Elthas carefully assisted Hayate even as Gavner introduced himself and Kirin arrived.

Elthas recognized some of the markings on Gavner's clothing and apparel. He's Ixian...that merits some looking into... Elthas felt his head become a bit heavy for a moment as a wave passed through his mind but he ignored the mysterious sensation.

People needed help, and that was top priority.

Elthas looked at his gathered companions as he saw Gavner assist him with Hayate's form. "My people build our homes...inside the trees. It's part of our olde traditions." Elthas explained calmly. He hoped the fellow would understand everything when they arrived at The Great Tree.

They made their ways through ash fall into the broken husk of The Great Tree.

Prior to the volcanic eruption, it had been a tremendously powerful ancient old oak. One of Concordia's many guardian trees.

The old oaks were symbolic for Elthas' people.

The loss of that particular guardian, The Great Tree, would affect his people tremendously.

There would be a time for mourning another day.

Elthas, inexplicably started singing in the tongue of his people.

Once a Bard, he still retained much of the old knowledge and often sang when he was nervous or under great stress.

He sang an old song of loss and departure of loved ones. It was appropriate to sing for the passing of the dead of that day.

When they arrived at the broken husk, the front doors of the old oak were already open.

A town hall of sorts, the important meetings and gatherings, and sometimes other festivals would occur there.

Upon entry into The Great Tree, the powers of the runes of his people were apparent. The inside of the tree was mostly intact despite the severe damage to the external bark. The roots were strong, Elthas explained to his companions. A group of about sixty survivors were present within the town hall attempting to organize and treat the wounded. There were healers, magi and other folks using their trade. Several of the older Forest Elves were present and they represented a leadership body of sorts.

Though not directly connected to Radasanth, they still had representation in the government of Radasanth...

...That was a worry for another day.

Elthas, Gavner, Kirin, and Hayate entered the town hall and immediately, were noticed.

One of the medics that weren't -as busy- approached the ragtag group of survivors. "Elthas! By the Thayne you've found survivors!" The female medic said calmly.

"It's horrible outside." Elthas stopped singing and was able to focus. They guided Hayate to a comfortable seating area where there were several injured and recovering.

Elthas looked at his friends. Friends...no...family now. We have all shared a moment in the disaster...we have all lost something. Elthas thought to himself. "The fellow needs help, we all do. He's broken limbs if I'm not mistaken." Elthas explained in regards to Hayate's situation.

"We will attend to his wounds right away. What about the other two?" The medic asked of Kirin and Gavner.

Elthas and Gavner assisted Hayate and handed him over to the surprisingly strong medic.

It had not dawned on Elthas to ask Gavner and Kirin their status as well. "Either of you two also need help?" Elthas asked. Elthas was hurt as well...but his pain was a psychological trauma...that perhaps, would never heal.