《Of Depraved Mockery & Delight》


 1.1

    1


    There came a lord in veil mourning,


    ¡®neath yon pale moon¡¯s beguiling.


    His visage shone, proclaiming,


    ¡°Come forth, thy pride reviling.¡±


    There came a lady roused from marble sprung,


    her mettle fierce and daring,


    Yet every word his sharp tongue flung


    cut deep beyond repairing.


    He twined his mirth, a viper¡¯s coil,


    with scornful jest he stung her.


    His mocking laughter, sweet and vile,


    did from her courage wring her.


    No mortal light his path did grace,


    nor could she break his tether,


    For he, the master of disgrace,


    bound both in dark together.


    And once a year, as caverns gape,


    and silence falls asunder,


    They dance till dawn, ¡®neath moon¡¯s escape,


    and tremble skies with thunder.


    One shadow cast, where scorn takes flight,


    ¡®neath Luna¡¯s cruelest beaming,


    A jesting wraith, in endless night,


    where mock¡¯ry e¡¯er is scheming.


    ~~~


    Elytheris was a land of soft, perpetual sunlight where dawn bled into dusk before settling into a gentle, quiet night. The towering trees were older than any mortal memory, rustling in the sunlit breeze, their leaves shimmering with silver undertones. Petals drifted from their branches most of the year except when snow kissed their land as Yuletide was upon them. This was Ellennara Amarielle Dawnspire¡¯s home, sealed away from the greater world across the ocean.


    Elle stood at one of the grand balconies of House Ilythien¡¯s ancestral palace. The polished white stone beneath her feet reflected the soft luminescence of the sky while elegant pillars curved overhead, crowned with intricate runes dedicated to the Great Tree of Life. Beyond the palace, the continent unfurled in an expanse of gently rolling hills, canopied groves, and crystalline waterfalls. And in the distance, hazy on the horizon, lay the vast sapphire stretch of Herawulf, the ocean she so desperately yearned to cross.


    She recalled, as she so often did, the stories told to her of her father¡¯s final journey to the Great Tree of Life, where the roots intertwined with the darkest depths of the world and its branches soared high above the skyline into the cosmic blues, granting him eternal unity with creation. He had gone long before she was old enough to make memories with him. Her mother, too, had departed three decades ago to join him among the twinkling tapestry of stars. That was the way of elves ¨C endless cycles of birth, flourishing, and returning to the cosmic realm when one¡¯s time was complete.


    Now, at 250 years old, Ellennara was still a young bloom among the ageless boughs of Elytheris. Slender fingertips traced along the balcony¡¯s banister, momentarily closing her eyes. She almost fancied she could sense the faint echo of her mother¡¯s voice in that hush of morning light. ¡°Elle,¡± she whispered, mimicking that gentle tone she remembered. ¡°Never lose your curiosity about the world.¡±


    A soft breeze stirred, as though answering her. Perhaps it was only the wind sighing through the trees, though sometimes Elle believed it might be her mother¡¯s spirit lingering in the silence.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.


    She turned away and descended a winding staircase into the heart of the palace: the grand library. It was said to house hundreds of thousands of tomes, scrolls, and fragments of knowledge collected since the founding of Elytheris. Rows upon rows of marble shelves loomed above her, each stacked with centuries of recorded wisdom from the earliest volumes of elven poetry to the meticulous treatises on runic magic. There were so many tomes still unread, and there was a particular thrill every time she set foot here. She could spend decades, centuries even, lost in these books, but her restless soul often grew hungry for something beyond these pristine walls. Running a hand over an embossed cover, she read the swirling script aloud, ¡°Voyages of the Golden Fleet.¡±


    There was that familiar longing in her chest again, weighing heavily on her. Her eyes lit up, and she imagined the open seas, the whip of salty wind against her cheeks, and the impossible thrill of stepping onto distant shores. ¡°Perhaps someday,¡± she murmured into the hushed stillness.


    Even so, ships rarely left Elytheris, and those that did were often shrouded in secrecy or tradition. Indeed, for all its grandeur, this realm was closed. Out of time, out of mortal reach, and rarely in contact with outside lands.


    Still, Elle harbored a stubborn spark of hope. She pressed the tome to her chest and moved to a reading alcove, its large arched window flooding the cushions with pale sunlight. She sank down, flipping pages crackling with age. Vivid illustrations depicted the rolling waters, sapphire depths swirling beneath ships emblazoned with elven crests. She closed her eyes, remembering what little she knew of her father: that he, too, once felt the irresistible pull of far-off horizons before returning to the roots of the Great Tree. She wished she could¡¯ve asked him about those journeys, unknown realms, and roiling seas.


    Did his heart quicken at the sight of new lands?


    She sighed and returned to the pages, letting her mind drift through the sketches. Eventually, Elle returned the book to its shelf, remaining a moment, fingertips still on the spine. She turned away from the towering shelves, the echo of that vow following her through the silent corridors until she reached her private chambers.


    Elle sighed, gazing through the open window of her lofty chamber. The weather was always calm, the breezes gentle, the waves placid. Everything was perfect, perhaps too perfect. At times, the princess couldn''t help but wish for a bit of turbulence in her otherwise serene life. She wasn¡¯t resentful of her status or ungrateful for the comfort she¡¯d known since birth. She scanned the horizon with bright green eyes, hoping for some grand spectacle. Maybe even the tentacles of a kraken cutting through those tranquil waters. That would undoubtedly rouse the realm from its usual calm. She smiled at the thought, brushing a strand of her cornsilk-blonde hair behind a delicate, pointed ear.


    Elle turned from the open window, her silks swirling and twirling with her movement. Her attire was the product of centuries-old artisan skills ¨C a sky-blue tunic slit at the sides, woven from the finest silks, and tawny spider-silk pants that flowed with every step. Her slippers were dyed subtly azure and stitched with tiny, embroidered flowers and stars in shimmering thread. Like a cat dancing along a narrow ledge, she was nimble, quick, and quiet as a mischievous spark flickered in her eyes, contemplating the narrow windowsill. A hand pressed against the marble frame, pondering how simple it would be to slip outside unnoticed. Having tested that ledge many times before by simply stepping out, bounding across the rooftops of Elindoryl, and landing gracefully on a hidden balcony below. From there, she could reach the Upper Westside streets within minutes. The mere thought sent her pulse racing.


    Measured, light footsteps echoing in the corridor beyond her doors drew her attention. She closed her eyes, focusing, and could pinpoint the location by the faint scuff of boots on polished stone. Fifteen feet away, by her reckoning. Her ears twitched slightly.

 1.2

    Which attendant would it be this time? Maybe a handmaiden delivering tea? Perhaps an advisor checking on her? She let out a small sigh, turning just as a polite knock broke the silence.


    ¡°Your Highness,¡± came a clear voice from the other side, ¡°His Radiance would like to speak with you.¡±


    At least it wasn¡¯t one of the handmaidens sent to hover over her.


    ¡°Enter,¡± Elle replied, smoothing a wrinkle from her tunic.


    The door swung open to reveal Aerindra Thalannis Sylverlief, a tall elf with a silhouette as graceful as it was imposing. She confidently stepped into Elle¡¯s chamber, her silver hair gleaming with lavender undertones where the light touched it. Intricate braids coiled around her head like living filigree, accentuating her deep purple eyes'' slightly tilted, feline shape. Her brown breeches and green silk tunic were simple, but because Aer was wearing them, they were elegant, while her dark leather boots were practical.


    A moment lingered between them as Aer¡¯s observant gaze flicked to the open window and the fresh scuff marks on the ledge. She knew how restless Elle could be, but she had long ago grown accustomed to the princess¡¯s harmless daring.


    ¡°Your Highness,¡± said the noblewoman.


    Elle was of average height for an elf, shorter than Aer. Elle turned to her friend, gently smiling. ¡°Alright, Aer.¡±


    Aer offered a wry, knowing tilt of her lips. She¡¯d been born just twenty-five years before Elle, practically the same age by elven standards, and shared in many of Elle¡¯s adventures through childhood. Raised in House Eryndorril, Aer trained extensively in the art of archery and swordplay, using her lithe frame and keen eyes to become a ranger of some renown with the Royal Rangers.


    Elle glanced around as though searching for another face. She asked, ¡°Where is Kali?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve dismissed your handmaids?¡± Aer responded, arching an inquisitive eyebrow.


    Elle nodded, unable to suppress a mischievous grin. ¡°I did. I needed a moment¡¯s peace.¡±


    Aer matched that grin, the corners of her eyes crinkling with amusement. Then she quietly shut the door behind her, ensuring some privacy. Ever cautious, she scanned the room with a quick, purposeful glance. Satisfied they were alone, she crossed the polished floor to Elle¡¯s side and leaned in, lowering her voice so only the princess could hear.


    ¡°Kali¡¯s with His Radiance,¡± Aer whispered. ¡°A merchant¡¯s ship somehow found its way into the port during a storm. The Order of the Thornbound assembled for his protection.¡± She paused, letting the anticipation build. ¡°I heard they are eastern human merchants.¡±


    ¡°Humans?¡± Elle echoed, her pointed ears twitching at the unexpected revelation. A ripple of excitement moved through her voice. In a realm so closed off from the outside world, hearing of humans was as rare as glimpsing a shooting star in eternal daylight. ¡°Well, we mustn¡¯t be late then,¡± she declared, setting her jaw playfully. ¡°We have to catch a glimpse of these humans.¡±The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    Before Aer could blink, Elle dashed out of her chamber, slippers whispering against the marble floors, outpacing the ranger quite a bit. Chuckling, Aer raced after her, no stranger to the princess¡¯s quick bursts of energy. They hurried through the corridors. Pale sunlight filtered through stained-glass windows depicting ancient elven legends of druids communing with the Great Tree, soaring hawks, and moonlit ceremonies. The floors beneath their feet were laid with mosaic tiles in swirling emerald and gold, arranged in intricate patterns.


    From alcoves and adjoining rooms, maids, butlers, and stewards bowed or curtsied as the pair rushed by. ¡°Your Highness,¡± a few murmured, their voices hushed respectfully. They stood aside to let Elle pass, each gazing fondly at the young princess they had watched grow into a thoughtful, spirited woman. Those who looked closely would notice the shared sparkle in Elle¡¯s and Aer¡¯s eyes, an unspoken and open secret that the two were up to something beyond ordinary palace routine.


    When the hallways finally cleared, and no watchers remained but the silent stone statues of ancestors past, Elle and Aer broke into a full sprint. The slap of leather boots and the whisper of silk echoed through the vaulted space. Their laughter was light and unrestrained. They could have been children again at that moment, racing through the palace gardens without care, weaving between marble pillars, hearts pounding in unison.


