I
“What is the reason one must subjugate another? Throughout time it has happened, look back at the devastation that came ten years ago when Naratris said that everything that has some sort of ancient or arcane significance to us or any other realm in the land it belongs to them! Where is that fair or just?” A young woman with dark dark brown skin as if the earth itself had molded her beauty and features. Her braids were a work of art, jaded bubble goddess patterns woven with care, and embellished with the rich luster of bronze jewelry and the mystique of pomegranate charms. She wore a tunic crafted from a soft, relaxed fabric that draped gracefully, cinched at her waist with a sturdy, brown belt, which added a touch of earthy charm to her ensemble. Her pants, mirroring the tunic’s loose and comfortable aesthetic, embraced a warm cinnamon brown hue, and they were tucked snugly into indigo boots. These boots were adorned with intricate bronze trim that glistened as she moved. Completing her attire was a simple yet elegant cloak, the same deep indigo shade as her boots. Its edges were elegantly trimmed with the same enchanting bronze color, giving her an air of mystique and grace as she journeyed through the fantastical world.
“We will not stand idly by while our culture is still stolen from us!” Dahlia’s voice called out in the center of the capital city Averndon, and a diverse crowd gathered around her. Among them were humans, some known as Kerei, who possessed the innate ability to wield the elements through their magic, and others known as Legis, born without magic but still adept at harnessing magic-influenced skills like transportation and communication. The crowd was a tapestry of individuals from various backgrounds, including fae, mermaids, naiadokoi, nightbornes and a few xochiquá which were rare to see. “We must uphold our own even if the gods are dead we deserve to keep their memory as they created us to thrive together but keep what we’ve created close to us. They raid our stores, our land and take what is meaningfully to us. They’ve taken people too, our friends for being witches or because they’re allegedly members of the infamous Solanaceae Clan, which to that I say ′Amdo kiduvalo chaj!’” She declared vehemently.
The group around erupted into cheers of similar sentiment until guards came from the back of the crowd that had gathered going towards the direction of Dahlia. She looked back seeing them and looked back as she bowed, “thank you remember keep fighting for freedom and the preservation of our history.” She looked as they got closer mumbling a spell softly, ”tenebrarum occultatio" which caused her to be hidden at least a few minutes long enough to run away as the crowd of people dispersed as the guards came through them. she looked taking a deep breath debating on which way to go but moved hiding in a bookstore, Scroll & Quill Emporium, as she released the breath she was holding returning to being visible again.
“If I were you I’d pick spots that are easier to run from.” A calm friendly voice said, as Vestria walked out, “That is the third time they have cut your rally’s short this week correct?” Vestria, a striking presence, bore the sun-kissed essence of a desert oasis, her skin a tapestry of tan and olive, imbued with a lustrous bronze glow that seemed to shimmer like ancient treasure. Her fiery red hair, a cascade of flame, ignited the world around her, a living testament to her fiery spirit. Dragon scales, like secrets of an ancient world, adorned her body, their iridescent patterns reminiscent of the night’s constellations. Her visage bore a resemblance to the enduring strength of a dragon, her eyes echoing the wisdom of generations past. Vestria was a living embodiment of mystique, a captivating enigma cloaked in a tapestry of unique beauty.
Dahlia smiled at her friend, “not the full week just the past two days,” she said and sighed, “Vesti you should have been out there with me today,” she said thoughtfully. “But, I get it.” she said as she looked through the books, “anything new?” she asked looking through the shelves.
“are you looking for a new cookbook or are you looking for something else?” Vestria asked as she looked through the list and nodded, “I have a new cookbook, a new mythology book and we got a astrocartography book.”
Dahlie looked as she grabbed a book then looked at Vestria, “I’ll take those and this one.”
Vestria nodded as she read over the books and wrote them down,Navigating Mealedra: An Astrocartography Almanac,The Myth of Nydros & Delmira,Baking Tome IIIand a blank grimoire that she coul start her new one. “That will be five gold pieces, three silver, and two bronze coins, please.”
Dahlia took out an indigo bag taking the pieces out and set them on the counter, letting the firekin count them as she spoke, “Any news from your beaux back in Naratris?”
