THE MYSTERIOUS REALM
A few days after leaving Omkra, Korlak, Sefaloy and Vos arrived at the southern edge of the Terkin mountains, where the final valley would lead them into the Forest of Nilduras.
The three companions stood on the trunk of a large, fallen tree, which was on their path as they exited the mountain pass that led into the valley. From there, they had a good view of the great forest.
The large, white trunks of the gelvors almost seemed to be organized in rows, creating what resembled large halls. The vaulted sealings over these halls were branches, reaching across to meet one another and leaving small gaps where warm rays of sunlight illuminated the canopy of the regular trees below.
The myriad of tones found in the purple leaves, from lavender to amethyst, fuchsia, lilac, periwinkle or violet, was mesmerizing as the light of the sun and the wind made it seem as though the canopy was a large, fluffy creature, moving of its own volition.
The regular trees, down below, also had a wide variety of purples in their canopy, but most were less vibrant. This was likely due to the restricted amount of sunlight reaching them directly.
Korlak was reminded of the few times he had previously made his way south seen the forest. The eerie lighting within the empty spaces between the large trunks had always made him feel uneasy. It seemed like a warning for the many dangers that awaited trespassers within the forest.
As the trio made its way down the valley, they began hearing the sounds of birds chirping within the forest. This made Korlak realize he had never been so close to the forest. He had been reluctant to go through Nilduras in the beginning and, even though Sefaloy’s assurances about the elves had helped, he still felt uneasy about entering the mysterious unknown that the forest represented. As he realised, he had never been so close to the forest, the feeling was intensified into one of anxiety and fear.
Despite the overwhelming emotions he was experiencing, Korlak continued forward. He had wanted to stay with his people in order to help and protect them as they traveled east, but his uncle had ordered him otherwise and he felt obligated to go on this seemingly impossible mission.
Part of him was hopeful that there was a chance of success, but the odds simply seemed to be against him as he felt the large forest would likely be full of dangers which would inevitably lead to his death or capture.
Korlak thought of going against his uncle’s orders by turning back and catching up with his people, but there was little chance of doing so without running into the Arshak forces. Part of Korlak also wanted to do right by his uncle and respect his authority, despite disagreeing with his plan.
Thus, Korlak had nowhere to go but forward and he knew turning back would become less and less feasible as he went on. Thus, forward he went, into the forest.
What first struck Korlak as he entered the ancient woods were the many animals that were present in their every little corner. Birds constantly flew within the lower canopy and high above it in the open, below the gelvor canopy. He imagined there were even more birds within that canopy as well, much larger ones, as the legends suggested.
There were many varieties of birds of many sizes. There were dull coloured birds of browns and greys but also many birds with white and purple feathers, matching their surroundings.
One species, which Korlak had already spotted a few times, was a sort of white Jay with purple feathers at the end of its wings and tail as well as on its head. These seemed to swoop to the forest floor to eat worms or pick-up acorns before going to hide them in some sort of cache within a tree hollow or beneath a large root.
Many small critters could be seen jumping across the canopy or spiraling up tree trunks. There were many squirrels and different types of mustelids, such as ferrets, martens, weasels and even fishers. Unlike those in the Terkin mountains, which were brown, many of these were white or light grey, matching the trees.
Martens being the symbol of the Fuinn family, Korlak was thrilled to see a white marten with a golden patch of fur on its chest looking down at him from a branch.
The intense feeling of fear Korlak had been experiencing had dissipated and been replaced by one of wonder and amazement at the forest. It was full of life in a way that no forest within Terkin mountains ever was.
Feeling fully relaxed and mesmerised by his surroundings, Korlak deemed it safe to let Sedri walk along the path. The squirrel first poked its head out, watching the many creatures around it, then leaped out, following Korlak and bounding diagonally from side to side to survey both sides of the path on which they had begun travelling.
On the ground were many creatures as well. There were many rabbits, mice, and hedgehogs, but also some white and light grey foxes chasing after them. A sight, which made Korlak question his decision to let Sedri out of his pouch. Though, he chose to allow the flying squirrel his freedom, simply reminding him to stay close. The small companion, who was typically nocturnal, had learned to enjoy the day, frolicking through the branches to the sound of the many birds.