    ¡°This is what I needed,¡± Elle breathed, still moving swiftly. ¡°A little excitement. Nothing too scandalous, but enough to break up the day.¡±


    Aer¡¯s grin widened. ¡°Be careful what you wish for, Your Highness. Rumor has it humans aren¡¯t exactly subtle.¡±


    Elle laughed, rounding a corner with catlike grace. ¡°I¡¯m counting on it.¡±


    Their footfalls carried them closer to the courtyard and the grand hall beyond, where they hoped to intercept the newcomers. The promise of a visitor from beyond Elytheris electrified Elle¡¯s imagination.


    What stories might they tell? What items might they have traded across the sea? Would they speak the elven tongue, or would a translator be required?


    Perhaps these human travelers were merely the beginning of the wider world finally washing up on Elytheris¡¯s shores.


    ¡°Most exciting, isn¡¯t it?¡± Aer called out, her voice echoing in the vaulted corridor.


    ¡°Oh indeed!¡± replied Elle, louder than she¡¯d meant, and then she lowered her tone, glancing at nearby servants who offered curious looks before returning to their tasks. ¡°Humans are so rare around here! When was the last time we had a human visit Elytheris?¡±


    ¡°Twenty-five¡ª¡± Aer coughed into her hand. ¡°Years ago.¡±


    They exchanged gleeful smiles, and their pace quickened. Silk clothing and braided hair trailed behind them. Elle flicked her gaze over to Aer as they hurried. ¡°Have you ever seen a human before?¡±


    ¡°Mayhaps,¡± Aer replied, her eyes dancing. ¡°Perhaps they are as terrifying and awful as the stories make them out to be. Greedy, tiny things.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s go,¡± Elle said, pulling Aer forward. The pair skidded around a corner and down another hallway until, at last, they reached the throne room¡¯s impressive double doors. Tall and carved from pale wood inlaid with shimmering runes, the doors bore the crest of House Ilythien. Two knights of the Thornbound Order ¨C one male, one female ¨C stood at attention, their polished armor gleaming.


    Both knights dipped their heads in respect. ¡°Your Highness, His Radiance is still with a¡ª¡± The woman hesitated, perhaps uncertain whether to speak openly of humans in the palace. ¡°An outsider,¡± she said at last.


    ¡°His Radiance has summoned me,¡± Elle said with a courteous but knowing smile. ¡°I shall do as my brother ordered.¡±


    The other knight cleared his throat. ¡°Your Highness¡ª¡±


    Elle lifted a hand to forestall any further objection. ¡°If my brother is angry, I will bear that responsibility. Have no fear.¡± Without waiting for a response, she pushed the heavy doors open, stepping into the throne room with Aer at her heels.

 1.3

    Inside, crystalline pillars rose to meet the vaulted ceiling, their facets catching and refracting the soft sunlight so that delicate rainbows danced across the polished floor. The entire Order of the Thornbound formed a silent perimeter around the chamber. At the center of it all, kneeling on a fine woven rug, was the merchant in question. He looked haggard ¨C an older man with a bushy mustache and a sparse crown of hair, sweat beading on his brow under the scrutiny of so many elven knights.


    On the raised platform at the far end of the hall stood the crystal throne, its intricate edges shining in an otherworldly gleam that symbolized the lineage of House Ilythien. There sat Erenion, looking simultaneously regal and bored. He wore flowing silk pants and a high-collared tunic of blue and white, fastening snugly around his neck with shimmering buttons. The two siblings shared similar features, but Eren was handsomely beautiful while Elle was this cute, petite slip of a flower. One hand cradled his cheek while his green eyes observed the merchant before him. Eren stopped the human¡¯s anxious rambling about the honor of standing in such a grand elven court. He rose from the throne elegantly, descending the steps to speak.


    ¡°We will repair your ship,¡± said Eren, his voice regal, poised, and resonant, ¡°and you must leave tonight.¡±


    The merchant lifted his gaze, eyes wide, face flushed from exertion and nerves. Now that she was close enough, Elle could see how his mouth quivered as he spoke. ¡°Your Radiance, please¡­have mercy. Though fate has brought us here by a terrible storm, might there be an opportunity ¨C an honor ¨C to establish a trade route with your beautiful kingdom?¡± He bowed so low that his mustache grazed the rug beneath him.


    Elle¡¯s heart fluttered. She edged forward, catching a faint hint of salt on his clothes, no doubt from the ocean voyage gone awry. The Thornbound knights stiffened at her approach but did not stop her. As she came abreast of her brother, she nodded slightly in greeting. Eren¡¯s gaze flicked to her, a faint, knowing exasperation in his eyes, yet his affection was just as clear.


    The merchant appeared torn between continuing to plead his case for a moment or shrinking under the scrutiny of a princess he¡¯d never expected to encounter. He cast one pleading glance at Elle, then returned his attention to the king.


    Aer lingered behind Elle, posture alert, her curious gaze wandering over the human. A part of Aer found the man¡¯s presence intriguing; another part remained cautious of all the tales she¡¯d heard.


    Elle wet her lips, choosing her words carefully. She had no intention of defying Eren in front of the entire court, yet she couldn¡¯t simply ignore the palpable fear and awe emanating from the stranded man. ¡°Brother,¡± she began softly, ¡°his ship was caught in a storm, and he has come so far from his homeland. Might we¡­at least hear more of his story? Perhaps it would help us decide what to do next.¡±


    Eren regarded her quietly for a heartbeat. She recognized the subtle tension in his eyes. Eren was torn between swift, decisive action and the empathy beneath his regal exterior. Finally, he inclined his head, allowing her to speak without breaking his composure.


    Elle turned to the merchant, voice gentle. ¡°What is your name, traveler?¡±


    The merchant scrambled upright, his words tumbling out. ¡°I am Elias Marwick, Your Highness. A humble merchant of the Eastern Continent.¡± His gaze darted from the knights to the king, then back to Elle. ¡°I meant no harm by arriving unbidden. My crew and I only wish to fix our vessel so we can return home¡­though,¡± he added hopefully, ¡°if Your Radiance would allow us to trade our wares, it could be mutually beneficial.¡±


    A hush settled over the room again, the faint glow from the crystal pillars dancing across armor, silk, and the merchant¡¯s rumpled clothing. In the corner of her eye, Elle saw Aer¡¯s skepticism surface. Still, the ranger did not speak out of turn; she only observed.Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.


    Eren inhaled slowly.


    A single, stray thought rang in Elle¡¯s mind: If a human can breach these shores ¨C even by chance ¨C then perhaps the wider world is not so far away. Elle felt that spark of hope within her glow a little brighter.


    ¡°No,¡± Eren announced. ¡°There will be no trade needed. You will leave tonight.¡±


    ¡°But, but, Your Radiance¡ª¡± the merchant stammered, voice cracking as he tried to plead his case.


    Eren¡¯s gaze slid to Commander Thalion Brightblaed of the Thornbound. He was a tall, strapping elf with short, light brown hair and striking grey eyes, stepping forward. He wore light plate armor forged from mithril, each piece engraved with subtle elven patterns.


    ¡°Brightblaed,¡± Eren said, ¡°escort the merchant and his people back to their ship and help prepare them for departure.¡±


    Though Brightblaed didn¡¯t smile, his demeanor was respectful as he spoke to the human. ¡°Sir Marwick, my men and I will see you have all you need for safe passage. We will keep you company until you depart.¡± He turned briskly to another figure among the knights. ¡°Captain Wyndwisper,¡± he ordered sternly, ¡°take your unit and patrol the docks.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Commander,¡± came the prompt reply.


    Kalithra Wyndwisper was a tall elf with broad shoulders, blazing yellow eyes, and fiery red hair. The woman stepped forward. She bowed to Eren, crossing a fist over her heart. ¡°Your Radiance,¡± she said in a rich, clear voice. Then she turned, offering Elle a more personal smile before bending at the waist with a perfectly precise bow. ¡°Your Highness.¡±


    When Captain Wyndwisper straightened, a crimson banner bearing the sigil of an expanding sun fluttered like a cape at her back. Armored boots carried her gracefully across the polished floor, and she donned her silver helm as she led her unit from the throne room. Her armor clinked lightly, but her stride was unbroken.


    Commander Brightblaed followed suit, swiftly giving out more orders for the knights to divide into patrols across the palace grounds and the port beyond. One by one, the elven knights of the Thornbound Order bowed and filed out, leading the anxious Sir Marwick away. The human¡¯s pleading words faded down the grand corridors until the heavy doors swung shut, leaving only Elle, Aer, and Eren in the now-quiet hall.


    A tense hush settled over the throne room. Silent guards, stoic and statuesque in their ceremonial regalia, flanked the doors. For a moment, no one spoke. Eren stood near the throne, one hand resting lightly on the carved arm of the crystalline seat. His expression remained poised, though a trace of weariness lined his brow.


    Finally, Elle exhaled, her pulse still hammering. She took a hesitant step forward, searching her brother¡¯s face. She began softly, ¡°Brother, I realize we do not wish to open Elytheris to any¡­unwelcome changes. But¡­do you think perhaps the humans only want fair trade? Or even a chance to learn from us?¡±


    ¡°Enough,¡± Eren said gently, though his tone carried the weight of authority. He met Elle¡¯s gaze, then Aer¡¯s, and shook his head, remaining calm. ¡°I must maintain order and preserve our realm. The humans will depart soon enough.¡±


    Elle pursed her lips. She glanced at Aer, who met her look and gave a slight, regretful shrug.


    ¡°Of course, Your Radiance,¡± Elle said, bowing her head to him. ¡°Thank you for hearing him out, if only for a moment.¡±


    Eren inclined his head briefly. He said nothing further on the matter. Instead, he gestured toward the door, letting her know she was free to go.


    Elle offered a final respectful curtsy, then turned on her heel, Aer following dutifully. Their footsteps echoed across the cavernous hall as they left. Aer exhaled with a slight huff as soon as they were in the corridor beyond. She ran a hand over her braided silver hair, searching Elle¡¯s face.


    ¡°That was¡­tense,¡± Aer murmured, her voice still low, mindful that elven ears were everywhere.


    Elle nodded. ¡°Even if I expected as much from him, I still hoped he¡¯d be more¡­open.¡± She sighed, glancing at a tall window overlooking the palace gardens. In the distance, she could make out the pinnacles of the city, beyond which waited the docks.


    ¡°The humans will be gone by nightfall,¡± Aer said quietly. ¡°They will never return.¡±


    Elle¡¯s gaze flicked downward, and an ache of disappointment gnawed at her. She raised her chin. ¡°Well, at least we know it¡¯s possible. If a storm can bring them here, perhaps fate could carry us elsewhere, too.¡±


    Aer¡¯s lips curved into a slight, wry grin. ¡°Still dreaming of the open seas, Your Highness?¡±


    Elle laughed softly, just enough to echo in the corridor. ¡°Always,¡± she confessed.

