I gave the speech as many times as I needed to to the large crowds of elves. Which came down to a total of three heart inspiring times I had to give it.
Personally I think my talk of fighting for one's future instead of running away with the currents of destiny was wholly inspiring.
However, it turns out that the people, my audience, did not share the same sympathy. As a result, my total haul of men and women and that one orphaned elf child is thirty.
Thirty. Only thirty eves stolen back from Maylin. Of course I understand entirely why the turnback ratio would be so low and frankly, I'm grateful for the few I got.
These elves have been under Maylins protection, under her wing and feeding from her metaphorical udders. They've found safety and stability in her care, and while it may be far from true comfort, freedom to do whatever they please or even freedom to serve themselves, it was still a good, sturdy life.