Given that foxes were rarely in the mountains, Vos was glad to see his very distant relatives in healthy numbers. As he spotted them, he couldn’t help comparing their similar facial structure to his race. His face was thinner, and their fur was fluffy, making them look quite different, but in their eyes, he saw the same look he had seen in those of many of his kin.
Unaccustomed to humanoid visitors, many foxes stopped to stare at the group as they passed nearby, the small having caught their attention well before catching even a glimpse of the visitors.
Many different types of deer were also present, though they were very skittish and ran as soon as they spotted the trio. Korlak hadn’t expected to see so many different species of animals than those found in the mountains and such an abundance of life.
Korlak was a bit on edge as they made their way further into the forest. He kept hearing the sound of a large creature moving through the regular trees and seeing their branches shake in the distance. He wondered if this may have been the result of paranoia as he had been through a whirlwind of emotions the previous day, the most prominent of which had been fear and anxiety.
He tried to use his sixth sense to see if he could identify the creature, but it was too far. It was clearly keeping its distance but seemed to be going in the same direction as the small group, causing the halfling to worry that they were being stalked by something, or someone.
As he walked under a large oak tree with ivy growing up its trunk and falling from its branches, Korlak noticed the white flowers that grew from the vines. He also noticed a majestic, white eagle-owl looking down at him and the feeling of awe he had been experiencing returned, somewhat diminishing that of fear.
As he was attempting to establish a communication with the bird, Korlak was startled by movement in a nearby tree. The creature he had heard was approaching. He felt the presence of a large humanoid passing through the canopy, jumping from tree to tree.
Gripped with fear, Korlak pulled his polearm out from behind his back. He often held it as he travelled, sometimes using it as a walking stick, but also chose to keep it attached to a special strap on his back, allowing him to keep his hands free.
Korlak took in a deep breath in preparation for a fight, holding Marten’s Fang out in front of him, the silver blade shining in the sunlight. To the halfling’s surprise, however, the creature simply moved along the trees, allowing him to catch a glimpse of a brown leather boot, but nothing else.
Korlak now believed it was an elf who had been following the group but didn’t understand how they could possibly travel through the canopy with such speed.
It’s just an Avanurian ranger. Said a voice in his head.
The Startled halfling soon realized it was coming from the owl above him, with which he had just established a telepathic connection. The owl was in the hollow of a tree, its grey feathers blending with this particular tree’s grey bark, to the point that Korlak would not have noticed it, even at this distance, were it not for the Gift of Nirdalune.
What do they want? Asked Korlak.
They’re likely just wondering the same thing about you. Answered the owl, his sly tone translating well in the telepathic mode of communication. The elves patrol the forests around their settlements, protecting the animals and plants within them.
Well, we have no intention of harming the forest. Answered Korlak, thinking the owl to be an ally of the elves.
Not even to feed yourselves? Asked the owl, once again in a sly tone.
Korlak suddenly realized how strange this situation might have seemed to on onlooker. He was simply standing in the middle of the path, staring into the owl’s eyes as if he was being hypnotized by the large orbs.
He wasn’t sure how to answer, but, thankfully, the owl continued to speak. Can I be of any help to you, chosen of Nirdalune?
Well, we are searching for a harekryn, like my friend who just passed through here. Korlak said, pointing to Sefaloy and Vos, who had kept walking, not noticing the halfling had stopped. Have you seen one by any chance?
No, I had not seen a harekryn in years before seeing your friend. Answered the owl shrugging his shoulders, his wings lifting up slightly. Do you think she’s in Avanur?
Avanur? Asked Korlak, unfamiliar with the term.
It’s the Kingdom you’ve just entered. Answered the owl, raising one eyebrow and speaking in a smug tone, as if Korlak should have known this. You’re headed towards their capital, Caras Avanur.
Korlak expressed a feeling of thankfulness and nodded. We’re headed to Idalkinmiro to try and find out where my friend’s lover is. He explained. Do you think they’ll let us through their lands?
I cannot say. Answered the Owl, lifting its head to look to the sky, above. Often, the elves are kind, but they can also be cruel, even toward one another. Some love peace, while others are most pleased by the glory of war. There are many kingdoms and many regions within this forest. Even in Avanur things will depend on which elves you run into. Overall, they are a very logical and practical people who believe in honour and respect, but just as with any race, they are all individuals and their views and actions often differ. Explained the owl, slowly making its way across the branch to get closer to the halfling.
