《ORIGIN : Elysia》 1. Why Cant I? Place : Inside Ranit. Realm : Mirgeth Time : 13035th Rev of Timestar. Population : 100% (Zovrath haven''t yet attacked) The evening sky of Mirgeth shimmered in shades of purple and blue, a mesmerizing backdrop against the glittering skyscrapers adorned with holographic projections. Ads, news, and vibrant animations danced across the towering facades. In Mirgeth, reality was a malleable canvas, shaped by the will of its inhabitants. The Mirgethis fairies, known for their mastery of illusions and reality-bending magic, lived in this ever-changing world. Inside the sleek, levitating Ranit¡ªa transit vehicle gliding effortlessly above the skyline¡ªtwo strangers sat silently. One was an older Mirgethis, her face lined with wisdom, while the other, a younger fairy, radiated youthful curiosity. Neither had spoken a word until a massive holographic projection appeared outside. A larger-than-life image of Ethan hovered in the air, the words SAVIOR ETHAN: OUR SAVIOR SENT BY OUR PHINIX NEMIN glowing beneath it. The sight sparked a conversation.
Older Fairy: "Sent by Phinix? I don¡¯t believe it." (She turned away from the window with a scoff.) Younger Fairy: (Grinning) "Why? Because our Phinixes abandoned us? And now they¡¯re sending some fairy-less body half our size?" Older Fairy: "Exactly! Look at him. He doesn¡¯t even look like a Phinix¡ªor us. And this whole ¡®he¡¯ and ¡®him¡¯ business? You wouldn¡¯t believe how long it took me to figure out those words meant him. It¡¯s so strange, isn¡¯t it?" Younger Fairy: "Oh, totally. And don¡¯t even get me started on how that half-sized fairy-less body supposedly wiped out an entire Tigath fleet!" Older Fairy: (Nodding slowly) "Believe it or not, it¡¯s true. Didn¡¯t you see the footage? He really did it. It¡¯s hard for any fairy in the ten realms to comprehend, but it happened." Younger Fairy: (Chuckling) "Yeah, I saw it. My Adych showed us the clip the next day. She¡¯s practically his number one fan." Older Fairy: "Adych? So you¡¯re studying?" Younger Fairy: (Nodding) "Yep. At the Arcy School of Arcane." Older Fairy: "In Arcanaeum? You must be a blessed one then." Younger Fairy: (Smiling proudly) "I am. I¡¯m specializing in Arcane Light studies. And you?" Older Fairy: (Smiling modestly) "Oh, I¡¯m¡­ just a Bringer. I work at the Afouch." Younger Fairy: (Leaning forward earnestly) "¡®Just a Bringer?¡¯ Don¡¯t say that! You¡¯re the reason blessed ones like me even exist. Don¡¯t underestimate yourself¡ªyou¡¯re just as important as we are."
The Ranit¡¯s automated voice interrupted their exchange. Ranit: "Stop 48: Lbitch Dyfost. Doors will open on the left. Please mind the gap." The older fairy stood, smoothing her robes. Older Fairy: (Smiling) "Looks like this is my stop. It was nice meeting you, um¡­" (She hesitated, realizing she didn¡¯t know her name.) Younger Fairy: "Elysia. Elysia Zaminera. And it was nice meeting you too! Just promise me, next time, don¡¯t say ¡®just¡¯ when you talk about being a Bringer." Older Fairy: (Chuckling as she stepped toward the doors) "I¡¯ll try, Elysia. I¡¯ll try." As the Ranit glided to its next destination, Elysia leaned back in her seat, her gaze fixed on the massive holographic projection of Ethan floating outside the window. The words ¡°SAVIOR ETHAN: OUR SAVIOR SENT BY OUR PHINIX NEMIN¡± flickered in glowing letters across the Mirgeth skyline. Her mind buzzed with curiosity and wonder. Pulling out her Prodge, a sleek, multifunctional device, Elysia tapped on the screen several times until a well-circulated footage began to play. It was a recording of Ethan, standing resolute amidst the vast expanse of space. To his side was his self-built Statipresser, an imposing device brimming with energy. Opposite him loomed the formidable fleet of Tigath, their numbers stretching beyond sight. Ethan¡¯s calm demeanor was unnerving, given the overwhelming odds. Then, with a single decisive gesture, he activated the Statipresser, unleashing an intense pulse of energy. The footage captured the moment: a blinding flash followed by a thunderous BOOM. In an instant, the Tigath army was obliterated, vanishing into nothingness. The silence that followed was as deafening as the destruction. Elysia replayed the clip, her eyes narrowing with every viewing. She wasn¡¯t the only one captivated by it; every fairy across the ten realms was either awestruck or incredulous. Ethan had become a figure of relentless discussion and debate. She murmured softly to herself as she watched the footage again. Elysia: How? How did the Savior do this? The article says he built the Statipresser himself, using our resources. But still... how is it possible? Closing the footage, she shifted her gaze back to the holographic sky. A sense of determination welled within her. Elysia: If someone half our size, without any powers, can accomplish such monumental feats... why can¡¯t I? He didn¡¯t have our gifts, yet he didn¡¯t let that stop him. I have the Light... I should be capable of even greater things. Her thoughts weren¡¯t filled with despair but with a renewed drive to push her boundaries, to refine her skills further.
