#the elven empress ophelia

[kat-nevayra]

Behold! I made a lineup chart for all the major characters of my stories/world:

I wanted to have a reference for various characters' heights, especially since not all characters had set heights specifically. This helped me give everyone a certain height, as well as a place to compare them to each other. Furthermore, it's just a nice way to see what all of my characters look like in one place!

I'll put divided closeups under the cut:

Here's all the main characters of my main story (series title still a work in progress lol):

Next, there's the main characters of The Thief of Dusk:

And finally, we have the leaders of the Four Empires of Areth, the most powerful royals in all the world:

That is all :))

[kat-nevayra]

Idk why, but this actually interests me from a writer's perspective.

Like... this actually seems like something Ophelia would do.

monarchies in the 21st cent are so funny. "we used to claim this one super wealthy family was appointed divine rights by a giant bearded guy in the sky, but that excuse doesn't fly anymore. so now the reason is because that's the way it already was"

[fairy-fables]

Before the gods were born, there was an Empress named Ophelia. She was awakened by an elven lynx. She cut off their hair and wished for a crow, and as all feared magic was saved.

[kat-nevayra]

[TToD] Chapter Two - Preparations

They led me to a nice guest room, where I was then uncuffed. Even though I was locked in that room, it felt good to have my hands back. The guards told me that they would be outside the door, and to ask them if I needed something. I was left alone to relax for an hour until dinnertime.

Inspecting the room, I was amazed at the finery. The windows were crafted with ornate decorations made with elven silver, and emerald green drapes stretched to the floor. I had a queen-sized bed all to myself, as well as a desk and vanity. There was a bathroom connected to the room, which was spacious and filled with marble. It made me feel like royalty.

Immediately, I checked the vanity for anything I could pocket. The items here were nice, so I could probably sell them for good money. Or keep them for myself. 

Hiding in the drawers, I found a few items of interest. Mostly fancy watches, gold plated jewelry, and ornately decorated combs. Stuff that would be easy to pawn off. The previous owners of this room left a lot behind, so I sorted through them to find the most expensive stuff. I picked out a few things and stuffed them in the pockets of my cloak.

When I went to open the very bottom drawer, there was only one item. A floral comb, the kind fancy ladies used as accessories. The flowers were a beautiful purple, and black runestone branches served as accents. The centers of the flowers were inlaid with amethysts so expertly cut that I knew they had to be from Ayulaa. The people there were master jewelry crafters, and their works were worth a fortune. But I couldn’t sell this. It was too valuable to just be pawned away.

Against my better judgment, I took out a hair tie and put some of my hair into a little bun, then slipped the comb into place. I knew not to get carried away with my looks, but I couldn’t help myself. After all, it’s not every day one gets a chance to wear an accessory of nobility.

As I was looking at myself in the mirror, I heard a knock at the door. Getting up, I went over to open it. When I did, I found the guards outside my door looking at me.

“It’s time to go to dinner, Miss Sparrowood,” one of the guards told me.

I was surprised. Had an hour gone by already?

They placed me back in handcuffs, and began escorting me to dinner. I was displeased, but at least my hands were in front of me this time. While we walked, I felt something in one of my pockets start to slide out. I prayed that it wouldn’t fall…

But that was asking for too much. The next thing I heard was the sound of a golden necklace hitting the ground. It was a soft noise, but loud enough for the guards to hear. One knelt down to pick it up, then he looked at me.

“Still trying to steal, huh?” he then turned to his companion. “Search her.”

They then searched all of my pockets for stolen items, finding almost everything. Luckily, they didn’t take the floral comb. But everything else was quickly confiscated, much to my frustration. If only I had my weapons… then I’d make them sorry for treating me this way.

Once they were satisfied, we resumed our walk to the banquet hall. I could tell that they were starting to regret bringing me to the castle. Now they had to deal with me. Though, the tension did make the trip rather uncomfortable. They kept a tight grip on my arms, and I felt awkward everytime one of them glanced at me.

Fortunately for everyone involved, the walk was short. Within a few minutes, we had arrived at a large door. The guards opened it, and we walked in to find that everyone else was seated. Ophelia sat at the head of the table, and her glowing eye looked at me. Everyone else turned their heads to look as well. Having that many eyes on me was miserable.

“You’re late,” Ophelia said, not to me, but to the guards.

“My apologies, your radiance,” one told her, holding up the golden necklace. “We had some… difficulties convincing her to cooperate.”

The empress sighed. “I wouldn’t expect anything less.”

