The Begining
Lunzie Istari

The bells were ringing, the church was full. Today, the children of the three most powerfull people on Niagara were to wed, to seal a pact made hundreds of years ago. One child from each of the three clans was to marry into one of the other two. It worked perfect, Lunzie Istari and Marshane Benden, Moreta Benden and Furlo Telgar, Fiolla Telgar and Lantri Istari.

There was just one small problem. No one could find Lantri. The clan leaders agreed to continue with the ceremony without him.

Weeks had passed since then, but Lunzie couldn't help but think something was wrong with her brother. Lantri wouldn't have just taken off like that, his sense of honor would never allow it. Trying to talk to her father did no good, Lord Istari told her to forget him, but she couldn't.

Marshane, not able to see Lunzie so sad and distrought finally told her to go and search for her brother. With a heavy heart, Lunzie left Niagara and her beloved husband to find Lantri.

Two thousand years later. . .
Lunzie Istari

Lunzie was again returning to the home she had made in the Elven Forest, how she missed her many friends there. Before she had landed, Lunzie knew that her adoptive sister, Enchanted Elf, and her best friend Jaina Jade were waiting for her, waiting to see if she had found Lantri.

Walking up the path to her humble home carved into the side of a huge old tree, Lunzie spotted Jaina and Enchanted waiting for her up ahead. Smiling thinly, she greeted them in turn, Añe Sheñua, Hesheña. I have no news of Lantri, but Marshane is doing well and sends his greetings. Why don't you let me freshen up a bit, and we can go to the Inn and have a drink while we catch up? How long have I been gone anyway?

Rolling her eyes in true Jade fashion, Jaina answers her friends questions. Take your time Lu, it has only been a couple of months. The girls have missed you and so have we! Welcome home! Enchanted couldn't think of anything to say, so she just gave her sister a hug and her customary SMOOCH!

Time to regroup
Enchanted Elf

Seeing Lunize's discouraged look, Enchanted couldn't help but give this adopted sister a big Smooch. She herself understood the importance of family, and was determined to help her kin in anyway she could. "Come Lunizie, lets go and get you settled in." Enchanted gently encouraged her "I want to hear about everything you have done, then we can plan" Giving her a grin she continued "I may even know of one or two more who would be more than happy to help us in searching for your brother. Don't loose heart sister. Together we will find him!."

Together the three of them went to the Inn, there they knew they would run into a few others and be able make some plans to find Lunzie's brother Lantri.

Once Lunzie had changed
Lunzie Istari

out of her court clothes and back into her usual combat clothes the friends headed towards the Inn. Halfway there, Lunzie stopped and made a suggestion. Why don't we go to your place instead Enchanted? I don't want to upset the peace (What Peace?) of the Inn, and with the mood I am in I would probably do just that. Besides, we can have privacy at your home.

Enchantd thought about it for a moment, and had to agree. With Galain at the Inn there would be no privacy and Lunzie did look a bit disturbed. All right, it is a long walk to my home. As much as I detest portals, I think we need to use one. Concentrating on her home, Enchanted opened a portal to her small woodland home, waiting for Jaina and Lunzie to pass through first, then Enchanted walked through with a small shudder of disgust.

As the three women emerged from the portal they found Shalana waiting for them just outside their small house.

Missing her kin
Shalana Elf

Shalana was had found herself very restless since Jess had left on a small trip (not telling her where he was going or when he would return) so she decided to spend some time with her mother. Not long after that decision she had received word from her mother that Lunzie was returning from her trip. She had not seen her Nisha is a long time, and was curious as to where she had gone and hoped to catch up on the latest news. Adjusting the sword upon her back as her cape billowed about her, she couldn't help grin, hoping JJ would be with Lunzie. They were such a pair and she always enjoyed them.

Shalana turned as a portal opened and out stepped Jaina, Lunzie and then her mother. She had to stifle a grin at the expression on her mother's face as the portal closed behind them. Warmly she greeting JJ and Lunzie with an embrace then tilted her head in question as Enchanted quested and asked for her assistance.