A soft chime indicated the next stop. The Ranit slowed, and Elysia stood up, stepping off onto the bustling platform. She walked briskly to the nearby ticket counter. Elysia: Quzi Dyfost. Arcaneaum, please. The holographic interface at the counter responded promptly. Ticket Counter: 1.42 Huris. Please collect your ticket. Have a safe journey. Elysia inserted her payment and retrieved the glowing ticket. Her destination was clear: the Arcy School of Arcane in the Arcaneaum realm. She made her way toward the Dyfost, the realm-spanning teleportation system.
KNOWLEDGE DISCLOSED Dyfost: The Nexus of the Realms The Dyfost was a marvel of interrealm transportation. Each structure varied depending on its purpose, but all were bound by the same core technology: a swirling, blue energy that pulsed in rhythmic patterns, acting as a portal to distant realms. You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author. The Intra Dyfost at the station was shaped like a vertical arc, its swirling blue light glowing invitingly in the center.
Approaching the Dyfost, Elysia slipped her ticket into the slot at its base. The arc hummed softly as it activated, scanning her and recognizing her destination. Without hesitation, she stepped into the blue light. The sensation was instantaneous ¡ª a mix of weightlessness and warmth. When she emerged, she was no longer in Mirgeth but on Arcaneaum, standing in front of the Quzi Dyfost. The stark contrast in atmosphere was evident; Arcaneaum radiated with an aura of wisdom and mystique. Ornate structures resembling observatories and libraries towered around her, their surfaces shimmering with intricate runes. Elysia adjusted her satchel and began her walk toward the Arcy School of Arcane, her heart pounding with anticipation. As Elysia stepped into the bustling school grounds, she was immediately enveloped by its familiar ambiance. Bychs, fairies in training or students, were scattered around practicing their arcane magic. In one corner, a group of younger Bychs struggled to summon a flicker of light, while others effortlessly crafted luminous orbs that hovered in the air. Wigors, the specialized instructors of arcane magic, roamed the grounds, guiding students through complex spells. In the background, the synchronized chanting of a junior class resonated, filling the air with a rhythmic hum of enchantments. Elysia made her way toward her classroom, lost in thought about her ongoing research on Light. Suddenly, something slammed into her back, nearly knocking her over. Elysia (stumbling as she regained her balance): "Who in the¡ª?" (she muttered angrily, cutting herself off) Turning around, she spotted two familiar faces¡ªher friends Trigaha and Livia, both Mirgethis like herself, giggling uncontrollably. Trigaha (giggling): "Got you, Ely!" Elysia (walking toward her with narrowed eyes): "Okay, but I didn¡¯t hit you this hard! You almost knocked me flat!" Trigaha (mock gasping dramatically): "Oh my stars! Is this the same ¡®unshakable Elysia¡¯ who swore yesterday that no Concussio Corporis could even make her flinch?" Livia (joining in with a smirk): "Yeah! You were so confident¡ªlike you could survive a Fotris fairy¡¯s punch without a scratch!" Elysia (rolling her eyes): "Alright, alright, enough already." Trigaha (grinning mischievously): "What? You owe me 12 Huris. Remember our bet? I said I¡¯d catch you off guard, and look at you now!" With a resigned sigh, Elysia activated her Bracon, the holographic wristband device, and transferred the amount with a few clicks. Elysia (deadpan): "Happy?" Trigaha (beaming): "Ecstatic." The trio burst into laughter, their teasing camaraderie lightening the morning. Livia (suddenly animated): "Did you see the Savior¡¯s latest video? Oh, Ethan looked so adorable¡ªhe¡¯s barely up to the waist of those Fotris fairies! But still, he saved them. Can you believe it?" Elysia (curious): "Which video?" Trigaha (groaning): "Don¡¯t tell me you spent all of yesterday researching Light again instead of catching up!" Elysia¡¯s sheepish smile gave her away. Livia (sighing theatrically): "She did spend all day on research. Typical Ely." Trigaha (exasperated): "You¡¯re so lame, Ely. Come on! Enjoy life a bit. Stop burying yourself in your stupid Light-bending theories." Elysia (defensive): "Hey, it¡¯s not stupid! I¡¯m close to figuring out how to turn Bringers into Blessed ones!" Livia (rolling her eyes): "Here we go again." Elysia (ignoring her, voice picking up excitement): "You know that Philights can possess both! Wigor said it¡¯s possible because¡ª" Before Elysia could finish, Trigaha slapped her hand gently over Elysia¡¯s mouth and began dragging her toward their classroom. Trigaha: "Alright, genius, we get it. But please, spare us the morning lecture. We¡¯ve got three Wigor classes today, and I¡¯d rather not start my suffering early." Livia (laughing and trailing behind): "I can¡¯t believe she¡¯s our friend. How do we put up with her?" Despite her words, Livia¡¯s playful grin and unwavering steps alongside them spoke volumes of their unshakable friendship. The air in the classroom buzzed with faint whispers and the occasional hum of the holographic projections as Wigor began her lecture. Elysia sat at the front, her posture upright, her Bracon neatly aligned on her wrist, while her two friends, Trigaha and Livia, huddled at the back, completely engrossed in their Prodge, watching Savior Ethan''s video on a loop.