She motioned for me to sit at the other end of the table, across from her. The guards let me go from their grip and I obeyed, slowly taking my place. I surveyed the scene before me, of all the people sitting at the banquet table. The king of the satyrs sat next to a nervous strawberry blond, and a few nobles in matching attire also sat together. Advisors and high ranking soldiers, as well as her prophet, were also seated around the table. She clearly had employed people from all across the continent to work for her, and I saw it here. I didn’t scare easily, but I found it a rather intimidating sight.

“Now that everyone is here,” Ophelia began, standing up with her glass. “I’d like to take some time to mention tonight’s guest of honor, Elsie Sparrowood. In a few days time, she will be making a great journey across the countryside to recover some items that are very important to us. This will be a dangerous quest, but I have full faith in her abilities. Tonight, I’d like to make a toast in her honor. To her success and wellbeing!”

“May she bring glory to the empress!” the crowd returned.

I didn’t feel like participating. I wasn’t even here of my own will, but I couldn’t tell them that. Once Ophelia had said her piece, it was truly dinnertime. I was thrilled. I hadn’t eaten anything since breakfast, and was about ready to eat the tablecloth if I didn’t get real food. Thankfully for the rest of the table, they were spared from seeing that display as servants brought trays of food to the table.

The scents of meat, fruit, and pastries wafted through the air, and my wolfish senses told me I would like this meal. It got even better once they revealed the dishes. Roasted chicken, breads, potato dishes, cakes, and danishes were only a few of the many things available to me.

I ended up eating mostly pastries and garlic bread, as well as a chicken leg to satisfy my craving for meat. I probably should have picked something with more nutritional value, but Alverian capital pastries were supposedly to die for. I had no regrets though, the rumors were right. Those were the best pastries I’d ever tasted. And I also hoped the chef’s recipe for garlic bread wasn’t a secret, because I needed to know how to make it myself.

After the meal, I was escorted back to my room, but not before the guards checked to make sure I hadn’t stolen some noble’s belongings. As if I could, with them staring at me the entire evening. But all they found was a strawberry danish I had wrapped up in my napkin, which they miraculously let me keep. I supposed that even the imperial guard understood how excellent the court baker’s desserts were.

Once we returned to my room, I was left alone to think about what lay ahead of me. My quest worried me, especially since I was only a thief. I may have been no ordinary thief, but stealing money from homes was hardly comparable to the task at hand. Journeying to collect relics was a hard task… and even harder to do alone.

But I was not alone, as a knock on my door would soon prove. I opened it to find someone I recognized from my earlier encounters with the Elven Empress. He was short by elven standards, as he and I were similar in height. He also bore a striking resemblance to Ophelia, with an eye of the same glowing green. Also like her, his other eye was obscured by long hair that fell in his face, which he had tied back into a ponytail.

But he looked more ordinary than she did, lacking the same ethereal charm of the empress. Most of his hair was the color of dry soil, only being purple at the tips. Peculiar black scars covered his face, seemingly from battles fought long ago. Although, his armor looked much newer than he did. The elven silver used to make it still shone with enchanting luster. His purple cape was the only thing he wore that showed signs of age.

I looked at him, then at all the things he was carrying in his arms. He had maps, stationary, books, and other things I couldn’t even name.

“What’s all this?” I asked as I let him in.

He brought it in and set it on my desk. “Supplies.”

“And who are you?”

“My name is Elae, and I am known as the elven knight. My duty is to protect the people of the Alverian Empire, most of all the Elven Empress Ophelia,” he said in a quiet, somewhat husky voice. “And now, I am your travel companion.”

I was a little confused as to why Ophelia would send her knight as my traveling companion. After all, her protector would serve best at her side.

“If you’re her bodyguard, then would she make you my travel companion?”

“I asked her to,” was his simple reply. “She cannot say ‘no’ to her brother.”

He looked at my hair, inspecting it with a suspicious look on his face. I hoped he wouldn’t think too much of the floral comb. But once again, I was hoping for too much.

“Did you steal that?”

“Yeah, what of it?” I said, taking it out and holding it.

“Give it back.”

I held it close to my chest. “Why do you need it back if it has no owner?”

“Because I cannot let you go around stealing things. Hand it over,” he held out his hand. “Please.”

Reluctantly, I placed it in his hand, evading his gaze. I didn’t want to look at him.

“Thank you.”

His voice was gentle. Sincere. But that didn’t change the fact that I was mad at him. That comb was beautiful and it was mine. He had no right to take it if it didn’t belong to anyone else. It wasn’t like I could argue with him though. As the elven knight, he was the ultimate voice of authority.

“I will be going now. If you need anything else, you can ask the guards.”

“I already know that,” I huffed.

“Alright then. Good night.”

