Sal'thorin's Youngest High Priest

"True researchers find the truth."

[highpriest-feli]

Arc - 3 (More than bargained for)

[As of this writing, this still takes place somewhere in mid-EOD.]

[...]

★ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. ----------------- ★ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.

[Greetings to all, this is Feli's blog author.]

[Due to undisclosed reasons, Feli will no longer leave behind messages in mirage blooms. If you are curious as to why, may it lead you somewhere as this story continues...]

[The rules still apply, and his collections of past interactions are still here.]

[Please believe the young High Priest cherishes each and every conversation with all of you.]

[serenaofesperia]

An envelope flew into Serena's room, the envelope open itself with magic as a letter slip out of it.

Greetings lady Serena. It's seem your beauty is ever so lasting, dazzling like a rare gem. I hope you'll forever shine and dazzling like this, Perhaps just like glitter that won't come off the skin but forever shining.

- Jn.

Before the young lady could look away from the mysterious letter, a portal appears above her and without warning dropped a pounds of dirty mustard yellow glitter directly on her, covered every part of her with glitter from head to toe and basically buried her in ugly colored glitter. And if we know glitter so well, those probably won't come out even after hundreds of shower.

Serena’s shriek is loud enough for the Essail to hear.

[highpriest-feli]

WHOA—

(And Feli almost drops his notebook. Oops.)

That was loud...

... It sounds like it came from somewhere on the surface, though. If I could go up there, I might be able to help...

[highpriest-feli]

[ Continuation from here / @meepinmeat and @inventor-zanie ]

(Feli takes the draconic scale as Zanie hands it to him, immediately sensing magic from it.)

You are right... This is undoubtedly powerful Essail magic. It feels unique, too...

My best guess is the Queen's, since only her powers can be this immense...

But, if so, why would her magic be present on this...

[meepinmeat]

Vendrix's gaze narrowed in on the draconic scale before glancing at Feli, 'He hasn't met the Queen in person. Of course he wouldn't know..' He thought before clearing his throat. No point in hiding this piece of information.

"You're correct, Feli. It is her magic. That scale you see right now indeed belongs to her." He confirms the other boy's speculation with a nod, "As for why, well, you are aware that the Queen has fallen terribly ill- yes? This scale is part of her unique condition." He points to the very thing containing Seralyth's magic.

"I have had the chance to not only go to Ebony Moon Palace by His Highness's invitation, but also the rare opportunity to capture a glimpse of Her Majesty." The High Priest recalls the moment as he placed a hand to his chin. Brows furrowed and eyes closed, "To put it frankly, she has transformed into some sort of draconic mutant. Which certainly didn't quite match the flattering portrayal her statues depict. Far from it." He then opened his eyes, returning to the present, "Indeed a huge price she has paid for the Essail's survival.."

Vendrix sounded fairly reverent in tone. His head lowered and hand over his chest, as if paying respects. Yet those who're perceptive can sense the insincerity in his honoring.

[highpriest-feli]

His Highness invited you to the Queen's Palace...? You must be something special, yourself...

(Feli's focus—right at that moment— is less on the absurdity of the situation and more on how Vendrix managed to accomplish that. But knowing His Highness, the way he favors people is lenient at best.)

(Still, his mind drifts back to the matter at hand.)

Her Majesty... is now a draconic mutant...? It can't be...

But, if this is what she has to endure for the sake of our people...

(The High Priest says that, though he indeed has caught a hint of insincerity from Vendrix's reverence. Whatever questions or doubts he has regarding Seralyth's state are put aside the moment he catches it. Is it simply because he believes he shouldn't question Her Majesty...?)

...

If I may ask... What does all this have to do with me, specifically?

[inventor-zanie]

Zanie knows it still won’t be easy to convince Feli, even though things are different here and there is still a chance yet.

How should I put this…

The only way I can really say it, is… Betrayal doesn’t come from your enemies. It comes from the people you trust.

But that’s what us researchers are here for. To verify which is the real truth, and which isn’t.

