Log Date: Tuesday, January 24th, 1995 While Rillwhisper is on sentry watch at the Willowholt - as several of that Holt have been, ever since the visit from the Glider Viresse warned them that Winnowill was on her way - the chieftess spots two Mountain bond-birds flying over the Holt. Immediately, Rillwhisper alerts her tribe at this sign of Winnowill's arriva - and she and her firestarter mate Woodhawk hasten through the trees to a spot where they can observe the arrivals without being seen themselves..... ---------- Rillwhisper sends to the whole tribe ** Tribe - Glider bondbirds, overhead. Two of them. I think our visitors are here.... ** You clamber across the branches, over the main clearing of the Holt, to the top of the Starwillow. Top of the Starwillow Green-shadowed and flickeringly lit even in the brightest parts of the day, this hollow among the branches of the Starwillow is surrounded by thick walls of wood that feel as if they have been newly shaped. It's quiet here, and peaceful; there are occasional scents an elf can catch that suggest that this particular willow tree is only sometimes frequented by the elves of the Willowholt. It is an icy Whitecold night. The snow-covered Holt seems to glow in the light from the moons. Obvious exits: Plane Tree Marsh Old Willow Quiet Den Down Woodhawk has arrived. Woodhawk(#45POUXe) Tall for a Wolfrider, and slim of build, this elf moves with an unconscious, noiseless agility that speaks of skill as a hunter. His thick dark auburn hair hangs in waves down just past his shoulders, and dangles in his gold-flecked brown eyes; his voice, both spoken and sent, is quiet and husky, as unobtrusive as his movement. A close glance and a sniff of him might catch a subtle yet palpable tang to his scent, a something that speaks of fire... He is clad in a high-collared, sleeveless tunic of dark reddish-brown, streaked golden in random spots along the shoulders, and laced shut at an angle down one side of his chest. On his feet he wears soft, low boots of the same gold. A streaked headband, colors reversed from his tunic, keeps his unruly hair out of his face. He is in a watchful mood. Silversong sends to the whole tribe ** *shudder* So soon...? ** Rillwhisper sends to the whole tribe ** They're on those big birds... no wonder it took so little time! ** From the south marsh, Winnowill has arrived. You locksend ** I see her. The hawks have landed. ** to Silversong. From afar, Winnowill is looking about with a bemused flavor of interest and disgust at the same time, rubbing her fingers together as if to remove something dirty. Silversong climbs up from below. Silversong has arrived. Silversong climbs up from below, looking out, her eyes scanning... and finding what she looks for. ** She's here... ** Rillwhisper and Woodhawk crouch in the branches, staring out narroweyedly through the leaves at the figure of the Glider Lord and the big birds. Silversong is visibly trembling, as she almost seems to cower in the cover of the branches. Winnowill pages: OOC - starts to walk towards the clearing, if possible, bathing the area in an open send to see if anyone is listening Rillwhisper glances at her mate, and at the healer as she climbs up with them. She whisper - knowing Winnowill can hear sends well - "Silversong, do you want to see her? Or her to see you?" You locksend ** Beloved! Winnowill is outside the itchgrass! ** to Trollkiller. Silversong looks after Winnowill... and she shivers again. "I... don't know," she whispers back. Rillwhisper looks up, as Winnowill's mindtouch seems to bathe the area. Woodhawk murmurs, "Well, she's saying hello." Silversong's eyes widen at the touch, something she's not felt in a long time yet feared its coming. From the south marsh, Winnowill folds her arms across her waist, rendering a cynical glare towards the trees. With a calm, relaxed face, her lips doctored into a dry smile, her eyes flit over the branches of the trees and the tall marsh grass Silversong ducks quickly down from those roving eyes... even though she knows it would be difficult to see us here without the seeker knowing what to look for. Rillwhisper pulls in a soundless breath, smiles briefly as she feels Trollkiller's mental presence on the edge of her mind, and murmurs, "Well. Let's go see her then, 'Hawk." From the south marsh, Winnowill sends with an ambiant quality of lethurgy, ** I suspect I need to play along with the rules of your hiding game longer, or might I assume you can spare me the effort of waiting? ** Silversong lets out a soft, very soft sound, almost a whimper. From the south marsh, Winnowill's eyes stop moving, arms unlatching and hanging loosely with herpalms against her hips You climb carefully out over the branches, over the itchgrass circle, and drop down into... South Marsh The edge of the marshes is vibrant with the small sounds of life. Wind rustles through the treetops, carrying the cool, damp scents of the Whitecold time. Wild creatures abound: waterbirds, ravvits, and small deer, all foraging through the tall grasses and reeds for their food. The immediate area is wild and tangled, trees allowing passage in only distinct directions, and the earth is slightly damp underfoot. A tangle of trees and brush stands off towards Sun-Goes-Down; it is quite thick, but a closer look suggests it is passable. To the northwest, the trail winds on into the marshes, and towards the distant Wandering River. Towards Away-from-Hub, the marshes give way entirely to the forest and the grasslands beyond. Contents: Winnowill Kraheera small leather tent(#6118OV) Obvious exits: SouthMarsh Trail Camp You locksend ** We're going out to meet Winnowill, Fuzzy, 'Hawk and me. Silversong is with us, but she's hanging back, for now. ** to Trollkiller. Trollkiller sends to the whole tribe ** No sign of them from sentry... ** Woodhawk drops down into view from the overhanging foliage. Woodhawk has arrived. Winnowill remains quiet and then says audibly, clearly, "Should I," she pauses, a warmly wicked smile of oiled cunning waxing across her face