Vestria gave a calm but loving smile grace her features were normally serious and at the mention of herfriendKayuza, she spoke “he says currently it is warm there, that he misses me and wishes still I’d move to Naratris though I would rather not moving to the capital land of the realm. Abandon you and leave Elyon and your aunts to deal with you alone? Hah! No.” She said and looked at her friend as she put the books into a bag. “Though it could give me a chance to get back home to my land, I do miss the cold and volcanoes of Paypey.”
Dahlia nodded then smiled, “you should check it out I can tell you miss him, I mean how many blacksmithing books and guides can you have until you’re talking with him on your echostone?” She asked as she took her books thinking a bit.
“We have been talking more recently. But you do have a point, going to see him would not be an inherently bad idea, even can look and see for more of my people too in terms of getting our land back.”
Dahlia nodded, “and either way you can still hear everything from Emperor Loi’s council the time you’re there and if anyone could get in I bet Kayuza could get you into them.”
Vestria’s eyes lit up at that idea, “I will talk to him about it this evening, i will see you later as i know you have either your aunts or Elton to bother.”
Dahlia chuckled softly and nodded, “both i’m going by Moonbeam Vale and then back to Elyon’s as he said we have lessons today whatever that means.” she said as she walked out of the door the bell ringing signifying her exit. She pulled her hood up as she looked around the town center everyone was going about their day and looked like there was no soldiers present so she could leave peacefully.
Averdon, a city situated on sturdy hills, boasts impressive architecture. The beautiful landscape, with numerous waterfalls and rivers, played a vital role in shaping the city. These water features not only added to the city’s charm but also influenced its architectural style. Most buildings integrated elements of water, waterfalls, and lush greenery in their designs. The skyline was adorned with elegant skyscrapers that competed in magnificence. A hub for science and innovation, Osiria attracted significant attention.
Averdon was a melting pot of cultures and people, including the Chancellor, who left their marks on the city’s architecture and identity. What was once an ordinary city had evolved into a diverse metropolis, home to a multitude of people, both magical and non-magical. The city offered a wide range of dining options, from cafes to pubs and restaurants. For those seeking different experiences, there were libraries, theatres, dance halls, and various recreational venues to enjoy.
Dahlia emerged from the heart of a massive tree, gazing around before carefully placing a few enchanted crystals with travel runes into her basket. These crystals served as payment for a type of magical transportation that was particularly convenient for those without the ability to wield magic or who couldn’t bother with spellcasting. Dahlia was among those who lacked the knowledge of such spells.
Turning her attention back to the tree, Dahlia watched as the shimmering light vanished, and the portal closed, leaving no trace. She knew she could find her way back home through an alternative route. Her destination was Moonbeam Vale, the ancestral abode of her aunts and a sanctuary for the Ascetics of Delmira. Most of its inhabitants were women, as more men had chosen to join the Ascetics of Byella. After gaining entrance through the iron gates, guarded by the sentinels, Dahlia marveled at the beauty of Moonbeam Vale. Tall hedges, forming protective walls, prevented outsiders from trespassing, but the residents could move freely. The ancient trees encircling the estate also acted as natural barriers, making it a rare occurrence for unwanted intruders to reach their sanctuary.
As she made her way along the winding path, Dahlia passed through the inner garden. It was a place teeming with life, especially at night, showcasing an array of nocturnal flora. The area featured streams merging into a serene pond that graced the front of the property. Dahlia paused briefly, taking in the magical scenery, before finally reaching the grand entrance.
A voice with a hint of annoyance greeted her as the door swung open, revealing Kai, one of her relatives. “You’re late, you know,” Kai remarked in a monotone tone.
Dahlia couldn’t help but respond with a touch of sarcasm, “Thank you, Kai, I hadn’t noticed.” She proceeded to step inside the entrance hall, gracefully removing her shoes as she embarked on another enchanting journey within the mystical realm of Moonbeam Vale.
Kai chuckled softly as they walked with her. “Nakiasha is currently teaching stellargraphy on the third floor while Mei-rong is teaching celestial linguistics on the second floor.”
Dahlia nodded then sighed a bit, “gods then why did they tell me to come as soon as possible?”
Kai shrugged as the two of them walked together, “they do that but then again weren’t busy this morning you were.”
That was true, she sighed softly sighed, “How has everyone been this week?”