Then he left me alone. Good. I didn’t want to be around him anymore. I took the danish out of my cloak and ate it while I sorted through the contents he had left on my desk. They were all useful items for our journey. Probably stuff he wanted me to pack. I figured I’d worry about it later.

Once I finished the danish, I took off my cloak and hung it off the vanity. Then, I crawled into bed. It had been a long day, and I was tired of being awake. I was thrilled to find that the covers were nice and soft, and the pillows were perfect to lay my head on. It didn’t take long after getting in to slip away into the land of dreams.

[kat-nevayra]

[TToD] Chapter One - The Palace of the Empress

“Good thing we finally caught her,” I could hear one of the guards say from outside. “She’s been giving us trouble for a while.”

“Now to take her back to the capital.”

My head ached. I wanted to yell at them to shut up, but I didn’t have the strength. I couldn’t even get up very well, since my hands were now cuffed behind me. Feeling around my cloak, I could tell that all my weapons were missing.

Looking around at my surroundings, I realized that I was in the back of a prison wagon. Made of sturdy metal, there was no chance of breaking my way out. The only windows were two tiny, barred slits located near the roof. They were just big enough to let light in.

Knowing that the predicament I now found myself in was hopeless, I cursed.

“Hey, be quiet back there!”

I sighed. Of course they didn’t want to hear a sound from me. I didn’t mind though; there was nothing I wanted to say to them anyway. Being difficult had little point either. I had no way of escape. The journey to the capital from here was six hours by carriage. Six hours of waiting for my impending fate. The lack of automation in Alveria had never bothered me so much. Why couldn’t we be on a train?

Most of the ride was spent trying to sleep, desperately blocking out the pain in my head. I didn’t get very far with that idea, as every jostle of the wagon kept me awake. But I tried anyway, my cloak and wolf-like tail serving as comfort against the metal floor. Eventually, I was forced to accept that my dream of slipping into sweet oblivion was unattainable. Instead, I envisioned an escape. It was hardly possible, but it kept me entertained. The thought of punishing those fools for their arrogance delighted me.

I could hear them talking outside my confines. Already, they celebrated their victory, talking about the rewards and promotions they could receive from the empress. It made me sick. I may have been a thief, but I couldn’t stand the idea of trading a person’s freedom for coin. I stole money, not lives.

Once the bumps in the road lessened, I could tell we were close to our destination. The streets of the Alverian Empire’s capital were much finer than the dirt paths between cities. I could hear more voices outside as we traveled through their bustling market. Sounds and scents made their way through the little windows of the wagon. The smell of fresh pastries made me wish I could steal a loaf of bread. The long journey had made me terribly hungry.

Eventually, the wagon stopped. We had arrived at the palace. I soon realized what awaited me on the other side of those doors. I knew that I would soon be walking the steps to my doom, and it frightened me.

Luckily, I suppose, I didn’t have to. When the guards opened the doors, the back of the wagon was filled with the scent of incense smoke. My eyes grew heavy, and I slipped away into the sleep I long desired…

When I awoke, I found myself on my knees within a ring of little mushrooms. The small little mushrooms emitted a faint green glow that could barely be seen with all the light. There was no artificial light in the palace throne room. Instead, glass skylights let the light of the sun wash over the space. Grass grew all over the area, and flowering vines snaked their way up marble pillars. Glowing white butterflies, that may have been made of magic itself, fluttered around the room. It was an oddly peaceful place to be given a death sentence.

“You put her to sleep?” a feminine voice asked, bemused.

“We heard she was incredibly dangerous. We couldn’t take any chances.”

“I suppose the commander didn’t put such a high bounty on her without reason. She just looks so harmless in the faerie ring… it’s hard to believe that such a face belongs to a notorious thief. If she wasn’t a criminal, I’d almost wish she was my daughter.”

I looked up to see who was speaking, and found myself gazing at the woman on the marble throne. Her wine red dress greatly contrasted the peaceful scenery surrounding her, and her uncovered eye glowed just like the mushrooms in the faerie ring. She didn’t need a crown, nor introductions. Her name was Ophelia. The Elven Empress.

“Ah, you're awake. I suppose you heard us talking about you?” I didn’t answer her. “You aren’t going to say anything?”

“I have nothing to say to you.”

“Well, you’re certainly a bold one. Not many would talk to a monarch that way.”

“Guess I’m not like most.”

“Truly, I suppose you aren’t. You possess exceptional talents to have evaded capture for so long. Why, you could almost rival the Black Vixen!”

The comparison was an honor. On the eastern coast, the Black Vixen had a reputation for being a great thief. Some said she was the greatest thief who ever lived. Regardless, no criminal could deny that the reputation of ‘The Uncatchable’ was something admirable. But it didn’t feel honorable coming from the empress.

