In Lonely Valley, Elf Messengers in Silver Armor streamed in and out of a small palace that bore the marks of history.
Most of the palace had collapsed, with only one half clearly showing recent, modern-style repairs.
The palace's interior was not as opulent as one might imagine. Instead, it was unusually simple, containing only a long table draped with a red cloth edged in golden silk lace.
Several handsome Elves in exquisite Leather Armor were gathered around the long table, deep in discussion.
Fulina, valiant and imposing in her Silver Armor, was among them.
Ash Wind Speech was the Elf Queen of the Wind Speech Tribe. A High Elf of unknown age, her skin was still so fair and delicate it looked as if a breath could break it. Her beauty was so absolute that even the stars in the sky would seem to dim in her presence.
Strands of her hair cascaded like golden silk, captivating all who saw them.
But now, Queen Ash's lovely, arching brows were furrowed, her heart heavy with worry.