Nodding slightly she smiled and said "Hello Nisha! I have missed you. What have you been up to hmmm? " Then looped her arms through each of theirs as Enchanted open the door and invited them to enter.

Lunzie couldn't help but smile as
(Laughing, for once) Lunzie Istari

Shalana greeted her, in a mix of Nigaran and English. Añe Shalana. I have been traveling again. Marshane sends his regards to you and Jess. There is no news of Lantri's whereabouts yet, but he is out there somewhere. I refuse to believe he is dead as Father does. I will find him!

Lunzie knew full well that Enchanted didn't believe that she had no news of Lantri, but didn't want to discuss it. Lunzie was stubborn, she had left her home to find her brother, she was going to find him. Maybe that was why she got along so well with the Elves? They were stubborn when they set their minds to something, but they also knew how to have fun. Fun, that was something Lunzie had nearly forgotten by the time she found her way to the Elven Forest and met Enchanted and Galain. She owed the Elves a great debt for restoring her soul to something that resembled the light-hearted youth she had once been.

Peeping around a tree
Aerimara Elf

Aerimara observed all that had transposed. What was her (jokingly) Ñisha LuLu up to? One way, and one way only, to find out...

'Heya!' She yelped at those gathered. Taking a few looks around, it was quickly assesed that the voice could only come from one of the fae variety.

'Hi, little one!' Enchanted exclaimed, looking to and from for the source of the voice. Where was it, where was she?

'Heya!' the call came again 'Can...can I join you guys?'

Milk and Cookies
Enchanted Elf

Her smile grew as she recognized her fae kin, and she did not even hesitate "Come down here Mara! Where have you been?" Enchanted asked as she waited for the little one to join them. She was quite aware Lunize was holding back, she had found something, possibly someone....her brother perhaps. It concerned Enchanted that her chosen sister was uneasy. It affected her more that she was not forthcoming with what had happened during her time away. NOTHING was not going to cut it for long with Enchanted.

Her dwelling was simple by choice as she spent most of her time now at the Inn and had a room there. It held three rooms, and she watched as JJ, Lunzie, Mara and Shalana all took seats of their choice. Shalana grinned and excused herself going to her old bedroom before returning minus the sword and cape. The living quarters had on one wall a large fireplace, stoked and gently burning. Upon its mantle were bits and pieces of Enchanteds past life and dreams. A small table stood off to one side under an open window, it sported 4 matching wood chairs, simple and neat. She had bartered for some things in the way of furniture, and Jess helped her get other interesting things. The couch was one that she thought was one of the more interesting as it for some reason without magic could turn into a bed. For Mara she always kept a special set of hand made furniture…....across from the fireplace stood a handmade bookcase with one shelf completely redesigned and refitted. It held a small bed, dresser, table and chairs and just for the fun of it Enchanted had made a tiny swing. She grinned as Mara landed there and began to gently rock back and forth as she waited to hear along with everyone else...…exactly what was going on.

Lunzie definitely looked ill at ease and not wanting her kin to be uncomfortable, Enchanted offered milk and cookies…grinning as all but Mara rolled their eyes…....pleased it broke the growing tension in her sister.

Smiling as Enchanted
Lunzie Istari

put out milk and cookies, Lunzie thought about how she was going to explain what she had found. Clearing her throat she began, I am afraid that there are no new leads as to where Lantri is. I will continue to search, I must. Looking at Enchanted, Lunzie remembered that she could hide nothing from her sister. Lunzie quickly 'pathed a short explanation I can not speak of my findings to Jaina, she would not be able to control her anger. We must speak in private Hesheña. Returning her attention to the others, Lunzie turned to Shalana and began questioning her. So, Añeshia, how is your Ñaga, Jess?

Ñisha is stalling
Shalana Elf

Shalana had to smile as her Nisha changed the subject. Catching her mother's eye she understood what was happening. "Jess…" Shalana said slowly, as a gentle smile lit her face, casting a glow upon it. "He is well…out and about traveling right now…helping some friends." She shook her head "He will be back soon, I hope…I am so missing him." She finished with a grin.