 1.4

    Suddenly, the soft sound of a deliberate cough drifted to her pointed ears. She turned to find Eren standing behind her and Aer, his regal bearing plain despite the gentle smile he wore. His gaze flicked toward Aer, and he spoke in a firm but not unkind voice.


    ¡°Lady Sylverlief, you may follow us at a distance.¡±


    Aer dipped her head in acknowledgment, stepping back a few paces. Though outwardly composed, she shot Elle a fleeting, curious look.


    Without explaining further, Eren led Elle through one of the archways into the royal hanging garden, a marvel of elven craftsmanship spiraling upward in lush terraces. Verdant vines trailed over the edges of balconies carved from pale stone, while columns bearing delicate, swirling motifs of leaves and blossoms supported the entire structure. Overhead, braided trellises dripped with flowers of every shade, their perfume mingling in the perpetual, sunlit air.


    They descended ornately carved steps, passing a fountain at the center of the lowest terrace. Water spouted in crystalline arcs, each droplet catching the golden light and bending tiny rainbows in midair. Roses of every hue flourished here, their petals gently opening in the warmth of Elytheris. Near a walkway shaded by overhanging wisteria, a violet lily burst forth in delicate splendor, while further along stood hydrangeas in sky-blue clusters, no doubt cared for meticulously by the palace gardeners.


    Off in the distance, the shimmering spires of a temple dedicated to Aelindra, the Shining Mother of the High Elves, rose just beyond the garden. An ornate walkway led to the temple¡¯s carved doors, where worshippers gathered to pray and reflect in silence.Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    Eren paused near a row of crystal roses, their petals cut from glittering quartz. He brushed a finger over one bloom before carefully plucking it from the bush. The midday light ignited the rose from within like starlight pulsing in its translucent petals.


    ¡°Elle,¡± he said, holding the rose up for her to see, ¡°do not get ideas.¡±


    She raised an eyebrow, feigning innocence. ¡°Whatever do you mean, brother?¡±


    The corners of Eren¡¯s mouth pulled into a tighter line, and he fixed Elle with a pointed look. His voice remained calm yet carried the weight of caution. ¡°This flower thrives only because it was nurtured and cared for, shielded from harm. Our kingdom is quite like this rose: precious, fragile in some ways, and all the more beautiful for how diligently we tend to it.¡±


    She inclined her head, knowing well the sermon that often followed. ¡°I understand.¡±


    Eren turned the rose thoughtfully between his fingers, then spoke, delivering a reminder he hoped she would truly heed. ¡°We are the protectors of this holy land. We must love our realm as ourselves. Our lives are long. Our memories are longer still. If we allow a careless act, it is remembered with far more vigor than any good we might do.¡± He paused, letting the words sink in before finishing softly, ¡°That is all. You may go now. Perhaps visit the temple. Give a prayer to the Holy Mother and our parents on my behalf.¡±


    Quietly, Elle drew a breath. She managed a respectful curtsy, feeling her heart tug. ¡°Of course, brother.¡±


    Eren nodded and turned away, crystal rose still in hand. Aer promptly stepped aside as the king passed, bowing with one hand over her heart. With Eren¡¯s footsteps fading down an adjacent walkway, Elle finally allowed herself a soft sigh.


    Nearby, another bush of crystal roses glimmered in the same pale sunshine. Elle gently took one of its blossoms, mindful of its glassy thorns. Her deft fingers slid the rose behind her cornsilk-blonde hair.


    Aer approached. ¡°Shall we head to the temple, Your Highness?¡±


    Elle looked at the temple¡¯s silhouette in the distance. ¡°Yes. Let¡¯s go. I have a prayer to offer.¡±

 2.1

    Elle paused at the threshold of the Temple of Aelindra. Behind her, the royal gardens sprawled, flowers, winding paths, and trickling fountains led her to this sacred space that served as a bridge between the palace and the city. A gentle breeze drifted through the back courtyard, stirring the scent of blossoming lilies and crisp water from the temple¡¯s lower pools. Beside her, Aer stood, her violet eyes flicking from the arching spires above to the softly rippling water below.


    ¡°Every time I come here,¡± Elle murmured, her voice barely louder than the sighing wind, ¡°I¡¯m reminded of how small we truly are.¡±


    She stepped onto the ornate bridge, its railings resembling delicate lace spun from stone. Below, the temple''s lower levels spread out in smooth pools of crystal-blue water, their surfaces still enough to reflect the vaulted terraces and columns rising around them. Slowly, Elle and Aer continued across, their footfalls a gentle echo on the carved walkway.


    Once inside, through a side entrance used by the royal family and noble houses, the pair passed into a narrow hallway. Niches were carved into the stone-lined walls, each housing a small relic or a statue ¨C some older than living memory, others recently placed by devoted pilgrims. Incense smoke drifted in the air, woven with faint traces of salt and dew, and every so often, the hush was broken by a distant trickle of water from hidden fountains.


    Elle ran her fingertips along one alcove¡¯s ledge, pausing at the sight of a tiny stone figure left by an anonymous worshipper. It depicted the goddess in a stylized form, arms raised in a blessing posture. A withered flower wreath lay at the statue¡¯s feet. She frowned slightly, wondering how many hopes and prayers had been offered here over the centuries, how many had been answered, and how many still hung in the air, drifting like incense.


    ¡°Your Highness,¡± Aer whispered from a few steps ahead. ¡°The main chamber is this way.¡±


    They emerged into a grand hall so immense it appeared like a self-contained sky. Towering columns reached upward like ancient trees, each carved with scenes of elven history: alliances, triumphs, devotions to Aelindra and the pantheon of Elven Gods. Stained glass windows depicting celestial figures and extraordinary events from eras past cast dancing mosaics of color upon the polished floor. Scarlets, golds, violets, and blues merged and separated in a constant, graceful flow.


    A circular altar surrounded by shallow, luminescent pools lay at the center. The runes engraved around the altar glowed faintly, resonating with each inhalation of the worshippers who walked through the space. A colossal statue of Aelindra, mirroring the one towering outside, loomed above the altar. Radiant chandeliers hung high overhead, fashioned from crystal and metal in a star and leaf motifs lattice. Their refracted light created an ethereal haze that reminded Elle of dawn breaking over Herawulf¡¯s waves.Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    She stopped in front of the altar, heart thudding. Setting a hand gently on the rim of the nearest pool, she watched the shimmering water ripple outward. Aer stepped to her side, the hush between them a comfortable silence.


    ¡°You¡¯ve seen so many wonders within these walls,¡± Elle said softly, a wistful note creeping into her voice. ¡°But does it ever¡­feel too small?¡±


    Aer gave a quiet laugh, low enough not to disturb the tranquil atmosphere. ¡°I know what you mean. Elytheris is vast, yet sometimes it feels very¡­enclosed.¡± She tilted her head, her silver braid shifting across her shoulder. ¡°But it is our home. And it is beautiful.¡±


    Elle dipped her fingers into the water, feeling the cool tingle of magical energy that calmed her pulse. ¡°I can love home¡­and still want more,¡± she whispered, thinking of the ocean, the human merchant, the mysteries lying beyond these shores.


    They were not alone in the chamber. Other elves crept between the columns, some kneeling in prayer, others lighting small candles or offering blossoms at various shrines. A few cast curious glances at the princess, but most kept their attention respectfully on their devotions.


    ¡°His Radiance asked you to pray,¡± Aer reminded gently. ¡°Shall we?¡±


    Elle nodded, rising gracefully. She crossed to the altar near the softly glowing runes. Kneeling upon a cushion, she bowed her head. In her mind¡¯s eye, she pictured the Great Tree of Life, her parents now part of its cosmic wonders, and the gentle presence of the goddess Aelindra overseeing all. She prayed for guidance, for Eren, the kingdom, and perhaps for herself. When she finished, she looked up. Aer stood quietly behind her, eyes lowered in her short prayer or reflection.


    A soft sound drew their attention: a chorus of distant bells signifying the afternoon sermon was about to begin. Priests and devotees, silhouettes in layered robes, gathered near the central altar, readying themselves to lead a sacred chant.


    Elle rose, brushing off her silk trousers. She and Aer moved silently, retreating from the altar to avoid disturbing the incoming worshippers. They slipped through another column-lined passage, noticing another discreet doorway leading them back toward the gardens or deeper into the temple if they wished.


    Quietly, they ventured farther, passing frescoes. Elle could make out the swirling colors even in the dim light of the side passage. They reached a corridor overlooking another series of reflective pools, set below like a hidden oasis. The geometry of the temple wove together so many layers. Vines and small plants crept along the edges.


    ¡°This temple might be larger than the palace itself,¡± Aer mused quietly, leaning against a stone railing. The water¡¯s surface below shimmered like polished glass, reflecting columns and stained-glass patterns in perfect clarity.


    Elle managed a small, playful smile. ¡°It certainly feels that way.¡±


    Finally, Aer broke the silence, turning to Elle with a gentle question. ¡°Shall we return to the gardens, Your Highness?¡±


    Elle glanced again at the watery depths below them, her reflection wavering in the still pool. She thought of her brother¡¯s warning, of her restlessness.


    ¡°Yes,¡± she said, lifting her chin. ¡°I¡¯ve offered my prayers. It¡¯s time we leave them to the goddess and do what we must.¡±


    Together, they made their way back through the grand hall. Sunbeams slanted through the stained glass, painting their path with shifting rainbows as they made it back outside. Elle paused on the bridge, glancing out over the city beyond. Though the day¡¯s sunlight bathed the stone and water in a soft, golden glow, she swore she could feel the pull of the horizon.

 2.2

    Elle and Aer discovered the familiar face of Lioriel Isylme Evargloe of House Kalantheis where the ornate bridge connected the royal gardens to the temple grounds. The graceful priestess stood just off the bridge, discussing final instructions with fellow clerics. Her gentle yet firm tone carried over the gentle splash of fountains below. Liori turned at the sound of footsteps, revealing light mint-colored hair swept into a neat bun. Her teal eyes caught the golden light filtering down through the arches overhead and glowed warmly.


    ¡°Princess, Lady Sylverlief,¡± Liori greeted with a slight incline of her head, ¡°may the eternal light of Aelindra shine upon you. Do you care for tea?¡±


    ¡°Priestess Evargloe,¡± Elle said, addressing Liori by her formal title in front of the other clerics. ¡°I require your services.¡±


    In their shared childhood code, it was an invitation for a private escape.