as Rillwhisper and Woodhawk arrive Rillwhisper and Woodhawk, two ghostly forms in the darkness of the marsh, emerge from the surrounding foliage. The chieftess of the Willowholt is a step before the lean archer beside her, and she lifts her dark golden eyebrows. Trollkiller locksends ** Where are they coming down? ** You locksend ** We're in the south marsh, beloved. The bond-birds are farther off. ** to Trollkiller. Rillwhisper prompts, slightly wryly, "Should you....?" Winnowill raises her hand, palm towards the two hunters, "I have no weapon and bring no ill for you or your holt." Winnowill's toneis remarkably passive, though a sneer of sarcasm resounds behind the words Trollkiller locksends ** Do you want me there, or should I stay on watch here? ** Woodhawk smiles a little, narrowly; he's got his ash bow slung across his shoulders. Rillwhisper bears a dagger, but it's sheathed. And the chieftess answers simply, "We remember that you've borne us no ill-will in the past; in fact, we haven't forgotten that you have done just the opposite." She gives a slight nod at Woodhawk, whose brown gaze is level and steady. "We have had to be a wary Holt, since you were last here, though." You locksend ** Watch nearby; come out, if it seems safe. ** to Trollkiller. Rillwhisper finishes, simply, "What brings you here?" Winnowill smiles wanely, "Of course, I am sure you are aware that even the most wicked of heart can have legitimate reasons behind it. Especially after recovering from a healing touch." Rillwhisper smiles, crookedly. "We've heard news of your visit to Sorrow's End." Her green eyes are curious, searching. "We've heard you've been visiting several places, actually, and now you're here. Viresse told us you were coming." Winnowill folds her arms at her chest again, "I come with a reason you should be able to identify with. Blood and children. Generations of glider blood and heritage resides as offspring or those who left the mountain within your holt. Now that the mountain has been rebuilt, more of a home, I want them, (her voice becomes testing, tasting the limits given her) my children, back with me where they belong." Rillwhisper, if she is surprised by this, doesn't show it - much, though perhaps the flicker of surprise in her gaze is more at the bluntness of the statement rather than the words themselves. Woodhawk crosses his arms, listening. Winnowill says "Of course she did." Winnowill meets Rillwhisper's eyes, "I do not think arriving unannounced would have been tolerable. For you." Rillwhisper leans against the nearest tree, and seems to be giving this announcement consideration before she says at last, "Well. Where an elf belongs, at least as far as I've always felt, is quite up to that elf." She smiles, honestly. "We do appreciate you sending the warning, yes." Winnowill returns her own version of an honest smile, somehow seductive and suggestive, oiled and slippery Winnowill says "And, I have a request. In a way it would allow you to verify for yourself myintentions." Rillwhisper inclines her red-goldenhaired head, and says affably, "Go on." Winnowill's voice becomes explicit, her need sincere, "One of my own has fallen prey to trollish hospitality. He still wears their collar about his neck. I believe you have an elf gifted with shaping magic for metal." Rillwhisper looks unsurprised by this, as well. "That's true. And I'll tell you what I told Viresse - if Duskshadow wishes to lend you her magic, that's fine with me. But you'll want to ask Duskshadow about it." Winnowill looks to Woodhawk, her smile mirthful, though still speaks specifically in response to Rillwhisper, "Of course I will. Is she - available?" Trollkiller locksends ** And what did you send to her? ** Woodhawk returns the gaze steadily, his stance one of ease, though his brown eyes are alert. Rillwhisper gives a bit of a grin. "Well, it happens she's probably twined up asleep with her mate, ata the moment." You locksend ** Nothing. Yet. ** to Trollkiller. From afar, Trollkiller notes that the send seemed thin and sharp. Winnowill's voice softens into a sarcastic, however morose, tone, "Yes, I sometimes forget we do not all live by the light." Rillwhisper shrugs lightly. "We've got nightsleepers and daysleepers here; it's not been a problem, yet. It might be morning before she's awake again, though. Do you want to come into the Holt, to wait?" Woodhawk puts in, "You and your escorts?" He nods off in the direction of the bond-birds that have landed, distantly. Winnowill's eyes brighten, behind the cold cunning in her eyes a fire raises, a smile of falsified warmth veiling the sudden elation within her, "That would be acceptible." Rillwhisper nods evenly, then, her own eyes reflecting back the moonlight - deep and green and containing only visible, if restrained, curiosity. Rillwhisper sends to the whole tribe ** Tribe. We bring Winnowill into the Holt. ** Winnowill watches the movements of both elves You say "Come this way. And mind the itchgrass." Rillwhisper vanishes into the tangle, Woodhawk waiting to follow after the two. Carefully you pick your way through the tangled barrier, avoiding the itchgrass that grows thickly at its base. South Bank of the Pond This narrow, winding pathway is shielded in almost all directions save up, where the open sky allows clear illumination to mark the trail. The foliage is that of a place on the fringe between wood and marshland; tall young trees to the south and west, dominated by a massive distant trio of willows, are set off against a tangled barrier of brush and grasses that curves gently across the trail just off to the east. Thinner grasses mark the edge of a pond immediately to the north. It is an icy Whitecold night. The snow-covered Holt seems to glow in the light from the moons. Obvious exits: Holt Copse Itchgrass Circle Pond On the other side of the itchgrass circle, Woodhawk vanishes into the thick tangled growth towards Sun-Goes-Down. Woodhawk carefully works his way through the itchgrass barrier, arriving from the marshes. Woodhawk has arrived. On