Wigor (speaking in an authoritative yet warm tone): ¡°Light. A term you all know well. For most fairies, Light is what determines their destiny¡ªwhether they¡¯ll be a Light-Blessed, gifted with powers and abilities, or a Light-Bringer, who ensures the continuation of life, giving birth. But let me ask you this: Is that all Light is? A mere mechanism to decide birth and power?¡± The classroom remained silent, save for a few distracted giggles from Trigaha and Livia. Wigor (leaning slightly forward): ¡°Wrong. Light is much more than that. It is the essence that binds us, fuels our realms, and creates the balance we know today. But tell me this¡ªwho bore the first Light?¡± A few hands shot up.
Bych 1 (answering confidently): ¡°The Phinixes!¡± Wigor (shaking her head): ¡°No. The Phinixes were not the first.¡±
Bych 2 (trying again): ¡°The Prime Phinix?¡± Wigor (raising an eyebrow): ¡°First, there¡¯s no such thing as a ¡®Prime Phinix.¡¯ Second, wrong again.¡±
The class shifted awkwardly in their seats. Wigor¡¯s gaze scanned the room, finally landing on Elysia. Elysia (murmuring under her breath): ¡°We don¡¯t know yet.¡± The classroom erupted into laughter. Trigaha nearly fell off her seat, and Livia clapped her hands dramatically.
Wigor (smiling and silencing the class with a raised hand): ¡°She¡¯s correct.¡± The room went still. Wigor (continuing): ¡°We don¡¯t know yet. No one knows who bore the first Light or how it came to be. It¡¯s a mystery as profound as Savior Ethan himself¡ªa being from another realm who, against all odds, saved us. And yet here we are, tracing threads of history, hoping one day to uncover the origin of Light.¡±
Bych 3 (scrunching their nose): ¡°But if we don¡¯t know its origin, why do we even study it?¡± Wigor (nodding thoughtfully): ¡°A fair question. But consider this¡ªdoes every civilization know its origin? Do all people know the beginning of their existence? No. What we do instead is study, adapt, and evolve. Our understanding of Light isn¡¯t static¡ªit grows with us, just as our ancestors¡¯ beliefs once grew. And, with time, even the truth may change.¡± She turned, her movements precise, and hovered her Bracon near the projection desk. A series of glowing assignments materialized mid-air.
Wigor (announcing): ¡°As Bychs of Arcane, your task is to understand Light¡ªnot just as an abstract concept, but as a living force. For your next assignment, you will conduct a survey. Talk to Light-Blessed and Light-Bringers. Learn about their lives, their struggles, and their experiences. I expect detailed insights in your reports.¡± The room collectively groaned. Bychs (in unison): ¡°Not again!¡± ¡°Another survey? Ugh!¡± ¡°Talk to strangers? Why can¡¯t I just interview my mirror?¡± Wigor smirked at the familiar resistance, then exited the classroom, leaving behind a trail of resigned sighs.
Trigaha (snapping out of her distraction): ¡°Wait, what? Did she catch us?¡± Elysia (grinning): ¡°Nope. Lecture¡¯s over. You survived¡­barely.¡± Both Livia and Trigaha shot her mock-glares. Livia (crossing her arms): ¡°Oh, the torture. How ever will we recover?¡± Elysia (teasing): ¡°Maybe by actually paying attention next time?¡± Trigaha (snorting): ¡°Or maybe by skipping class altogether.¡± They laughed, their camaraderie echoing through the now-emptying room, the weight of Wigor¡¯s assignment momentarily forgotten. 2. What are you talking about?
The days that followed were relentless. Elysia buried herself in research, her free time consumed by books, notes, and scattered parchments filled with her handwritten theories on Light. She studied the properties of Light-Blessed fairies, their abilities, and the strange divide between them and Light-Bringers. Each night, before sleep claimed her, she would stare at her mother¡¯s photo¡ªthe warm smile frozen in time. And every time, her mind spiraled back to that fateful night. The Virtis. Their deception. The realization that one day, one day soon, it would be Aiaris walking into those flames. Their hunger for power, disguised as devotion. The fire that swallowed innocent fairies in the name of a false paradise. The thought clenched around her chest like a vice. She had to stop them. Before it was too late. But that night wasn¡¯t all horror. It held something else¡ªsomething unexpected. The Head Virtis had called her Light-Blessed. She had powers. Powers she had never tapped into, never even realized she possessed. And now, at the Arcy School of Arcane, she had the chance to hone them.