I know this sounds impossible to you right now, but your Queen really isn’t as she’s preached to be. And it’s not just because she’s a dragon—

As if sensing the growing franticness in her voice, a miniature plush version of Indris comes out from Feli’s cloak, looking at her.

—! …

And for a short moment, Zanie almost freaks out. However, the matter at hand is more urgent.

She takes out her Merlindabest, with the translator option attached.

[meepinmeat]

The mini-Indris flailed the moment its eyes set on Zanie and Vendrix- the sight of a familiar face and a newcomer who looks like they're aware of the gravity and truth of the situation- was enough to get it flying off the handle. Lucky she was there to capture every now-tangible word thanks to the translator option,

"VELARA IS GOING TO MURDER FELI. ONCE HE ASKS FOR THE REAL TRUTH OF THE QUEEN, THE DIVINE DEW- WHEN HE QUESTIONED EVERYTHING IN SAL'THORIN- SHE SHOT HIM WITH HER MAGIC AT LUNARIS ALTAR! PLEASE PLEASE, DON'T LET FELI DIE HERE!!"

Its voice soon breaks down into full on sobbing. Breaking down after it let out its true feelings, those that Vendrix resonated with as his expression fully drops to a solemn and bitter one, "This. Your life. We don't want you to die at the hands of someone as cruel and unjust as the Queen herself- the entire foundation she built Sal'thorin upon can rot for all I care- so many of our brethren have suffered and lost their lives because of her and this system she established- one of them being you in our worlds."

It looked like the other High Priest was doing all he can to not crash out right then and there. His grip on his own staff tightening so much, the pale skin of his knuckles couldn't possibly get any whiter. Fury and grief surfaced as the pain in his tone was made very evident. Clearly, Feli's death had alot of an impact on them and the reasons behind it- leading up to it- made it worse.

[highpriest-feli]

. . .

(Feli doesn't know how to respond as his entire frame is frozen at the spot. Everything feels like a blur.)

No way... This...

(He struggles to find the words, trying to process what mini-Indris has practically screamed out as well as what Vendrix added and showed from body language.)

(He wants to retort, to call Zanie or Vendrix blasphemous for daring to say such things about the Queen and her teachings, as well as Velara who always seemed to look out for him— She even expressed concern over the possibility of him disappearing! Yet things fall into place, and he has seen and heard them himself...)

(It begins to make sense when he had certain visitors prior to this. Both mini-Indris then the best friend himself looked upset when they saw him, the gentle breeze sounded sad and left him warnings to also practice on defensive magic spells.)

...

(His face gradually shifts from complete shock to utter disbelief. Everything he's been taught all his life has been a lie...?)

[highpriest-feli]

A small, magically enchanted plushie scurries out of the bushes and stops at the boy's feet.

Mini Feli: ....!

Oh! (Feli looks down to see the miniature, toy version of himself.) Hello there, uh... 'little me'...?

(He picks it up, gently patting dirt off it.) I was about to ask how you got here, but you're probably similar to how plush Indris got here...

Hmm... The magic that was used to enchant you definitely isn't the Queen's, and it feels similar to the kind of magic plush Indris has... Perhaps it's a spell specifically for these toys to give them a little sentience...

You also look mischievous... A bit different from how I made 'little me'.

(The High Priest then takes out the plush toy version of himself that he made, which looks less mischievous and more gentle... and it's a tad fuzzier, too.)

... Yes, the difference is there. Though there is one thing in common: Neither of you can make little noises.

I think I'll keep you around for some time. I don't know who sent you, so I'm not sure if they ask for you back...

[highpriest-feli]

JUMPSCARE!!!

AH!

(Feli instinctively points his staff towards Igor, its gem glowing, but he hasn't made another move yet. Defense first.)

Who are you?!

[mad-daggerrrrrrrrrr]

*giggles* Wouldn't you like to find out?

The real question is if you'd like to find out the fun way or the funnest way!! Your choice!!

but when you point your weapon at me like that... it might be the latter. HA!! It's fun and interesting either way, so why not?