the other side of the itchgrass circle, Winnowill vanishes into the thick tangled growth towards Sun-Goes-Down. Winnowill carefully works her way through the itchgrass barrier, arriving from the marshes. Winnowill has arrived. You head into the Willowholt. Clearing by the Old Willow(#123RHJ) This clearing, last among the trees before the land changes slowly to marshes, is dominated by an impossibly massive willow tree. Much of the ancient tree is hidden by its ever-blowing fronds, which veil it and the entire clearing in quiet, green-grey shadows. The air holds a rich mix of scents: water and wood, elf-scent and wolf-scent, earth and the occasional whiff of fire. The fallen log by the tree, the quietly gurgling 'fountain' off to one side, the willow's gnarled roots, and even the soft earth underfoot encourage one to sit and sing or speak or send... or just to watch and listen. The entire area is tinged with a gentle, subtle sense of magic and age, centered upon the giant tree. To the south, the land slopes gently uphill. A path runs from Sun-Goes-Up to Sun-Goes-Down, with the nearby marshes lying off in the former direction and the more secluded parts of the Holt in the latter. Just off to the northeast, past the fountain, is a small pond. Contents: Calmwind(#7032Jpq) Ashes Hollow log Squirrel Obvious exits: Branch Old Willow Hillside Path Starwillow Copse Marsh Pond Woodhawk appears from the nearby pathway. Woodhawk has arrived. Winnowill appears from the nearby pathway. Winnowill has arrived. Rillwhisper says cordially, gesturing to the fountain, "There is water in abundance, should you thirst; and I expect we could find something if you are hungry." Ashes looks up from where she lies at the approach of a stranger... Winnowill rubs her hands together again, nothing more than imaginery dirt falling from herpalms Various wolves linger in the shadows; their eyes glitter in the darkness, and no less than either the chieftess's, or the firestarter who flanks her. Winnowill looks after the wolves, speaking without pretense to cover the silence, "Your holt thrives. I can imagine the pains you must have gone through to ensure survival." Ashes stands, padding somewhat closer to the pair of elves that she knows, looking at the one that she does not. Though the scent seems slightly familiar. Something rustles in the underbrush of the nearby copse. Woodhawk offers his own version of hospitality, by crouching down by the small firepit in the center of the clearing. He gathers some of the tinder kept there, gives it a brief yellow-eyed glare, and sets the fuel smoldering as Rillwhisper answers, "We have had peace, and time to grow, slowly." Rillwhisper adds, grinning a bit, "The pack has grown faster than we, although we have had a few cubs to renew us." Winnowill watches the kindling of the fire with vane apprehension, turning her head to face Rillwhisper, "I trust we will know nothing else in the future to come." Winnowill smiles The smile of a thousand promises, a smile that is woven around words, changing them into something desirable Woodhawk makes enough of a small fire to cast light and warmth around the clearing, then settles back on his haunches, easily, to regard the visitor. Rillwhisper herself regards Winnowill pleasantly enough, and says, "No elf likes to fight, I expect. Though some of our numbers have been nervous about your Mountain, before." Winnowill locksends ** (( To Woodhawk )) Winnowill's mind approaches in send, simply peering in to see how well you have withstood your previous rigors of the mind ** You locksend ** ** to Winnowill. From the branch above, Dawn climbs down from the tree's top branches. From the branch above, Dawn climbs over to where Trollkiller is, half hiding behind him as she peers down. Rillwhisper goes on, "This nervousness might get you some argument, about where various of our Glider-blooded ones belong." Woodhawk quirks a dark eyebrow at Winnowill, but says nothing, letting his chieftess-mate handle the discourse. Winnowill smiles with sudden elation, glancing to Woodhawk then back to Rillwhisper, "I trust Woodhawk has been able to adjust?" Woodhawk grins slightly. "Woodhawk," he replies dryly, "is just fine, thank you." Rillwhisper smiles at her mate with open fondness. Winnowill says "I must admit you are surprisingly receptive given our past relations. It pleases me that some elves can indeed change." From the branch above, Dawn stays close to Trollkiller, looking wide-eyedly down. Rillwhisper lifts both eyebrows. "You healed Woodhawk; I have no quarrel with you." Woodhawk settles cross-leggedly by the fire, the flames casting flickering light across his lean, watchful face. Littlefang emerges from the trees by the nearby pond. Littlefang has arrived. From the branch above, Trollkiller sends, ** Some of her chosen friends, on the other hand, have been unnecessarily rude in the past... ** From the branch above, Trollkiller grins down at Winnowill. ** Hello, again... ** Rillwhisper flicks a glance up to the branch overhead, where Trollkiller is perched, and grins lopsidedly. Her expression reflects her agreement. Winnowill raises an eyebrow, "No, but we are chiefs, you and I, we have no need to hide the truth. I am well aware that my practices are not acceptible by many wolfriders and am more than pleased to find your hospitality unmarred by the suggestive impulses of certain other wolfriders." Woodhawk gives a wordless grin at his younger mate. Rillwhisper says easily, "I'm new to the chief's lock, as such things go. I try to see all sides of a story." Winnowill looks up, nodding to Trollkiller Littlefang prowls restlessly, then fades back to the rest of the wolves in the shadows around the clearing. Littlefang slips through the trees up the hill. Littlefang has left. Winnowill seems pleased at Rillwhispers response, "I do hope you would choose the mountain for advice, lest we reiterate the past by ignoring change and living with the same minds." From the branch above, Dawn ohs softly at Trollkiller, eyes solemn. Rillwhisper's green