Tree and Child

The introductory adventure of the Catalysts, after arriving in Yuuras Zaali in early 205 AC. Started with reports that beasts of the local forest were stalking a child and that attempts to log the forest had been violently rejected.

Events

• The child, named Elena, had been badly injured by her abusive father and was "simple". Although physically 16, she was mentally about 4.
• The beast had not hurt anyone, but large lupine footprints had been found and those working near the child had been watched.
• The party delved into the woods, avoiding and dealing with unnaturally angry and coordinated beasts.
• At the center, they found an ancient tree, whose spirit was concerned for Elena and offered a bargain--allow it to bond with the child, merging its spirit with the child's. In exchange, the child would be safe, healed, and have a long life. The tree would get a voice and the strength to resist "corruption from the south".
• They ended up making that bargain after punishing the abusive father.
• This grove of trees is now known as the Lady's Grove and Safrir Tree-friend is its guardian and he and Elena (now the host of the ancient tree spirit but still herself as well) are co-leaders of that grove.