Korlak nodded, feeling the owl had misunderstood the question. He was aware the elves were likely all different, though he had thought of them as having some overall similarities when it came to morals, but he had simply wanted a general idea. Or, perhaps, it was reassurances he had been hoping for, but definitely not the obvious truth which the owl had presented him with.
Remember this, little one. Added the owl. I am not sure what you, mountain halflings, are like, but the elves of these woods have a connection to the forest. They are one with it and have a mastery over it. This gives them a great advantage over other races in the forest, giving them a sense of responsibility towards it.
The owl’s tone had changed, conveying its thoughts in a more intense manner as it went on. It was able to do so as those with the Gift of Nirdalune could communicate and receive both thoughts and emotions using their connection with animals. Korlak had never spoken to a creature so proficient in the telepathic speech, which he assumed was due to the many elves with whom it spoke.
So, I’m assuming you often get to speak with the elves, given that they are so close with nature. Said Korlak, his curiosity causing him to forget the fact that his companions were walking ahead.
Not all elves have the Gift of Nirdalune. Answered the owl in a haughty tone. In fact, fewer and fewer do in these strange times, but they all have a connection to the forest to some extent. It allows them to communicate with the trees and plants and helps them navigate the forest. They can sense the layout of the forest and see it in their mind’s eye, just as you can see animals, but often in a far more powerful and accurate way. This is called the Gift of Geldaria, the elven goddess of trees, plants and flowers.
Suddenly, the owl flew down and entered a large hollow on the oak tree. As he emerged, he flew toward Korlak, making the surprised halfling feel uneasy.
A gift for you! Said the owl as he dropped a small gemstone.
Korlak caught the stone with one hand and held it in his palm in order to examine it.
It was a tumbled, purple kunzite, its surface slightly shining.
It’s beautiful! Said the halfling.
And not just that! Said the owl as he turned back and glided over to his branch. It will improve your ability to communicate with animals.
Thank you. Answered Korlak. I’m not sure I can accept it, though. I’m just a halfling from the Terkin Mountains, why not gift this to the elf lords?
There is no need to thank me. Said the owl. This is a gift from Nirdalune. The great goddess wishes you to have it.
As it finished speaking, the owl’s head turned a hundred and eighty degrees to look behind it.
I better go catch that mouse! It said as t flew off of its branch. You should catch up with your friends!
Korlak panicked slightly, realizing his friends were likely far ahead. He turned to the path and jumped back, startled to see them a few meters ahead, walking back to find him.
The halfling was a bit confused by the interaction with he owl, but rejoiced in the prospect of honing his skills in telepathic communication with animals.
“Is everything alright?” Asked Vos.
“Yes, I was just speaking with an owl, actually.” Said Korlak. “Sorry about the delay.”
“It’s alright.” Said Sefaloy. “But let’s not linger around too long. The faster we travel, the more likely we are to find Eilara. Did you by chance ask if it had seen her?”
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“I did, but it hadn’t seen another harekryn in years, unfortunately.” Answered Korlak.
Sefaloy bowed his head as he turned back and walked along the path.
“So, what did you and the owl talk about?” Asked Vos as they started down the path.
“He said that they are all quite different, even within a single kingdom, and spoke about their connection with the forest.” answered Korlak as he paused to look at on of the many varieties of colourful mushrooms, he was seeing for the first time. “He told me that they can communicate with it and see the layout of the forest in their minds.”
“Yes, though it does require much practice, most Nilduran elves are able to do this to some extent.” Explained Sefaloy. “This is what allows them to travel quickly through the canopy. They jump from branch to branch, finding the best route with the information given to them by the trees.”
“That sounds incredible.” Said Korlak. “I wonder if it can be learned by other races.”
“If so, I think you would need years of training and the blessing of the elven gods of the forests.” Said Sefaloy.
“I see.” Answer Korlak, petting Sedri’s head as he walked along the winding path. “He also gave me this little crystal.” Added the halfling, lifting the crystal up to show Sefaloy.
