Maple Grove

As you move through this part of the forest you become aware of a crispness in the air and the subtle tang af Autumn.
The thick oak trees gradually give way to slim, pale trunked maples, elms and beech in their autumn robes, the leaves changing from soft green hues to brilliant reds and gold. The path suddenly leads out into a circular grove turfed in fine leafed grasses. There is a small hillock in the middle on which stands a clump of japanese maple. Beside it runs a small streamlet that trinkles as it passes over the stones and wends it's way back into the South Eastern forest.

A red oriental bridge spanning the stream, on the far side is a small carved stone shrine where one can give thanks to the gods which watch over travellers and keep them safe from harm. Even from here you can see a small white candle burns within, floating in a bronze bowl of water.
From within the russet maple grove a form gleams, pale as ivory.

Curious you walk into the clearing and towards the pale shape, your foot falls cushioned by the thick grasses. Even as you step into the glade a sense of tranquility descends upon you and as you near the center of the creature steps from the shelter of the trees. It is a snow white unicorn mare, lion tailed and cloven hooved, stepping through the trees gentle as a butterfly's breath.
The autumn colours reflecting like fire on her fine horn and in her dark eyes.

"Welcome traveller, to the Oriental grove." She pauses near you but not so close that you could touch her. An air of harmony seems to eminate from her along with a faint light. She bobs her head fluidly in greeting.

"I am St'ktrath, first born unicorn from outside the Tir."

There is a great rustling as if of silk on steel and a gust of wind as a shadow descends from above, lightly landing beside the mare.

It is a larger unicorn stallion, but winged! His shoulders and neck are heavy with muscle but like the mare he moves with an unearthly grace.
The glow around St'ktrath seems to increase in brightness and is equaled by the stallion's. He shuffles his great white wings and steps closer to her. They touch muzzles and share breath tenderly before turning their attention back to you, the Stallion's eyes you notice, are a bright amber and very birdlike.

"Caerion K'zarti." The stallion rumbles, his voice deep as the earth but warm as feathers. "I am Benith, sometimes known as Taloc'banu, and mate of St'ktrath, the Frost.
You bow and speak your name. He nods slightly, his beard fluttering with the motion. I had heard that you were passing this way from the sentinels before I came hence."
St'ktrath rubs her cheek on his neck and he leans into her touch.
"Benith and many of the other winged creatures have been flying watch over the Tir. I have not seen him for many man'a. Please stay for a while in the glade and rest if you like but we have much to converse upon."
With those words said the pair bow farewell to you and wander over to lie by the stream, horns touching in silent speech, one of Benith's wings held lightly over St'ktrath barely touching his beloved but sheltering her all the same.

The peace of the glade washes over you still but you do not feel like staying for some reason. There is still so much to see! Instead you cautiously cross the bridge and pass by the shrine. You could pause and make an offering before going on if you like. There is a small path leading West, into the forest, running alongside the stream. Another leads South East into lighter forest, the scent of apples wafts from that direction. You could take one of theses paths, continue on South or make your way back into the forest.

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