“We’ve been good you have letters in your room, and when were you going to mention you liked my long hair, I wouldn’t have cut it.” They said as they played with the veil.
Dahlia laughed a bit. She knew they had read their journal, “you could have. It looks good short, so you have nothing to worry about. though you better not be reporting to my aunts.”
Kai crossed their heart in and motion using their fingers, “no trust me i don’t plan on doing that, though you should tell me more about this Sebastian.”
“Sebastian, he’s just an old friend technically a prince now, but he’s not that important, I mean we haven’t spoken since we were children. it’s been almost ten or it has been ten years. besides he’s kind of the symbol of what i loathe about this entire realm. the pageantry, he grew up here and it was his father who started the raids in the first place.” Dahlia said thoughtfully as she sighed playing with one of the charms in her braids, “also he stopped reaching out. I’d write wait by the echostone and nothing.”
Kai nodded understandingly, “alright. what about your ex Nicte?”
“She wanted to go back home to Camruzú not that I blame her honestly.” Dahlia said thoughtfully, then looked up as she heard the noise of the Celestial chimes going off, “ah they should be done I will see you later.” She said
As she ascended the grand staircase, she marveled at the ornate details adorning the walls of the ancient monastery dedicated to the goddess Delmira. The wooden banisters were finely carved with intricate patterns reminiscent of the goddess’s sacred symbols, while the walls were adorned with tapestries portraying the revered Delmira in various divine manifestations.
The decorative older halls exuded an air of mystery and reverence, with their high-vaulted ceilings adorned with crystal chandeliers that cast a soft, ethereal glow. The paintings of Delmira depicted her in moments of grace and power, with her divine aura enveloping the entire space. The portraits of Osiria in general showcased the realm’s rich history and culture, weaving a narrative of unity and strength.
A map of the realm, intricately drawn on a massive mural, hung at the end of the hallway, offering a visual representation of the lands Delmira’s devoted guardians protected. The monastery’s design, inspired by both the manor houses of old and the diverse cultural influences, created a breathtaking fusion of tradition and fantasy, a testament to her aunts who upheld its sanctity.
She looked walking in being greeted by Nianzu, a snow owl and Ursula, a red fox. Dahlia looked thinking a bit as she sat sown in one of the chairs looking over their globe watching the waves and clouds move on it as she thought to herself. She sighed softly as she grabbed the Oud plucking a few strings as she hummed softly waiting for her aunts to enter as a few plants grew around her. Hearing the door open she stopped playing and looked up.
“Ah it’s good you’re here we have a ad something from a reading about you.” Meirong said as she asked over petting Nianzu on the head as she sat in one of the chairs.
“So we’re going to summon your umbra praesidrum. Or at least teach you the spell.” Nakiasha explained.
Dahlia frowned, “I’m sorry what? As far as I know I’mno where near being ready for that. . .even if I was I-” she sighed softly.
Nakiasha looked as she nodded, “True it is the mark of a witch but,if you are not ready we cannot force you but the spell we can teach you.”
“And the potion you shall need, Maeralya summoned hers alone so I have the utmost confidence in you.” Meirong said.
Dahlia nodded as she took out her new grimoire and the glass pen and inkwell preparing to write it down.
Meirong nodded as she spoke, “first the potion, you will need: Moonshadow Dew which is to be collected during a full moon, Obsidian Dust that you will finely ground, Essence of Nightshade which should be extracted under a crescent moon, and a silver chalice.”
Dahlia continued to write as she listened.
“Mix them in this silver chalice on the night of a new moon. It’s crucial to visualize your spirit animal as you stir, absorbing the moonlight’s energy.” They pause, emphasizing the importance, “Drink the potion just before bedtime, and as you do, speak your intent. Let the potion guide your dreams, weaving the connection between you and the shadows. The success lies in your sincerity and respect for these elements.” Meirong explained going over carefully the instructions and what Dahlia would have to do.
Nakiasha then spoke “then the incantation you say after drinking the potion, this is your intent and call to the realm they reside:Nyctus umbra, spiritus astra, Noctis potentia, silentia castra. Animus umbrarum, ad me veni, In tenebris serva me, custodi et duc me.Repeat these words in a calm and focused manner, allowing the resonance of each syllable to echo in the dimly lit room, you will have to veil if you feel drawn to it. Most important this is for you so place something that is symbolic to you, that you hold close to your heart.”