gaze is candid - yet reserved, and she offers no opinion on Winnowill's unspecified 'practices'. She does counter, though, slightly wryly, "I'll make the same offer, if you need anyone to tell you about the Way." Winnowill raises her head, seeing Dawn, a relaxed smile her only acknowledgement before lookingback to Rillwhisper Woodhawk grins again, though most of his attention is on the fire, as he gives it a gold-sparked-brown regard. Winnowill speaks quietly, almost a muse rather than retort to Rillwhisper, voice shallow though flavored with confidence, "We do learn from our mistakes, don't we?" From the branch above, Dawn stays mostly behind Trollkiller, looking uncertainly down at the clearing. From the branch above, Dawn giggles faintly, smiling at Trollkiller. Rillwhisper nods in acknowledgement. "Just so." She remains standing, herself, although now that there is a warmth building in the clearing due to the fire, she checks the log to insure that it's not damp, and offers Winnowill the place to sit. Winnowill arches her back, stretching, her eyes dancing over the trees, over Dawn and Trollkiller From the branch above, Dawn's blue eyes scan the clearing, lingering on the fire. Winnowill shakes her head, somewhere behind her words echoes a faint revulsion, "No thank you." From the branch above, Trollkiller snorts. ** Standing too long is hard on the feet. How long _do_ you plan to stay? ** Rillwhisper shrugs indifferently, and props a green-booted foot up on the log, then, casually. "And what mistakes should you and I seek to mend?" Woodhawk's eyes twinkle, briefly, at Trollkiller's comment; Rillwhisper looks up, and, finding her younger mate's question quite valid, she awaits a reply to that. From the branch above, Dawn wraps her arms around herself, looking faintly chilly even in her oversized tunic and furry cloak. Without looking up to Trollkiller, Winnowill watches Rillwhisper, listeningto her words, though her send intones a calm evasiveness ** As long as I am able to stand. ** Winnowill smiles and laughs a glorious, though short and controlled laugh From the branch above, Trollkiller laughs out loud! (IC) From the branch above, Dawn starts. Rillwhisper grins, in honest apprecation of the repartee, and patiently awaits her own question's answer. Winnowill says "None come to mind, Rillwhisper, I was with the misconception you would have a certain event in mind, i see I have been proven wrong."" Rillwhisper shrugs idly. "I'm sure if you asked my tribe, several events could be mentioned, but as I said, I have no personal quarrel with you." From the branch above, A large cluster of branches rustles, something else startled by Trollkiller's outburst. Winnowill says "If the chief has no need to worry, then there is no need for that." From the branch above, Trollkiller looks at something rustling in the darkness, one eyebrow raised. Winnowill finally raises her head to the branch, looking at Trollkiller, then Dawn, "Have we met?" From the branch above, Dawn tries to look small, shaking her head mutely. Rillwhisper nods evenly, and answers, "Well. As to your wanting your Gliderfolk back... you could easily walk off with half my Holt, if you want them all. But I'd say is with all as with Duskshadow; if they want to go, they're free elves." Her gaze is direct, and her voice forthrightly honest. "They would be missed; regardless of bloods, all are Tribe here. But I'll keep no one here who doesn't wish to stay." From the branch above, Silversong slips out from behind the cover she was hiding within, sitting down beside Trollkiller and Dawn... a small smile on her face. From the branch above, Dawn's eyes narrow, and she briefly bares the points of her teeth. Flutterlight glides down from above. Flutterlight has arrived. Winnowill shakes her head, steepling her hands together in front of her, "No, as much as I would prefer certain minds I am forced to limit my search to certain abilities." Flutterlight chirps excitedly Flutterlight says "Flutterlight find longlonglongsoft notfly highthing!" From the branch above, Dawn glares. ** They don't want to leave. ** Flutterlight flits over toward winnowill Flutterlight This is a Preserver, with lavender skin and bright red wings. Atop its head is a little yellow cap with a small point. It seems to be overly cheerful (but then again, don't all preservers?) and enjoys singing a great deal. From the branch above, Silversong chuckles quietly at the Preserver's arrival. Rillwhisper eyes the newly arrived Preserver; Woodhawk visibly snorts - another bug? Winnowill frowns ever so carefully at the preserver Flutterlight says "Flutterlight have message from Go-out flyhighthing for longlonglongsoft notfly highthing" From the branch above, Trollkiller looks at Dawn. ** ? ** From the branch above, Trollkiller nuzzles Silversong in greeting. Flutterlight says "Flutterlight remember!" From the branch above, Silversong nuzzles Trollkiller back briefly, before dropping down to the clearing. From the branch above, Silversong swings down off the branch to the clearing below. Silversong drops down from the branch above. Silversong has arrived. Rillwhisper stifles a smirk, and says to Winnowill, "Far be it from me to interrupt a Preserver's message... " Flutterlight says "Flutterlight tell?" Winnowill watches Silversong decend with a pleasant demeanor From the branch above, Dawn looks uneasy at the mention of children. Rillwhisper glances at Silversong, questioningly, but waits for the visitor bug to speak. Silversong smiles quietly back at Winnowill, but defers speaking to the bug. Winnowill shakes her head to the rpeserver There are several amused giggles in the branches - tiny, piping voices. One calls out, /Hellohello Flutterlight!