The harekryn turned to observe it and gave him a confused look.
“It’s… nice.” He said, clearly unimpressed by the kunzite.
“He told me it was a gift from Nirdalune.” Added Korlak. “It will improve my skills in communicating with animals.”
“Well, don’t believe everything the animals in this forest tell you, Korlak.” Said Sefaloy, his pessimistic view making him doubt the owl’s claims. “I’ve enough cautionary tales to make me want to avoid the tricksters altogether.”
Korlak looked at the crystal as he continued walking. I don’t see why the owl would have lied about it. I guess we’ll see if it makes a difference. He though, placing it in one of the small, leather pouches around his belt.
The trio continued their journey through the forest, passing under and over the large roots of the gelvors and crossing ornate, white bridges built by the elves. The path often twisted and turned through the forest, weaving between the large trunks of the gelvors.
Along the way, the trio heard rustling through the leaves in the canopy once again, Korlak’s sixth sense allowing him to perceive the elves around them.
Sefaloy mentioned that they were likely being watched by elves as they passed, and they should be careful not to harm any creatures or plants. It was a good sign, however, that they had not been stopped for questioning.
*****
The journey into Nilduras went smoothly for the first few days. The trio would walk throughout most of the day and stop to camp off the beaten path as the sun slowly made its way down. The large trees blocked the sun fairly early, but the twilight lasted for a few more hours, allowing the group to gather food and make camp.
On they days when they hiked through the forest longer and still needed a few things when the darkness fully set in, Vos could use his acute night vision to fetch what they required.
As they made their way toward Caras Avanur, the Avanurian Capital, Sefaloy often heard elves tree skipping nearby, but he usually kept it to himself, knowing they were likely just rangers keeping an eye on the group and the others might feel uneasy if they knew.
The harekryn generally recognized the paths, confidently leading the group in a southeastern direction. On day, however, they arrived at a crossroads with which Sefaloy was unfamiliar.
One path seemed to go up a large root of a gelvor and curving around the trunk, to the opposite side, while the other made a sharp turn away from the thick forest of regular trees in front of them and seemed to go down into a ravine.
The path that went onto the root was well maintained and the section that passed around the trunk of the gelvor was a walkway of white wood with thin, ornately carved columns and an amethyst-coloured roof. The other path, however, was overgrown and muddy.
“This doesn’t look familiar.” Said Sefaloy. “I don’t recognize this section of the forest at all. Yet, I’m fairly sure the path we followed here was the right one.” He sighed as he finished speaking, his shoulders slumping.
“Could this path around the tree be new?” Asked Korlak after giving Sefaloy some time to try and remember. The halfling had noticed the wood on the elven structure was fresh.
Sefaloy’s long ears perked up. “Yes, of course.” He answered. “Last time I came through this region, some of the Avanurian elves took me up on one of their owls, and that was almost two years ago. I haven’t walked through here in three years.”
As he finished speaking, Sefaloy began making his way down the dirt path, deducing that the new path went eastward, to other Avanurian cities.
“You’ve flown?” Asked Korlak, having always dreamt of flying on the back of one of the great birds. As he spoke, the halfling also began walking, hoping Sefaloy had made the right choice.
“Yes, quite a few times, actually.” Answered Sefaloy, enjoying all the attention his stories were getting from his new companion. “The elves have many different types of great birds. They sometimes allow trusted travelers like me to use them for short distances. Although, it’s quite rare, and it is forbidden to fly over another kingdom without permission, so it’s usually only for a short period of time. Most of the birds I’ve flown on belonged to the gnomes. They’re a lot more lenient when it comes lending them.”
“What would happen if entered an elven region without permission?” Asked Vos.
“In most kingdoms, the patrols will simply stop you and send you back the way you came, if you don’t have some sort of proof that you’ve been given permission.” Answered Sefaloy. “Others, in more aggressive kingdoms, will kill trespassers on sight.”
Both Korlak and Vos were a bit shocked by Sefaloy’s words. A feeling which was heightened by the casual tone in which he spoke. Were the legends true after all? though Korlak.
“So, the elves can be the ruthless killers we hear of in the old tales?” Asked Vos.