“Would a gift count?” Dahlia asked softly as she slowly finished writing everything they had told her down.
“Yes, of course, as long as you hold it close to your heart.” Meirong said.
Dahlia nodded as she thought about it, it was a moonstone bangle that had been given to her by Sebastian years ago. she frowned thinking to herself, “I should go see if there is anything I can do for Elyon . . . maybe after what fortune you heard.”
Nakiasha spoke, ”As the winds of fate reunite them, beware the shadows of the snake’s past, for trust is a fragile ember. Yet, destiny, like a silent enchantress, shall weave a spell, binding their hearts against reason." She said thoughtfully, “it was from the oracle Mideia, so who knows what it could mean but I would be careful if I were you.”
Dahlia nodded taking note of the fortune, she nodded as she pressed a kiss to her aunts cheeks and turned to walk down the stairs, her thoughts consumed by that information. She hadn’t expected that at all, “beware the snake’s past.” she muttered to herself as she kept walking soon she was out the door, she’d probably come back and talk to Kai about it when she was free from Elyon.
As the afternoon sun shone on the people below, Asmodeus was making a few deliveries and at-home readings. It was typical for him, especially while waiting for Dahlia to return from her protesting and whatever else she had to do.
“I hope these help ease the pain of your pregnancy as you enter the last few months. May Enir and Kaltia protect and bless you and your family, Avonmora.” Asmodeus said with a soft smile.
“Thank you, Elyon, these will be helpful,” Avonmora replied with a smile, taking the satchel of herbs and one of the potion bottles he had handed her. She paid him and walked inside her home.
Asmodeus looked ahead, walking through. He kept walking in Lyrithia; it was only about 15 minutes away from the capital and located so close to Evermista Thicket that it was the perfect place for his home.
As he walked the few cobblestone streets, he came upon his home and shop; from the outside, his house looked intimate and cozy. It was built with burgundy bricks and has tan stone decorations. Small, octagonal windows add to the house’s overall style and have been added in a reasonably symmetrical pattern. The house surrounded a modest grass garden and a few small trees. Well-kept hedges contoured a luxurious patch of grass. A single ornamental piece stood near the left edge; the garden already claimed this. The flower beds were clearly a source of pride and joy within this garden. They’re well taken care of, forever expanding. The hedges reached at least a foot high, but this only seemed to happen outside the wild. A small picket fence loops around the garden, giving visitors an elegant way to discover the garden. Vines and roots stuck to their own domains for now, but there was no doubt they craved to stretch these boundaries. The decorative piece was the main centerpiece of the garden. The flower beds definitely try to claim their share of the glory. The hedges have no hard time as they received their share of attention, but there’s just no way to content the decorative piece’s limelight.
Upon entering the shop, a warm ambiance enveloped Asmodeus. The interior exudes a cozy charm, with rustic wooden shelves displaying an array of neatly organized vials and jars containing vibrant herbs and exotic potions. Soft, ambient lighting emanates from strategically placed lanterns, casting a gentle glow highlighting the various containers’ intricate labels. The air is filled with a subtle medley of fragrances – a harmonious blend of dried herbs, sweet floral notes, and the earthy essence of roots. A polished mahogany counter stands at the heart of the shop, showcasing delicate scales and antique mortar and pestle sets. Behind the counter, an assortment of meticulously arranged apothecary tools hang on the wall. Walking over to the cauldron, he looked, stirring it thoughtfully, “Are you back yet, Dahlia?” he added a few things.
Dahlia exited her room and nodded, “Hey, Elyon, I need you to do a reading for me if you have time when I’m done with errands.”
Asmodeus nodded as he thought momentarily, “I can do it now? It seems like the thought is on your mind because you never ask me for readings.”
He thought to himself that he couldn’t tell Dahlia the truth. He had lived in Osiria for the past two and a half years, under the nom de plume, Elyon, for his safety. He hated he had lied this long, but he’d keep at it, what it was for; he’d get an earful from a nineteen-year-old, and he did not need that as a twenty-two-year-old magician. He took a moment and looked in the mirror. He wore a black undergarment with a matching sleeveless top, an indigo long-sleeved shirt with a dark brown obi around his waist, and dark brown harem pants. Since he trained Dahlia, they matched in color and sometimes insignia, but not all the time. He walked over to the table and sat down.