(this is either gonna be the most wholesome interaction or the most epic battle. Both are good either way so we stay seated.)

[highpriest-feli]

Huh...? You're a strange one...

Either way, I'm the youngest High Priest of Sal'thorin. I-I'm not afraid of you!

(The boy says that with his staff still raised, but he hasn't done much else. The initial shock is gradually replaced by a tint of... curiosity.)

… How did you get here? For you to be here without being caught by any guard or priest out there...

[mad-daggerrrrrrrrrr]

Oho, that's easy!! I sneaked in the shadowy corners of the caves and found myself stumbling upon here!! I did find the priests and stuff...

... But I am but a master of stealth!! The embodiment of a shadow even!! Hiding in the darkness is a piece of cake to me!!

And also the fact that I'm sneaked out of my hometown by sneaking into a couple carriages because I'm bored BUT I WON'T BE HERE LONG TRUST ME!!

(lie)

Anyways, you said you're the youngest high priest? For a kid that's a crazy achievement!!

Kids I've seen back in my hometown were more obsessed with playing though - no harm in that!! Playing is the best thing ever!! I just think you're really built differently is all!!

[highpriest-feli]

You said you sneaked around the dark corners of the caves...? That's impressive...

So you sneaked out from your hometown and ended up here...

(Feli has a hunch Igor mainly wants to have fun—especially since this place looks new to him, and so he may be here for quite a while.)

Hmm, and you don't sound like a bad person, but how you look may catch people here off guard...

(He lowers his staff, now looking thoughtful. Takes him back to a bit of how Princess Yolena was like when she stumbled upon him...)

And um, this whole place is tough to live in, so children here don't get to play much... Usually it would be me with my magic and ideas to try and make people happy...

You seem to be someone who likes to play games with children. What kind of games do you usually play with them in your hometown?

(Yet another invitation to his experimental forest, perhaps...? If all goes accordingly, that is.)

[mad-daggerrrrrrrrrr]

HAHA!! YOU CAUGHT UP!! Guess we're hanging together now!!

Wait did you just say the children don't play as much here? That's TERRIBLE!! That explains why there was a gloomy feeling?? Energy?? JUST SOMETHING GLOOMY going on in this town!!

At least your magic entertains people!! Anyone would hate to see people sad and gloomy.

As for me, I entertain the kids by playing lots of games!! Yeah there's snowball fights, skating, snowman building, hopscotch on tombstones, hide and seek... THERE'S SO MUCH TO BE LISTED HAHAHA!!

(he proceeds to yap a lot about the Snowspire Festival, the Haunted House in the Frozen Paw, and honestly stuff that may or may not be off topic. igor is lock tf in)

[highpriest-feli]

(Feli smiles, now that he understands Igor's intentions are simple. He also believes they can definitely get along now. At the moment, his usual High Priest demeanor has given way to his sweet, childlike side.)

(The boy's eyes light up hearing about the many kinds of games the whimsical Graveborn man plays with the children where he lives. Snowspire Festival and things about snow aside for now...)

Wow... That sounds like so much fun!

[How I wish I could go to the surface so I could play with them— I could come up with some new magical tricks for them, even!]

Oh, now I would like to invite you to my experimental forest. Maybe from there you can have more fun ideas for the games to play with the children, too.

This way, it can even seem like I'm there, playing with you guys.

Ah, sorry! I forgot to introduce myself properly.

My name is Feli. Nice to meet you!

[highpriest-feli]

JUMPSCARE!!!

AH!

(Feli instinctively points his staff towards Igor, its gem glowing, but he hasn't made another move yet. Defense first.)

Who are you?!

[mad-daggerrrrrrrrrr]

*giggles* Wouldn't you like to find out?

The real question is if you'd like to find out the fun way or the funnest way!! Your choice!!

but when you point your weapon at me like that... it might be the latter. HA!! It's fun and interesting either way, so why not?

(this is either gonna be the most wholesome interaction or the most epic battle. Both are good either way so we stay seated.)