“Yes, some are.” Answered Sefaloy, having no trouble admitting it. “But the tales often exaggerate and leave out the many stories of kind and gentle elves, who represent a much larger portion of the Nilduran population.”
“And which elves should we watch out for?” Asked Vos. “I’m guessing there are certain kingdoms which we will want to avoid.”
“Yes, indeed.” Answered Sefaloy. “Though, we shouldn’t be passing through any such lands on our way to Idal, the gnomish territory.”
Sefaloy slowed, his ears perking up to check if he could detect any danger in the ravine ahead.
“Those who patrol the remote regions of their kingdoms and travel in neutral territory are skilled rangers who train to track and hunt from a young age.” Added the harekryn. “We do not want to get on the bad side of one of those elves. They would make quick work of hunting us down.” Sefaloy paused as he reached the ravine, looking down at the path that crossed it. “This looks a lot more familiar, but I’m beginning to think that other path is a shortcut of some sort to avoid going down into the wretched place. It’s a dangerous area, stay alert.”
As he spoke, Sefaloy heard a noise on the path behind them. He quickly turned, his ears perking up once again, but he didn’t see anyone. As he looked back at the path they had just come from, he noticed a group of mounted elven warriors walking along it.
“Hide!” He whispered quickly. “Get off the road!”
The group ran under large roots on the side of the road and Sefaloy led them slowly along the thick forest in hopes of finding a good spot to watch the elves go by. They found a large root, behind which they could hide as they peaked over to see the group of elves.
“I thought you said they were friendly.” Said Korlak, confused. “Why are we hiding from them?”
“These are Maeverassians.” Answered Sefaloy. “I’m not sure what they’re doing in Avanur, but the lands of Maeveras aren’t too far to the east. I heard Arthanil, their capital, is a magnificent hidden in the mountains.” Sefaloy sighed as he continued speaking. “But they never let any outsiders enter their borders. They are one of the most mysterious and powerful kingdoms in the forest. It’s best not to take chances with kingdoms like that, especially given their xenophobic policies. I have only seen them once before near the border and I managed to stay hidden, but I’m sure they’ve spotted our tracks.”
Sefaloy moved a bit further along the large trunk, getting a better view and hiding under a large bush.
“We can only hope doubling back and passing through the thick vegetation was enough to through them off and their scouts don’t spot us here.” Whispered the harekryn as he observed the elves through the thick forest ahead.
Korlak watched the elves as well as slowly traveled along the road, choosing to take the left path, which led onto the walkway around the tree.
The Maeverassians wore white armour, lined in very thin lines of pale periwinkle. The armour had a sleek shape, and the different pieces were shaped like giant leaves with curved tips. They wore light, periwinkle capes on one shoulder, in the Simanorian fashion, which matched the robes of the civilians among them.
The soldiers had lances with long, white flags decorated with golden patterns and a periwinkle flower, the symbol of Maeveras.
There were several riders on unicorns. Korlak was in awe at the magnificent creatures. They walked with incredible grace, their luscious manes gently bobbing with each step. Their coats were of a pure white Korlak had only seen on hares, foxes and weasels in the coldest regions of the mountains.
The rays of warm light that passes through the gelvor branches shone on the elves, adding a sense of greatness to the majestic scene as it shinned on the flags and the white coats of unicorns.
Further along, there were three carriages pulled by horses and heavily guarded. Korlak spotted them, admiring the way the white wood had been intricately carved and lined in gold. Many of the elves guarding the carriages had golden lined armour rather than the usual periwinkle outlines.
“Royalty.” Pointed out Sefaloy, excitedly. “This is the royal family of Maeveras.” The bewildered harekryn could hardly believe his eyes.
“It is indeed.” Answered a menacing, yet soft, voice from behind the trio.
They quickly turned their heads to see one of the Maeverassian elves standing right behind them. Korlak was baffled at the stealth this elf must have had to sneak up on them like that. Had he dropped down from the trees? he wondered.
The elf stood tall, his right leg forward with his foot pointing toward Sefaloy and his bow in hand, turned sideways with an arrow pointing to the ground. He was in a relaxed but ready position.
“We are the royal escort of Maeveras, travelling from Arthanil to Caras Avanur.” Continued the elf. “I am Talarin of Arthanil and go by the pronouns he and him.”