/ Silversong locksends ** I'm safe now. ** You locksend ** .....? ** to Silversong. Flutterlight says "awww. Is important. Go-out flyhighthing say so. Is fly longlonglongway from big bluething" Flutterlight turns at the chirping. "hi hi!" Silversong quietly smiles. ** Hello, Mother, ** she sends, looking to Winnowill. Woodhawk regards Silversong, and slowly stands, something of his reserved regard vanishing as he looks at the healer. Winnowill looks past Silversong to Rillwhisper, her face poised with warmth, channeled through the coldness of her eyes Rillwhisper crosses her arms, as several Preserver voices chatter gossip at Flutterlight, all at once. One purple Preserver flits right down to Rillwhisper's hair, to get a better look at the visitor. Flutterlight says "flutterlight need give message. Is promise to Go-out flyhighthing" Fallberry has arrived. From the branch above, Dawn's eyes go very wide, as she mouths.. Mother? Flickerflame comes down out of the trees on the hillside. Flickerflame has arrived. From the branch above, Trollkiller covers his eyes. ** Oh no, it's a _gathering_ of preservers... ** From the branch above, Trollkiller looks over to Dawn. Winnowill crossesher arms almost in warding of the preservers Flickerflame flits after Fallberry, and hovers briefly before landing on a branch. Flickerflame climbs up onto the overhanging sentry branch. Flickerflame has left. From the branch above, Flickerflame climbs up from the clearing below. Flutterlight says "Hi hi Fallberry. Hi hi Flickerflame!" Fallberry flits in circles, looklooklooking curiously at the tall longsofthair highthing, before landing at last on Rillwhisper's chief's lock. The chieftess herself says wryly, "Let the bug give its message, Winnowill, unless you're in a hurry; I'm not." Fallberry giggles. /Sunnygreen highthing take time. Is good!/ Silversong glances to Woodhawk, and she smiles back at him. From the branch above, Dawn lets the preserver land on her shoulder, staring at Silversong. Winnowill frowns, her face darkened with an inner distaste, "So be it. Speak your message, preserver" From the branch above, Dawn holds out a hand to Flickerflame and it flits happily to her shoulder. Silversong giggles in amusement. Flutterlight says "flutterlight tell!" Flutterlight takes a deep breath From the branch above, Dawn looks at Trollkiller, confused. Flutterlight says "BriarholtershavearrivedandtherearethreeofthemandIamcurrentlyescortingthemabou tthemountainIamextendingeverycourtestyandwouldliketoaskhowlongshewillbeinwillo wholtandwhatishoulddowwithortellthebriarholtersalsoifshehasanyupdatesortaskssh ewisshesmetodoasIhavebengoneforseveralseasonstopleaseadvisemeandlastlyMysthasr eturned." Flutterlight says "Flutterlight remember!" From the branch above, Trollkiller streeeeeetttttttttches and yawns. Stretchy Trollkiller. Fallberry peers importantly from atop its favorite highthing's head, and giggles in approval at the delivery of the biglongalloneword message! Winnowill listens, piecing together the information, and then nods a single time, "Thank you preserver." From the branch above, Dawn pokes at Trollkiller with annoyance. From the branch above, Dawn stares at Trollkiller again, and nearly falls off the branch. From the branch above, Trollkiller grabs Dawn. ** Careful there, you're a bit weighted down... ** Winnowill says "There are other gliders travelling with me, Rillwhisper. I trust that your hospitality extends to them as well?"" Silversong bursts out laughing at the word-on-word message, wondering if the bug even breathed once. From the branch above, On Dawn's shoulder, Flickerflame chirps happy approval at the wething. Flutterlight says "Is need for bring message to Go-out highthing from longlonglongsoft notfly highthing?" From the branch above, Dawn gapes at Trollkiller, an arm going automatically to her unbalancing belly. ** Him?! ** Flutterlight flits its wings. Silversong nods to Winnowill, at a more private send. ** I knew you'd ask that, ** she replies, making public her reply. Rillwhisper glances up at Dawn briefly as Trollkiller catches her, then says to Winnowill honestly, "If your guards are cordial as Viresse was, then yes, they may enter." Winnowill says "Tell her if she ever sends a message to me with a preserver again, I will (she pauses, adopting an oiled smile) I will not be pleased."" From the branch above, Dawn quickly covers her mouth with her other hand, and curls nervously close to Trollkiller. From the branch above, Trollkiller mmmms, nuzzling Dawn. Rillwhisper eyes her furred mate, gets the idea of what Dawn must have just learned, and flashes her a solemn smile. On her hair, Fallberry thbptpbptpbts. /Wethings tell stuff good!/ Silversong walks over to Woodhawk, and sits down beside him. From the branch above, Dawn keeps staring at Silversong and Winnowill, from her furry shelter. Woodhawk touches Silversong's shoulder, lightly. The smell of fire, and fire-magic, clings to him. Flutterlight says "IfsheeversendsamessagetomewithapreserveragainIwill>goofylittlesmile Later. She'll hear. ** to Trollkiller. Rillwhisper puts in quietly, "Besides; Silversong is our best healer. And we have a visitor who will continue to need her, for a while." Winnowill meets Rillwhispers curious gaze, "It is difficult, as a mother, not to use every manner of persuasion at my dispoal to bring my daughter home." Winnowill says "Perhaps I could offer my services, as a healer, for your 'visitor'. For your troubles." Silversong hesitates slightly. Rillwhisper inclines her head. "I'm a mother, myself," she replies, by way of offering no dispute, for that statement. For the next, she glances at Silversong, saying simply, "I let her set the pace of the healings, here." Silversong smiles. ** The stranger has been healed, but rests to recover her strength at this time. ** Winnowill nods to Rillwhisper, "Yes ,she is fit for such a role." Truly remarkable." From the branch above, Trollkiller swings down off the branch to the clearing below. Trollkiller drops down from the branch above. Trollkiller has arrived. Woodhawk smiles, quietly. Trollkiller bounces over to behind Woodhawk, plops down behind him, and starts rubbing his neck. Rillwhisper smiles, and says, "Well. But Silversong is right, her daughter is with child. That'll be another seaon or two, at least." Woodhawk flashes a grin to Trollkiller. Winnowill