that lay ahead.
Laitherel's vision blurred as she blinked back hot tears, determined to steel her resolve. She would not rest until she found her brother, no matter the cost. The image of her banished brother - tall and proud, his silvery hair glinting in the sunlight like a beacon - filled her mind. Guilt churned in her gut, reminding her of the council meeting where she had failed to defend him. She should have begged for mercy or fled with him into exile. But the past was set in stone, unchangeable. All she could do now was move forward, fueled by determination and a burning desire to right the wrongs that had been done to her brother.
The small skiff lurched forward, its wooden frame creaking in protest as it hit a swell. Laitherel's face was quickly drenched by the salty spray, but she reveled in the sting. The sea was her ally, her companion on this journey of trials and tribulations. With the agility of an athlete, she rode each wave with practiced ease. As she sailed further out to sea, mile by mile, the twinkling lights of land faded into the distance until only endless black ocean surrounded her. The moon's gentle glow illuminated the vast expanse of water, casting an eerie yet mesmerizing spell over Laitherel as she continued on her quest. Her people had incredible vision though and she concentrated once again focusing her Innate Racial Talent, Fae Sight.
FAE SIGHT IV
Activation Cost: 2 Fatigue
Activation/Duration: Instant / 1 Scene
Range / Area of Effect: Self / Self
Concentration Required: No
System: None
Description / Effect: The original homeland of the Fae is rumored to be a land of shadows and mist. The Fae developed a mystical ability to pierce the darkness with their vision. The Fae reduce darkness-related visual penalties and allow them to eventually see in total darkness. Reduces Obscurity Category by 4 steps (ex. Total to Heavy)
As the talent activated, a miraculous transformation occurred in the sky above. The once dark and murky void was now filled with a breathtaking celestial display. Each star glittered with a newfound radiance, their true beauty finally revealed after being hidden by the mist of her home. With eyes wide in awe, she took in the boundless expanse above her, now illuminated in all its glory. It was as if a veil had been lifted, allowing her to see the universe in all its splendor.
Laitherel shivered, her cloak billowing behind her in the cool night breeze. The chill air carried a hint of salt from the distant ocean, a reminder that she was far from the comforting warmth of her enchanted island home. But instead of discomfort, it brought a sense of exhilaration, like a silent promise of adventure and destiny. It seemed to call out to her, tempting her to break free from the constraints of rules and expectations and embrace a life full of unknown possibilities.
She spoke softly into the darkness, her determined words echoing through the empty space. "I'll find you, Lai. Nothing will stand in my way. I promise."
As the clouds parted, the waxing moon emerged like a radiant jewel in the sky. Its light danced across the surface of the sea, leading Laitherel's gaze towards the distant mainland. The shoreline was shrouded in a hazy mist, giving it an otherworldly appearance. But it was the pull in her soul that drew her closer, as if fate itself was tugging at her heartstrings. For better or for worse, their destinies were now entwined with this unknown land ahead. Peril undoubtedly awaited them, but so did hope - a glimmer of possibility shining bright amidst the uncertain future.
She pushed forward with renewed determination, her eyes fixed on the distant shore where the first rays of dawn were just beginning to peek over the horizon.
The small boat scraped against the gritty sand as Laitherel pulled it onto the shore. She climbed out, her heavy boots sinking into the soft ground with each step. Breathing in deeply, she was struck by the scent of pine and moist earth, a stark contrast to the delicate floral fragrances of her homeland. This was a fiercely untamed place, untouched by civilization. The crashing waves and distant calls of seabirds reminded her that she was far from home, but she felt alive in this wildness.
With her pack secure on her shoulders, Laitherel took a moment to survey her surroundings. The shoreline was flanked by a dense forest, its towering trees reaching up to the sky and disappearing in a shroud of mist. The air was filled with the harmonious melody of bird calls and the gentle rustle of leaves, creating a peaceful symphony that enveloped her. She felt small and insignificant in the presence of such immense nature, but also embraced by its tranquility.
"Well Lai," she murmured. "Here we are."
As she remembered their childhood adventures, a bittersweet ache filled her heart. Those carefree days of exploring with her brother seemed like a distant dream now. The memories brought both joy and sorrow, as she longed for those golden days yet felt the weight of how much had changed between them. She wondered if they could ever recapture that innocent sense of wonder and adventure again.
With determination shining in her eyes, Laitherel ventured into the dark depths of the woods. The narrow trail before her was barely visible, obscured by tangled roots and overgrown shrubs. Her ears strained for any signs of danger that may lurk in this mysterious land. Every rustle of leaves or snap of a twig made her heart beat faster. The thrill of the unknown coursed through her veins, but it also unsettled her. She knew not what secrets this forest held, but she was determined to uncover them.