    Liori¡¯s lips curved into a knowing smile. ¡°Ah, are we doing a house visit?¡±


    ¡°We are,¡± Elle replied. ¡°I heard the 9th Lady Strumwiever of House Fythariel was unwell. I was hoping you and I, as well as Lady Sylverlief, could visit her and pray for her health.¡±


    Liori bowed slightly. ¡°We shouldn¡¯t delay. The longer we wait, the more she may suffer.¡± She signaled for the other clerics to proceed without her, and they nodded, slipping respectfully back into the temple¡¯s cavernous halls.


    Within minutes, the three friends left through an ornate side gate that opened onto an expansive courtyard. There, a carriage emblazoned with the Dawnspire crest awaited them. Intricate wheels carved from pale wood bore the shape of entwined leaves, and golden-lattice windows showed plush seating inside. The driver was an older elf who had served the palace for years, bowed deeply at the sight of the princess, holding the carriage door open. As Elle, Liori, and Aer stepped inside, the solemn ceremony of temple formality melted into a burst of uncontained warmth. The carriage door closed with a soft click, and the moment the velvet interior enveloped them, the three young women threw aside all reserve. Elle set aside her princess-like poise first to embrace Liori. Then it was Aer¡¯s.


    ¡°It¡¯s been ages,¡± Liori murmured, resting her forehead lightly against Elle¡¯s in the brief embrace. She then offered a hand to Aer, squeezing her fingers in a quiet greeting. ¡°At least, it feels like ages since we last did anything just for ourselves.¡±


    Aer settled into one of the cushioned seats, adjusting the gold clasp of her braid. ¡°We see each other around the palace and temple, but it¡¯s never for fun.¡±


    Elle smoothed the silk of her tunic, exhaling a contented sigh. ¡°Life has a way of marching on whether we¡¯re ready. But we¡¯ll steal moments like this when we can.¡±


    Liori smiled, gently tugging the drawstrings of her priestess robes to loosen them just enough for comfort. ¡°I miss the days we ran through the orchard behind the temple, pretending we were on grand adventures.¡±


    Aer¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Those were the best! You¡¯d chide us every time we trampled the herbs you were tending. And yet you always covered for us when the elders came looking.¡±


    ¡°Ah, I had my reasons,¡± Liori replied with a playful wink. ¡°Who wants to see friends punished for merely being curious?¡±Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    All three shared a grin at that. Outside, the carriage started to move along the cobblestone path leading away from the temple into the heart of the city proper. Through the window, Elytheris stretched before them in a mosaic of curving streets and graceful tips. Sunlight glinted off canals and marble walkways, and elven citizens moved about unhurriedly.


    Elle leaned closer to the carriage window. ¡°It¡¯s so beautiful today. There¡¯s not a cloud in the sky.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s always beautiful here,¡± Aer said a little wistfully.


    Liori¡¯s gaze flicked over to Elle. But she said nothing; she placed a reassuring hand on Elle¡¯s arm.


    Within moments, they began winding through the main avenues. Stalls lined the roads, their canopies displaying vibrant fabrics, jewelry, and fresh produce plucked from hidden glades. Despite Elytheris¡¯s tendency toward solitude, the city proper bustled with life due to its thriving internal trade and the reverence for art and craftsmanship. Every shop was adorned with carved motifs, from vines curling around doorframes to arcane runes etched along lintels.


    Every so often, passersby would notice the carriage¡¯s crest, bowing respectfully or calling out a cheerful greeting to their princess. Elle answered each with a friendly wave or a few gracious words through the open window.


    ¡°Oh, look,¡± Aer whispered, nodding across the way. A cluster of children practiced a graceful dance, guided by a teacher tapping a slender cane in time with the music. Their smooth costumes shimmered in the afternoon sun. The trio in the carriage watched for a moment, charmed.


    The narrow lanes then twisted sharply. They passed under an archway carved with swirling patterns of vines and blossoms, entering a quieter district. Here, the noise of merchants and street performers faded, replaced by calm and a sense of hush. Towering trees provided dappled shade along the lanes, and ivy draped from stone balconies. They were now near the outskirts of the capital near the mountains.


    ¡°We should be close now,¡± Liori observed, recognizing the ward¡¯s stately townhouses and the understated sigils on wrought-iron gates. ¡°House Fythariel¡¯s estate is near the next crossing.¡±


    Sure enough, the carriage slowed in front of an elegant manor. Its gate bore a subtle family crest: a stylized harp entwined with lightning bolts. Soft lamplights flickered inside the courtyard, illuminating well-tended gardens. Elle sat up, smoothing down her hair and adjusting the crystal rose she still wore tucked behind her ear. The carriage came to a gentle halt. As the driver opened the door, the three stepped out, resuming a dignified posture in case any servants or family members were about. Yet a glance between them confirmed the same mischievous excitement coursed through their veins. This was more than just a courtesy call.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Elle said, voice hushed. ¡°Lady Strumwiever awaits our prayers¡­and perhaps a bit of our company too.¡±


    The princess, the ranger, and the priestess made their way up the stone steps leading to the manor¡¯s entrance, their arms linked. Their laughter and soft conversation echoed in the estate Stormweaver, the ancestral home of Fayelwen Lareth Strumwiever of House Fythariel.


    Nestled high in a lush mountain range, its architecture rose in graceful, tapering pinnacles, each peak gilded by golden sunlight. Slender carved stone bridges arched over breathtaking ravines between these spires where water cascades tumbled into mist-filled chasms below. Vines and moss clung to the stone in flowing patterns. As the three friends crossed one such bridge, its surface slick with the cool spray of falling water, Elle felt the gentle sting of mist on her cheeks. Tiny rainbows shimmered in the droplets, fluttering around the group like gleeful sprites. She tightened her hold on Liori and Aer, a satisfied smile on her lips.


    ¡°This place never ceases to amaze me,¡± Aer mused, her violet eyes flicking from one corner to the other.


    Ancient carvings adorned every available surface, including the depictions of legendary beasts, celestial constellations, and scenes of elven myth that wound up around door frames and pillars. Occasionally, a glimmer of arcane light flickered in the stonework. Flowing waterways cascaded beneath its foundations, powering subtle defensive mechanisms and mundane utilities. The overlapping melodies of rushing water and rustling leaves enveloped them the moment they entered the gates.

 2.3

    A guard at the main entrance recognized them instantly, lowering his gaze respectfully and stepping aside.


    ¡°Welcome, Your Highness, Lady Sylverlief, Priestess Evargloe,¡± he said without objecting. There was no need to question such honored guests.


    The interior halls proved every bit as awe-inspiring as the outer terraces. High ceilings, intricate stained-glass windows, and elegantly carved wooden paneling made each corridor feel like a grand gallery. Softly glowing lanterns lined the walls, illuminating staircases that wound upward past whispering tapestries depicting House Fythariel¡¯s ancestors and heroic deeds.


    At last, a maid in a deep green gown approached, curtsying with a gentle smile. ¡°Your Highness, my ladies, thank you for coming. Please follow me. Lady Strumwiever awaits you on the third floor.¡±


    They followed her through several archways, each revealing different vantage points over the water-laced valleys below until they arrived at a tall spiral staircase. The steps were carved from smooth stone with leafy patterns etched into each riser. Ascending, Elle could not help but admire how the windows at every turn allowed glimpses of waterfalls tumbling amid sun-dappled rocks while overhead branches of ancient trees arched protectively.


    ¡°Take care on these steps,¡± Liori murmured, touching the railing lightly. ¡°They¡¯re polished from so many centuries of footsteps.¡±


    Elle nodded, adjusting her hold on the slender rail, her slippers making soft scuffing sounds on the worn stone. Aer followed close behind, nimble as ever, though she kept a hand on the railing ¨C no point in risking a slip above such dizzying heights.Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    At length, they emerged onto a broad landing. The third floor was filled with arched windows overlooking the layered mountain scenery, and the hall smelled faintly of fresh herbs. A pair of carved double doors stood open, revealing a sitting room awash in warm lamplight and the gentle hush of healing wards.


    ¡°Her Ladyship is expecting you,¡± the maid said quietly. She curtsied again, stepping aside so the princess, the ranger, and the priestess could enter as they pleased.


    Elle paused, smiling gratefully at the maid before turning to Liori and Aer. They all shared a brief, understanding glance. Fayelwen was unwell, and their presence might bring her comfort and hope.


    ¡°Shall we?¡± Elle asked softly, stepping over the threshold.


    Arm in arm, the three women entered the manor¡¯s third-floor sanctuary. Beyond the wide, double doors, a corridor branched into several arched windows overlooking the roaring waterfalls below. The mist caught shards of sunlight that danced across the stone floor. The gentle hum of cascading water echoed through every hallway of Stormweaver.


    The maid in a deep green gown who had guided them from the entrance closed the doors behind them with a polite bow. At the end of the corridor, a young elf woman named Winnie waited by a tall door carved with spiraling motifs of leaves and vines.


    ¡°Please, this way, my ladies,¡± she murmured, leading them forward. They followed, letting the tap of their footsteps mingle with the distant rush of water.


    ¡°The young 9th Miss is resting in bed,¡± Winnie told them softly. As soon as the door opened, the pungent aroma of herbs wafted through the air. Inside, the room was spacious, illuminated by broad windows that framed a magnificent view of the waterfall. Thick drapes hung by each window, shielding much of the sunlight and creating an ambiance of cozy dimness.


    Faye¡¯s voice called from behind the heavy bed curtains, a weak cough punctuating her words. ¡°You may go, Winnie. I¡¯ll ask for you if I need you.¡±


    Winnie bowed to Elle, Liori, and Aer, then curtsied toward Faye¡¯s bed. ¡°I¡¯ll be down the hall, my lady. I¡¯ll bring refreshments shortly.¡± She left with a soft hush of skirts.


    A silence settled over the room, broken only by Faye¡¯s faint coughing. The fabric of the bed curtains rustled, and through it, they glimpsed Faye shifting.

 2.4

    The princess and her companions settled into small talk, discussing the lovely journey up the mountain and the herbal scents that saturated the manor. It was light, polite chatter; the sort one used to occupy time in the presence of a listening attendant. Only when they heard Winnie¡¯s footsteps recede entirely did they pause and glance at each other meaningfully.


    Aer gave a quiet cough and a signal. Liori lowered her voice. ¡°Faye¡­ the coast is clear.¡±


    From within the canopy of curtains came a sudden flourish as the dark cloth swept aside to reveal Fayelwen Lareth Strumwiever. She looked anything but frail at that moment: beneath the gauzy bed drapery, her features lit up like a sunrise. She was clad in a flowing, full-length night slip, the pale fabric outlining her graceful figure. Her long, dark, wavy hair cascaded past her shoulders, and her midnight-blue eyes shined.