"Lunzie" Enchanted interrupted them "Would you mind joining me for a small walk…I would like to speak with you." Shalana grew quiet as she watched her mother open the door and invite her aunt outside. She was concerned , but uncertain how to help. Smiling weakly at JJ and Mara , Shalana wondered if they knew anymore than she did.

Time for a chat
Enchanted Elf

Hesheña. " Enchanted quested gently as Lunzie hesitated. She knew Shalana would catch up on news with JJ and Mara, and both of them would understand. Holding open the door, she raised an eyebrow, until Lunzie stood and joined her.

"Please excuse us. This will only take a few moments." Enchanted smiled at everyone and after waving Lunzie through the door followed her. Slowly they walked away from her small home in compatible silence. For the moment she was content to allow the peace of this place to surround and fill her beloved sister. Coming to one of her favorite spots, a small clearing, with several tree stumps and a gentle flowing stream, Enchanted stopped. Staring into the flowing water she asked quietly "What did you find, Hesheña? Or should I ask....who?"

"What did you find Hesheña?
Lunzie Istari

or should I ask - Who?" The questions startled Lunzie for a moment. She knew they were coming, she just hadn't expected them so soon.

Taking a deep breath, Lunzie slowly answerd Enchanted. As I said, I have not found Lantri yet. I have; however, had an odd feeling since I left Niagara. It is almost as if, someone close to me has died, but that can't be, everyone is here, and Lantri and I are immortal. I know that if I were to ask anyone else, they would say that he is dead, but I can't accept that! Lantri is NOT dead! Finally rid of her sad news Lunzie collapsed beside the stream. With tears streaming down her face, she sat there in silence, staring at everything and nothing, waiting for Enchanted's reaction.

Entering the house
Ranak Darkstar

Ranak was strolling along when he spotted his friend Mara entering a house, then he saw Enchanted and someone he had never met before come out of the house. He slowly aproached the house and changed into a small cat. Noticing a window open he jumped into the house startling everyone, and then startling everyone again as he slowly reverted back to his normal form. His gold eyes met Mara's as he said "Well hello my little fae friend."

Be at peace
Enchanted Elf

She thought of nothing but the pain of her sister as she automatically kneeled and wrapped her arms around her. Simple peaceful dreams flowed around both of them as Enchanted offered a peace she knew Lunzie needed. From her very past - a time of great joy and happiness - were the dreams that swirled about them both. Enchanted slowly smiled as she watch Lunzie revisit times of childhood joys with a brother full of michievousness as he played with a sister full of her own brand of the same.

Not wanting to intrude and content Lunzie was finding a peace Enchanted pondered her words. To be long lived was not always easy; in fact it was often painful in many ways, however her people could choose to no longer exist. To leave life behind and find everlasting peace. Immortal - Enchanted wondered if they made these choices also. She was not familiar enough to know. Could Lantri choose to die? Or would he always exist. Now was not the time to ask the questions. But later, when Lunzie was better rested, prepared to perhaps accept help in her quest for her brother, maybe then Enchanted could ask.

As the dream slowly faded and Lunzie stirred in her arms, Enchanted smiled and brushed her cheek gently as she released her then rose. "I can understand a "knowing" if you brother were to die. I too would "know" if anything happened to Shalana...it is sometimes that way." She stared deeply into the water as she gently continued "I am not certain of this odd feeling, but it is not something we should dismiss. Perhaps an foe has sent this upon you...to distract or discourage you from your quest."

"Hesheña, I know Shalana has access to Jess' golden hawks. Perhaps it is time to send for others...to seek help in finding your brother." Smiling at Lunzie knowing how hard it was for this one to open up let along seek outside help she touched her softly and concluded "It is up to you - always - just let me know how I can help and it is yours."