When the path forked, she paused and scanned her surroundings. The dense forest enveloped her, its towering trees casting long shadows on the ground. Instinct guided her steps to the right, where a faint glimmer of sunlight filtered through the leaves. As the trail widened, evidence of human presence emerged. Wheel ruts carved into the earth and discarded items littered the edges, marking the passage of travelers before her. Laitherel quickened her pace, eager to reach a settlement before nightfall descended upon the darkening woods. She could almost hear the distant sounds of laughter and chatter from a bustling village, beckoning her forward with promises of warmth and safety.
As she rounded the bend, Laitherel's breath caught in her throat. The lush green forest gave way to the sprawling outskirts of a bustling city, thick plumes of smoke rising from chimneys and blanketing the area in a hazy veil. The mingling scents of burning wood, sizzling meats, and earthy foliage wafted through the air, creating a tantalizing aroma that made her stomach growl. With a sigh of relief, she knew that her long journey was finally beginning in this vibrant cityscape.
“Alright, this is where the search begins,” Laitherel said quietly to herself as she steeled herself to enter this strange city. As she approached the towering walls of the city called Shafsworth, a mix of trepidation and excitement churned within her. The bustling streets, filled with merchants and travelers from all corners of the world, beckoned her closer. She knew that here, amidst the grandeur and chaos, she would find the Grey Companions and hopefully a group of adventurers willing to aid her in her search for her long-banished brother.
Laitherel trudged through the muddy streets of Shafsworth, her delicate nose wrinkled in distaste at the putrid stench that seemed to linger in every corner. Rough-looking men leered at her as she passed, their eyes lingering on her lithe and statuesque figure, adorned with exotic clothing and distinct Fae features. It was no surprise that her presence caused a stir in this town, for Myst Elves were rarely seen outside of their secluded Myst Isles. Her height of 1.8 meters was considered average among her kind, but her slim and athletic physique spoke volumes of her strength and agility. Her golden locks gleamed like rays of sunlight, a stark contrast to the silver hair of her brother, and her striking violet eyes shone with intelligence and curiosity. She had all the classic features of an elf - long tapered ears, sharp cheekbones, and a delicate jawline - making her undeniably beautiful even amongst her own kind. Finally, after what felt like hours of walking, she arrived at a grand timber lodge emblazoned with the symbol of the Grey Companions: a black sword overlaid on a grey crest.
Taking a deep breath, she pushed open the heavy door. Inside, the air was hazy with pipe smoke and the murmur of voices. A few heads turned her way and watched curiously as she approached. At a counter in the front, she saw a well-dressed human man going through papers and taking notes. Laitherel approached him with a hint of trepidation.
"Pardon me, are you one of the Grey Companions?" she asked.
The man's gaze lifted from the papers scattered across the counter, his expression shifting from focused to surprised as he took in the woman standing before him. He quickly regained his composure and greeted her with a polite smile. "Good afternoon ma'am, my name is Alwin. And may I ask for your name?" His voice was smooth and professional, but there was a hint of curiosity in his tone as he spoke with a clear and soft voice, smiling at her politely in greeting.
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“Greetings, Alwin. I am Laitherel, and it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am in need of the aid of your skilled adventurers for a quest that holds great personal significance to me.” As she spoke, she smiled warmly and inclined her head towards the human man who stood much shorter than her. Her cloak rustled as she nodded, and her shimmering golden hair cascaded down her shoulders like a waterfall at dawn.
A small smile played on the man's lips as he spoke to the young lady. "Is that so?" he asked, his voice congenial and welcoming. "Have you had dealings with the Grey Companions before? If you are searching for mercenaries for hire, may I suggest the Night Watch instead? They specialize in such work. The Grey Companions operate differently. We are a guild where adventurers gather to seek like-minded companions and embark on our own quests." He leaned in closer, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "But fear not, we do have a job board for those seeking assistance. Of course, there is a small fee for posting jobs on the board, but it is well worth it for the quality of comrades you will find here." His words flowed smoothly, painting a vivid picture of their services and enticing her to join their ranks.
“Forgive me, I am not well-versed in the customs of this region,” she apologized with a thick accent. Her tutors had praised her proficiency in the common tongue, but as she spoke now, she couldn't help feeling self-conscious. She noticed the man pausing before responding, most likely to make sure he understood her clearly.
“That is perfectly fine, I don’t want to assume anything, but are you a Myst Elf by chance?” He said, curiosity filling his gaze.
“Yes, I am. How did you know?” She asked, her curiosity piqued.