Arcane Training Grounds ¨C Adych Barem¡¯s Lesson The open ground buzzed with anticipation. Bychs lined up, their postures tense with focus, eager for today¡¯s training. Adych Barem, a strict but formidable trainer, paced between them. She was a fairy of sharp precision, known for her dramatic way of speaking. Today was no different. Barem: ¡°Arcane. Arcane is not magic.¡± (She walked slowly, her sharp eyes scanning each Bych.) "IT IS¡ª" (She suddenly shouted, making some flinch.) "¡ªyour energy." (Her voice dropped to a whisper, making them lean in.) Trigaha stifled a chuckle, shaking her head. Barem: ¡°You create your own Arcane. YOU¡ª¡± (she barked) ¡°shape it. It is a gift. A powerful one. But it must be controlled.¡± Livia, shifting impatiently, groaned. Livia: ¡°Ughhh. Come on! Why do we have to sit through this same speech every day? Let us fight already!¡± Trigaha: (smirking) ¡°Say ¡®Start,¡¯ and my first blow is going straight to Adych¡¯s face.¡± Elysia shook her head, chuckling. Her friends were monsters. Barem clapped her hands once, demanding their full attention. Barem: ¡°And today, I will teach you all¡ªHelbent.¡± The murmurs in the group grew. The name was unfamiliar. Helbent? Students exchanged curious glances, whispering among themselves. Barem: ¡°Helbent is a defensive attack. You use it to¡ª¡± (her voice suddenly boomed) ¡°¡ªDODGE or COUNTER an incoming strike.¡± She took a step back and demonstrated. With a swift movement of her hand, a purple chakra burst forth, shaped like a sharp, spinning disc of energy. It hummed with power as it shot through the air, slicing clean through a wooden dummy at the far end of the training ground. The impact left a perfect, precise cut, and the energy dissipated in a soft glow. Silence. Then, the excited chatter erupted. Livia: (eyes wide in awe) ¡°Now we¡¯re talking.¡± Trigaha: (grinning) ¡°This. This is real Arcane.¡± Barem crossed her arms, waiting for them to settle down before continuing. Barem: ¡°NOW¡ª¡± (she thundered before lowering her tone) ¡°¡ªto summon Helbent, you must focus on your Arcane. Feel the essence of power within you. Channel it. Visualize the chakra taking form.¡± The Bychs obeyed, closing their eyes, focusing. Some managed to create flickering, unstable chakras. Others formed misshapen orbs instead of proper discs. A few Bychs barely generated any energy at all. Elysia? Her chakra formed instantly. It was sharp, precisely cut, and radiated a controlled intensity. Unlike the others, hers was solid, stable¡ªperfect. Trigaha: (eyes widening as she saw it) ¡°Whoa! Ely! That¡¯s impressive!¡± Elysia: (smiling, slightly breathless) ¡°You too, T!¡± But Trigaha wasn¡¯t done. Her eyes twinkled with mischief. Trigaha: (grinning wickedly) ¡°Watch this.¡± Before anyone could react, she deliberately hurled her chakra¡ªstraight at Barem. The impact sent Barem stumbling backward, landing unceremoniously on the ground. A stunned silence followed. Then, a ripple of chuckles, followed by outright laughter. Barem pushed herself up, face red with rage. Barem: (fuming) ¡°WHO IN THE¡ª?!¡± Trigaha barely contained her laughter, throwing up her hands in exaggerated innocence. Trigaha: (mock-gasping) ¡°Oh no! Adych! I am so sorry! It was an accident!¡± Livia: (whispering to Elysia, barely holding in her laugh) ¡°She¡¯s enjoying this way too much.¡± Elysia shook her head, grinning. Her friends were absolute troublemakers. And she wouldn¡¯t have them any other way.