Swinging back and forth
Aerimara Elf

"Whee!, Whee!" giggled 'Mara as she swung happily, munching her favorite type of cookie that she KNEW Enchanted always had in stock. Chocolate chips and macadamia nuts. MMM-MMM-MMM!

Just about that moment a cat jumped in the window. Mara shrieked....but then, she noticed the eyes...golden eyes...very familiar golden eyes. Her suspicions were proved true as the cat changed it's form into a young man, namely Ranak.

"Hello, Ranak...Don't scare me like that again!!" Replying to his greeting...geesh, she could have flown out of her own skin!

Not that cats scared her....really....she looked back and forth sheepishly as Ranak laughed it off.

Peace.
Lunzie Istari

Calmed, slightly, Lunzie looked up at Enchanted and smiled weakly. You are right, of course, we will need the help of others to find Lantri. We should return, the others will begin to worry. Besides, I would like to try and locate Lantri again through meditation. If it brought me here, maybe it will show me where to go next. Lunzie rose then, and she and Enchanted walked back to the house in thoughtful silence.

Additional help
Shalana Elf

Shalana eyes widened as a cat entered through the window and then changed into centaur form. She had yet to meet this friend of Mara's and grinning as the small fae enjoyed her swing; she nodded and introduced herself to Ranak. "Hello and welcome to my mother's home. I am Shalana." She smiled "Have you come to help Lunzie on her quest to find her brother?" She hoped this was so, she was concerned for her Nisha and believed the more helping the better the chances was to find the brother.

A familiar touch brought her eyes to the door as her mother and nisha re-entered. She smiled in acknowledgement of the request and saw that while her nisha was still worried there was a peace about her not there before. Excusing herself, Shalana left the room and went to her old bedroom. She opened the window and stared into the forest, allowing the peace to fill her. Slowly she traveled a very special web, of soul connection, and reinforced the search with a quest….calling ever so gently for her beloved…Jess.

Her mother , with Lunzie's permission, had requested the use of Jess' golden birds. It was time to send for others, to help on this very important search. Anticipation and joy filled Shalana as she reached out for the master of shadows…..deep peace filled her as their minds touched and their souls joined…..she made her request for the use of his birds and waited enjoying the completeness she felt in him.

Flute was running up and down the hill talking
Flute Istari

with her beloved flowers when the cry of birds distracted her. Flute looked up & saw two golden birds flying towards the enchanted woods.

*Where are you going, Golden ones?*

The golden birds circled above Flute & cried *To Shalana*

*Can I come too?*

*If you can want to...Chosen one....*

With that, the golden birds flew away. Flute stood there looking at the birds.

"Well.... They did say I can come...."

Flute ran down the hill, singing at the top of her lungs. By the time Flute reached the edge of the woods, the birds have already landed in front of a wooden house.

From the house emerged a centaur, a few elfs & an immortal.

"Hello?? They said I could come." -Flute pointing to the golden birds.

Flight of Eagles
Jess Phoenix

Jess had been heading towards Enchanted's home watching his eagles frolic when Shalana's call came.

I am coming, Cariad, he answered.

Bella! Belinda! Nightshade! Luxor! he called to the golden eagles circling overhead.

As they came to rest on branches near him, Jess gave them a clear picture of the clearing where Enchanted's home stood.

Go! he told them before turning into his phoenix form and following them.

At one point during the trip, Bella and 'Shade took a little side trip, meeting up once again with the rest of the group near the clearing.

Outside of the clearing, Jess turned back into his human form to see that there seemed to be a new arrival coming.

Turning to Bella and 'Shade, he 'pathed, You wouldn't by any chance know anything of this, would you?

Before he was able to scold further, Shalana caught sight of him and ran to him.

"Melinya!!! It's wonderful to see you again," she said before giving him a kiss.

"It's wonderful seeing you again as well, Cariad. I've missed you," Jess replied.