The elf removed his helmet, holding it in his arms and smiled as he gently bowed his head. Korlak realized that the helmets which had covered most of the elves faces and the serious look in their eyes were what had made them look so intimidating and Talarin actually seemed kind now.
“Who might you be?” Asked Talarin.
“We are simple folk of the Terkin mountains, travelling to Idalkinmiro, capital city of the northern gnomes.” Answered Sefaloy giving a polite bow.
Several elves slowly appeared in the trees behind Talarin. They had their bows at the ready and several approached on the ground with swords drawn.
Shortly after, Giant owls, clad in white, Maeverassian armour landed in the branches of the trees, their riders also equipped with bows.
“And what is your business with the gnomes of Idal?” Asked Talarin as he bent his head to the side and slowly moved one of his long locks of brown hair away from his eyes.
“We seek the council of the great seer!” Answered Sefaloy.
Talarin chuckled at this response. “The future is never certain, harekryn.” He said. “You’re wasting your time seeking the council of false prophets.”
“We seek to know the present.” Answered Sefaloy. “I’m looking for my wife. Did you see another harekryn during your journey?”
Talarin shook his head. “No, you are the first of your kind I have ever met.” He answered. “Nor had I ever seen a foxkryn before. What are your names?”
“I am Vos Irodim of Zamor and my pronouns are he and his.” Answered the foxkryn excitedly. He was elated to be speaking with an elf.
“I am Sefaloy, a traveller whose home is on the road, and I too go by he and his.” Answered Sefaloy.
“And I’m Korlak Fuinn of Omkra and my pronouns are also he and his.” Added Korlak. “Have you met a halfling before?”
“Yes, of course.” Replied Talarin. “We have many halflings living among us in Maeveras. In fact, most of the halflings who live in the Northern Region live within our lands. We even have halfling warriors as part of our escort.”
Talarin put his bow away and pointed up at a great elf owl, the smallest of the great owls. Its armour was Maeverassian, but it had smaller pieces and only had the minimal pieces, making it much lighter. On its back was a young halfling maiden with long, blonde hair, smiling down at Korlak.
“That’s one of our healers, Galawyn.” Said Talarin.
Korlak was astonished that halflings not only lived in the forest but fought alongside the elves. This went against everything he had heard about the residents of the forest. Suddenly, he was reassured that Sefaloy’s claims had been true.
“Now, tell me, why would a group of innocent travellers double back and hide as they see a Maeverassian escort approaching?” Asked Talarin, the smile fading from his face, his tone far graver than it had been before. “What have you to hide?”
“Well, we simply weren’t sure what to expect.” answered Sefaloy, caught of guard. “I am their guide and I have not travelled through Nilduras in several years. I thought it strange to see Maeverassians travelling through Avanur.”
“We seldom do travel out of our lands.” Agreed Talarin. “But I still don’t see why that would cause you to hide from us.”
“I though, perhaps, you might be at war with the Avanurians.” Replied Sefaloy. “That is, until I saw that you were a royal escort.”
Talarin laughed at the though of being at war with Avanur, their closest allies.
“Ah. Here they come.” Said Talarin, turning to an elf who was slowly walking off the path and into the forest.
This newcomer wasn’t dressed in the white armour of Maeveras. They wore silver armour with a more amethyst coloured cape and the shape of their armour was simpler, the silver reflecting the colours of the forest around them.
“Given that this is not our land, we have contacted Avanurians to handle the situation.” Explained Talarin. “Luckily, they were not far.”
Several other Avanurian soldiers appeared, and their leader called out: “Greetings, honourable guests! I am Seltranos of Fendrinil and my pronouns are they, them, and theirs. I have come to welcome you into our lands.”
Avanurian warriors wore armor made of a silver-colored metal with beautiful elven designs of leaves and owls. Their capes were a bit darker, but also worn in Simanorion fashion. These were mainly worn for style as they did little to keep the wearer warm. However, they were sometimes used as bandages or slings for injured arms.
Embroidered in the center of Avanurian capes was a white pegasus facing slightly towards the center of their backs, rearing with its wings extended upward.