“But let’s get serious. You know why you’re here, right?”

Reluctantly, I nodded.

“Now, I should punish you; make an example out of you to the rest of this country… But I’ve taken an interest in you. I’d like to see just how strong you really are.”

“If you expect me to show off like a performance servant, I won’t have it,” I spat. “I’d rather slit my throat with a sai.”

She laughed. “Oh, no. I’d like you to go on a quest.”

Sending me on a quest? The idea felt so stupid. I had never been interested in hero tales. Grand questing and slaying beasts never seemed worth the risk. I could obtain that much money, and more, just by stealing it. I wasn’t some kind of adventurer.

“You mean you’re sending me to run your errands?”

“Don’t worry, there’s something in it for you,” she replied. “If you succeed, I’ll waive your punishment, and grant you your freedom.”

Freedom. The word rang in my head. “And what’s the alternative?”

“There are many ways to punish a criminal. I could make you one of the banished, torture you in a dark dungeon, or leave you dangling from a mountain for eternity…” I shuddered as her voice became a cold whisper, and she gave me a wicked smile. “Ways you don’t even want to know, Elsie.”

I couldn’t help but shake. As adverse to the idea of going on a quest as I was, I did not want to take the alternative option.

“What do you want from me?”

“Across the far corners of this land, there lay three ancient artifacts, all lost to time. They are the Scholar’s Compass, the Cursed Sword of Aevennettle, and the Eye of the Rouge Fae. Each is hidden behind trials that will test your limits… but I’m sure a thief like you can handle it. Complete the trials and return the relics to me, and I shall grant you your freedom.”

While it didn’t exactly sound easy, it was at least straightforward. I’d done more complex heists before. With my freedom on the line, I at least had to try.

“Alright, I accept.”

She smiled. “Excellent. You will be given three days to stay here and prepare what you need. I’ll do my part and provide you with tools to help you on your journey. As for the quest itself, I expect it to take three months.”

Three months seemed like a short window, especially to traverse a continent. But I wasn’t about to argue with her. It was already mercy for her to give me a chance.

“You are dismissed,” she turned to the guards. “Please escort Elsie to her room.”

“Yes, your radiance!”

I only hoped I wouldn’t fail her.

[kat-nevayra]

[TToD] Chapter Ten - Memories

“Woah! The lilacs are so pretty… And they smell heavenly!” O’phelea turned back to look at him. “I can see why you like them so much!”

Elae smiled. It was nice seeing his sister so happy. As she twirled among the lilacs, it reminded him of simpler times. The days before trouble, where he had all the time in the world to sit under the trees. He would often meditate, taking in their beloved scent. It helped him find peace, even amidst growing concerns of war.

“It’s a nice day.” he mused, looking up at the sky. “Perfect to go to the temple, don’t you think?”

O’phelea pouted. “I guess so…”

“What’s wrong?”

She picked up a stick and started poking at the ground. “I don’t like going to the temple… The priestess always gives me weird looks. She doesn’t like me very much.”

“Now, I’m sure that’s not true.”

“Say,” she said, randomly changing the subject the way children do. “Should we bring some of the lilac as an offering?”

He was used to it. “That’s a wonderful idea! I’m sure the fae would love that, O’phelea.”

“Yay! I’ll go gather some of the best lilacs this village has to offer!”

And with that, she ran off. Elae started after her, taking the time to appreciate the village around him. Usually, he didn’t have much time to spend here, or to be with his sister. So, he wanted to savor every moment of it.

He regretted not being with her more when they were growing up. He hadn’t had much time, but he wished that he’d made it. After all, she wouldn’t be a child forever.

The village was decorated in garlands and lanterns, all in preparation for the spring celebration. Despite the circumstances, everyone had been working hard to make sure that the festival would go on. To have survived winter was considered a great blessing, and it was incredibly important to thank Mother Faerie. She was their protector, and made sure that the village lived to prosper another spring. And their work paid off; the place looked beautiful. It made him happy to live in such a diligent and friendly community.

Soon, O’phelea returned with a fragrant handful of lilacs. When she did, her brother took her hand, and they ventured up the hill to the temple. In the spring, it typically buzzed with activity, and today was no different. Many of the villagers were coming in and out, each looking to pay their own respects. The clergy were busy as well, decorating the interior and tending to the altars.

The offering altars lined the sides of the temple, leading to the fountain and faerie ring. The entire temple was built around it, as it was believed to be a gateway to the fae’s domain. Some people paid their respects to the Mother Faerie at the edge of the fountain, while others placed their offerings directly in the flowing water. As for Elae himself, the eyes of the fae had been on him as he stood before it during his initiation. There, he became the guard captain’s second in command.