Messages sent
Enchanted Elf

Enchanted smiled as she watched Jess and Shalana greet. It was good to see him. The beautiful eagles gently circled and she was grateful that Jess had consented to their use. The newcomer had her attention. "Welcome." Enchanted said softly as she watched Luzine's face light up. She tilted her head and watched the two women together.

Shalana's quest obtained her attention and she acknowledged it with a smile. Jess had sent his eagles on their journey. Soon others would know to come., and they would begin their very special mission. To find Lunzie's brother.

Watching as Jess and Shalana
Lunzie Istari

greeted eachother, Lunzie's gaze fell upon another new arrival. Flute! You made it! Grinning, Lunzie greeted one of her newer friends.

Flute tilted her head to one side &
Flute Istari

looked for the source of the voice. Spying Lunzie whom she didn't recognise at first, Flute flew into Lunzie's arms. "Lucy!!!! Where have you been??? I looked all over the place for you!!!! The golden ones brought me here!!! I'm so glad to see you again!!! You look different from the last time I saw u though. What happened????"

Lunzie let Flute chatter away. Lunzie knows that Flute never stops talking when she's excited & it'll be entirely useless to say anything.

"Have you seen those flowers on the hill??? They're gorgeous!!! You must come see them!!! And those golden birds???? Have you seen them??? Have you??? Have you??? Oh... of course you have.... they're here now.... Oh Lucy!!!! I really am happy to see you!!!! Do you know that fire bird [pointing to Jess]?"

One peaceful moment
Shalana Elf

Shalana stood within the circle of Jess' arms and watched quietly as he sent forth his hawks to the people Nisha had requested. Flute brought a smile of pure pleasure to her face as she watched her aunt and obvious friend interact.

Looking up she caught the same twinkle of laughter in Jess' eyes before he leaned down and kissed her more thoroughly this time. "Melinya. I am so glad you are here." Shalana whispered as he raised his head. Together they watched and waited knowing the peace like this may be the last they have for a long time to come.

Friend or Foe?
Dragon Phoenix

A figure stood waiting on the hill, hiding behind an immense, gnarled oak. It wore a dark cloak that hid its face, and swept lightly upon the ground. It lowered to a crouch, as it saw a silhouette in the horizon.

A golden eagle neared the hill. It was a large bird, with long sun-kissed feathers. The figure lifted the hood slightly, revealing silvery gray eyes, and strange amber skin. A veil covered the face from the nose down, but you could tell the creature was deep in thought.

Finally, a low cackle admitted from the face. The hood fell back in place, and the figure straightened. Looking about it, it kept a wary eye on the messenger bird. Glancing up the length of the oak tree, the figure judged the flight path of the golden eagle. In a quick movement, the figure clambered up the tree, and reached the top in seconds. Holding to the small branches it sat on, the figure held up foliage to hide behind, and waited.

While Flute rambled on
Lunzie Istari

Lunzie took a look at everyone gathered. She knew all but one of them. Walking over to the young man, Lunzie smiled at Mara. Añe, I do not believe we have yet been introduced. I am Lunzie. While she waited for his answer, Lunzie felt something pull at the back of her neck, something she had not felt in millinia.

Lunzie quickly hid her shock from Enchanted, not wanting her sister to worry more than already did. Lunzie, not waiting for an answer to her previous question, abruptly left Mara and her friend and went to stand by herself.

Her eyes slightly glazed, she stood and remembered the past. . .

Don't worry, Lunzie is fine. She will; however, be acting a bit stranger than usual in this board. We will find out what is wrong later into the story, so please, be patient. I will not answer any questions as to what may be wrong.

Flute stopped chattering as
Flute Istari

soon as Lunzie moved away from her. She looked around her & turned bright red when she realised that all gathered before the wooden house were looking at her. "I talk too much...." mumbled Flute

Softly at first, then as a loud roar, the trees warned Flute, *Beware, Chosen One, Beware.....*

Flute looked up with a frightened look in her eyes. Instincts made her turn to Lunzie but even in her frightened state, Flute sensed that something was wrong with Lunzie. Flute turned away in confusion & ran to Enchanted who was nearest to her.