Elysia sat cross-legged on her sleek bed, the dim glow of holographic projections hovering around her room. The space was modern yet minimalistic¡ªfuturistic gadgets embedded into the walls, a floating screen displaying research notes on Light, and a small levitating plant she barely remembered to water. A soft beep echoed in the room, signaling an incoming call. She reached out, tapping her Prodge. The small holographic figure of her mother, Aiaris, flickered to life in the air. The image was slightly blurry, and¡ªas always¡ªonly half of Aiaris¡¯ face was visible. Aiaris: (scolding lightly) "Ely! I know you¡¯re not obeying me these days." Elysia: (grinning) "Because I want to hear your sweet scoldings. It¡¯s been a while." Aiaris: (huffing) "You¡¯re lucky you¡¯re in Uth. Otherwise, by now, you¡¯d be begging me to let you off." Elysia: (laughing) "I miss you too, Mum. If that¡¯s what you¡¯re trying to say. And¡­ put the Prodge on the table properly. I¡¯m only seeing your chin." Aiaris fumbled with the device, muttering something under her breath. Aiaris: (grumbling) "I don¡¯t understand this thing. It keeps beeping all day. One day, I swear, I¡¯ll throw it away." Elysia: (mock horror) "No way! Do you know how many Huris that thing cost? And besides, it¡¯s the only way I get to talk to you daily." Aiaris sighed, shifting the Prodge again, finally centering her face. Aiaris: "Where are Livia and that pin-nosed fairy? What¡¯s her name¡­?" (pausing, trying to recall) Elysia: (chuckling) "Trigaha, Mum. They¡¯re here, plotting their next grand mischief." Aiaris: (smirking) "And you? Did you study anything there? Or are you just¡ª" Elysia: (grinning mischievously) "Mum. Study? Me? You know me." Aiaris: (deadpan) "I know, I know. You study there." (soft chuckle) Elysia¡¯s expression softened. Elysia: "I¡¯m really close, Mum. I think I¡¯ve figured out how to manipulate Light. I think it can be transferred. If I can just¡ª" Aiaris: (interrupting, voice firm) "Ely!" (pausing before continuing more gently) "Ely, I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re saying, but listen to me. If you think you can change the beliefs of our mand with your study and all this¡­ you can¡¯t." Elysia hesitated. Her mother¡¯s voice was laced with both concern and resignation. Elysia: (quietly) "I¡¯m not doing this for their beliefs¡­" (she paused, then shook her head, forcing a playful grin) "Anyway, I have to go to the library now. Going to steal some books." Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author. Aiaris: (stern but amused) "Don¡¯t you dare steal, Ely!" Elysia: (ignoring her, giggling like a child) "Love you, Mum!" Aiaris: "Ely! Ely¡ª" Before she could say more, Elysia ended the call. The holographic projection flickered out, leaving the room silent except for the faint hum of the city outside.
The Weight of the Past Elysia exhaled, setting the Prodge aside. Her eyes drifted to the window. Beyond the sleek city skyline, the night sky stretched vast and endless, its deep hues reminding her of the flames from the ritual. Her mind pulled her back. The screams. The fire. The illusion of Valfala. The truth she uncovered that night. Her hands clenched into fists unconsciously. Her mother would be next. If she did nothing, Aiaris would walk willingly into the flames, believing it to be fate. No. She wouldn¡¯t let that happen. Her breath was steady, but her voice burned with resolve. Elysia: (low, venomous) "Light. That¡¯s what they wanted." Her eyes gleamed with unshakable fury. Elysia: "Then I¡¯ll take their Light."
The Morning After ¨C A Confusing Start A sharp, mechanical chime echoed through Elysia¡¯s sleek room as the automated assistant came to life, its voice clear, robotic, and overly enthusiastic. Automated Voice: "WAKE UP, ELYSIA. IT IS MORNING. CURRENT TIME: 06:30. WEATHER: MODERATE TEMPERATURE, LIGHT CLOUD COVER, WIND SPEED: 14 UNITS. AIR QUALITY: OPTIMAL. YOU HAVE A SCHEDULED LECTURE ON ARCANE THEORETICAL APPLICATIONS AT 08:00, FOLLOWED BY ARCANE PRACTICAL MANIFESTATION AT 10:30. MID-DAY BREAK BEGINS AT 12:00. A STUDY SESSION ON ADVANCED LIGHT PRINCIPLES AT 13:15. EVENING EXERCISE TRAINING AT 17:30. REMINDER: YOU HAVE NOT COMPLETED YOUR LIGHT-BLESSED VS LIGHT-BRINGER SURVEY ASSIGNMENT. DO YOU WISH TO RESCHEDULE?" Elysia groaned, barely processing the information as she smacked her Prodge to silence the voice. Elysia: (muttering into her pillow) "No. I wish to sleep for another cycle." The assistant did not care for her protests. Automated Voice: "DENIED. WAKE UP. SYSTEM INITIATING DAY CYCLE." The room''s lights gradually brightened, simulating the warmth of a sunrise. A faint hum signaled the room¡¯s self-adjusting temperature, adapting to her morning routine. Elysia finally forced herself up, dragging herself to the bathroom like a lifeless spirit. She stood in front of the mirror, staring at her disheveled hair and half-lidded eyes. Elysia: (groggily, smiling at herself) "You look like a lost Fliha." She splashed water onto her face, feeling the coolness refresh her senses. But then¡ªsomething strange happened. As she brought her hands up to her face, she noticed the tips of her fingers had darkened. A faint, black hue crept across her fingertips, as if her skin had been stained with ink. But when she rubbed them together, expecting some residue, there was nothing. The skin was still soft, still smooth¡ªjust darker. Elysia: (frowning, confused) "What¡¯s this now?" She ran more water over them, scrubbing lightly, but the color didn¡¯t fade. Her heart quickened slightly, a sense of unease settling in her chest. But before she could dwell on it further¡ª A loud knock. Startled, she quickly wiped her hands and shoved the thought aside. As she opened the door, she barely had time to react before Livia stormed in, flopping onto her bed dramatically.
