While most of the wood elves found solace in the serene depths of the jungle, a select few chose to establish their homes in a place that bridged the gap between their secluded existence and the outside world. This nexus of connectivity was none other than Canta City.
As Emery and his companions approached the city, they were greeted by an awe-inspiring sight—hundreds of towering trees, their trunks seemingly infused with magic, served as homes for the wood elves. The branches of these magnificent trees extended like welcoming arms, creating an atmosphere of warmth and tranquility.
Lush gardens, vibrant with an abundance of flora and fauna, sprawl throughout the city, weaving a tapestry of colors and scents. Exotic flowers bloom in radiant hues, their petals shimmering with ethereal beauty that added to the enchantment of the surroundings.
Emery dispels his Lizard summons, and as the group passed through the entrance where they were met by the Sylvari Guards, a group of skilled Wood-elf warriors responsible for maintaining the city's security.
The guards, adorned in intricately designed armor and armed with gleaming weapons, checked their credentials with a firm yet respectful demeanor.
"Master Merlin, you may enter," one of the guards said, granting them access.
"Thank you," Emery replied gratefully
Once inside, the group was greeted by the sight of crystalline spires that shimmered with an otherworldly radiance. These architectural marvels, infused with magical energy, seemed to draw power from the very essence of the surrounding forest.
Glowing orbs of light, suspended in mid-air, illuminated the streets and walkways, casting a soft, iridescent glow that danced upon the leaves and flowers. The air was filled with the enchanting melodies of wood elf musicians, playing ethereal tunes on instruments crafted from the boughs of ancient trees. The harmonious sounds seemed to echo through the city, creating an atmosphere of serenity and joy.
Emery marveled at the integration of magic, nature, and advanced technology. It was a testament to the wood elves' deep connection with their surroundings and their ability to harmoniously blend ancient traditions with modern advancements.
He knew his way around the place, as he has strolled through this city a dozen times before,
Emery made his way toward the eastern part of the city, where the exclusive residential area was located. A cluster of humongous mushroom-like structures, each several stories high. These magnificent structures were surrounded by towering trees, creating a harmonious blend of natural and architectural beauty.
He headed towards one particular structure and, just as he was about to knock on its door, a young female wood elf emerged with a radiant smile on her face.
"Master Merlin, you're here!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine excitement.
"Hi Helena, I'm here to..." Emery began, but before he could explain, Helena interrupted him with her enthusiasm.
"Yes, my father already informed us of your arrival. Please, come inside," she said warmly, gesturing for Emery and his companions to enter.
As Emery stepped through the wooden door, he was greeted by the welcoming atmosphere of a typical family home. The air was filled with the aroma of food being prepared, and a sense of comfort enveloped the space. Another female wood elf, a mature woman, was busy in the kitchen, her hands gracefully moving as she attended to the culinary delights.
"Master Merlin, please take a seat. My husband will be home soon," the woman said, her voice filled with warmth and hospitality.
Emery took a seat at the inviting table, surrounded by a sense of familiarity and home. The room was adorned with intricate wood carvings and beautiful tapestries that depicted scenes from wood elf mythology and history.
Soon enough, a figure entered the premises—it was Grand Magus Agnor, the esteemed elder of the Vanyar community.
"Ah, good, our guest has arrived,"
Emery greeted him with respect, grateful for the invitation to their home.
The Agnor family was one of the elves Every acquainted close with during his stay in Vanyar, and being a guest in their home was a testament to the bonds he had formed with the wood elves.
What followed was a delightful family dinner, commencing with a heartfelt prayer to the elven god of nature, who had blessed them with abundant provisions. The atmosphere was serene and comforting as they gathered around the table, savoring a delectable spread of fresh fruits, crisp vegetables, and an assortment of delectable pastries.
While elven cuisine was often considered simple, their mastery of winemaking was unparalleled. The table was adorned with exquisite vintages, their rich flavors and aromas elevating the dining experience and compensating for any perceived lack of culinary excitement.
As the meal came to an end, the elves once again said a grace of gratitude for the bountiful food they had enjoyed.
Finally, as the plates were cleared, the elves settled back in their chairs, ready for a deeper conversation. Agnor turned to Emery and asked, "So, Master Merlin, what is your plan?"
Emery took a moment to gather his thoughts before responding.
"I plan to spend a few days making potions at the groves and then leave the planet,"
Agnor calmly replied, "Do you not wish to finish your Katra training first, Master Merlin?"
Emery had already mastered the first five stages of Katra and had memorized the text up to stage 7. The final two stages were forbidden to outsiders like him, but he believed that mastering stage 6 was sufficient for his goals. He shook his head, indicating that he had no concerns about completing his Katra training.
There was a slight frown that can be seen after hearing Emery's determination to leave the planet, especially the young girl Helena.
Grand Magus Agnor contemplated for a moment before speaking again. "Actually, I was about to invite you to the Potion Master Forum that will be held in two weeks at the Grove."
Emery's eyes widened with interest and as he inquire further, apparently, the grand magus wishes him to participate in the potion-making competition at the forum.
"Hundreds of potion experts from seven Vanyar colonies will come to participate, it will be a shame if a young talent like you didn't"
Emery wasn't driven by a desire for glory, but his thirst for knowledge and his passion for the art of apothecary compelled him to seize the opportunity. The prospect of learning from the gathering of esteemed potion experts from all across the Vanyar colonies was simply too enticing to pass up. With his eyes gleaming with anticipation, Emery responded,
"Yes, I am interested."
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