Finding an open altar, he laid the lilac down upon it. But before he could offer his prayers to the fae, he heard new voices. There were always conversation in the temple, but this was different. The speaker sounded panicked.

“My apologies for rushing in here, I don’t mean to disturb your sacred space,” they said, panting heavily. “But I’m afraid it’s urgent.”

“All is well, my child. Now, what business brings you here?” the priestess replied.

“I’m looking for the second in command of the village guard. I was told that he’d come here. His name was Elae, I think?”

At the mention of his name, the young elf stood and approached the conversation. “That would be me.”

Upon seeing the speaker, he knew they were a messenger. The cloak they wore was the color of sea foam, symbolic of the guard from the eastern side of Alveria. They themselves looked rather disheveled, covered in dirt and  sweat with strands of hair coming out of their ponytail. Clearly a sign that they’d been traveling quickly. But for an eastern messenger to be traveling this far west, especially this fast… something had to be very wrong.

“O’phelea, why don't you go with the priestess? She’ll help you finish your offering,” he told his sister. “I have some business I need to take care of.”

“Aw, but I wanna stay with you! You told me we’d spend the day together!”

“I know, and we will. But I have to attend to this first. I’m sorry.”

She crossed her arms and huffed. “This always happens. Something comes up, and you have to go off on some ‘important business’. Leaving me all alone.”

“Trust me, I wish it didn’t,” he replied, bending down and putting his hands on her shoulders. “But that’s the price of all the stories I tell you. My job may give me cool stories to tell you, but it comes at the cost that I can’t always be around. This time though, I’ll come back right after this, okay? It won’t take me very long.”

“Promise?”

“Of course. I promise.”

As the priestess led O’phelea back to the altar, he turned back to the messenger. He led them out of the temple and around a corner. That way, they could have some privacy from all the other people looking to pray. Besides, he didn’t want to worry the villagers. Not yet, at least.

“Alright, what did you need to tell me?”

“I’m sure you’re already aware of the humans that have been landing on our shores,” they began, to which Elae nodded. “Well, we’ve been keeping an eye on them for a while now. They’ve been peaceful for the longest time, but… As of recent, they’ve been slowly preparing their army. They’ve built training camps, and big ships from overseas come bringing weapons.”

“This was why my captain left on that journey, isn’t it? He said he was looking to scout some new camps. I didn’t realize they were made by humans.”

“About your captain… His party was staying in our village for a while, when it was… attacked.”

Elae’s heart dropped. “Oh no, is he…?”

“He’s alright, if a bit injured,” the messenger reassured him. “But they set fire to the city. It seems that the humans have turned against us, inciting war. I was sent to tell you to head east, toward his encampment, with the rest of the guard.”

“The entire village guard? Isn’t that a bit drastic?”

“Leave some behind to continue protecting the village, but bring your best. The humans are much stronger than we initially thought.”

“A-alright. I can’t refuse an order. Just give me time to organize everyone.”

“We’ll leave tomorrow, so we can get back as soon as possible. I know it sounds worrisome, but have a little faith. The generals have been saying that we can beat them if we give it everything we got.”

“I hope they’re right,” he said, before turning back toward the temple. “See you tomorrow.”

The messenger nodded, and departed without another word. As Elae headed inside, he took a deep breath. He didn’t want to worry O’phelea, who had just been looking to spend time with her big brother. For now, everything was okay. Besides, the generals thought the war could be won. Surely they wouldn’t be wrong.

He found her with the priestess, finishing her offering to the fae. Her eyes were closed, and she mouthed the words to a silent prayer. The priestess noticed his approach and moved aside, giving him space next to his sister.

“The little one has such a kind and thoughtful heart,” she said to him. “I can’t wait to see what kind of beautiful young woman she turns into.”

Then she swiftly got up and left, leaving the pair alone. He carefully knelt down beside O’phelea and folded his hands. As he prayed, he thought about what the priestess had said. After finishing with his thanks, he had only one thing to ask the Mother Faerie.

“Please protect my sister,” he said quietly aloud. “Let her survive so she can grow up.”

[kat-nevayra]

"Ophelia has really twisted ways of dealing with her enemies."

-The Elven Knight Elae

[kat-nevayra]

[TToD] Chapter Eleven - Her Nightmares

I looked up to realize that Elae was crying. Tears streamed down his face, although he tried to wipe them away.

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” he said, trying to smile as he sniffled. “That kinda got away from me…”

“No, no, don’t be! Are you okay?”

“I’m more concerned with you! I’ve made you cry too.”

I touched my face to find damp cheeks. I hadn’t even noticed them before, being so distracted by his story. There was something about the way he spoke that channeled memories of the past. It took me away with him, back to the places he described. It was almost like I was reliving it with him.