“Because I have met every variant of Elf on Taleria, Haven Elves, Wood Elves, Shadow Elves, Sun Elves, and even a Deep Elf once, and never have I met a Myst Elf. While I knew that your people existed, I had never thought to meet one in person. I have heard stories about the beauty of your island from a few emissaries that had spent a brief time on the island, but I’ve never seen one on any of the other continents and I am widely travelled. I apologize, I must sound like an absolute lunatic.” He said apologetically at the end, his voice was filled with wonder and admiration despite attempting to reign in excitement.
A ripple of attention spread through the room as several other people began to take note. They had never seen the usually stoic and professional clerk act this way before, his voice booming and his body language animated as he directed his words towards the tall, mysterious woman in front of him. His usual reserved demeanor was overshadowed by a sense of urgency and curiosity. The air crackled with tension as onlookers tried to decipher the cause of this sudden shift in behavior.
“It’s fine, we don’t usually leave the island. It’s a shame, there is so much beauty here to see and so many different people. I’m a little overwhelmed to be honest.” She said, a little embarrassed at the attention from the man and the ever-growing eyes on the two of them as they spoke.
“Would you care to sit somewhere a little more private so that I can assess what it is that you need? There is a booth here to the side where members discuss private matters that has a privacy screen so that nothing you say can be overheard.” Emerging from behind the counter, he motioned towards a secluded booth nestled along one of the walls of the common room. Laitherel's eyes scanned the bustling lodge and noted several similar booths scattered throughout. The main floor resembled a grandiose tavern, complete with multiple hearths crackling with warmth and an array of tables populated by lively patrons. A lengthy bar stretched along one side, lined with stools that were either occupied or vacant. With a nod from her, he guided her to the booth and waited for her to settle before taking a seat across from her. As he settled in, his hand gracefully swept over a panel embedded into the edge of the table, causing a shimmering wall of translucent energy to envelop their private space.
“Now, we can speak in privacy. This wall prevents eavesdropping and slightly obscures us from view. Now, Laitherel, how can I help you?” He sat with his hands folded on one another and watched her patiently.
Laitherel quickly explained her quest to find her banished brother and how it had been almost 200 years since he was banished. She also explained that Nibingul was her twin, and she had a vague idea that he was in this region and was alive but couldn’t discern much else. Alwin listened impassively, giving no indication if her plea moved him.
“So, you and your brother have a bond with one another? Is this common amongst your people, I’m sorry if that’s private but I know very little about your society.” Alwin said curiously.
“No, twins are almost unheard of amongst Myst Elves. The few born in our history have always had a significant impact on our society, which makes what happened with Nibingul all the more tragic.” Laitherel said plainly.
“This is no small quest young miss” Alwin stated and then flushed in embarrassment. “I’m so sorry, you are nearly five times my age, I meant no disrespect.”
Laitherel laughed, a soft light sound that filled Alwin with joy. “That’s okay, by my people’s standards I’m still considered a youth. No offense is taken Alwin.” She smiled and patted his hands reassuringly.
“Thank you, there is someone that may wish to speak with you. He is one of the mentors here in the Grey Companions and coordinates groups of adventurers according to their capabiilties and he may have someone who can help you. Would you care for something to eat and drink while I fetch him?” Alwin said as he slid towards the edge of the bench he sat on.
“Yes please, I am very hungry. In my haste to leave I am afraid I miscalculated my provisions.” Laitherel said somewhat ashamed.
“I will send someone over to get your order, it is on me for and offense I may have given.” Alwin said as he rushed to the bar and spoke with a young woman behind it.
Laitherel sat silently in the secluded booth, her personal privacy barrier enveloping her with a shimmering aura. She took a deep breath and focused her mind, attempting to sense any trace of her brother's presence. Despite the distance, she could faintly feel the connection between them. He was somewhere out there, lost in this expansive continent. She was determined to find him at all costs.
As if summoned by her hunger, a server appeared with an ornate tray laden with freshly baked bread, tangy cheeses, plump fruits, and a gleaming flagon of rich wine. The aroma of the spread wafted towards Laitherel, causing her stomach to rumble in desperation. It had been many days since she had enjoyed a proper meal, and the sight and scent of the feast before her was almost too much to bear. She could practically taste the warm, crusty bread and feel the cool, creamy cheese melting on her tongue. The vibrant colors of the ripe fruit teased her senses and the deep red of the wine beckoned to her like a siren's call. With gratitude in her heart, she reached for a piece of fruit and took a bite, savoring each juicy burst of flavor.
"Compliments of Alwin," the server said with a slight bow before departing.