    ¡°I have never been so happy to see you three,¡± Faye declared, her voice excitedly lit. She coughed once more out of habit before hurrying behind a delicately painted silk screen in the corner of the room. ¡°Just let me¡ª¡± Her night slip rustled as she exchanged it for more practical attire: a silk shirt of deep forest green, a fitted vest with golden filigree at the edges, and a pair of slim trousers. Finally, she slipped her feet into soft leather boots, tying her dark hair back with a ribbon. When she emerged, her cheeks glowed with unbridled glee. ¡°Girls, I did it! I created a portal!¡±


    Faye pressed her hands together, practically bouncing on the balls of her feet.


    Liori blinked, her teal-colored eyes narrowing in curiosity. ¡°Where is this portal?¡± she asked, scanning the dim corners of Faye¡¯s bedroom as though expecting a swirl of magic to appear at any moment.


    ¡°I thought you would never ask!¡± She shot them all a triumphant grin, then hurried over to a large, framed painting of a home surrounded by tall, colorful daisies hanging on the wall. Faye pushed the painting to the side, revealing a hidden alcove cut directly into the stone.


    Through this narrow opening, the three could see the dim outline of a space that wasn¡¯t part of Stormweaver¡¯s architecture.


    ¡°I was able to connect my room here to my bedroom in our family¡¯s central townhouse,¡± Faye declared, voice brimming with pride. ¡°Now I can slip into the city whenever I want!¡±


    Elle and Aer exchanged wide-eyed glances while Liori leaned in, her mouth slightly open in awe. They crowded around the newly revealed portal, questions pouring forth.


    ¡°How did you figure out this spell?¡±The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    ¡°Have you tested it before?¡±


    ¡°Is it stable?¡±


    Faye¡¯s midnight blue eyes sparkled under each barrage of queries. ¡°One at a time!¡± she laughed. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s stable¡ªso far,¡± she added with a playful wink. ¡°I tested it this morning with a simple walk-through. It¡¯s just like stepping across a threshold into another room, except you¡¯re halfway across the city in reality.¡±


    Her three visitors were torn between exhilaration and concern. Liori brushed her fingers over the carved markings around the opening. ¡°This is¡­remarkable,¡± she murmured, recognizing some glyphs. ¡°You¡¯ve combined runic anchoring with a spatial-folding incantation. And you did all this while you were supposed to be resting?¡±


    Faye shrugged, an unapologetic grin on her face. ¡°Resting gets dull when you¡¯re stuck in bed day after day. Besides, the books in our library are quite inspiring.¡±


    Elle craned her neck to peer through the portal. ¡°It¡¯s a bit dark on the other side,¡± she remarked, squinting. ¡°But you can see a faint glow. It looks like a room in the city.¡±


    ¡°So,¡± Aer said softly, brushing her silver hair aside. ¡°This means you could just¡­leave Stormweaver without asking anyone¡¯s permission?¡±


    Faye nodded, beaming. ¡°Precisely. I can explore the city streets, visit our favorite spots, and slip back here instantly before anyone notices I¡¯m gone.¡±


    Their hushed excitement filled the air like a rising tide. None of them noticed the door creaking open until a voice spoke.


    ¡°My lady, I¡ª¡±


    They all whirled around in alarm to see Winnie standing in the doorway with a trolley of steaming refreshments. She blinked several times, taking in the shifted painting, the unmistakable rift in the wall, and the princess, the ranger, and the priestess gathered around it. Then her eyes widened, and her mouth fell open. Winnie¡¯s instincts to call for help were swift, but Faye reacted faster.


    ¡°Lorna!¡± she exclaimed, pointing a slender finger toward the maid. A soft pulse sprang from her hand, enveloping Winnie like a gentle haze.


    In seconds, the maid sank to the floor ¨C thankfully, the plush carpet cushioned her unceremonious collapse. The trolley wobbled but did not overturn, the teacups rattling gently as if in protest.


    ¡°Oh dear,¡± Liori breathed, rushing to check the maid¡¯s pulse. She found it steady, just as Faye¡¯s spell intended. ¡°She¡¯s completely out.¡±


    ¡°Help me move her to the couch,¡± Faye muttered, tugging Winnie¡¯s arms. ¡°I wish Kali were here for this ¨C she¡¯s stronger than me!¡±


    Together, they lifted Winnie¡¯s sleeping form onto a nearby chaise, propping up her head with a decorative pillow. The maid¡¯s chest rose and fell peacefully, oblivious to everything.


    Faye straightened her vest and wiped an errant strand of dark hair from her face, acting as if nothing was amiss. ¡°Well then,¡± she said, turning back to the portal with a sly smile. ¡°Shall we go?¡±


    Elle, Liori, and Aer exchanged incredulous looks ¨C part shock, part giddy admiration. This was, indeed, so like Faye. She was unstoppable once she set her mind to something, even if it meant casting a quick spell on an unsuspecting maid.


    ¡°At least she¡¯s not hurt,¡± Aer murmured, catching a final glimpse of the slumbering Winnie.


    Liori, equally anxious and exhilarated, pressed her palms together in a silent prayer for the maid¡¯s well-being before following Faye. ¡°Then I suppose we¡¯re doing this,¡± she said.


    Elle glanced once more at the portal, feeling that familiar electric thrill. A hidden door to the city, something new and unexpected, a taste of freedom. She smiled, her heart fluttering. ¡°Lead the way, Faye.¡±

 3.1

    The four ladies stepped through the hidden portal one by one, disappearing from Fayelwen¡¯s bedroom in Stormweaver and reemerging in a large, dust-laden chamber on the other side. One second, they were leaning into a hole in the wall concealed by a painting of daisies; the next, they found themselves standing before another identical painting in the Strumwiever townhouse in Lower Elindoryl.


    Faye, the last to cross, carefully reached back to nudge the painting into place, ensuring that the magic concealed the opening just as smoothly from the opposite side. Her dark hair caught the faint light that filtered through the drawn curtains, and she exhaled in quiet triumph once the portal vanished from sight. The entire sequence took only a blink of time for them.


    A stray ray of sunlight beamed through a gap in the shutters, illuminating the swirling dust particles. Faye sneezed, bringing a hand quickly to her mouth. ¡°Oh my,¡± she said, her midnight-blue eyes widening. ¡°Please excuse me. This place needs fresh air ¨C badly!¡±


    She glided across the room and unlatched a large window, pushing it outward. A breeze swept in, carrying the lively scents of the city streets far below: roasted chestnuts, pungent herbs, and the salty tang of the nearby ocean breezes. Elle joined her, leaning against the window¡¯s sill to gaze down at Elindoryl¡¯s bustling thoroughfares.


    ¡°It¡¯s so different from the palace district,¡± Elle murmured, unable to mask her excitement. Tiny figures moved through the winding streets ¨C elves in bright cloaks, street vendors calling out in melodic voices, acrobats flipping in narrow lanes. ¡°All that life¡­ it¡¯s marvelous.¡±


    Meanwhile, Aer walked a slow circle around the dusty space, taking stock of the townhouse¡¯s disuse. Plush chairs stood covered in sheets, paintings leaned against walls, and cobwebs clung to an old chandelier. She raised a brow at Faye. ¡°You kept quite a secret!¡± she teased, her voice echoing in the airy, long-abandoned room.


    Faye turned from the window and offered a proud smile. ¡°I¡¯ve been working on this portal for months. Mostly at night. No one comes here anymore, so I figured it was perfect for my¡­experiments.¡±


    Lior was absorbed by the painting from which they had emerged. Her teal eyes traced the runes, and faint magical etchings ringed the canvas. ¡°It¡¯s genius,¡± she said breathlessly, her fingertips grazing the invisible energy. ¡°You anchored the spell to these symbols, then reinforced it with an internal matrix. Did you integrate a stabilizing incantation from an old runic text?¡±


    A delighted laugh escaped Faye. ¡°Exactly. I tried weaving classical runic theory with modern enchantment techniques so that it wouldn¡¯t raise suspicion. The painting looks ordinary unless you know how to activate the portal. A little dust helps, too.¡±


    Liori¡¯s inquisitive nature took over, and a flurry of questions passed between them. ¡°But how did you maintain the dimensional link? Did you bond a physical conduit, or is it purely arcane?¡±Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡°Have you had any issues with misalignment?¡±


    ¡°What about flux? Or traveling in groups?¡±


    A lively back-and-forth ensued, peppered with the jargon of runic anchoring, phrases like ¡°mana weave,¡± ¡°keystone glyph,¡± and ¡°spatial compression.¡± Faye explained the basic concept behind her portal ¨C how she¡¯d fashioned a stable bridging point between two places she knew intimately. It was not large enough to march through an army, nor would it last forever without maintenance, but it was perfect for the occasional discreet getaway.


    Aer circled the room with measured steps as the other two women spoke, checking corners and peering into adjoining chambers. She gave a satisfied nod. ¡°Townhouse seems empty. I doubt anyone¡¯s going to drop by.¡±


    Elle finally turned from the windowsill. Her cheeks were slightly flushed from the city¡¯s energy, and her eyes glittered excitedly. ¡°So¡­ we¡¯re here, and no one knows,¡± she said, her voice colored with a delicious sense of forbidden freedom. What should we do first? Go shopping? Taste street foods? Watch performers?¡±


    ¡°Stealth might be wise,¡± Aer cautioned, though her tone carried a hint of anticipation. ¡°At least until we¡¯re sure no one¡¯s caught wind of a miraculous recovery from Lady Strumwiever.¡±


    Faye grinned, her expression equal parts mischievous and defiant. ¡°Let them think I¡¯m still bedridden. The city is ours for the afternoon, maybe the evening, too. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy ourselves.¡±


    Liori tightened the ribbon at the collar of her priestess robe and stepped lightly around the scattered furniture. ¡°We just must be mindful of any watchers in the city. But it is Lower Elindoryl, far less scrutiny here than by the palace.¡±


    Faye, Aer, and Liori clustered around Elle at the window again, gazing at the winding streets below. The ever-present glow of Elytheris¡¯s sky lent everything a golden hue, and the hum of traffic and chatter floated up to them.


    Faye turned to them, placing her hands on her hips. ¡°Whatever we decide, we need to move fast. Winnie won¡¯t stay asleep forever, and I¡¯d rather not have her stumbling through the portal in search of me.¡±


    A chorus of light laughter rippled through the group. For a fleeting moment, they were children again, secretly spreading their wings, reveling in small acts of rebellion. Dust motes danced in the sunlight around them, marking the silent passage of time.


    ¡°All right,¡± Elle whispered, eyes bright. ¡°Let¡¯s go see Elindoryl.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s kidnap Kali,¡± suggested Faye, a mischievous gleam dancing in her midnight-blue eyes.


