Led by Toruviel, Wayne, and Geralt ventured once more into the elven ruins nestled within the forest. After navigating the maze-like caverns, they encountered the resident non-human population again. What struck Wayne was the dramatic increase in their numbers compared to their initial visit earlier that year. The number of inhabitants had likely doubled or even tripled. Notably absent were the children and elderly who previously resided in makeshift linen tents. Instead, the elves now dwelled in a cluster of simple wooden houses, constructed with lumber harvested from the surrounding woods.
A striking transformation was also evident in the elves' demeanor. Gone were the earlier displays of weakness, hesitation, and fear. In their place, a vibrant spirit burned brightly, suggesting a newfound resolve and willingness to fight for their cause.
Wayne, ever the pragmatist, saw no need for secrecy. His gaze swept across the revitalized settlement as he turned to Toruviel, "Your people seem to have grown in number and spirit. Are non-humans routinely persecuted in Kaedwen?"
Instead of offering a direct response, Toruviel swiveled her head to acknowledge Geralt trailing behind them. A hand brushed against her glossy black braids as if in contemplation. Sensing her unspoken concern, Wayne was about to vouch for Geralt's trustworthiness when the witcher strode forward.
"Commander Toruviel," he began, "may I inquire? Is the dwarven blacksmith, Horton, whom I encountered on our previous visit, still residing here? The fellow relieved me of a hefty sum of orens during our last meeting – a debt I haven't forgotten."
Toruviel met his gaze briefly before offering a soft reply. "Indeed, witcher. He currently serves as our camp quartermaster. You'll find him in the log cabin adjacent to the central bonfire."
Geralt, upon receiving Toruviel's answer, wasted no time. He acknowledged Wayne and Toruviel with a curt nod and marched towards Quartermaster Horton's cabin. Wayne considered calling him back, but knowing Geralt's aversion to idle chatter, he relented.
After Geralt's departure, Toruviel fell into thoughtful silence for a moment before addressing Wayne. "These are all warriors," she explained, gesturing to the surrounding elves, "prepared to remain in the Kaedwen and fight for the liberation of our kin. As for the elderly and children, we have relocated them to a secure haven within the Valley of Flowers."
"We've been actively seeking ways to expand our rescue efforts," Toruviel continued, "and your advice proved invaluable. We've established a dedicated unit that discreetly employs bribery, purchase, and even mercenary contracts to free captured non-humans."
Wayne furrowed his brow. A flicker of unease crossed his mind. In his recollection, the elven ruler of the Valley of Flowers had fallen victim to a power struggle, leaving the elves without a true leader ever since. This precarious situation continued until sorceress Francesca ascended the elven throne. During that period, the Valley of Flowers could hardly be considered a safe haven.
However, he kept his precognitive abilities hidden from Toruviel. Instead, he offered a hesitant nod. "A commendable strategy," he conceded. "Though I recall the Valley of Flowers harboring numerous human settlements. Elves likely constitute a smaller portion, with most forced to dwell within the surrounding forests and mountains."
Toruviel acknowledged his point. "Indeed," she confirmed. "Though renowned as the last bastion of free elves, the Valley of Flowers currently falls under the control of King Demavend of Aedirn. He has been systematically displacing human populations into the elven domain, encroaching upon their forests and claiming their lands to construct human settlements. This, of course, serves the sole purpose of constricting the free elves' territory."
"However, unlike the domesticated elves and half-elves residing within cities, the free elves of the Valley of Flowers are the inheritors of the ancient elven kingdom's spirit. They are the most rebellious and undoubtedly the most formidable elven faction."
Their relentless efforts, Toruviel explained, were the sole reason the elves hadn't entirely lost their foothold in the North. This defiance served as a potent message to the human kingdoms – the elves were far from helpless. The trust Toruviel placed in Wayne was evident. After a moment's deliberation, she decided to share a secret.
"Wayne," she began, lowering her voice, "we've established contact with a figure of considerable influence within the Valley of Flowers. This benefactor facilitated the evacuation of our elders and children. Additionally, elite soldiers from the Valley of Flowers have been dispatched to train our forces and provide vital supplies, bolstering our resolve against Kaedwen."
"The golem cores you left behind earlier were acquired by this very individual," Toruviel continued. "The purchase price exceeded market value by a significant margin – a token of appreciation for your assistance in clearing the relic."
A brief pause followed before she resumed, her voice tinged with intrigue. "This benefactor," she said, "has expressed a desire to meet with you in person. They are particularly curious about your clan."
"Should you be hesitant," Toruviel added, "there's no obligation. As they say, fate has a way of bringing people together eventually."
The veil of secrecy surrounding the elf leader piqued Wayne's curiosity, but as a seasoned Witcher who had devoured the original novels and played the games, he likely harbored a strong suspicion about their benefactor's identity. While her true name couldn't be revealed to avoid potential complications, the options within the elven ranks were scarce. With a feigned sense of bewilderment, he addressed Toruviel.
"Toruviel, I think, no matter who you are going to see, out of the minimum sincerity, you
should tell me her identity of the person first."
Toruviel studied Wayne's expression for a moment, then, with a hesitant nod, she seemed ready to comply.
"I can tell you her identity, but Wayne, in order not to cause unnecessary trouble to that lady, I hope you can keep it a secret and don't tell anyone else."
Wayne immediately nodded with a serious expression and said, "No problem, I assure you, Toruviel."
"I can disclose her identity to you, Wayne, but I urge you to keep it confidential to avoid any unnecessary trouble for her," Toruviel expressed, his tone serious.
Wayne nodded earnestly, assuring, "You have my word, Toruviel."
With a nod from Toruviel, he proceeded to reveal, "As a witcher, you may already be familiar with her name."
"Francesca Findabair, she is a prominent noble among the elves ."
"She is presently considered the most formidable elf sorceress in the world, if not the most powerful sorceress overall."
Recognizing the name, Wayne internally acknowledged, "It's her indeed," but externally, he feigned surprise, pondering for a brief moment before responding, "Ah, Lady Francesca! Her name resonates among the sorceress. Rumor has it she's not only the epitome of beauty but also highly esteemed within the sorceress community."
Toruvilel's brow furrowed slightly at Wayne's response, but she swiftly smoothed it out, adding, "Indeed, Wayne. Lady Francesca is undeniably the most exquisite lady I've ever encountered. She is a rare, pure-blooded elf, revered by our kin for centuries. Her contributions to our people, particularly during the Nilfgaardian invasion, are unparalleled. She negotiated with Nilfgaard to secure the elves establishing the Valley of Flowers as an independent elven realm, albeit under Nilfgaardian sovereignty. Despite her allegiance to Nilfgaard, she distanced herself from the Scoia'tael, aiding Nilfgaardian sorceress".
Wayne absorbed the information thoughtfully, noting the scarcity of details about the elf sorceress in both the game and the original book series. The pivotal role she played in elven history, especially during tumultuous times, underscored her significance.
This elf, a powerful sorceress, has dedicated centuries to ensuring the Aen Seidhe's survival. Wayne respects such unwavering dedication. Working tirelessly for a cause greater than oneself, for hundreds of years, without succumbing to greed or ambition - that's a feat beyond most humans.
Respect aside, being a friend or foe with such an individual can be a burden. Their unwavering loyalty lies with their race, and they'd readily sacrifice anything for the Aen Seidhe's continuation.
Given the current prejudice against Witchers, seen as lesser beings despite their skills, knowing a powerful elf sorceress could be a significant advantage for Wayne, especially as a half-elf himself