Dahlia looked and nodded, “I know I normally go to anyone else, so you can’t be biased.” she said
Asmodeus took a moment and grabbed her hand as he looked over her plan, thinking a bit, “Well, besides the obvious worry on your face.”
“At my aunts, they gave me a prophecy, not that I need to hear any more prophecies that have to do with me or whatever, but Nakiasha told me that she got something from one of the followers of Mideia.”
Asmodeus nodded, ” what did they say?” He asked
Dahlia looked and spoke, ”As the winds of fate reunite them, beware the shadows of the snake’s past, for trust is a fragile ember. Yet, destiny, like a silent enchantress, shall weave a spell, binding their hearts against reason."
Asmodeus looked thoughtfully, listening to her speak, and frowned slightly, “reunite them; beware of the snake’s past.” He echoed her quietly, “It sounds as if someone you know is going to be back in your life whether you want them to be or not.”
“That’s what worries me anyway. Your fortune telling is strong enough to see who it is because if it’s who I think it is, I would happily just say here the rest of my days.” Dahlia said softly.
“Who is it that you’re worried about seeing you?”
“Sebastian Loi-Cregne. It has been eight years since I’ve seen him and seven years since he wrote me back, and if the fates want me to be back in his presence, I would instead join the souls in Vealoria in the warm embrace of Nydros and Delmira.”
Asmodeus chuckled as she kept speaking and nodded as he rested his hand on her head. “Trust me, if there was a way for me to know who exactly it was, I would do it, though we may not even need magic to find out.” he said thoughtfully, “or not a traditional reading anyway.“He sat her down, grabbed a few things, set down some incense sticks, and then looked at her, “because I believe part of you is hoping it’s him.”
Dahlia was silent, which was the only answer that Asmodeus needed as he nodded; he snapped his fingers, a flame appearing as he lit the incense and the candles on the altar table.
Asmodeus carefully arranged the incense and candles, creating an atmosphere conducive to divination. Taking a deep breath, he began a rhythmic chant, invoking the mystic energies surrounding them. As Dahlia sat in quiet anticipation, he focused on the question. With a wave of his hand, Asmodeus summoned a small pool of shimmering water on the table, reflecting the flickering candlelight. He gestured for Dahlia to gaze into the pool as he continued his incantation.
“Veiled in time, reveal the ties that bind, unveil the face of fate entwined,” he intoned, his voice resonating with an otherworldly echo.
As the water’s surface rippled with ethereal energy, images began to form—a sequence of events unfolding like a silent, ephemeral movie. Shadows danced across the water, revealing glimpses of faces, places, and emotions. Dahlia watched intently, her eyes reflecting a mixture of curiosity and trepidation. The images sharpened, and a figure emerged, obscured by the mist of divination. Asmodeus focused, his brow furrowed in concentration, attempting to discern the identity in the veiled visions. In a hushed tone, he whispered, “The past and future entwined, a familiar presence you shall find. A connection was lost, now to be unmasked. Prepare, for shadows from the past are cast.”
The water stilled, the visions fading away. Asmodeus extinguished the candles, the room returning to its serene ambiance.
Dahlia gazed at the now calm pool, contemplating the enigmatic message. Asmodeus, sensing her thoughts, offered a reassuring smile. “Destiny is a tapestry, Dahlia, woven with threads of uncertainty. The glimpses we receive are fragments, and navigating the unfolding chapters is up to us.”
He reached for a small, worn-out deck of cards adorned with symbols and arcane sigils. Each card held a story, a narrative waiting to be unveiled. Asmodeus shuffled the deck with practiced ease, his hands moving with fluid grace.
“Let us delve deeper,” he murmured, laying out a spread of cards before Dahlia. The cards whispered secrets to him, and he interpreted their language discerningly.
“The Serpent,” Asmodeus began, pointing to a card depicting a sinuous creature entwined with thorny vines. “A symbol of transformation, shedding the old to embrace the new. The reunion may bring challenges, but remember, the serpent carries wisdom.”
He revealed another card depicting two figures bound by an ethereal thread. “The Fates,” he continued. “Entwined destinies, the weaving of cosmic forces. Trust the path that unfolds, for even in uncertainty, there is a guiding hand.”