    ¡°She¡¯s on duty,¡± Elle reminded her, though her lips curved in a slight smirk. ¡°Last I heard, she and her unit were stationed near the harbor.¡±


    Liori tapped a thoughtful finger against her chin. ¡°Should we disrupt her while she¡¯s working?¡±


    Aer rolled her violet eyes with an offhand shrug. ¡°We could happen to run into her on the streets accidentally. No need to lure her off-duty if we only bump into her for a moment or two.¡±


    As they descended the townhouse¡¯s grand staircase, their laughter and chatter echoed against the walls. Plush carpeting softened their footfalls, and the corridors were decorated with painted portraits of the Strumwiever ancestors perched on balconies or standing beneath ancient trees. It was stately, quiet. At the front entrance, Faye paused to lock the heavy wooden door behind them. The bronze key clinked reassuringly in her hand.


    ¡°Swiped the key while no one was looking?¡± Aer teased, crossing her arms.


    ¡°Nope.¡± Faye smiled, tucking the key into her small leather bag. ¡°I asked Father for it, and he agreed.¡±


    Elle cast her a sidelong glance, eyebrows raised in playful doubt. ¡°Just like that?¡±


    Faye pressed a hand to her chest in mock offense. ¡°Cross my heart, hope to die if I lie.¡± She dramatically closed one eye and turned her face skyward. After a beat, she grinned broadly. ¡°See? I didn¡¯t die, so I must be telling the truth.¡±

 3.2

    Liori sighed, shaking her head, though she couldn¡¯t entirely hide her amusement.


    With the door secured, the four friends stepped onto the bustling streets of Lower Elindoryl. The change was immediately compared to the lofty quiet of the townhouse. Narrow, winding lanes wove between tall, closely clustered buildings of pale stone and timber. Shops crowded every corner. Some had painted wooden signs, others just bright awnings fluttering in the sea-scented breeze.


    A briny tang hung in the air, growing more pronounced the closer they came to the port. Occasionally, a gust of wind would carry the faint sound of gulls and the distant clang of metal rigging from ships docked along the water. Though the city was known for its elegance, the lower district was anything but sleepy as vendors shouted prices and hawked goods, children darted around corners in lively games, and visitors and locals alike wove through the labyrinth of alleys, arms full of parcels or baskets of produce.


    ¡°This is wonderful,¡± Elle murmured, taking in the sights. ¡°It feels so¡­so alive.¡±


    ¡°Mind your bags,¡± Aer warned half in jest, half serious. ¡°I¡¯ve heard rumors about a growing number of pickpockets near the docks.¡±


    Liori glanced at Aer. ¡°Faye and I can craft a ward if we need ¨C just a bit of protective magic.¡±


    Faye let out a contented sigh as if she could finally breathe in the energy of the place. ¡°You have no idea how good it feels to be out and about. No watchful eyes, no bedside doctors telling me to rest.¡± A small smile tugged at her lips. ¡°And best of all, no one knows.¡±


    They passed a series of narrow alleyways, each flanked by stacked houses whose second and third floors jutted out overhead. Laundry lines crisscrossed the gaps, and bright fabrics fluttered like festival banners in the perpetual sunlight. Indeed, no carts or carriages could navigate these cramped backstreets; deliveries were done by handcarts that squeezed through, sometimes jostling passersby to get by.


    Now and then, someone glanced at the four women, noting their fine clothes and poised bearing. But this was Elytheris, where everyone carried themselves with at least a touch of grace. Most people offered a polite nod or smile and went about their business. Hawkers called out prices for fresh fruits or spun-sugar confections while street musicians played a lively tune on lute and flute near a small courtyard.


    At a particular bend, they caught sight of a group of travelers in simple brown cloaks ¨C likely merchants from a neighboring region outside of the capitol. Faye raised an eyebrow, recalling how she had heard about the human merchant earlier that day but kept any comments to herself. Instead, she turned to Elle.


    ¡°So, about Kali,¡± she ventured, returning to the earlier conversation. ¡°Do you think we¡¯ll just cross paths? Or should we be more¡­inventive?¡±


    Elle pressed her lips together, thinking. ¡°She¡¯s probably patrolling along the main thoroughfare or near the harbor warehouses. We could walk that way. If we see her, great. If not, that¡¯s fate speaking, yes?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s fair,¡± Liori agreed, brushing back her mint-hued hair. ¡°We can wander the docks, maybe purchase a snack at the fish market stands. The salt air always gives me an appetite.¡±


    ¡°Agreed,¡± Aer said. ¡°Let¡¯s do it.¡±


    As they meandered farther into the heart of Lower Elindoryl, the structures grew more weathered. Stone arches bore the dark patina of sea air, and thick barnacle-like growths clung to foundations near the waterline. The pungent mix of fish, salt, and fresh bread hit them all simultaneously. A wide main street opened ahead, revealing a narrow slice of azure sea between the rooftops.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    Pausing momentarily, they gazed at the busy wharf as wooden piers extended outward, ships bobbing in the gentle swells of Herawulf¡¯s waters. As they loaded and unloaded crates, sailors barked orders while dockworkers hurried about with cargo manifests. Gulls swooped overhead, and shrill cries added to the city¡¯s bright clamor.


    Faye inhaled deeply, closing her eyes. ¡°I missed this,¡± she confessed softly. ¡°The hustle. The energy. We only see it from a distance in Stormweaver.¡±


    Elle set a gentle hand on her friend¡¯s shoulder, smiling. ¡°Well, you¡¯re here now. Let¡¯s make the most of it.¡±


    The four women passed vendors'' stalls selling glossy pearls, salted fish, and artisanal goods. They weaved through knots of sailors telling tall tales of storms and sea monsters and crossed paths with robed scholars who might be studying the currents. Now and again, they paused to admire the swirling patterns on a tapestry or to laugh at a shopkeeper¡¯s witty banter.


    And in the back of their minds, each of them kept an eye out for a tall, red-haired figure in shining plate armor ¨C Kalithra Wyndwisper, their beloved friend. Only when the sun had begun to sink and the sky turned a blazing orange did they finally spot the captain near the harbor¡¯s edge in all her glory.


    Faye and Aer moved first, slipping around stacks of crates and piles of rope to wave Kali over. She was busy directing her knights, her armor gleaming in the dying light. Upon seeing her friends, she excused herself quietly as she quickly dismissed her knights, reassigning her unit to continue their patrol. She then strode toward the shadows where her friends waited.


    Removing her silver helmet, Kali let out a soft sigh. Shoulder-length red hair spilled out like a live flame under the sunset. She glanced over her shoulder to ensure no one followed, her sharp golden eyes alert.


    ¡°Faye and Aer,¡± she began with a cautious smile. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you two here.¡± Her gaze flicked around, narrowing slightly in amused suspicion. ¡°Am I right to believe that the Star of Our Empire is here too?¡±


    Liori¡¯s head popped out from behind a stack of barrels, teal eyes sparkling. ¡°I¡¯m here too!¡± she whispered, barely containing her giggle.


    Kali pressed a hand to her forehead and laughed, scrunching her eyes shut as though she couldn¡¯t believe it. ¡°Oh my goodness, so everyone¡¯s here, eh?¡±


    From behind a cluster of fishing nets, Elle emerged, voice hushed but gleeful. ¡°Had to visit you!¡± she said, gaze darting around to be sure no onlookers were approaching.


    Kali¡¯s brows lifted in a question. ¡°How¡¯d you all get here? Last I heard, at least one of you was confined to bed, and the others were supposed to be¡ª¡±


    ¡°Magic,¡± the four chimed together, each wearing a conspiratorial grin. They paused instantaneously, catching one another¡¯s eyes before bursting into quiet laughter.


    Kali arched a brow, her golden gaze flicking between them with amusement and incredulity. ¡°All right,¡± she said, lowering her voice as she glanced around the darkening harbor. ¡°I need more details before I¡¯m blamed for any of this. What exactly did you do?¡±


    The four friends exchanged delighted looks. Faye spoke first, her dark hair shifting over her shoulder. ¡°I, um¡­might¡¯ve spent the last few months setting up a little portal network of sorts,¡± she said, mouth curving into a lopsided grin. ¡°Only between Stormweaver and our family¡¯s townhouse. So far.¡±


    Liori picked up the explanation, teal eyes shining in the amber light. ¡°We each tested it, making sure it was stable. That¡¯s how we reached Lower Elindoryl faster than a messenger hawk could even be sent.¡±


    ¡°And all without an official escort,¡± Aer added, her violet eyes dancing. ¡°We know it¡¯s not strictly by the books, but it works.¡±


    Elle finished, keeping her voice low but infused with excitement. ¡°So¡­once we got into the city, we explored a bit. And here we are, just in time to watch the sunset and, hopefully, run into you.¡±


    Kali shook her head, fondness and exasperation dancing across her features. ¡°I should have known,¡± she murmured. ¡°You¡¯re the only group of misfits who would link half the city with a secret spell just to sneak out for an evening.¡±


    Elle stepped closer, tone hushed as she ventured a playful smile. ¡°We wanted to see you. And¡­well,¡± she shrugged as if her explanation were obvious, ¡°we needed some excitement. Plus, you¡¯ve always been the final piece of our puzzle.¡±


    The flicker of temptation sparked in Kali¡¯s keen yellow eyes. For all her discipline, the knight¡¯s heart was not immune to the lure of adventure. ¡°I can¡¯t exactly abandon my post,¡± she began warily, but her glimmering gaze betrayed her.


    ¡°We¡¯re not asking you to shirk your duties,¡± Liori assured her, resting a hand on the gleaming gauntlet that covered Kali¡¯s forearm. ¡°Just¡­patrol a different path for a bit. One that happens to cross ours.¡±

 3.3

    Kali¡¯s gaze drifted from Liori¡¯s sincere expression to Faye, then Aer, before finally settling on Elle¡¯s eager face. She glanced over her shoulder at the group of knights she commanded, ensuring they remained well-occupied. Then, with a final, resigned chuckle, she turned back.


    ¡°Fine. But any trouble we get into,¡± she said, her voice dropping conspiratorially, ¡°you four are to blame.¡±


    ¡°Deal,¡± Aer quipped, exchanging a wink with Faye.


    The sky blazed in brilliant hues of red and gold, painting the rippling water with streaks of flame. Sea birds circled above, their calls punctuating the steady bustle of the docks below. This was far from Kali¡¯s standard patrol route. Their footsteps echoed on the well-worn planks as they approached the lower docks. The busy outpost office was beneath rickety wooden awnings, where all documents were processed for ships entering or leaving Elindoryl. Usually, a half-dozen officers would patrol the perimeter, but on this balmy evening, the security seemed oddly lax ¨C no immediate guards were visible. Perhaps the shift was changing, or everyone had let their guard down at the day¡¯s end.


    They ambled along with easy laughter and banter until Kali¡¯s smile faded. She¡¯d noticed several figures cloaked in unremarkable brown robes striding purposefully toward the foreign merchant¡¯s carrack docked at the far end. A large, sturdy ship called The Silver Horizon should have been under tight guard after its unexpected arrival. Yet the cloaked visitors boarded without challenge. Kali¡¯s gaze roamed the pier, searching for any posted knights or Thornbound members, but found none.