The amethyst fabric of their tunics showed here and there between pieces of armour. The most visible piece was the bottom which protruded from underneath the silver chest piece. Starting below the belt, their tunics were split at the center, allowing them to ride their mount. These pieces were cut in a way that made them resemble two extremely wide dadoa swords.
Most Avanurians wore silver helmets with a pegasus decorating their foreheads, while some, typically rangers or those who were more focused on archery, had hoods to match their capes and wore circlets which had a smaller pegasus in the same location as the one on the helmets.
Talarin made his way to the road and approached the group of seven Avanurians for a short exchange, which Korlak and his friends could not hear.
The Maeverassian warrior soon returned alongside Seltranos, the leader of the elven party, who’s hairstyle was very different from all the elves around them. They had much shorter hair, which came forward in wavy, black locks, covering their forehead. Their eyes were of a light purple, which Korlak had never seen before.
Intrigued by this new character, who seemed even more mysterious than the other elves, Korlak was hoping to hear more from them. Unfortunately, Seltranos simply looked at the three companions, before whispering something to Talarin and turning back to join the other Avanurians.
On their way back to the road, Seltranos turned to the Maeverassian knights leading their small convoy and said: “We will escort you into the city!”
Talarin signalled his warriors to return to the road and returned to Sefaloy, Vos and Korlak.
“The Avanurians have chosen to let you go on your way.” Said Talarin. “They have seen you pass through here before, Sefaloy. I am sorry to have doubted you, but you must admit, your actions were suspicious.”
Sefaloy nodded.
“Seeing as I had initiated our exchange, they thought it proper that I come speak with you.” Added Talarin. “They are also grieving, as you can imagine.”
“Grieving?” Asked Sefaloy. “Who are they grieving for?”
“You have not heard?” Said Talarin, surprised. “Queen Nidirelle and her daughter, Waeliria, fell in battle.” Talarin looked to the ground in sadness and pressed his palm against a nearby tree. “The war against Serandor has come to an end, but at a great cost. We have come for the funeral. It is said that it will be one of the greatest spectacles of our time. It’s a shame that outsiders like yourselves will not be allowed to attend.”
“I am deeply sorry to hear that the queen has fallen.” Said Sefaloy. “I had never been so lucky as to meet with her, but I have heard of her greatness.”
“Then you too should grieve for her as you continue your journey across her lands.” Said Talarin. “But, more importantly, you should focus on your appreciation for these lands. Nirdalune blesses us with this paradise, and we ought to protect it at all costs.”
“Yes, indeed.” Answered Sefaloy, nodding in agreement.
“Now, I must go.” Said Talarin, turning to the royal escort, which was now travelling along the circular walkway that circumvented the large tree trunk. “Sefaloy, Korlak, Vos.” He said, turning to each person as he spoke their name. “May your journey be peaceful and fruitful. May the gods bless your quest and grant you everything you desire.”
“Thank you.” Replied the three companions.
“Before you go, I have just one question.” Said Sefaloy. “Which of these two paths is quicker?”
“Well, this way would be.” Answered Talarin, pointing to the path around the large trunk. “It’s much faster. However, the Avanurians have decided that path would be reserved for those attending the funeral as many eastern dignitaries will be traveling along it. So, I’m afraid the old road is your only option. I’m told it passes north of Caras Avanur, through the old buildings of the Avanurian capital, Avanurnethae.”
“Thank you, Talarin.” Answered Sefaloy. “Safe travels and may Geldaria bless your path.” Added the harekryn, proud to have known the proper expression.
“And yours.” Answered Talarin as smiled once again and put on his helmet before running up a root and jumping onto a branch. He then began tree-skipping, travelling at an incredible speed as he hopped from branch to branch. Korlak and Vos were mesmerized as they had never seen this incredible elven skill. It now made sense to Korlak that he hadn’t been able to catch more than a glimpse of the many elves who had passed nearby since they had entered the great forest.
“We’ll likely reach the old city tomorrow!” Said Sefaloy as he started off on the dirt path. His hope was to keep the others motivated, encouraging them to travel at a good pace.
Korlak was intrigued by this mysterious, old city as he had never seen an elven city. However, he struggled to focus on his current situation as his mind was filled with thoughts of the dangers the people of Omkra were likely facing. He tried to cheer himself up, thinking of the resilience of the Omkrian army, but found little consolation.