You return to the hallway and follow it to its end. As you enter the last room, you gasp in wonder.

Fine points of light shine in pitch black roof above and on the walls like a night sky. These must be the "stars" the boy of light was talking about! Before you, a series of glowing lines and shapes stretch across the floor, forming an elaborate pattern.

Alster crouches down to get a closer look. "Some of these lights are brighter than the others. And these shapes … This looks like, yes, I'm sure it is, I think this is a map of Elda Island."

Everyone huddles around Alster on the floor. "Look, see this six-pointed star? That's the Town Observatory in Verdalia, and there on the line of lights is the Great Observatory in the Azalei Mountains. And there, the Medics' Gardens. This third one must be Stonehaven Shrine."

You look at the others, speechless. Does the boy want you to "follow the stars" to these places? You make a copy of the map and the highlighted places in your journal. You discuss options with the group about what to do next.  

Alster says, "Let's talk to the boy again and see what all this means before we go galivanting around the capital looking for...You know I don't even know what." He mimics walking up to strangers on the streets of Verdalia, "Excuse me madam, I was wondering if you could help me find I'm not sure what? Well, is it this way?" He looks back at you to see what reaction he got. You respond, "look the boy seems confused and unable to tell us clearly what we are supposed to do, I don't think talking to him again is going to help us achieve anything other than make us feel more sorry for him. His request was clear we follow the stars and these are the stars, so...." 

"I'm with you," Haden says. "We only know the tower's imbalance is affecting everything including this boy of light and the only thing we know to do right now is 'follow the stars' so I say we go to Verdalia.  Talik say's "Fine we go to the city as its the only one way to find out, if we are wrogn then we come back." And like that you decided that you must journey to Verdalia, the great crater city that the Eldonian healers call capital. Excited to begin the next step of your journey, you pull out the Tome of Knowledge that you borrowed from the Library of the Arcanum and read about Verdalia to the others as you set out.  Based on the Tome of Knowledge entry below about Verdalia what would be the first thing you would visit in the capital and why? Enter your choice in Thy Quests below to move on. 

Verdalia

Verdalia is a sprawling city located in the valley and heart of Elda Island, where the Eldonian tribe of Healers live. Many creatures dwell there in peace, including sprites and the more elusive raptals. Verdalia is a sprawling city located in the valley and heart of Elda Island, where the Eldonian tribe of Healers live. Many creatures dwell there in peace, including sprites and the more elusive raptals.

The city itself is a marvel of organic architecture, where buildings seamlessly blend with the natural environment. Trees intertwine with stone structures, their branches forming living rooftops and their roots weaving through the cobblestone streets. Verdant gardens and vibrant floral displays are everywhere, filling the air with the scent of blossoms and herbs. The gentle hum of flowing water from numerous streams and fountains adds to the serene ambiance.

In the central plaza, a grand tree known as the Heartwood stands tall, its ancient branches spreading wide and its trunk engraved with intricate runes that glow softly at night. This tree is not only a symbol of the Eldonian Healers' connection to nature but also a source of potent healing energy that permeates the entire city.

Marketplaces bustle with activity, offering an array of herbs, potions, and handmade goods and overseen by the Storekeeper. The Healers, dressed in their distinctive green robes, can often be seen tending to their patients or gathering rare plants from the surrounding forests. Sprites flit about, their ethereal light adding a magical touch to the already enchanting atmosphere, while raptals glide silently through the treetops, their keen eyes always watchful.

Verdalia is also known for its grand library, the Hall of Whispers, where knowledge of ancient healing practices and mystical arts is meticulously preserved. Scholars from all over Elda Island and beyond come to study and share their wisdom, ensuring that the art of healing continues to evolve.

Despite its peaceful exterior, Verdalia is a city of resilience. The Eldonians have faced many challenges throughout history, from natural disasters to invasions by those seeking to exploit their healing powers. The city’s protective wards, crafted by the most skilled Healers, serve as a testament to their enduring strength and unity.

Surrounding Verdalia are the lush Verdant Hills, dotted with medicinal herb gardens and hidden sanctuaries. These hills serve as both a source of resources and a natural barrier, protecting the city from potential threats. Paths wind through these hills, leading to secret glades where Healers perform their rituals and commune with nature.

As you look out over Verdalia from a high vantage point, the city appears as a living tapestry of green and stone, a harmonious blend of civilization and wilderness. It is a place where magic and nature coexist in perfect balance, a sanctuary for all who seek peace and healing.

History

The valley is the site of a long-extinct volcano, surrounded by the Azalei Mountains. An enormous lake, known as Lake Vera, resides in the middle of the valley. It’s rumoured to be bottomless.

Flora

Verdalia is home to many different types of flowers and other plants, including Etheria blooms — vegetation of many vibrant colours that holds a special, mysterious connection to the sprites that live on the island.