Livia¡¯s Storm of Chaos Livia lay sprawled out, laughing, stretching, and completely ignoring Elysia¡¯s confused expression. Livia: (grinning wildly) "ELY!!! My Ely!" (she threw an arm over her eyes, still laughing) "Looking all messed up after a night out!" Elysia blinked. Elysia: (eyebrows furrowing, confused) "What?" Livia: (ignoring her, still laughing) "Oh, I had the best time! And Trigaha¡ªoh, stars, Ely!" (she laughed again) "The way she ran¡ªI never thought you had it in you!" Elysia took a slow step forward. Elysia: (still blank) "What are you talking about?" Livia waved her off, still buzzing with excitement. Livia: (grinning) "Oh, come on! Don¡¯t pretend now. I know you enjoyed it too!" Elysia stared, her confusion only deepening. Enjoyed what? Livia: (standing up, still smirking) "Even if it was just a small thing, it was fun. We should do it more often!" Elysia¡¯s mind raced¡ªwhat was she talking about? Livia was so sure that Elysia had been there, had done something unexpected¡ªbut she had no memory of it. Something wasn¡¯t right. Elysia opened her mouth to ask, but¡ª Livia: (grinning, cutting her off) "Get ready. See you in class!" And just like that, she spun on her heels and walked out, shutting the door behind her¡ªleaving Elysia completely blanked out. The room was silent again.
What Happened Last Night? Elysia stood still, trying to piece it together. She hadn¡¯t done anything last night¡­ had she? She had gone to bed after her call with her mum. She had stared out the window, lost in thought. She had felt the anger burning inside her about the Virtis. But after that¡­? Her gaze drifted to her darkening fingers. A strange chill crept up her spine. Elysia: (to herself, voice barely above a whisper) "What is happening to me?" Wigor Mishis¡¯ Lecture ¨C Advanced Light Principles The classroom was bathed in soft, floating glyphs of golden light, each one flickering as Wigor Mishis moved her hands in precise gestures. The topic of today''s lecture was Advanced Light Principles, an intricate and essential subject for any Bych who sought to truly understand the essence of Light. Wigor Mishis, a strict and methodical Wigor, paced in front of the holographic display, her voice crisp and commanding. Mishis: "That was your 13th principle: The Manifestation Threshold¡ªwhere a fairy''s Light reaches the point of physical influence. Now, coming to the next one..." With a flick of her hand, the golden glyphs shifted, rearranging into a new formation in the air. Mishis: "Principle 14: Light-Arcane Conversion. This is a crucial concept in our field. While many fairies assume Light is simply a passive source of power, in reality, it can be molded into Arcane energy under the right conditions." She turned, her sharp eyes scanning the class. Mishis: "Who can tell me the difference between Light and Arcane?" A few Bychs hesitated, but one raised her hand and answered confidently. Bych: "Light is natural, an inherent force, while Arcane is the application of that force through technique and control." Mishis: (nodding approvingly) "Correct. But let¡¯s take it further. Light exists within every fairy, whether they are a Blessed One or a Bringer. Arcane, however, is something crafted¡ªit requires study, training, and discipline. Now, when we discuss conversion, we¡¯re talking about..." Her voice continued, filling the classroom with knowledge. But in the far corner, Livia and Trigaha were up to their usual distractions.
Elysia Gets Distracted Livia nudged Elysia under the desk, whispering in a low voice. Livia: "Hey, Ely! Ely!" Elysia tried to ignore her, keeping her eyes fixed on the lecture. But Livia was persistent. Elysia (whispering back, annoyed): "What?" Livia: (grinning, glancing at her clothes) "Where did you get that tunic from?" Elysia frowned. Elysia: "Which tunic?" Before Livia could respond, Trigaha leaned in, smirking. Trigaha: "The one you wore last night!" (She said it like it was the most obvious thing in the world.) Elysia¡¯s stomach dropped. She hadn¡¯t worn any tunic last night. Had she? The question froze her thoughts. She was about to ask more, but¡ª
Wigor Mishis Snaps Mishis¡¯ voice boomed across the room. Mishis (barking, eyes narrowing at them): "You three! Get out!" Elysia snapped out of her thoughts, eyes widening in shock. Livia and Trigaha barely reacted, as if this was routine for them. Elysia: (panicked, stammering) "S-Sorry, Wigor! I was just¡ª" Mishis (cutting her off, voice ice-cold): "GET. OUT. NOW." There was no room for discussion. With heavy sighs, the three of them got up and walked out, the weight of the class¡¯s stares burning into Elysia¡¯s back. As they exited, Elysia muttered curses under her breath. Elysia (low, glaring at Livia and Trigaha): "I hate you both." Livia and Trigaha? Completely unfazed.