As Dahlia absorbed the insights, Asmodeus turned over the final card, which depicted a radiant sun breaking through storm clouds. “The Dawn,” he declared. “A promise of new beginnings, the dispelling of shadows. Embrace the light that emerges from the depths of uncertainty.”
Dahlia’s expression shifted from apprehension to a thoughtful calm as the cards spoke their silent language. Asmodeus, too, sensed a shift in the currents of fate.
“The cards reveal possibilities, not certainties,” he explained. “Your journey is yours to navigate, and each step shapes the unfolding narrative. Face the shadows with courage, and let the dawn guide you.”
Dahlia nodded, then sighed but was calmer than before. “While it doesn’t tell me if it’s Sebastian, I don’t feel as worried about it.”
“It’s okay to miss him even if you would rather not; I miss past partners, but I don’t think you should dwell on it. Oracles are not always right.” Asmodeus said thoughtfully.
Dahlia nodded as she looked at him and nodded, “Okay, what errands do I have to run?”
Asmodeus chuckled, “Yes, change the subject, but I have a list for you.” He looked as he grabbed the list, handing it to her. “Tell me what’s on it.” He said.
“Lolite. Cloves. Vanilla bean. Anemone flower. Seaweed. Dragon blood. An orbuculum stand. Moonstone. Wormwood. Pegasus feather. Obsidian. A new glass pen. I bought a journal for a new grimoire, so that’s done. Part of this sounds like a lust spell. Who’s the lucky couple.”
Asmodeus rolled his eyes. “Cade got a shipment of a few illegal items. Which is on the list too, if you remember the potion to reveal the writing.”
She looked at him with a slightly unimpressed and disappointed look. “Is it already made, or must I make it?” She muttered as she got up to look over the made potions.
Asmodeus watched her thoughtfully as she continued to look through the potions and looked as he grabbed two of them. One was correct, one was wrong, and the list would be engulfed in flames if she was wrong, so it would be nice to see what she learned.
After a moment, she opened one of the potions, poured two drops on the paper, watched the rest of the list reveal itself, and took a deep breath. “thank gods I was positive that I was going to set it on fire.” Dahlia said as she put the cap back on the potion.
“Before you leave, what’s in the potion?”
“Veilweaver Elixer is made with chameleon scales, mimic octopus tentacles, moonlit dew drops, essence of shadowroot, and starlight crystals. If you want it stronger, add a fire opal, one drop to make something invisible, and two to reveal it. So now I’m going to go.” Dahlia responded.
“Be safe,” Asmodeus said with a smile, handing her a satchel of money and a few other items.
Dahlia nodded as she walked out of the door leaving.
Asmodeus watched, thinking a bit as his mind returned to the pool of water. Of course, he knew more than he planned on letting on, which meant he had to write the last person he had planned on talking to, “hell, this is going to be a long evening.” He murmured as he sat down at his desk to write a letter to Viyan.
To Viyan Kotecha
I am writing to you, Viyan, about a recent Oracle message I have heard, and if you know anything as I do, you know that those are never good, and though it pains me to contact you, I must tell you that, I believe it has to do with Sebastian. It says. ‘As the winds of fate reunite them, beware the shadows of the snake’s past, for trust is a fragile ember. Yet, destiny, like a silent enchantress, shall weave a spell, binding their hearts against reason.’ I can only think of one person in Dahlia’s past that is silver-tongued. I’d advise you to keep Sebastian from coming to Osiria, so I hope you keep him there in Naratris with you. Thank you,
Asmodeus Daejon
He looked at the paper and folded it, thinking a bit as he snapped the letter, disappearing in flames as it was sent away. Now, all he had to do was hope it made it to Viyan in time.
“Lolite. Cloves. Vanilla bean. Anemone flower. Seaweed. Dragon blood. An orbuculum stand. Moonstone. Wormwood. Pegasus feather. Obsidian. A new glass pen.” Dahlia muttered as she repeated the list. Of course, she had to go to the woods and gather what was for her. “I hate him.” She groaned and stopped by the different shops. It was a long process to trade for these ingredients, especially those she couldn’t find in the store or the woods. “Mandrake roots, belladonna berries, moonflower seeds, dark crystal shards, banshee’s wail elixir, serpent’s venom oil, and cursed mirror glass. It’s like he thinks I’m his personal shopper.”