Protection provided
Enchanted Elf

Lunzie's behavior was erratic at the best and Enchanted was more than worried. Although she would be the last to admit it, she was becoming frightened. For her sister to keep so much hidden was unusual and disturbing. When Lunzie abruptly turned away and put up her shields, Enchanted responded without thinking. Quickly she created a soul protective spell and placed it around her home and surrounding area. Both Shalana and Jess stiffened and joined in their own ways to search out the source of danger.

Enchanted without thought smiled and hugged Flute close to her. Then nodding to the others suggested they return to her home...and allow the peace she had sent forth to flow through them. With one last worried look at Lunzie she turned to Flute and smiled "I am glad you have joined. May I ask, how you know my sister and where are you from?"

Unchosen but still involved. . .
Dragon Phoenix

Hiding well in the foliage, the figure watched as the eagle started to soar overhead, out of reach. That was no matter. A sudden and strong gust of wind hit the bird, causing it to lose control of its flight, though it caught itself right before it landed in the oak.

In a flash, the figure produced a small rope with a noose, and cast it up around the eagle's neck. The bird screeched loudly, and tried in vain to escape. Finally, it switched to a different tactic. Attack.

But the figure was ready for this, as when the magnificent animal swooped down on it with razor talons ready, and sharp beak hissing, the figure took a bola out from underneath its cloak, and banged the eagle on its head. The bird fell into the branches. Tying the other end quickly to one of the other branches, the stranger jumped to a branch beside the fallen bird, and prepared for interrogation.

"What is your quest?" The harsh, deep voice sounded. "For what business do you fly overhead this day?"

The loyal bird only glared hotly at her, and started to struggle to get up.

"You cannot escape. You will not be able to chew through the rope, and you are tied to this healthy, strong tree." The mysterious one continued. "You are trapped, and I can save you. I can untie you. But first, you must tell me your reasons for flying in such a hurry. What are you searching for?"

"The Chosen ones." The eagle responded wearily. "You are not chosen."

"Chosen for what?" The figure replied angrily. "Tell me!"

"The quest for Lantri." The eagle anwered solemnly. "Now you know, now let me free."

The figure seemed taken back by the eagle's answer. "Lunzie still searches, does she? I had lost track of her, but thanks to you, have found her again. Now things can get done."

The eagle sighed. "Freedom?"

The figure cut the rope in a quick movement, and then slid down the tree to disappear into the bushes before the eagle had even attempted to fly.

Lifting its head, the eagle flapped a few times, and took off.

The figure waited in the bushes below, and then headed to the home of Enchanted, by following the direction the eagle came from.

A little birdie told me...okay, it was a big bird
Galain Elf

As was his wont, Galain had been as far from the city of his people as possible, yet wandering on the edges of the Forest he called home. When he heard the sudden cry of an eagle and looked overhead he was astonished. And when he realized it had a message, a calling he didn't hesitate, quickly gathering a few small belongings together in a pack he kept in his forest shelter before opening a portal and setting off, somehow knowing the way to go, his mind filled with thoughts of Lunzie, with Enchanted... that was how he knew where to go, yet he couldn't explain it, his long legs eating up the distance as he approached the wooden house that was Lunzie's home. He thought he saw familiar figures and quickened his pace. He saw an unfamiliar one approaching the little group and he slowed a little, trying to gauge whether there was danger here or not.

Gone into hiding again...
Dragon Phoenix

The figure could see Enchanted's house, with everyone gathered outside. They did not see the figure. Lowering itself below the height of the tall grass, the figure crawled to the trees near the group. It wanted to remain unseen, and did not want to get too close, as Lunzie may recognize its presence.

"Now Lunzie." The figure mumbled. "Fog your senses, you cannot sense me."

This was repeated, as if a chant of some spell. "Fog your senses, fog your senses, fog your senses..."

It would take some exposure for Lunzie to recognize the mysterious figure, unless the figure was revealed face to face. Then Lunzie would remember everything...

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