The Oracle
Third Passage of the Summer Moon
Adventurers Sight Elves
Although elves are considered a reality by sages, few humans can say to have seen them in person. Indeed, while everyone can expect, perhaps once in their lives, to see a pixie, tyver, or nymph, elves have faded into legend, and reliable reports are few. Now, however, an official explorer of Queen Lillian’s has returned to Aranor saying that she saw an elven city in the northern region of the Old World.
“There have long been rumors that wood elves dwell in the northern reaches,” said Storm, Regent of Aranor, “but no one has been able to bring back good evidence.”
Queen Lillian’s explorer, Shaena, has returned with sketches, artifacts, and track-casts.
“This appears to be for real,” said Storm.
For now, the exact location will remain a secret as Queen Lillian decides whether or not to establish contact. Elves have not had direct interaction with human leaders for over a thousand years. “But,” Storm said, “this could be the next step in helping to find a way for humans and fae to live in peace.”
She refers to the continued reports of fae activity from all provinces. The woods, according to today’s sages, are simply more dangerous. And faeries have even ventured into the world’s largest cities. Establishing constructive contact with any of the faerie races might begin to foster goodwill between the humans and the fae.
For now, however, the elves will remain elusive to the majority of us.
Lord Kieran
Fire Dancers Entertain Aranor
With the first whirling flames starting last An Maad, Aranor has played host to a unique new form of dancing. Hailing from Shavay, the dancers perform spectacular acrobatics while holding flaming brands.
“They seem immune to fire!” said Erik, one of the spectators. Indeed, one of their most amazing feats is ‘fire painting’, where they trace their torches across their flesh, leaving trails of flickering flames. Against their almost pure black skin, the effect is mesmerizing.
“We are Arshata tribe,” I was told by one of the performers, who is still trying to learn Caradorian. “Our god is fire.”
The tribe, which had no contact with anyone outside of Shavay until it was discovered last year by Corethus, an explorer who is also of Shavay blood, has been excited to send some of its people into the outside world. And here, they are amazing us.
You can see their performances throughout the city for the next three passages, and their visit will culminate with a performance in the Theater of Aranor.
Watch for postings!
Tania
Elephant in Aralaan
If you haven’t heard of Cowan Faol’s village south of Shara Brae, you have now! Aralaan is boasting yet another attraction – an elephant. The huge creatures, native to Shavay and Japura, are something like gigantic leathery fat horses with a long, rope-like snout for a nose and huge, wing-like ears. Although they are apparently easy to tame, they are almost impossible to transport across the seas, as few ships and no magicians are capable of such a task.
The two women and the Shavay man who keep the animal insist that they brought it across the sea by ship, and intend to stay in Gwynned for some time. Visitors to Aralaan will find the elephant out in the street each day near noontide, and for only a few silver coins you can ride upon the beast’s back.
Thus far the elephant has attracted hundreds of riders, and at least three sages have taken up temporary residence in Aralaan to study the giant animal.
Tirian
To the Oracle Collection-- Third Year