After some time, she finally reached Cade’s shop where most of these items could be sold, “so extra just say crystal ball stand.” She said as she looked around. This was the place of a store by the river. The garden was beautiful since it was placed by one of the many rivers that flowed through Osiria. The sound of the river as it flowed calmed her, and from what she could see, the insignia of an upside-down triangle on some stones. A water witch. She smiled faintly. She walked the path carefully, glancing at some lotus flowers and water lilies. Still, the attention is always drawn to the water clock. She wondered how Elyon knew him; she gave a slight smirk they dated. This could be the mystery ex-lover. She shook her head at that thought as she walked through two entangled willow trees, which led her to the shop. From the outside, this house looked pleasant. It had been built with bricks covered in render and has red pine wooden decorations. Small, half-rounded windows added to the shop’s overall look. Though nothing compared to the water clock near the door.
She entered the door and smiled softly as she saw another cloaked figure who seemed to read over the books on the shelves odd. But she paid no mind to it going up to the owner and read his name, Cade, “Elyon sent me to buy a stand for his crystal and a few other items, and he sent me with these.” She said with a smile. She handed him a bottle labeledROSARIUMand an intricate wooden box, once opened, revealed assorted vials. After she got a good look at him, she nodded. It was probably a mix of both, maybe even an arranged marriage; he didn’t look as if he was much older than her either.
“I’ll be right back with you. I know the one Elyon’s looking for.” They said as they walked to the backroom. Dahlia looked over at the cloaked figure. They seemed deep in thought, and the aura they gave off was suspicious. She pursed her lips as she watched, though when Cade came back, Dahlia smiled and took the box she opened to check and see what was in it as she needed the stand and the forbidden items.
Before she left, she looked over a few things to see if anything he had put down for her could be found here. It was quiet until she heard the door open, then Cade’s voice, “YOU DIDN’T PAY FOR THAT.” Followed by him about to go out the door.
Dahlia looked over, “Wait, I can get him for you if you can take this to Elyon for me.” She said with a smile as she ran out to follow the figure, “STOP THIEF!” She yelled as she ran through the town. The thief was fast, but Dahlia was agile, or at least better than him since she had lived here all her life. She looked around and followed him as he turned towards Evermista Thicket. She had to come here anyway; it was so convenient. Still, it was perpetually foggy and rumored to be filled with evil magic when alone.
“Not alone. There is a thief, and I had to pick up some specific things here, anyway.” She muttered and looked around; she couldn’t use her power out here since that figure might see her. She looked in the satchel and pulled out a miniature orb. So, this would last at least an hour or two with minimal sunlight from the trees. She looked around as she shook it. The energy in the sphere caused it to light up. She studied it a bit as she found the glyph; it contained firefly wings and whatever else Elyon used.
She walked through the thicket. They were gigantic, impenetrable, and thriving. Willows, wisteria, and weigela marked its canopy, and abundant dancing lights bounced through their crowns for various plants to reign in the crunchy layer of leaves below. Quiet vines dangled from a few of the trees. A range of flowers unique to this region enhanced the otherwise homogeneous terrain. A tumult of animal noises, predominantly those of insects and critters, added life to the forest and were out of sync with the occasional sounds of breaking twigs beneath the feet of larger animals.
She glanced around and listened carefully as she gathered some flower petals on the ground. She knew they had come this way, so where could they be? She groaned; Cade would not be happy she could give him something in return for the book if she did not find it.
“Curses.” She muttered as she continued to search for them and her items. During the years she had trained under Elyon, he was always quiet and stern, though sometimes he could let loose, and it was when he sent her on excursions like this. He trusted her, and she could not ruin that. Though once a twig snapped, she turned. Once she fixed her posture, the sphere dropped to the ground as she pulled an arrow from its quiver and nocked it, prepared to shoot. “One step closer, and my arrow finds your heart,” Dahlia called out.
“And if you don’t drop your weapon, I’ll-” The voice was smooth and icy in intimidation. The cloaked figure stepped out into one of the pockets of light.
“Dahlia?” Sebastian said as he lowered his sword.