Scene Shift: The Head Office ¨C Medisa and Librarian Cami The atmosphere in the Head Office was the complete opposite of the noisy classroom. It was calm, structured, and filled with the soft ticking of an old mechanical timepiece¡ªone of the few in existence, as most fairies had transitioned to digital Bracons. At the desk sat Medisa, the head of the Arcy School of Arcane. Medisa was a fairy of calm authority¡ªnever raising her voice, never wasting her breath. She was known for choosing her words carefully, always speaking exactly as much as was necessary. Across from her stood Librarian Cami, an elderly fairy who despised technology. Unlike most fairies, Cami didn¡¯t own a Bracon. No holograms, no futuristic tools¡ªjust paper, ink, and an unwavering belief in tradition. Cami cleared her throat, a slight rasp in her voice. Cami: (firmly, with a hint of irritation) "The library is not getting enough..." (she coughed before continuing) "...fund." Medisa did not react immediately. She simply tilted her head slightly and responded with her usual directness. Medisa: "Fund? For what?" (her tone polite, but to the point.) Cami straightened, ready to defend her request. The Holdforth ¨C A Matter of Concern Cami straightened her posture, her aged voice firm, despite the occasional cough. Cami: "Fund for maintenance, sitting arrange¡ª" (coughs slightly, composing herself) "¡ªarrangements are not proper. Nor is the security tight!" Medisa remained unmoved, her expression unreadable as she listened. Medisa: (calmly, directly) "Engage Bychs for maintenance. Get an Erudite for sitting arrangement suggestions. Install surveillance for security." Each solution was spoken without hesitation, as if every issue had a simple, immediate answer. But Cami wasn¡¯t done. She inhaled sharply, as if preparing herself, before speaking again. Cami: "I am not talking about the security of the library." That made Medisa pause. For the first time, she looked up, her sharp gaze settling on Cami, waiting for her to continue. Cami''s fingers curled slightly, her voice lowering. Cami: "The Holdforth." Silence. The moment the word left her lips, Medisa¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly. Medisa: (slowly, carefully) "What about it?" Cami exhaled, as if the weight of her words had finally settled. Cami: (coughing before speaking again) "There¡­ there was an attempt to access it. I don¡¯t know who, but¡ª" Medisa''s fingers tapped once against the polished surface of her desk. Medisa: (her voice calm, but edged with something beneath it) "Are you sure?" Cami nodded, her usually steady voice carrying a rare note of unease. Cami: "I felt a Vyshek presence this morning. I confirmed it with Vathdix." Medisa stayed silent. Not out of doubt, but because she was processing. Cami watched her carefully, gauging her reaction. Medisa had always been unreadable, but this¡ªthis concerned her. Cami: (coughs, then firmly) "I suggest moving the Holdforth to a secure location¡­ OR increasing security." A pause. Then¡ª Medisa: (calm, direct, final) "Leave." Cami closed her eyes for a brief moment. She knew Medisa. That single word¡ª"Leave."¡ªwas not dismissal. It meant the matter was understood and would be handled. And yet¡­ There was something different this time. The way Medisa lingered in thought. The way she spoke the word so simply, so decisively¡ªit made doubt creep into Cami¡¯s mind. But she would obey. Without another word, she turned and exited the office, leaving Medisa alone.
A Call in the Shadows The moment the door clicked shut, Medisa exhaled softly, her fingers swiftly moving through the hovering holographic projections in the air. With a few effortless swipes, the projection shifted, aligning into a communication channel. A face emerged in the flickering holograph¡ªa fairy, her expression neutral, waiting. Medisa¡¯s voice was calm, unwavering. Medisa: "5 Rashily. In two days." The fairy on the other end nodded once, silently acknowledging the command. Then, the projection vanished. Medisa leaned back, her gaze shifting upwards. Her eyes traced the ceiling, but her mind was elsewhere. This was not just a minor security issue. The Holdforth had been targeted. 3. Ritual Place : Dohi Mand Realm : Mirgeth Time : 1024th Rev of Timestar Population : 100% (No Zovrath, No Ethan yet) Nestled in the haunting beauty of Mirgeth, where reality and magic wove into an intricate tapestry, Dohi Mand thrived as a bastion of tradition. Its homes were carved from the glimmering black stone of the realm, and ethereal lights hung like faint fireflies in the dense mist that perpetually cloaked the village. The Virilis fairies, clad in their ceremonial purple tunics, moved with reverence, their lives dictated by unwavering devotion to the sacred Light and the Phinixes. In this remote village, the air always seemed to hum with whispers of rituals past and promises of paradise. In a small yet warm home, the scent of freshly baked Mirgeth bread mingled with a floral fragrance unique to their realm. A glowing crystal embedded in the ceiling bathed the room in soft, otherworldly purple light. Aiaris sat across from Elysia at their wooden table, her eyes full of love as she watched her daughter struggle to finish her meal. Elysia pushed her plate away, her small hands resting on the polished table. "No, Mum. I¡¯m full," she said sweetly, her voice tinged with satisfaction. "I can¡¯t even take a sip now." Aiaris chuckled, her laughter as gentle as a melody. "Not a sip, huh? Then how about some mum kisses?" She reached across the table, cupping Elysia''s round face in her warm hands, and kissed her cheeks with playful affection. "My sweet aul." Elysia beamed, the light in her eyes matching the crystal''s glow. "Now, go and get ready," Aiaris said, her tone softening. "We have to attend the ritual." At the mention of the ritual, Elysia''s cheerful expression faltered. Her small hands gripped the edge of the table. "I don¡¯t want to go, Mum," she whispered, her voice trembling. Aiaris knelt beside her, brushing a strand of her daughter¡¯s shimmering hair behind her ear. She knew the source of Elysia¡¯s fear, though it pained her. "Ely," she said gently, her voice a soothing balm. "There¡¯s nothing to be afraid of. These rituals are a part of who we are. You must learn about our customs to understand the beauty of our Light." "But they¡­" Elysia started, her words faltering as a lump rose in her throat. "I know," Aiaris said softly, her gaze unwavering. "That¡¯s why I want you to go. When you face your fear, my brave little aul, it will no longer control you." After a moment of hesitation, Elysia nodded slowly, her trust in her mother unwavering. "Good," Aiaris said, standing and smoothing her tunic. "Now go put on the one I made for you. I want to see my cute aul shining in it." Elysia reluctantly left the table, slipping into the adjoining room. She returned moments later, clad in a finely woven purple tunic adorned with intricate golden patterns. Her small frame seemed to glow against the soft light, though her expression remained wary.