[highpriest-feli]

Huh...? You're a strange one...

Either way, I'm the youngest High Priest of Sal'thorin. I-I'm not afraid of you!

(The boy says that with his staff still raised, but he hasn't done much else. The initial shock is gradually replaced by a tint of... curiosity.)

… How did you get here? For you to be here without being caught by any guard or priest out there...

[mad-daggerrrrrrrrrr]

Oho, that's easy!! I sneaked in the shadowy corners of the caves and found myself stumbling upon here!! I did find the priests and stuff...

... But I am but a master of stealth!! The embodiment of a shadow even!! Hiding in the darkness is a piece of cake to me!!

And also the fact that I'm sneaked out of my hometown by sneaking into a couple carriages because I'm bored BUT I WON'T BE HERE LONG TRUST ME!!

(lie)

Anyways, you said you're the youngest high priest? For a kid that's a crazy achievement!!

Kids I've seen back in my hometown were more obsessed with playing though - no harm in that!! Playing is the best thing ever!! I just think you're really built differently is all!!

[highpriest-feli]

You said you sneaked around the dark corners of the caves...? That's impressive...

So you sneaked out from your hometown and ended up here...

(Feli has a hunch Igor mainly wants to have fun—especially since this place looks new to him, and so he may be here for quite a while.)

Hmm, and you don't sound like a bad person, but how you look may catch people here off guard...

(He lowers his staff, now looking thoughtful. Takes him back to a bit of how Princess Yolena was like when she stumbled upon him...)

And um, this whole place is tough to live in, so children here don't get to play much... Usually it would be me with my magic and ideas to try and make people happy...

You seem to be someone who likes to play games with children. What kind of games do you usually play with them in your hometown?

(Yet another invitation to his experimental forest, perhaps...? If all goes accordingly, that is.)

[highpriest-feli]

JUMPSCARE!!!

AH!

(Feli instinctively points his staff towards Igor, its gem glowing, but he hasn't made another move yet. Defense first.)

Who are you?!

[mad-daggerrrrrrrrrr]

*giggles* Wouldn't you like to find out?

The real question is if you'd like to find out the fun way or the funnest way!! Your choice!!

but when you point your weapon at me like that... it might be the latter. HA!! It's fun and interesting either way, so why not?

(this is either gonna be the most wholesome interaction or the most epic battle. Both are good either way so we stay seated.)

[highpriest-feli]

Huh...? You're a strange one...

Either way, I'm the youngest High Priest of Sal'thorin. I-I'm not afraid of you!

(The boy says that with his staff still raised, but he hasn't done much else. The initial shock is gradually replaced by a tint of... curiosity.)

… How did you get here? For you to be here without being caught by any guard or priest out there...

[highpriest-feli]

JUMPSCARE!!!

AH!

(Feli instinctively points his staff towards Igor, its gem glowing, but he hasn't made another move yet. Defense first.)

Who are you?!

[highpriest-feli]

(Another day in the heart of the experimental forest... Another day of Feli focusing on his notebook. Rereading the notes he had written down.)

Hmm, Whiteridge...

(He mumbles to himself, wondering how the place might be like.)

The gentle breeze gifted me the local specialties there—Snowgem Berries and a Cashmere Scarf... And Princess Yolena was wearing clothes that keep warm... Could it be that the place is cold? Colder than here?

I wonder how it feels like...

[highpriest-feli]

[ Continuation from here / @meepinmeat and @inventor-zanie ]

(Feli takes the draconic scale as Zanie hands it to him, immediately sensing magic from it.)

You are right... This is undoubtedly powerful Essail magic. It feels unique, too...

My best guess is the Queen's, since only her powers can be this immense...

But, if so, why would her magic be present on this...

[meepinmeat]

Vendrix's gaze narrowed in on the draconic scale before glancing at Feli, 'He hasn't met the Queen in person. Of course he wouldn't know..' He thought before clearing his throat. No point in hiding this piece of information.