“I’m okay, I’m just moved by what you told me.”

“I suppose that’s a good thing then… thank you,” he said. “And don’t worry about me, I’m alright as well. Mostly, anyway. It’s just hard to relive those memories, given how much has changed. Our old village doesn’t even exist anymore.”

“You two seem to have grown apart as well.”

He sighed. “Indeed. I miss being close with my sister. But I suppose, one does not simply steal the title of the gods without sacrifice.”

I knew he was referring to her status as an empress. It was a title many of the most powerful royals didn’t dare to use. For most of Areth, it was considered a position for deities like the Jade Empress or the Mother Faerie. Titles like emperor or empress were believed to be far too powerful for a mortal being to hold. In taking it for herself, Ophelia had told the world she believed herself to be a god.

“Indeed…” I shuddered at the memory of her gaze.

Seeking to move on from the topic at hand, Elae took a torch off the wall and relit it in our fire. Then he told me to wait here while he went to find the kitchen, hoping to find some pots that we could make dinner with. The idea of being left alone made me anxious, but he reassured me that he wouldn’t be long. According to him, most forts were built following a similar layout.

Luckily for me, he was right. Only a few minutes later, he returned carrying a small pot and some supplies to set up on the fire. He also had some other things, which he excitedly showed to me.

“I found some spices in the cupboards. Some nice teas, too. Combined with the ingredients I already have, I can probably make some florathian tea soup.”

“Florathian tea?” I presumed it was another elven creation.

“It was a really common flower a few thousand years ago, and made really popular tea. You could just drink it, but it was also used in desserts and even entrees. There was also a prevailing belief that it had the power to bring clarity to prophets, which led to people drinking it in an attempt to have prophetic dreams. I never really bought into all of that, but the tea itself is really good.”

“I’m inclined to try it, then,” I said, then laughed. “Impress me once again with your cooking.”

He chuckled, then quickly got to work. After setting up the pot, he waited for the water to boil before steeping it with tea. Slowly, the room began to fill with an unusual floral scent. It was nothing like what I had experienced before, but it was pleasant. Already, I was beginning to understand why it was popular.

I watched as the water became infused with the color of the flowers, the magenta purple dancing with bubbles as it boiled. Ever so carefully, he scooped out the flowers and began preparing his other ingredients. There was something about watching him cook that I found calming. He was so gentle with all the plants he worked with, as if in respect of what they once were. I knew it was probably a way all elves of his time acted, but it felt distinctly his. It wasn’t just his behavior; it was a part of who he was, like he was a fragment of the past that had survived the test of time.

Against my rational thought, there was a part of me that wanted him to look at me the way he looked at those flowers. Adoration.

“It’s ready,” he said softly.

Quickly, the thoughts disappeared as I took in the scent of what he had made. It was exquisite. And it tasted just as good as it looked. The taste was otherworldly in a way, deliberately crafted in a balance of sweet, savory, and floral flavors.

Elae sighed. “It’s a little stale, and lacks proper flavor, but it’ll do. I suppose that’s what happens when tea expires…”

It seemed to disappoint him. Most likely, he was used to the taste when it was still fresh. Back when it was still popular, when the elves were still around. Perhaps he was homesick for it.

“I like it.”

“You do?” He looked rather surprised.

“Of course, the flavors are like a luxury in food! I’m almost upset that I’ve lived twenty years on this planet without ever trying it before.”

That got a laugh out of him. “Good. I shall have to make it again some time… with fresh flowers of course. Though that may be difficult considering how much the landscape has changed. Florathian is much rarer these days than it used to be.”

“I shall eagerly await your remake, then.”

We continued to chat while eating dinner, and long into the night. With a lack of sunlight appearing through the clouds, we had no idea how dark it had gotten. But I felt better about the storm with a fire going and Elae beside me. So even as the thunder occasionally resounded in my ears, I wasn’t as afraid. When we eventually went to sleep, I felt safe with my cloak wrapped around me.

And somewhere in the back of my mind, I pretended I could feel his warmth.

When I awoke, I wasn’t in the fort anymore. I was back in that forest, masked in fog. However, a patch of the stone floor I had fallen asleep on surrounded me. Slowly standing, I began looking around. The mist parted a little, revealing the path of torches I had taken before. Only this time, I could see the eyes in the forest as well.

They watched me as I started down the path again, the faint glow worsened my nerves. I knew it was them, the Banished who had been watching me during my travels. As their eyes laid upon me, I could sense their anticipation. They were waiting for something…

It felt like things had changed since I had last found myself here. Other than the Banished, I knew there was no one else here. Last time, I was afraid of something hiding in the mist, ready to attack me. But now, this place felt empty. Somehow, I could sense that there was nothing out there.

