The Queen of Scrolls never admits defeat

"First, we will comprehensively strengthen forest patrols."

Patrol routes were redesigned, patrol frequency was increased, all patrol teams were required to be equipped with anti-detection and anti-trap equipment, and new communication and early warning procedures were strictly implemented.

Second, set up large-scale traps on the outskirts of the forest, especially in the direction where the known Ash Claw strongholds might infiltrate, and establish contact with the ancient trees so that every slave hunter who enters the forest will pay a heavy price!
Third, form elite "hunting squads" to take turns going to the vicinity of the other three exposed forward outposts of Ash Claw to conduct infiltration, reconnaissance, and proactive ambushes.

Our goal is not to conquer the stronghold, but to hunt down any Ash Claw members who dare to show their faces, deplete their manpower, and demoralize them, so that they know that Emerald Forest is not a hunting ground that they can come and go as they please!

Fourth, all members of the tribe must be on high alert and suspend all non-essential long-distance gathering and outdoor activities. The activities of underage elves must be strictly limited to the core settlement area.

The series of commands were clear and decisive, and the unease in the elves' eyes was gradually replaced by determination.

Yes, the forest is their home ground; they are familiar with every plant and tree here and can draw upon the power of nature.

Holding their homeland, utilizing their geographical advantages, and wearing down the enemy is the safest and most traditional defensive and counter-attack strategy for them.

"For the forest! For our people!" someone roared, and then a chorus of voices echoed in response.

A fighting spirit began to gather in the hearts of the elves.

The meeting adjourned, and the elves went about their respective tasks, beginning their busy preparations.

“Grandma Chief.” Moran walked up to Mathil.

"Moran, why haven't you gone to rest yet? You've worked hard these past few days," Mathil said gently.

“Grandma Chief, I have something I want to say to you.” Moran sat down on a flat tree root nearby.

Mathilde looked at her, waiting for what she would say next.

"As you know, I've always wanted to have the opportunity to go to Suramaran someday to complete the bloodline atonement ceremony and restore our lost High Elf heritage..."

Moran carefully chose her words, avoiding mentioning the Shadow Merchant Guild, as that would only make the clan leader more worried and potentially oppose her plans. Instead, she chose a direction that was more in line with elven values ​​and sounded more feasible.

Mathilde nodded slightly; she had heard Moran mention this decades ago.

"To complete the bloodline reversion ritual, one must understand the other branches of the spirits."

I want to leave the forest and visit the settlements of other elves to learn about their culture and traditions.

During this process, we can also take the opportunity to investigate the Ash Claw mercenary group.

Seeing Mathilde's brow furrow slightly, Moran immediately explained,
"Of course, I'm not going to confront them head-on; that wouldn't be wise. My idea is... to deal with them my way."

"Your way?" Mathil asked, somewhat puzzled.

“Yes.” Moran nodded. “I am a bard. My weapons, besides my bow and arrows and magic, are my harp and my throat!”
I will collect their evil deeds, especially how cruelly they treated humanoid races, including us elves, goblins, and gnomes, and weave them into easy-to-sing songs and captivating stories.

Then, in taverns, in markets, and at crossroads where travelers pass by, they sing these songs and tell these stories, letting more people know about the dirty deeds beneath the glamorous facade of the 'Ash Claws' mercenary group!

I will make their infamy spread wherever they go, through my songs and stories!

Mathilde's eyes brightened slightly, as if she was beginning to understand Moran's intentions. "The Ash Claws' 'cargo' list doesn't just include us nature elves; other branches of elves and other humanoid races with distinctive appearances are also on it."

Moreover, even in human kingdoms, slaves were either punished for crimes or sold voluntarily.

Hunting free and intelligent creatures and enslaving them is a heinous act that is strictly prohibited everywhere!

Once the Ash Claws' slave-hunting practices become widely known and public, they will become the target of public criticism.

Legitimate mercenary guilds might revoke their qualifications, merchants who do business with them might distance themselves for fear of damaging their reputation, and even some local lords and officials, in order to maintain appearances of order or due to public opinion, might be forced to restrict or investigate them.

Moran paused: "More importantly, I want to use my songs to warn all humanoid races on the Ash Claws' 'cargo list' and make them more vigilant and take precautions."

It might even prompt some of the victimized races to unite and resist together.

This will definitely weaken them to some extent and relieve pressure on our tribe's defenses.

Moran looked at Mathilde, his eyes clear and earnest:
“Grandma Chief, I know this is risky, but I think I can handle it. This is also a great opportunity for growth.”

Mathilde gazed at Moran for a long time, her heart filled with mixed emotions.

The Tree Spirit once mentioned that Moran was determined to pursue the legacy of the High Elves and was destined not to stay in this forest forever.

Mathilde never expected that the day of parting would come so quickly. It seemed like only yesterday she was a tiny baby, innocently opening her eyes in the cocoon of life, and today she would be spreading her wings and flying into the vast and unknown sky.

Beyond the forest, danger lurks everywhere.

But seeing Moran's maturity beyond his years and his composure in the face of any challenge eased Mathilde's worries somewhat.

Perhaps the Tree Spirit's guidance was right. Such a child needs a wider world to soar in.

“Alright, Moran.” Mathilde finally nodded slowly, her voice filled with the loving kindness and reluctance of an elder:

"I grant you permission to leave the forest and travel, but you must always remember: safety first."

Your primary task is to engage with other branches of the elves, learn about their culture and heritage, broaden your horizons, and prepare for the bloodline atavism ritual. Investigating and spreading the evil deeds of the Ash Claws is merely a secondary task.

Don't take risks, don't reveal your identity, and always stay vigilant.

If you encounter a danger you cannot handle, abandon everything and return to the forest!

Emerald Forest will always be your home, and your safety is more important than anything else!

"I understand! Thank you, Grandmother Chief!" Moran felt a weight lifted from her heart and solemnly agreed.

"Before you leave, don't forget to say goodbye to Lord Tree Spirit and your friends," Matilda reminded her.

"I will."

After bidding farewell to Chief Matilda, Moran returned to her treehouse, gently placing her palm on the bark and speaking in wood-language magic, "Mother Tree Spirit, I'm leaving the forest to travel the outside world." (End of Chapter)