"You're correct, Feli. It is her magic. That scale you see right now indeed belongs to her." He confirms the other boy's speculation with a nod, "As for why, well, you are aware that the Queen has fallen terribly ill- yes? This scale is part of her unique condition." He points to the very thing containing Seralyth's magic.

"I have had the chance to not only go to Ebony Moon Palace by His Highness's invitation, but also the rare opportunity to capture a glimpse of Her Majesty." The High Priest recalls the moment as he placed a hand to his chin. Brows furrowed and eyes closed, "To put it frankly, she has transformed into some sort of draconic mutant. Which certainly didn't quite match the flattering portrayal her statues depict. Far from it." He then opened his eyes, returning to the present, "Indeed a huge price she has paid for the Essail's survival.."

Vendrix sounded fairly reverent in tone. His head lowered and hand over his chest, as if paying respects. Yet those who're perceptive can sense the insincerity in his honoring.

[highpriest-feli]

His Highness invited you to the Queen's Palace...? You must be something special, yourself...

(Feli's focus—right at that moment— is less on the absurdity of the situation and more on how Vendrix managed to accomplish that. But knowing His Highness, the way he favors people is lenient at best.)

(Still, his mind drifts back to the matter at hand.)

Her Majesty... is now a draconic mutant...? It can't be...

But, if this is what she has to endure for the sake of our people...

(The High Priest says that, though he indeed has caught a hint of insincerity from Vendrix's reverence. Whatever questions or doubts he has regarding Seralyth's state are put aside the moment he catches it. Is it simply because he believes he shouldn't question Her Majesty...?)

...

If I may ask... What does all this have to do with me, specifically?

[highpriest-feli]

[ Continuation from here / @meepinmeat and @inventor-zanie ]

(Feli takes the draconic scale as Zanie hands it to him, immediately sensing magic from it.)

You are right... This is undoubtedly powerful Essail magic. It feels unique, too...

My best guess is the Queen's, since only her powers can be this immense...

But, if so, why would her magic be present on this...

[highpriest-feli]

As Feli stood idly by after his previous encounter with the breeze, he was essentially left to his own devices since Velara occupied with other matters.

Allowing him to pick up on this strange yet oddly familiar wave of magic wafting towards him in such a gentle yet precise manner. Making sure to avoid detection from other priests while creating a trail for the young High Priest to follow, leading towards an unassuming vined-covered cavewall at the northern part of the Lunaris Altar that only a rare few ever go to.

Something tells him.. he must go investigate.

(Feli's hands are caressing the scarf the gentle breeze gave him, fascinated by how warm it feels... His focus is shifted when he notices the magical trail.)

(Right away, he can tell such a feat can only be accomplished by a powerful priest.)

...?

(Which only tempts him further to follow it and figure out where it ultimately leads him to. Keeping quiet—mumbling at most, taking careful steps, ensuring not too much attention is drawn towards himself.)

(Who knows, if something goes awry along the way, he can practice his defense spells firsthand...)

This is leading me towards... My experimental forest?

[meepinmeat]

It certainly is leading Feli to his experimental forest. However instead of taking his usual route, it lead straight to a seemingly dead-end until he reached the wall and realised the trail was leading him to a never before seen entrance barred by a protective security ward. Its patterning most intricate.

Before he could even begin to wonder how to undo such a ward, it opened itself up for Feli to enter. If not for the entrance opening 'on its own', then the fellow young High Priest who stood a bit taller than Feli welcoming him in would do,

"Feli.. please do come in."

The other boy before him smiles fondly yet also wistfully as he invites Feli into his secret study. Beckoning him over, making way for the High Priest to enter.

[highpriest-feli]

(Another one that knows him, yet he doesn't know them...? But even that is part of the norm, too, by now.)

...

(Except, Feli has a hunch from the way this boy looks at him... Something about him feels oddly familiar.)

... (He gives the boy a bow before slowly making his way forward. He has a feeling this one means no harm, but still, he can never be too cautious—)

... Oh my.

