'Hello Stephanie' Zlata said. 'How are you today?' 'I'm fine,' replied a puzzled Stephanie, 'Do I know you?' 'No, you don't, yet. But you will. You probably do not realize this, but you are a Fae, Specifically an elf from this valley.' 'Yeah, Right!' replied Steph, sarcasticly. 'No, you are, Steph. look at your ears. aren't they just a little bit longer than the people you use to run around with?' 'Steph reached up to touch her ears, no longer hidden by her hair. "yes, that's why I always had my hair cover them.' 'Your real parents, Tegiol and Pulsia, were elves in fine standing in Fae Valley. but circumstances forced them to give up their only child, you, to the humans for safe-keeping. One day, I shall tell you the why. Rest assured, that what they did, was a great sacrifice and they are highly honored for it.' 'I..I didn't know...' 'The people who adopted you knew most of why but they were bound not to tell you. They were, however, instructed to let you learn whatever you wished and in fact encourage your desires.' 'I thought my teaching was a bit on the strange side, but I did what they asked.' 'Do you know a human, Corinda Wallac?' 'Yes! yes I do! She left school a year ago. Rumors abounded about that, but nothing really established. I know that the Wallac's took in another young lady. Norika, I think her name was Norika.' Steph said brightly. 'That's right, Stephanie. Norika was sent to your village to learn the latest in human technology and stategies while Corinda was sent to Fae Valley to learn of our ways. This is done according to the pact that was signed centuries ago after the war with the UnSeelie Court.' 'But what does all this have to do with me?' 'In the overall picture, very little, however when viewed from another perspective, a lot. You have the advantage of having grown up with the humans' technology and mind-sets and yet, your blood and heritage is Elven, specifically, Fae Valley Elven. This will work to our advantage in the upcoming battle.' Stephanie looked shocked, 'Upcoming battle?' she squeaked. "I thought that the UnSeelie Court was beaten back to where they couldn't do anymore.' 'It is true, but they have humans helping them this time and I'm afraid that we of Fae Valley and the humans of Round Hill are in danger of being over-run by those who desire chaos and hate over order and love. But enough,' stated Zlata. 'We need to bring you back to Fae Valley so you can help us prepare.' 'If you say so, Zlata, but what do I tell the people who raised me?' 'Do not worry about that, Stephanie. they knew this day would come and they know where you are and where you're going. They will miss you. But! If we survive this battle, you will be able to go back to them.' 'That's good. Thank you.' 'thank you, my dear. Come! let us go! We have a lot to do and the day is growing short.' I have downloaded the basic Stephanie 4 and will get the full version next month, when I can afford her. along with clothing, etc you know, all the stuff that women need to have to do anything. Thank you very much for the comments and faves. I wish everyone a great weekend.. I have used Valery's Willow skin for Stephanie Thanks