    A pang of alarm seized her, and she stopped walking, voice dropping to a grave hush. ¡°Hold on,¡± she said, scanning the wharf. ¡°That ship and its crew were supposed to remain aboard until permission to leave was granted. Where are the assigned guards?¡±If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    No one had an answer. The group¡¯s earlier mirth drained away as they, too, realized the unusual stillness around the docked carrack. Kali¡¯s expression grew resolute. She reached for her silver helmet, setting it back onto her head with a metallic click. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, ladies,¡± she said, her tone suddenly formal. ¡°I¡¯ll have to cut this visit short. I need to investigate.¡±


    Elle, stepping closer, peered down the pier. ¡°Why?¡± she whispered, though her pulse quickened. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Faye¡¯s excitement flared immediately. She¡¯d never been one to shy away. ¡°Let¡¯s all go,¡± she declared, boldly stepping forward. ¡°I noticed those cloaks, too. Who wears hoods and full robes around here? We have nothing to hide in Elytheris; it¡¯s suspicious.¡±


    Aer found herself nodding. ¡°We can keep Kali company,¡± she suggested, matching Faye¡¯s pace. ¡°No one said she couldn¡¯t have friends while doing a quick check.¡±


    Despite her disciplined nature, Kali struggled to hold back a smile at their insistence. She half wanted to admonish them for plunging into danger.


    ¡°Fine,¡± Kali managed, clearing her throat. She set off at a brisk stride, plate armor catching the fiery reflection of the setting sun. A moment later, she walked ahead and was already projecting the steady confidence of a captain leading a charge.


    Trailing a short distance behind, Liori let out a wistful laugh. ¡°Oh my, we¡¯re kids again,¡± she mused, recalling how often they had scrambled through gardens or corridors on impromptu escapades.


    Elle brought up the rear, hesitating. Something in her gut twisted at the sight of the foreign vessel¡¯s tall masts swaying against the dusky sky. A nameless dread tugged at her mind; the ship¡¯s looming silhouette felt eerie, like a threat materializing at the edge of her vision. Steeling herself, Elle forced one foot forward, then another, the skirts of her tunic swishing around her ankles. The breeze off the water ruffled her cornsilk hair, carrying the faint brine of Herawulf¡¯s tides.


    Gathering her courage, she drew closer to her friends. The silhouettes of the hooded figures vanished up the gangplank, and Kali squared her shoulders, determined to find answers. The sun dipped lower, casting elongated shadows across the weathered boards. The wind picked up, and a shiver ran through Elle, not from the cold but from the undeniable feeling that something strange was about to unfold.

 4.1

    Elle stood at the pier¡¯s edge, half-hidden by the ship¡¯s long shadow across the water. She lifted her gaze to the tall, white masts, noting the precise, artful repairs done by elven hands as the polished wood, delicate carvings, and runic filigree shimmered in the orange twilight. However, something tugged at her attention in the corner of her vision ¨C a presence. Someone watching.


    She turned her head, feigning a casual admiration of the carrack. Slowly, her eyes moved from the sturdy hull toward the gunwale and the portholes lining the side. Then she saw a face behind the gloom. At first, it was just a glimmer of eyes in the darkness. But as her vision adjusted, the onlooker¡¯s features sharpened into focus.


    The person in the porthole was¡­striking. There was an androgyny about them ¨C elegance wrapped in one. Their eyes were soft jade green. Their hair was long and dark, catching the torchlight in threads of blue-green highlights like the ocean at dusk. A noble nose, a heart-shaped jaw, and finely arched brows framed a face that radiated aloof beauty. They wore green robes adorned with gold tassels, intricate filigree dancing along the collar and sleeves. It was the ensemble one might see at a royal court, not on a merchant ship in a foreign harbor.


    Her heart fluttered for a moment in unexplainable wonder. A sliver of curiosity sparked within her ¨C perhaps they were part of the human merchant¡¯s entourage, or maybe something else entirely.


    Elle offered a small, polite wave. She half-expected the figure to vanish at once, but to her surprise, they inclined their head in acknowledgment. No words left their lips, just that faint nod, a courtesy returned. Yet in that brief exchange, Elle sensed a quiet intensity as if the stranger were taking her measure.


    Her cheeks warmed, and she glanced away, though a cautious smile lingered. The half-veiled features, the poised stillness, the fluid grace in how they dipped their chin¡­ Something about them seemed unhuman, a puzzle piece that didn¡¯t quite fit with the rough-lumber decks and sails overhead.


    ¡°Elle,¡± came Faye¡¯s urgent whisper from behind, pulling her out of her reverie.


    She turned away from the porthole, still able to feel the distant stare of that mysterious figure as though it clung to her even after she lost sight of them. Instinctively, she touched a hand to her chest, reassuring herself that she stood firmly on the dock. Then, making sure to hide any trace of her momentary distraction, Elle hurried after her friends, her mind buzzing with questions about who she had just glimpsed in the ship¡¯s dim interior.


    Kali¡¯s authoritative command rang out. On the pier, the tall knight faced the perspiring old merchant, Elias, who wrung his hands in obvious distress.


    ¡°Step aside, merchant,¡± Kali said curtly, her tone devoid of sympathy. The gleam of her plate armor caught the last rays of daylight, reflecting the cold resolution in her golden eyes. ¡°Your excuses are only making me more suspicious.¡±


    Elias¡¯s gaze darted from Kali to Elle and back again. In a sudden, desperate motion, he dropped to his knees. ¡°Your Highness,¡± he implored, voice trembling with every syllable. ¡°Please, I am innocent. I¡¯m only trying to leave by midnight. If this investigation delays me, I¡ªI don¡¯t want to know what fate awaits should I fail to depart in time.¡±


    Elle¡¯s expression shifted from kind concern to a mask of polite detachment at his groveling address. She disliked when people attempted to leverage her status in such a transparent way.


    ¡°Elias, was your name, wasn¡¯t it?¡± Elle asked with quiet scrutiny.


    He nodded so vigorously one might think his head would detach from his neck. A faint sheen of sweat glistened at his temples, and he cast a furtive glance at the ship. From up close, it was evident the man was caught between fear of the elves¡¯ authority and some other dread that gnawed at him from within. Elle could see the anxious shift of Aer and Faye behind Kali, their expressions reflecting a shared suspicion. Liori, too, had grown somber. A half-dozen paces away, a soft creak of wood and rope hinted that unseen figures moved about on deck, yet no one emerged.


    ¡°Kali,¡± Elle said, turning to the knight without ceremony. She could feel the same urgency pulsing in her blood that flickered in Kali¡¯s eyes. ¡°Board the ship. Turn it upside down if you must.¡±


    There was neither hesitance nor guilt in her voice.


    Elias¡¯s eyes bulged, and he opened his mouth to protest, but no words came out ¨C only ragged, shallow breaths. Then his gaze swept to the gangplank where a pair of robed figures had vanished minutes earlier. His face paled.


    ¡°Your Highness¡­ Lady Knight¡­ Please,¡± he tried again, half-rising from the dock. His voice cracked. ¡°We¡¯ve already¡ªthere is no¡ª¡±


    ¡°Enough.¡± Kali¡¯s glare pinned him in place. ¡°If there¡¯s nothing to hide, this should be quick.¡± She flicked her gauntleted fingers toward a pair of nearby guards who had belatedly arrived. ¡°You two¡ªsecure this man. Don¡¯t let him wander off.¡±


    The guards bowed before the princess first. They then nodded, stepping forward to stand on either side of the quivering merchant. One placed a hand on Elias¡¯s shoulder, firm but not harsh.If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    Elle shifted her attention to her friends. Faye was excited, eager to see what might be uncovered. Aer¡¯s eyes darted from the merchant to the ship¡¯s dark portholes, no doubt scanning for any sign of threat. Liori clasped her hands, lips pressed together ¨C fervent worry or a silent prayer; it was hard to tell.


    ¡°I¡¯m going up,¡± Kali said, squaring her shoulders. ¡°Stay behind if you wish, but¡ª¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not,¡± Faye interrupted, brushing her wavy dark hair aside as she moved forward. ¡°We¡¯re coming with you. Strength in numbers.¡±


    Kali hesitated only a moment.


    ¡°Fine. But follow my lead,¡± she warned. ¡°No one does anything reckless.¡± She shot a pointed look at Faye, who flashed a half-sheepish grin.


    Liori glanced at Elle. ¡°Are you alright?¡± she asked softly, catching the flicker of unease in Elle¡¯s emerald eyes.


    Elle nodded, still rattled by the memory of that beautiful, unreadable face in the porthole. ¡°Yes,¡± she answered, taking a breath. ¡°I¡¯m coming.¡±


    Together, they ascended the gangplank after the other ladies. The boards groaned under their steps, and the tang of salt and tar thickened. Overhead, sails creaked faintly in the breeze that was now cooling with the onset of dusk, shadows lengthening across the deck. At the top of the ramp, they found no immediate sign of the cloaked figures. Barrels and crates stood stacked haphazardly as though someone had hurriedly left. A single lantern flickered at the far end, casting long silhouettes on the deck. More ominous was the heavy silence; even the gulls seemed to have abandoned this part of the harbor.


    ¡°Stay close,¡± Kali ordered. Her voice was steady, but beneath it simmered a readiness for danger. ¡°We sweep every corner. The moment you spot anything unusual, call out.¡±


    Before they could take another step, a door leading to what looked like the captain¡¯s quarters swung open, spilling a band of lantern light onto the deck. A suave, lilting voice called out, ¡°I didn¡¯t know we were going to have guests, Elias.¡±


    A tall man ¨C at least as tall as Kali ¨C stepped into view. Lean and lithe, he possessed all the angular grace of a swordsman. Dressed in a billowy white shirt tucked into well-fitted black trousers and topped with polished boots, he cut a striking figure. His golden-blond hair hung loose around his shoulders, reminiscent of ripened wheat fields under a midday sun. Most curious of all were his eyes. At first glance, they appeared brown but held a faint, reddish sheen in the shifting lamplight like an ember buried in ash.


    He bowed low in a theatrical flourish, smiling with a crooked curve of lips that might have been charming under less suspicious circumstances. ¡°Apologies,¡± he murmured, in a voice as smooth as warm honey, ¡°for not greeting you properly the moment you arrived.¡±


    Elias, still held on the dock by the guards, cringed visibly. His face had gone bone white. It was hard to say whether it was from fear of the elves or his shipmate.