looks about her, "Two of my own are closer, I do think it best if you tell them it is alright to land, wouldn't you agree Rillwhisper?" Rillwhisper says cheerfully, "Those big hawks of yours won't fit in here, but the elves can come down, yes." Winnowill says "The birds are landed a ways from here, the gliders wait there." You locksend, to Melanthe, Azeure: ** Your Lord says you're waiting; come down. ** Melanthe glides down from above. Melanthe has arrived. You sense in a locksend, Winnowill sends their image and their feeling Azeure locksends ** many thanks and greetings to you ** Azeure glides down from above. Azeure has arrived. Rillwhisper and Woodhawk look up, as the two Gliders come down. Melanthe floats in, lands near Winnowill and bows to her lord.. then sends **Thank you, CHieftess.. for allowing us to come** Melanthe Mela's ebony hair is a stark contrast to her pale skin. She has thin braids all over her head that twist elegantly together into a bun. She wears a white headband in the shape of a bird's wings to keep her hair out of her face and it seems mostly for show since her hair is pulled back. Her deep violet eyes pierce through everything she looks at. Her intense gaze doesn't waver, but when she sees you looking at her, she matches your gaze and then shifts her own elsewhere. Her nose is straight on her slender face and her slightly pink lips curve up into a smile that makes you shudder. She also resembles another glider, Iiolanthe. Her very slender and graceful body is barely hidden beneath the tight-fitting outfit she wears. The black and white mesh unitard is cut low and shows her attractive cleavage. The long sleeves hug her arms, leaving enough room to maneuver and leaving her entire back bare. She wears black leggings under the unitard that show her curvy hips and shapely legs. Her feet are covered by a pair of white boots that only add to her silent steps. Carrying: Dagger Azeure This tall and thin elf's narrow lips curl into a knowing smile as he turns to see you. His eyes seem to sparkle as if he hides some dark secret. He wears a midnight black softleather body suit with white ravvit fur trim, and feathers of many shades of blue and dark grey adorn his long flowing white hair. His boots arch up to mid calf and are adorned smilarly with feathers and ravvit fur. Eyes of the deepest blue examine you over a gently sloped hawklike nose. as he raises his arms you notice a winglike leather and ravvit fur fringe from underneath his arms. He glides only inches from the ground and watches you with slightly more than mild curiosity Carrying: brightmetal dagger Trollkiller looks over Woodhawk's shoulder at the arrivals, as he continues rubbing Woodhawk's back. Azeure floats down and alights close to Winnowill and his mother and nods his appreciation Rillwhisper inclines her head, sending back, ** You're welcome; we were told of your coming, and we appreciate a friendly visit. ** Silversong glances at the newcomers. ** Hello. ** Melanthe smiles warmly Winnowill nods once to both Melanthe and Azeure. "Melanthe, Azeure. (she motions to Rillwhisper) You are no doubt familiar with Rillwhisper, chieftess, her mate Woodhawk, my daughter, Silversong, Trollkiller, and Dawn" Silversong nods as she's indicated, smiling. Melanthe nods.. Rillwhisper's sending is cool, rippling, like the water that bubbles out of the fountain on the edge of the clearing. Woodhawk, tall, lean, red-brownhaired, and currently getting his back scritched by furry Trollkiller, smiles lopsidedly in response. Azeure smiles warmly and nods Trollkiller sends, ** Hi hi hi... ** Winnowill speaks specifically to Melanthe and Azeure, loud enough for the others to hear her, in precise, controlled words and tone, "They have welcomed us." And then she turns back to Rillwhisper Melanthe nods slightly once. Azeure nods to Winnowill's words and looks to Melanthe Melanthe does not look at her son.. simply watches in silence.. You say "So; I will assume, then, that you'd like some word from Duskshadow soon?" Winnowill says "Yes. There are others I wish to speak with. Zalen and Joy for instance." You say "I'll tell them, then. You mentioned, though: specific magics?" Melanthe's eyes shift slightly to her son, then back towards the wolfriders, especially trollkiller.. Winnowill says "Yes. Levitation. Shaping. Healing (she saysthis with a distinct ring to her voice) but levitation is the most important, the one I need the most."" Azeure watches the scene quietly as he shivers slightly at something Woodhawk leans bonelessly back into Trollkiller's skitching, though he regards the Gliders alertly. He still smells of fire, and of a whiff of magic. Woodhawk's eyebrows crinkle. "Don't most of your tribe fly?" Trollkiller looks back at Melanthe, without threat. Winnowill leans forward slightly, interlacing her fingers into a dangerous gambit of digits, "Most do. Our mountain has been depleted of life and many necessary roles need to be filled." Silversong leans gently into Woodhawk's side opposide from Trollkiller, her expression one of quiet contemplation. Melanthe smiles a bit Melanthe smiles friendly-like to trollkiller Winnowill says "All of those roles are designed around the need of levitation." Trollkiller half-grins, and shrugs. Woodhawk drapes an arm around Silversong, lightly, as Rillwhisper observes, "Actually, more of our Holt's shapers aren't of Glider blood." Woodhawk by way of agreement, mildly eyes the fire. His eyes spark, and the flames crackle in response. Rillwhisper adds smoothly, "As I'm sure you're aware." Winnowill raises an eyebrow, though does not persue the statement, "A wolfrider from Briarholt has been shaping plant life for me, though not all of the mountain is designed to support such growth." Trollkiller nuzzles the back of Woodhawk's neck. Rillwhisper nods affably. "So Zalen has mentioned; the mountain doesn't seem like a place for green growing things. But we've got our share of treeshaping happening here." Woodhawk reaches around to scritch Trollkiller's headfur. Winnowill says "The mountain has undergone a lot of shaping and should go beyond expectation of its previous elegance." Silversong gently snuggles under Woodhawk's arm. Anwynne steps into the clearing slowly and cautiously Melanthe glances at the newcomer You say "Sounds like you're more in need of rockshapers, though. That's the one kind of shaper we don't have here." Silversong nods quietly. ** Not since Seasprite went back home... ** Winnowill turns to face Anwynne as she arrives Anwynne leans into a tree, keeping her distance, and being silent.. Azeure nods his greetings to the newcomer Rillwhisper glances round, and spies the hesitantly arriving visitor. She smiles to her, and says, "Hello, there." Anwynne seems rather uneasy, but manages to smile at Rill's friendly face Anwynne says "hi" Anwynne looks down slightly before looking back up.. You locksend ** Do you wnat to point here out to your mother, or shall I? ** to Silversong. Melanthe glances at winnowill once.. Winnowill levels her eyes at Anwynne, her smile perennial, "You do not appear to be of this holt." Anwynne shakes her head.. Azeure looks quizzically to Winnowill Anwynne says "I.. I am not." You say "This is the one Silversong has been tending. We get visitors often; some choose to stay." Silversong locksends ** Perhaps you should... ** Anwynne takes a hesitant step further out into the clearing.. Silversong nods softly. Winnowill says "Yes, I can feel Silversong's magic in her" Anwynne blinks at Winnowill "Uh.. you can?" Anwynne is really confused about Winny's statement.. Melanthe smiles a bit Winnowill's smile is forced into a tool of understanding rather than arrogance, "I have had time to practice." Woodhawk leans back against Trollkiller, casually, as the fire in the small fire-pit crackles and snaps at his occasional spark-eyed glance. Rillwhisper looks between the two, and tells Anwynne, "We were talking about Silversong healing you." Anwynne nods, not understanding but hesitant to say anything more.. simply "Oh." Silversong smiles quietly. Azeure smiles slightly as he looks between Winnowill and Anwynne Anwynne says "healing?" Anwynne looks a bit nervous.. Silversong smiles at Anwynne. ** You were rather wounded when Crystal brought you here. I helped those wounds to heal. ** Anwynne is somewhat hesitant.. "You mean... my.. " Looks at Winnowill "Can you help me remember who I am?" Winnowill glances thoughtfully over to Silversong, "She seems to be in need of recovery still." Anwynne smiles at silversong "I.. am grateful for that" Silversong blinks. ** This is a surprise to me. ** Melanthe blinks "You have no idea who you are?" Winnowill watches Silversong, answering Anwynne, "I could, yes." Rillwhisper blinks at Anwynne, but says after a beat, "Ah... Winnowill had offered to help, while you were asleep." Anwynne shakes her head.. "I.. keep trying.. but it.. is not there.." Azeure blinks, surprised slightly at Anwynne's words Anwynne touches her forehead lightly.. and shrugs.. Silversong looks somewhat taken aback, glancing back to Winnowill. Anwynne glances about at all the faces.. Melanthe says "do you know where you came from?" Anwynne hesitates as she tries to remember.. then shakes her head.. "No." You say "None of us know; you were wounded when we found you, cousin." Anwynne nods slowly Silversong's gaze falls, looking to the ground. Anwynne looks at silversong.. with concern Melanthe places her hands on her hips, watching Rillwhisper says gently to Silversong, "My friend, you were working on her body; not her mind. Don't feel bad about it." She looks between Silversong and Winnowill, then. "You two are the healers; I'll leave this matter up to you, I think." Winnowill watches Melanthe and Azeue, rthen Anwynne, "Perhaps, if acceptible, I will take a few days and train your healer." Azeure folds his arms across his chest as he watches quietly Rillwhisper smiles faintly. "It's up to our healer, not me, as to what she does with her magic." Kalthe glides down from above. Kalthe has arrived. Azeure nods quietly his greetings to Kalthe Anwynne jumps slightly as a new glider flies in.. Kalthe smiles as he calmly floats down, ** Greetings, everyone ** Winnowill nods to Kalthe, then to Rillwhisper, "The last of my party." Melanthe sends openly ** greetings Kalthe ** Silversong nods slightly. ** That would be... good, I think... ** Woodhawk and Trollkiller, as yet another Glider comes down, nuzzle at one another briefly. Trollkiller greets the newcomer cheerfully. Woodhawk inclines his head. Azeure sends openly ** Greetings Kalthe ** Rillwhisper nods serenely to the arrival. Kalthe nods to those who greet him, then lands near his Lord, and kneels. You sense in a locksend, Silversong's resolve is clearly slipping, Winnowill's send hitting on a remaining sore spot, her inability to save Blackmorn a time back. (To Woodhawk) Kalthe stands up, and remains near Lord Winnowill. Winnowill nods to Kalthe Anwynne tilts her head with curiosity at seeing an elf bow to this tall cousin.. Woodhawk eyes Silversong... then pulls her closer to him, touches his head to hers. Winnowill says "I am their Lord. They show me respect in that manner." Silversong presses closer into her Recognized's embrace. Kalthe casually places his hands behind his back, and remains still, as if at attention but more relaxed in it. Rillwhisper hops up on the log and stands there, to be on a better eye level with all these tall people. Briefly, she glances down at her lifemates, as both Woodhawk and Trollkiller provide Silversong warm places to be held. Anwynne says "their lord?" Anwynne says "I..see" Rillwhisper looks round at all the Gliders, and says to Anwynne, "'Lord' is their word for 'leader'." Azeure nods briefly in agreement with Rillwhisper Anwynne says "oh.." Winnowill laughs distantly, another controlled laugh that does not seem to say enough, "Yes, much like Rillwhisper is 'lord', or chief, of her holt, so I am Lord of Blue Mountain." You whisper "Woodhawk doesn't send, not here, where your mother could here. But he does hold you close, his