Laitherel eagerly tore into the thick crust of her freshly baked bread, revealing a soft, warm interior. She relished the burst of tangy sweetness as she popped a plump grape into her mouth, savoring the juice that exploded on her tongue. As she ate, her thoughts drifted back to her home on the Isle of Mysts, a place of ethereal beauty and mystical wonder. She could envision the whitewashed buildings cascading down terraces carved into the rugged cliffs, their bright colors standing out against the deep blue of the sea. The ever-present mists swirled around the island like a protective barrier, adding an air of mystery and magic to the idyllic scene.
Laitherel's thoughts were abruptly interrupted when Alwin returned, accompanied by a man with striking white streaks framing his temples and a perfectly groomed beard. He carried himself with an air of effortless confidence as he settled into the booth across from Laitherel. The dim lighting cast shadows on his sharp features, intensifying the sense of intrigue that surrounded him. His piercing gaze seemed to hold secrets and mysteries within it, making him all the more alluring to Laitherel.
"My lady, this is Quinn, one of our senior mentors," Alwin said by way of introduction.
Quinn gave a slight bow of his head. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Laitherel. Alwin has apprised me of your situation. While uncommon, we have helped other clients track down lost loved ones in the past. If you'll permit me, I'd like to ask you a few questions to get a better sense of things."
Laitherel nodded slowly, her violet eyes shining with curiosity and interest, savoring the last bite of the warm, crusty bread. She gestured for him to continue, her golden hair falling in gentle waves around her face. He took a deep breath, feeling the weight of her attention on him like a comforting cloak, and began to speak.
"You mentioned a bond with your twin brother. Can you describe the nature of this bond for me?" Aldric asked.
"It is difficult to put into words," Laitherel began slowly. "Ever since we were children, Nibingul and I have been able to sense each other's presence, emotions, and general location. The bond has grown faint during his exile, I’m guessing that it’s part of the binding that he is under and the nature of the magic that is part of the exile.”
Laitherel took a sip of wine to wet her throat before continuing. "The bond is almost like an invisible tether between us. I can feel subtle tugs and pulls that give me a general sense of where he is and if he is alright, though the details are obscured. It is this tether that led me here, for I know he is somewhere in this region, though exactly where eludes me still."
She paused, gazing into her wine glass pensively. "I confess, there are times the bond brings me pain. In unguarded moments, I can feel his anguish, his loneliness, his deep shame. The weight of it is sometimes almost too much to bear." A shadow crossed her fair elven face.
"Yet still, the bond gives me hope. For I know my brother still lives despite his banishment, and the connection between us cannot be severed completely. It is this hope that led me to defy my father, to leave all I know behind and seek out the other half of my soul."
Her violet eyes shone with conviction. "I will find him, Master Quinn, no matter the cost. He is out there, lost and suffering, and it is my duty as his twin to rejoin him. I should have joined him when he was banished but I was a coward. I should have done more."
Laitherel took a deep breath to steady herself, then continued. "I know my brother made grave mistakes, but I also know there is good in him still. Our bond has given me glimpses of his true nature beneath the anguish - his courage, his compassion, his desire to atone. He carries deep shame and believes himself unworthy, but I know that together we can find redemption."
She met Quinn's gaze unwaveringly. "Aid me in this quest, and there will be no limit to my gratitude. Just help me find my brother."
Quinn stroked his beard thoughtfully. "You speak truly, and I am moved by your plight. Perhaps there is a way we can assist you." He leaned forward, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper.
Laitherel's eyes lit up with hope. "You would help me?"
Quinn nodded. "On two conditions. One, that you swear this mission is one of reunion, not vengeance against your brother's punishers. And two, that you agree that you wear a small magical device that will chronicle your journey. Adventures like these make for compelling tales."
Laitherel's mind churned with contemplation as she weighed her options. She had no thirst for revenge, only a deep longing to be reunited with her long lost twin. As she listened to Quinn's stipulation about recording their quest, she couldn't help but feel a flicker of excitement at the thought of the renown and prestige it could bring to the Companions. The possibilities danced before her, like a shimmering mirage in the desert heat.
“Yes, I agree. Anything!” She claimed eagerly.
Quinn gracefully slipped out of the booth and stood tall next to Alwin. With a flick of his wrist, he shut off the glowing screen in front of them, plunging the room into dim candlelight. "Very well," he said with a smooth voice, "I will have Alwin secure you a room at the Dragon's Dawn Inn. It is known as one of the finest establishments in all of Shafsworth." His hand rested on Alwin's shoulder, a subtle gesture that showed their camaraderie. "Rest, gather your thoughts, and ease your mind. Tomorrow morning, I will arrange for the group I have in mind to meet you there." The air was filled with anticipation and excitement for what was to come. Quinn's piercing blue eyes shined with determination and confidence as he spoke, making it clear that this was not just any ordinary meeting.