    Kali¡¯s golden eyes narrowed unyieldingly, refusing to be dazzled. There was an edge of command to her voice that felt as solid as steel. ¡°I don¡¯t recall seeing your face in our prior inspections. State your name, sir. And your business aboard this ship.¡±


    The man¡¯s smile twitched as though mildly amused by her directness. ¡°You may call me Riven.¡± He straightened from his bow, raking a hand through his golden hair with theatrical flair. ¡°I¡¯m part of the merchant¡¯s retinue. At least, I am for the moment.¡±


    The introduction did little to alleviate Kali¡¯s suspicion; if anything, it deepened it. ¡°That doesn¡¯t explain why you¡¯re here after we ordered everyone to remain on board until further notice,¡± she said, her gauntleted hand shifting subtly toward the hilt of her blade.


    Aer said nothing, but she moved closer to the door Riven had stepped from, peering past him to see if anyone else was lurking in the shadows. The interior corridor glowed in soft lamplight, the walls lined with crates and sealed barrels. Nothing immediately stood out, but that didn¡¯t mean danger wasn¡¯t there.


    Faye regarded Riven with open curiosity as a near-playful arch appearing on her dark eyebrows. She seemed less suspicious than intrigued by the man¡¯s casual confidence, as though sizing him up the way one does a puzzle box. Liori, on the other hand, had a more pensive look. Her teal eyes flicked to the slightest gestures in Riven¡¯s posture, from the tilt of his head to the tension in his shoulders. Something about him, she could sense, wasn¡¯t entirely what it seemed. He was very human.


    Elle lingered a step behind them all, recalling the face she¡¯d seen in the porthole earlier, a face distinctly different from Riven¡¯s. This man was handsome in an overt, almost dramatic way. Riven¡¯s flamboyant charm did little to settle her unease; if anything, it only heightened the sense that something about this ship was deeply amiss.


    ¡°Well, Riven,¡± Kali¡¯s voice was calm yet sharp. ¡°This merchant you¡¯re traveling with neglected to mention extra¡­company. Step aside. We are conducting a thorough search.¡±


    Riven¡¯s reddish-brown eyes gleamed in the lamplight briefly, reflecting that confident smirk across his handsome features.


    ¡°Search away,¡± he said, extending an arm in mock invitation. ¡°But I assure you, nothing aboard should cause concern. We merely want to depart by midnight, as arranged.¡±


    Kali offered a curt nod, though she looked no less wary. Her voice remained clipped and controlled. ¡°Ladies, please remove yourselves from the ship and return home. This is official business now. I¡¯ll examine the captain¡¯s quarters first.¡± Her gaze flicked over to Elle and then to Faye, Aer, and Liori. ¡°One of the escorts below on the dock will see you safely back.¡±


    ¡°Kali!¡± Faye protested with a childish edge as she looked between the knight and the mysterious Riven. ¡°That¡¯s not¡ª¡±


    ¡°Not another word,¡± Kali cut her off, a trace of iron in her tone that brooked no argument.


    Aer and Faye then lapsed into a round of whispered bickering, each pointing out they¡¯d come this far only to be sent away. Liori gently reminded them of Kali¡¯s position and tried to soothe their injured pride. Meanwhile, Elle lingered half a step behind, watching the tableau unfold in tense silence.


    Riven moved politely aside, the faint smile never leaving his lips. The breeze toyed with the edges of his golden hair, making him look like a figure drawn from a storybook. Striking, alluring, and altogether too composed for a so-called ¡°merchant retainer.¡± He dipped his chin in an almost mocking salute.


    ¡°Shall we proceed, Captain?¡± he asked Kali, voice resonating with polite mockery. ¡°Time is of the essence.¡±


    Elle pressed her lips together, a subtle line of worry creasing her brow. The ease with which Riven addressed Kali, as though he owned every inch of the deck beneath his boots, sent an odd crawl through her nerves ¨C one she couldn¡¯t quite name but felt crawling up her spine regardless.


    Without another word, Kali turned on her heel. The two figures disappeared through the door to the captain¡¯s room, the lantern-lit interior swallowing them up. The rest of the deck remained bathed in the dusky twilight where Faye, Aer, and Liori stood in a half circle, frustration warring with curiosity.

 4.2

    Elle stepped forward, glancing at the closed door, her heart pounding with unexplainable apprehension. A sharp wind rippled across the harbor, stinging her cheeks and rustling the sails overhead. Down below, the flickering glow of the dock¡¯s torches caught her eye, where one of Kali¡¯s fellow knights waited to escort them back to shore. Yet the moment stretched, and still, she lingered, turning to see Faye and Aer equally torn between obeying Kali¡¯s direct order and following their instincts. Liori stood with her lips pressed together, evidently trying to decide the best action.


    ¡°So,¡± Aer said in a hushed voice, ¡°do we just¡­go home?¡±


    Faye folded her arms, torn between annoyance and concern. ¡°That can¡¯t be right. Something about that man feels off.¡±


    Liori glanced at Elle, then lowered her voice. ¡°Kali was very clear. This is a Thornbound matter now.¡±


    ¡°But are we truly leaving her behind with that stranger?¡± Faye pressed, her own eyes flicking to the door. ¡°What if he¡¯s dangerous?¡±


    ¡°We should trust Kali,¡± Aer whispered, though her tone was uncertain. ¡°We can¡¯t just burst in there.¡±


    A hush fell over them. Beyond the door, shadows flickered in the lamplight, and the low murmur of Kali¡¯s measured tone and the man¡¯s smooth baritone floated just out of earshot. Every second that passed felt longer than the last, tension coiling in the pit of Elle¡¯s stomach. At last, Liori heaved a soft sigh.


    ¡°Let¡¯s head down,¡± the priestess said gently, though doubt still weighed on her. ¡°We¡¯ll be close by if she needs us. We can stay at the docks until she finishes. No sense going all the way home.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Aer agreed reluctantly. ¡°We can explain to the guard that we¡¯ll wait just onshore.¡±


    Faye fiddled with a loose strand of her dark hair, looking far from convinced, but nodded. ¡°All right¡­but only for a little while. If she doesn¡¯t return soon, I¡¯m coming right back.¡±


    Elle tore her gaze from the closed door and slowly followed her friends toward the gangplank. Each step echoed on the creaking boards, a hollow sound beneath their feet. She could hardly resist the urge to glance over her shoulder, half-expecting Kali to charge out of the captain¡¯s quarters with her sword drawn and the human in chains.


    Before they could step off the deck, a sudden jolt rippled through the ship. Somewhere below, unseen hands had loosened the mooring ropes and raised the anchor without the four women noticing. A great gust of wind swept across the harbor at that exact moment. This was no mere sea breeze but something fierce and unnatural, whipping at the sails and forcing the carrack away from the dock with startling speed.


    Faye was caught off-balance by the abrupt movement, tumbling onto her hands and knees. ¡°What¡ª?!¡± she gasped, eyes wide as she fought to keep steady on the swaying deck.


    ¡°Lucius!¡± came a frantic shout from the direction of the quay. It was Elias, arms flailing as he stared at the rapidly widening gap between the ship and the dock. ¡°Lucius! What about me?¡±Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.


    A name.


    Elle¡¯s ears pricked at the sound, and her heart pounded in a sudden rush of alarm. Looking toward the dock, she realized with growing dread that they were already too far out. Just moments ago, they had been only a few steps from solid land, but now the roiling ocean water yawed between them and Elindoryl¡¯s harbor.


    Elle¡¯s pulse hammered in her ears. She blinked rapidly, forcing down the surge of panic rising in her throat. ¡°Ladies,¡± she said, her voice wobbling ever so slightly, ¡°we may be in trouble.¡±


    As one, the three women around her snapped their heads up. Having stumbled to her feet, Faye stared in mute horror at the rapidly receding dock. Her mouth formed a silent ¡®o.¡¯ Aer¡¯s eyes flared with protective urgency, scanning the deck for imminent threats while Liori pressed a trembling hand to her chest, lips parted in shock. A sudden hush fell over them, broken only by the mocking hiss of wind through the rigging. The once-secured lines had been loosened without their notice, and The Silver Horizon was gliding away from Elindoryl¡¯s harbor, gathering speed.


    ¡°Kali is still inside,¡± Liori whispered, turning a stricken gaze on Elle.


    A loud thud, something breaking, a crash of wood or furniture splintering in a fierce struggle came from the closed door of the captain¡¯s quarters.


    ¡°And it sounds like a fight!¡± Faye added.


    Without a word, Aer sprinted across the tilting deck. Her boots thudded on the wet planks as she lurched toward the cabin door. Another gust rocked the ship, and the timbers groaned under the strain. The sails overhead snapped, catching the feral wind that seemed to come from nowhere as though conjured by unseen hands.


    Elle, Faye, and Liori tried to follow Aer, but the entire ship lurched violently. The sea had reared up, batting the carrack forward in a wild surge. Faye gasped, her footing lost as her knees buckled, and she slammed into Liori, bringing the priestess down with her.


    ¡°Faye!¡± Liori exclaimed, a note of panic cutting through her normally calm voice. Arms flailing, they skidded on the slick boards, just managing to avoid crashing into the ship¡¯s low railing.


    Elle was steadier on her feet, crouching beside them, heart pounding as fiercely as the waves against the hull.


    ¡°Are you all right?¡± she asked, grabbing the women¡¯s upper arms to help them regain balance.


    Faye¡¯s breath rasped, nodding stiffly.


    ¡°Fine¡­just¡­ the deck moved so fast¡­¡± She glanced over her shoulder at the roiling water. Swells rose and fell, dragging the ship farther and farther from the harbor lights. Shockingly, no one stood at the helm; as far as the women could see, no one was guiding The Silver Horizon, yet the vessel cut a relentless course into open seas.


    A sharp crack of thunder boomed overhead as a storm gathered. Perhaps it was the unnatural manifestation of the same force driving the wind. The rain had not yet begun to fall, but the air thickened with the electric tang of the impending tempest, swirling with the brine of Herawulf¡¯s waters.


    From the cabin door, a muffled shout echoed. It was Kali¡¯s voice. Every muscle in Elle¡¯s body tensed. Faye and Liori scrambled upright. The priestess whispered a quick invocation under her breath, words like a plea to Aelindra to steady their course. A faint shimmer of golden light circled her hands for a moment, though it sputtered in the face of the howling wind. Meanwhile, Aer had already slipped into the captain¡¯s quarters. The door banged shut behind her, and the thuds and scraping from within grew louder, more chaotic. Anxiety clawed at Elle¡¯s stomach. Gathering her courage, Elle braced against another surge of the deck¡¯s movement.


    Liori swallowed hard. She clutched the small pendant at her collar, drawing strength from the goddess¡¯s symbol. Faye nodded, the usual gleam of mischief in her dark eyes gone. The priestess carefully placed a hand on the cabin door¡¯s latch. It rattled ominously, hammered by something or someone inside.