When I saw the wall up ahead again, I braced myself for the horrific sight I would behold this time. But it helped me little; I was still repulsed to see the corpses that littered the ground beneath me. It felt like there were more of them this time, carved open with black blood still pooling on the ground. I knew I was just dreaming, but there was still something about them that unsettled me. It felt far too real.

When I looked up, tearing my eyes away from the ghastly sight below, I saw the new message: He is not like you… He is a creature that does not sleep, nor can he dream.

[kat-nevayra]

Worldbuilding: Places [Part One]

This is a quick worldbuilding segment for Areth's continents, because that'll be important for the post I wanna make today. Areth has six continents to mention:

Alveria - The former home of the elves, ruled by the Elven Empress Ophelia. The landscape is full of forests, with a giant mountain range in the west. It has remained relatively unchanged for thousands of years, with a distinct lack of automation and technology. It also used to be home to the saytrs, vampires, and nightwing creatures, but they were driven out by the empress.

Levaris - The home of the Nevayran Empire, as well as diverse landscapes and cultures. It's full of mountains, deserts, forests, and plains, with many countries existing within these landscapes. The continent is home to all kinds of magical races, but elementals are the prominent group to call Levaris home.

The Everfalls - The land of both the Legionnaire Empire and the Elemental Force. This continent is home to many forests and waterfalls, and well as great sources of magic. Although the Legionnaire Empire controls most of the Ever Falls, the Jade Empress and the Elemental Force hold some sovereign territory. Additionally, Xinghongdi and Aeyeomi have established their independence from the Legionnaires.

Valren - The home of the Daeonic Empire of the Lysrans. Within the center of the continent, a giant volcano named Valren's Heart can be found. As for the empire, it is a war driven nation led by King Lucian. It is always plunged into conflict with its neighbors; the few other remaining factions.

Northland - A desolate wasteland 'ruled' by Kat of Elvairre, a former servant of the Daeons. This continent is home to few countries, which are set up along the coast. The rest is known as the Northland Wastes, a desert in which nothing grows. Its only inhabitants are the Daeon and a Faerie prince, who was stranded in the realm of land.

The Southern Continent - The place those rejected by Alveria went. The nightwing creatures and saytrs set up their own country, free from the rest of the world. Although largely forgotten about, they have grown very successful compared to many other nations. They keep to themselves among their isles and forested mainland, but their trade relationships are very healthy.

[kat-nevayra]

[TToD] Chapter Eight - The Path Ahead

It was an odd feeling, being the first one awake. I had gotten used to the scent of breakfast drawing me out of my tent, where I’d found that Elae had been busy long before I had woken up. But this morning, I was the first one awake.

First, I decided to tend to the horses. I gave them food and water, also rewarding Milkshake with some attention. She’d seemed worried about me the night we returned, so I wanted to assure her that we were okay. I didn’t know how long we’d been gone, but there was relief in the fact that our horses were still here. We couldn’t have lost too much time.

After tending to their needs, I gathered firewood to make breakfast. Along the way, I decided I would gather some extra wood to take with us. There wouldn’t be much firewood where we were headed next. We’d need to be prepared.

Once I got a fire going, I produced a few ingredients to make oatmeal. Since I wasn’t a very good cook, I picked an easy recipe. I’d watched Elae make it a few times during breakfast, so I figured I could make it without a recipe. As I began to put ingredients in the pot, I heard my companion begin to stir.

He opened his eyes, speaking in a drowsy voice, “You… saved me…”

“Of course, you’re my travel partner,” I told him. “Besides, Ophelia probably wouldn’t let me go free if I left you to die here.”

He laughed. “Of course. Freedom is the priority.”

“Eh, you’re what actually makes this quest bearable. Freedom is just what makes it worth it.”

“Worth dealing with me?”

“No, worth dealing with stuff like that,” I said, looking back at the library. “If I can go my whole life without ever getting trapped in a labyrinth again, I will die happy.”

“Unfortunately, we still have two artifacts to recover. Though, I don’t think either of them are protected in the same manner.”

“Thank goodness.”

He and I shared a little laugh. We were both grateful to have made it out of there. But something seemed to bother him. He’d done nothing but sleep since we were separated, and yet he looked tired. He was quieter, in the way he sometimes got on our journey when he was sleepy. Were his nightmares still affecting him?

“Are you doing okay?”

“Yeah. Though I still need to see a doctor, I think,” he replied. “Why do you ask?”

“You seem tired, and… when I found you in the maze, you were crying.”

“Ah. So you’re worried about what I saw, then?”

I nodded.