(As he sets foot into the secret study, the young High Priest is taken aback by its intricate interior. One can tell the boy who beckoned him in has put a lot of thought into this place... just like how Feli himself makes sure his forest looks enchanting for visitors.)

Did you... build all this yourself? It's amazing...

No, wait. Who are you, and why did you bring me here?

[meepinmeat]

The boy before him couldn't help but crack a tender chuckle at Feli's awe before introducing himself, "Right, I am your fellow High Priest, Vendrix. But you can address me simply as Ven for ease's sake. And yes, I made this all myself. As for why you're here, well.."

He leads Feli towards the table where Zanie awaits, "Me and this dwarven lady require your dire assistance in a matter that would most benefit from your expertise and.." He trails off for a bit as his gaze slowly averted, knowing melancholy and frustration painted in those eyes even if brief, "To get you out of harm's way. You may not believe me that High Priestess Velara is involved in this in some way but first, we need to head back to your forest. I feel even my study isn't the most adequate place to discuss this. This way, please."

He gestures for Feli and Zanie to follow him to a corner tucked away a bit deep in the place which upon pushing aside a curtain of vines reveals a burrowed secret passageway that lead... right up to the innermost section of Feli's enchanted forest with utmost ease to access. The trio eventually exiting Vendrix's study, now in an area where majority won't be able to access. Save for a special few, one of them now gesturing for the dwarf to explain the situation.

[inventor-zanie]

ೃ༄ Continuing from here, too.

The moment she spots Feli, Zanie feels a slight pang in her chest… There the boy is, indeed alive and well, and she is absolutely sure she heard his voice just now as he was chatting with Vendrix. It’s not a dream.

Regardless, she nods at the two Essail upon the gesture—brushing her own thoughts aside, and presses on with the matter at hand, now that the trio are on their way to the experimental forest.

This is… complicated to explain. And we want to make this… as comfy as possible? Easing ourselves into it, that’s it.

Her tone is considerably calmer than normal… Which of course, this is a serious matter.

I know this is confusing— I’m magicless, unlike you both, for one— But hopefully we can explain while we’re on the way to your forest, Feli…

Maybe you’d even have stuffs to write down while we get this straight, too.

[highpriest-feli]

(Feli is only barely able to process what's unfolding. A fellow High Priest who he doesn't precisely recognize—looking just about his age, with magical capabilities proven to be powerful— lured him here. With him is a dwarf lady who acts differently from what he knows about them as a whole.)

(However, none of them have attempted to harm him so far... And from the mood of what's happening, this seems to be serious, and it involves him, specifically. Thus, he brushes his doubts aside and follows the two.)

For this to be discussed in my forest, and through such a pathway... You're indeed thoughtful, Vendrix.

(He is aware of the nickname, but chooses not to use it just yet. Not until he figures out the bottom of this.)

[highpriest-feli]

As Feli stood idly by after his previous encounter with the breeze, he was essentially left to his own devices since Velara occupied with other matters.

Allowing him to pick up on this strange yet oddly familiar wave of magic wafting towards him in such a gentle yet precise manner. Making sure to avoid detection from other priests while creating a trail for the young High Priest to follow, leading towards an unassuming vined-covered cavewall at the northern part of the Lunaris Altar that only a rare few ever go to.

Something tells him.. he must go investigate.

(Feli's hands are caressing the scarf the gentle breeze gave him, fascinated by how warm it feels... His focus is shifted when he notices the magical trail.)

(Right away, he can tell such a feat can only be accomplished by a powerful priest.)

...?

(Which only tempts him further to follow it and figure out where it ultimately leads him to. Keeping quiet—mumbling at most, taking careful steps, ensuring not too much attention is drawn towards himself.)

(Who knows, if something goes awry along the way, he can practice his defense spells firsthand...)

This is leading me towards... My experimental forest?

[meepinmeat]

It certainly is leading Feli to his experimental forest. However instead of taking his usual route, it lead straight to a seemingly dead-end until he reached the wall and realised the trail was leading him to a never before seen entrance barred by a protective security ward. Its patterning most intricate.