arm around you firm and assuringly." to Silversong. Anwynne smiles in naive understanding.. Silversong nestles quietly in between both of them, her eyes downcast. Anwynne glances at silversong Rillwhisper says dryly, "We don't have so much ceremony around here, though." She regards all the Gliders, and says, "I trust that if you're going to be aorund a while, you'll go carefully with the hunting. It's the Whitecold, and those big birds of yourds will put a dent in what the wolves usually hunt." Melanthe nods to rill... Anwynne wipes a loose strand of hair from her face.. Rillwhisper adds, "The tribe will want to know, too, how long you plan to stay. Particularly those you'd like to, uh, talk to." Winnowill looks simply to Kalthe, "Tonight, move the birds outside of their hunting grounds." Melanthe looks at Winnowill.. casually glances towards her son a moment later Kalthe nods, ** Yes, my Lord ** You sense Silversong does seem to appreciate that closeness, taking comfort in it. Wolves prowl around the clearing's edge, drawn by the commotion of the visitors; occasionally, howls drift through the night, as the pack sings of the news. Azeure smiles and watches the proceedings with a quick glance to his mother Kalthe turns to Rillwhisper, ** I ask of you, how far will be sufficient to prevent any harm to your 'stock'? ** Anwynne jumps as the wolves howl Rillwhisper nods graciously. "Thank you." To Kalthe, she answers mildly, "You tell me. How far do you have to hunt those birds to get them food?" Woodhawk says casually, "The wolves take a day's ride out of the Holt, usually." Winnowill faces Azeure and Melanthe, her voice quieter, "Before we leave, bring fresh meat for the holt outside of their grounds." Kalthe smiles, almost proudly, ** Oh they are excellent hunters... they do not need much reign to provide for themselves... and if need be.. I am a sufficient hunter to provide for them, if need be ** Azeure nods quickly to his Lord Melanthe bows to Lord WInnowill Melanthe whispers "Yes, my lord" Rillwhisper's eyebrows quirk at this generosity. "You're very kind." Azeure bows ** As you wish Lord Winnowill ** Anwynne looks at Azeure Anwynne looks at Azeure for several moments Azeure smiles quietly to Anwynne Winnowill meets Rillwhispers quirked brows, "We are here for reasons that may result in the loss of some of your tribe. It is the least I cando to see that you have even some spare fresh meat during this cold season." Anwynne sees Azeure looking at her, flushes lightly and looks away quickly Silversong glances at Woodhawk and Trollkiller. ** I need to go rest, to think... ** Rillwhisper nods, and says simply, "How long do you think you might want to borrow my tribesfolk?" Melanthe grins, her gaze flickers from anwynne to azeure and back again Woodhawk and Trollkiller nod; Trollkiller nuzzles Silversong, and offers, ** C'mon, you can come sleep in our den. ** Silversong smiles, and she nods. Woodhawk murmurs to Silversong, "Go on, beloved." Azeure grins slightly to himself as he watches the goings on Winnowill smiles wanely, "As you said, it is their decision. I hope those with the glider heritage I seek will accept integration into the mountain. Anyone else whop offers service, no more than a season, if that." Anwynne looks back at azeure as if to see if he still looks at her then turns her attention reluctantly away from him. Trollkiller tugs lightly at Silversong, and tugs her up into the branches as he scurries lithely up himself. Anwynne watches the willowholters vanish into their dens... Melanthe grins Woodhawk nuzzles Silversong's neck lightly, letting her go, and then turns to eye his chieftess; Rillwhisper nods, and says, "I will be wanting to speak with my tribe; will you all grant us privacy?" Melanthe says "now?" Silversong slips upwards with Trollkiller, after giving Woodhawk a tight squeeze, and a wordless expression of gratitude. Silversong climbs up onto the overhanging sentry branch. Silversong has left. From the branch above, Silversong climbs up from the clearing below. From the branch above, Silversong climbs back down into the willow tree's heart. Azeure nods quietly to Rillwhisper and looks to Winnowill and Melanthe Anwynne says "I... will just (seems to be looking for a good excuse to leave and finally decides on..) .. go.. privacy you need.. right." Anwynne nods Melanthe nods Rillwhisper smiles. "Those of us who are awake will speak now; we'll speak again when the daysleepers get up. The Starwillow should be big enough to hold you all; there's furs and smooth shaped places where you can rest, if you wish. Or, Woodhawk will escort you out through the itchgrass, if you wish that." Winnowill looks back to the gliders, then to Rillwhisper, "Though I am past my own hours of sleep and should not alter my schedule." Silversong pages: Just to let you know, Silvie'll be sleeping -very- unsoundly tonight. :) Woodhawk adds dryly, "Though it's warmer in the den-trees than it is out in the marsh." Anwynne slips into the nearby copse of saplings. Anwynne has left. Melanthe grins as she watches anwynne leave Melanthe says "I'm curious about one thing, chieftess" Melanthe points towards the direction Anwynne went, indicating Anwynne, "What does your tribe call her? Have they given her a name yet? Or what?" Winnowill says "You will find nothing less than similiar hospitality should you seek shelter in the mountain, Rillwhisper." Azeure grins slightly at Melanthe's question You say "Yes?" Rillwhisper says honestly, "We just found out, as you did, that she doesn't remember. We haven't had time to talk about it. But we'll hold a council on it, with her, if she decides to stay here. It wouldn't be the first time we've had mind-hurt elves here." Melanthe nods and decides to follow anwynne Melanthe slips into the nearby copse of saplings. Melanthe has left. Winnowill dismisses herself and enters the Copse, bowingher head low as she ducks inside Winnowill slips into the nearby copse of saplings. Winnowill has left. Azeure follows Winnowill with a friendly nod to the tribe