“It’s nothing, really. Just some stuff from my past. I’ve fought in a lot of wars, even before my sister became the empress. That stuff tends to stick with you, no matter how long ago it happened.”

I knew nothing of his experiences, but could somehow understand the feeling. I had my own things that stuck with me. Even now, I was making memories that would never leave. The labyrinth, the collar, the eyes in the woods… Once I completed this quest, I would never forget it. Of course, that was assuming I completed it. Either way, I'd die with the memories.

I found myself relieved to see Elae safe. His smile was infectious, and hearing his voice again made relief crash over me in waves. Seeing him safe, although injured, gave me a sense of security. I felt like everything was going to be okay. But I worried about him too. The collar around his neck shimmered in the sunlight, even from beneath his cloak.

I didn’t understand. How had I never noticed it before? It seemed like such an obvious detail in hindsight. Without his armor, the elven silver stuck out against the rest of his outfit. He wasn’t one to wear jewelry, so he just wore simple fabrics. Except for the brooch that held his cape together. That was made of a beautiful green gem from the mountains, wrapped in the same silver.

I desperately wanted to ask him about the collar, to find out what happened to him. But the elven knight was a secretive person. The only thing he’d really been willing to share with me was his reason for coming along. He was pretty honest about his relationship with Ophelia, but not much else. He’d likely tell me not to worry about it. He always did.

“Elsie, are you alright?”

I hadn’t realized that I was staring. “Oh! Sorry, I just-”

“How long have you known?” he said, touching the glimmering metal.

“Not long. Since last night… when I found you,” I replied. “I guess I’m just trying to understand it. You’re the sweetest, most lawful person I know. I can’t think of any reason someone would want to collar you.”

He sighed. “Unfortunately, I can think of many. One that comes to mind is paranoia.”

“Paranoia?”

“Ophelia is incredibly paranoid. It’s why she banned magic; so no one could contest her power. And as for the people who work for her, she’s always worried about traitors. So this collar makes me obedient. I’m forced to follow any order she gives me, with little room for free will.”

“Is that why you wouldn’t do anything without me in the Ancient Library?”

“Indeed.” He looked away from me with guilt in his eyes. “It’s why I couldn’t have been of more help. But her orders were very specific, to ‘follow your instruction within the relic domains’. It makes assisting you difficult, but I tried my best to protect you anyway. Unfortunately, we as her court are kept on tight leashes… in both literal and metaphorical senses.”

“At the very least, it doesn’t seem like she gives you too many restrictions.”

“She doesn’t know she has to,” he said, before adding quietly, “She thinks my mind was broken a long time ago.”

I had so many answers, and yet an equal amount of questions. If the empress thought he was broken, then it made sense why he acted so strangely when we met. It explained the way he only spoke when spoken to, as well as his silent nature at the beginning of our journey. But it opened up even more questions. What had happened to make everyone think that way about him? What was Ophelia so afraid of, and why did it lead her to force obedience from her own brother?

In an attempt not to pry, I pushed away the questions I had. I didn’t think I was going to get more answers. If he wanted me to know, he’d tell me later. Besides, he was still recovering from whatever happened in that maze. I wanted to give him some privacy. We still had months to spend together; there would be more time to pester him with questions.

After breakfast, Elae helped bundle the wood I’d gathered while I packed up the camp. Since I hadn’t pitched either of our tents, we were done quicker than usual. This left us more time to plan our destination and get on the road.

“You said you knew someone who could help you,” I mentioned, looking at the map. “Where do we have to go to find them?”

Standing next to me, he drew his finger over the map to a town south of here. It was one I recognized, and not for good reasons. “She lives here. I believe we need to head southwest anyway, so we can stop at her place on our way.”

“You must be insane! That place is full of criminals.”

“I’m well aware of that, don’t worry. I’ve visited her before, and we’ll be fine as long as we stick together.” he reassured me. “Besides, aren’t you a criminal?”

“I’m a thief. That’s different. Those people will do terrible things to others for quick money. It sickens me.”

“You’re absolutely right; it’s horrendous. But it’ll only take a night. Just trust me on this.”

I still wasn’t entirely sure this was a good idea, but I trusted him. He had thousands of years worth of experience, so maybe he knew this place better than I did. I’d never been; only having heard the stories from other thieves and travelers. Perhaps we could stay the night and then get out of there safely. It’s not like I knew where else to go, anyway.

After packing up, we got onto our horses and began taking the path that headed south. Elae told me that the journey would only take a few days, and we’d be traveling away from the forest. I felt a small amount of relief, since that meant I wouldn’t be haunted by the eyes. Unfortunately, as we rode under the open sky, I wasn’t rid of my worries.

…And soon, they would be proven right.