Before he could even begin to wonder how to undo such a ward, it opened itself up for Feli to enter. If not for the entrance opening 'on its own', then the fellow young High Priest who stood a bit taller than Feli welcoming him in would do,

"Feli.. please do come in."

The other boy before him smiles fondly yet also wistfully as he invites Feli into his secret study. Beckoning him over, making way for the High Priest to enter.

[highpriest-feli]

(Another one that knows him, yet he doesn't know them...? But even that is part of the norm, too, by now.)

...

(Except, Feli has a hunch from the way this boy looks at him... Something about him feels oddly familiar.)

... (He gives the boy a bow before slowly making his way forward. He has a feeling this one means no harm, but still, he can never be too cautious—)

... Oh my.

(As he sets foot into the secret study, the young High Priest is taken aback by its intricate interior. One can tell the boy who beckoned him in has put a lot of thought into this place... just like how Feli himself makes sure his forest looks enchanting for visitors.)

Did you... build all this yourself? It's amazing...

No, wait. Who are you, and why did you bring me here?

[highpriest-feli]

As Feli stood idly by after his previous encounter with the breeze, he was essentially left to his own devices since Velara occupied with other matters.

Allowing him to pick up on this strange yet oddly familiar wave of magic wafting towards him in such a gentle yet precise manner. Making sure to avoid detection from other priests while creating a trail for the young High Priest to follow, leading towards an unassuming vined-covered cavewall at the northern part of the Lunaris Altar that only a rare few ever go to.

Something tells him.. he must go investigate.

(Feli's hands are caressing the scarf the gentle breeze gave him, fascinated by how warm it feels... His focus is shifted when he notices the magical trail.)

(Right away, he can tell such a feat can only be accomplished by a powerful priest.)

...?

(Which only tempts him further to follow it and figure out where it ultimately leads him to. Keeping quiet—mumbling at most, taking careful steps, ensuring not too much attention is drawn towards himself.)

(Who knows, if something goes awry along the way, he can practice his defense spells firsthand...)

This is leading me towards... My experimental forest?

[highpriest-feli]

Feli's log [Independent Follow-up]

To say this entire... encounter to be surprising is an understatement. It was unlike anything I have ever experienced before.

Princess Yolena, a Toplander, had somehow appeared in Sal'thorin without being seen by the guards. I thought perhaps I should keep her safe until someone she knew came to find her, because Sal'thorin really isn't safe for Toplanders. Thus, in a rush, I took her to my experimental forest and showed her around. We both had a great time... a magical time.

My initial guess to how she got here without being seen was she passed through a portal, to which someone who came for her later on fully confirmed it.

★ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. ----------------- ★ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.

Speaking of the person, I can't help but think there is something strange about him...

At first, I believed he was an Essail noble who was either helping someone on the surface watch over Yolena, or he was taking care of her himself. During that moment, I was already wondering how she had been in Sal'thorin without ever being seen by anyone—Her vibrant red hair stands out!

Until she mentioned he was actually in disguise, meaning he, too, is a Toplander, and his name is Cyran. Something tells me I should remember it...

★ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. ----------------- ★ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.

(As Feli finishes writing and closes his notebook, magically sealing it, his flying squirrel friend hops towards him...)

[magister-cyran]

// Continuation from here and here. @princess-yolena / @highpriest-feli

*After a few turns, over roots, twigs and under low growing mushrooms, Cyran finally reaches a small clearing. The noise coming from the other side announces the arrival of whom he was looking for.*

*Within a second he composes himself and just as if nothing had happened, he awaits the princess. He chooses to ignore the presence of the High Priest for the time being.*

Ah. Your Highness. What a surprise. I did not expect to run into you. 

*He then gently gestures to their surroundings, his eyes fixed upon her.*

Here.

[princess-yolena]

"C-Cyran!"

(She straightens instinctively, brushing a stray bit of moss from her sleeve as though that might make her look less caught.)

“I—ah—was just…” (her gaze darts between him and Feli, the brightness in her tone wobbling) “—on a totally normal walk.”

"...investigating." (Behind the practiced calm of her posture, her fingers twist in the hem of her skirt.) “You weren’t… looking for me, were you?”

[magister-cyran]

...

I am not in the habit of casually passing through hidden portals and roaming about dangerous habitats like you, Your Highness.

You have gravely overstepped your privileges today. We will return immediately and I highly recommend that you do not stray even a single step from my side.

As for you, Priest, I suggest you do not interfere...

[highpriest-feli]

...

Glory to the Queen.

It's not my intention to be involved in this.

(Feli immediately thinks of something, his own practiced demeanor present.)

While being around the area, I happened to spot her. She got lost during her... investigation, so I accompanied her. I needed to keep an eye on her as well, since she isn't from around here.

I see it's you who has been looking for her. While I don't recognize you, I'd recommend that she shouldn't linger here much longer than needed.

Most of us Essail don't treat people outside kindly, so thank you for looking out for her.

[princess-yolena]

[If Yolena was expecting help from Feli, those hopes were dashed against the Glory to the Queen—said in the same cadence a guard would use when reporting in. He remains a priest after all…]

(Yolena swallows.) “Well—but you -are- here. Aren’t you!”

“And in disguise!”

[There’s no squirming out of this now…but maybe she doesn’t have to be the only one in trouble, if she can just spin this back on Cyran a smidge.]

[magister-cyran]

*Cyran gives the High Priest a very faint nod. Then his attentions returns to the run-away princess.*

Do you really consider it wise, trying to negotiate here and now?

Do not entertain even a sliver of hope that you'd be free of the consequences.

*Cyran summons his staff and a magic circle appears on the ground.*

Step close. Now. This will take us back instantly to the portal.

[princess-yolena]

[Yolena takes a half step back from the circle, the faint hum of its magic rippling through the moss beneath her boots. Her expression flickers—somewhere between chastened and stubborn—and the familiar royal composure slips just enough for the spark underneath to show.

[She plants her feet.]

“No.”

[It feels like the closer she is to Cyran’s teleportation circle, the fewer options she has in this ‘negotiation’.]

(She exhales, chin tilting up, a waver in her voice quickly steadied by will.)

“I mean—not yet. You can’t just appear and whisk me away like I’m some parcel to be delivered back to the castle the moment I step somewhere new! I’m totally fine, Cyran.”

(She gestures around, a sweep of her arm toward the glowing mushrooms, the forest’s hush, the faintly curious creatures peeking from behind roots.)

“This is his work! He built this place with his own hands—and magic. It’s safe, and beautiful, and—”

[highpriest-feli]

Y—

(Feli internally jumps the moment Yolena starts gesturing around the place. He himself has so many questions, but he knows not to raise any right here and now.)

Your Highness... Please. Time is of the essence.

[highpriest-feli]

A sigh could be heard beside High Priest Feli.

"Indeed. ... I pray that your progress to harness your magic prowess would be at ease."

The calm voice whispered and a light chuckle could be heard beside him.

"The pleasure is all mine, My Dearest, High Priest Feli and I am glad you like it."

A pause... and the calm voice said... Slowly...

"Indeed... I have sent some gifts to other Mortals in another realms before you. ... If you harness magic related to dimensional portal, you might get a chance to traverse into another realm. However, I fear that... you could not step on the surface, yet. ... My advice, you should research more about the Sylvan Tendril of yours. It's ever so... special and has a hidden magic imbued in it, in the realm where I reside."

The gentle breeze circled around him and... The blue scarf was fluttering slightly from the breeze.

"Stay safe, High Priest Feli, as I fear that the conflict at Sal'thorin might harm you. ... 'till we meet again."

And with that... the gentle breeze... dissipated.

Defensive spells... Magic related to the Dimensional Portal...

(Feli mumbles to himself, his researcher instinct keeping these specific kinds of magic in mind.)

Sylvan Tendril's special capabilities...? I will do research, too...

(He nods as this special friend disappears, gently as it first appeared...)

... When able, I'll be sure to write all this down.