The central square of the mand was alive with celebration. The mist parted slightly to reveal a towering altar¡ªthe Hvan. Its circular platform gleamed in the moonlight, its hollow core emitting shimmering purple flames that licked at the cold night air. Around it, dancers moved in perfect synchrony, their movements fluid and mesmerizing. Drums thundered, accompanied by flutes that sang haunting melodies of devotion. The Virilis sang hymns that echoed across the mand, their voices blending into a harmonious chorus. Elysia clung to Aiaris¡¯s tunic as they arrived. Aiaris greeted her friends with warmth, their laughter mingling with the music. Elysia, however, felt a cold knot of dread in her chest. Though she had seen this ritual before, the next part always filled her with a quiet terror. The joyous noise fell to a hush as the mand¡¯s leader, an elder fairy with silver hair and piercing eyes, ascended the Hvan. Her ceremonial robe shimmered with runes that seemed to shift under the flickering light. Raising her hands high, she began to speak, her voice ringing with authority and reverence. "Nyna and Asho of Light," the leader intoned, "gathered here under the gaze of our eternal Phinix Nemin, we honor the sacred cycle of renewal. The Light, gifted to us by the divine, is a fragment of the eternal flame that sustains all. Today, we witness a blessed soul ascend beyond this mortal realm to the embrace of Valfala, where eternal joy and unity with the Phinixes await. "This sacrifice is not an end, but a glorious beginning¡ªa gift to our Phinix, ensuring her blessings upon us remain steadfast." She paused, her arms outstretched as the purple flames surged higher, casting eerie shadows across the gathered fairies. Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon. "Behold the flame that marks her acceptance! Let us dance, let us sing, for in this act, we preserve our covenant with the divine. This Light, surrendered willingly, is a bridge to our eternal bond with the Phinixes. Let the chosen fairy step forth, not as one who dies, but as one who ascends to greatness. May her sacrifice bring peace to us and glory to the realms. Praise be to the Light, and to the Phinixes who guide us!" The crowd erupted into cheers and chants of devotion. Elysia¡¯s heart pounded as her eyes flicked to the chosen fairy, a young woman with serene resolve etched on her face, stepping toward the altar. As the flames consumed the air with an intense glow, Elysia¡¯s small hand tightened around Aiaris¡¯s. She whispered, almost inaudibly, "Mum, do they really go to Valfala?" Aiaris knelt, holding her daughter close. "They do, my sweet aul. The Phinixes watch over them, and their Light lives on." Elysia didn¡¯t respond, her gaze fixed on the altar. The flames reflected in her wide eyes, illuminating a flicker of doubt¡ªand something deeper. As the chosen fairy, a serene and radiant figure named Ilvera, stepped toward the Hvan, the air thrummed with reverence. The other fairies erupted into cheers, their voices harmonizing into a melody that seemed to pulse with the rhythm of their glowing purple flames. Ilvera¡¯s face was a picture of peace, her smile unwavering as though she had already glimpsed the gates of Valfala. The sacred song began, a hauntingly beautiful hymn that resonated with every heart in the mand: ¡°¨®, Ph¨ªnen N¨ªl, cana s¨ªle, Aer¡¯n nenned, n¨ªrna i¡¯l. Daeron nin, daeron n¨¦ar, S¨ªle a¡¯n-gwaith, n¨ªrna i¡¯l.¡± The crowd swayed in unison, their hands raised toward the chosen one as though their combined energy would lift her to Valfala themselves. The leader of the mand, adorned in robes shimmering with threads of silver and purple, raised her hands to quiet the crowd. Leader: "The Light is pure; the vessel must be cleansed. Let this sacred water, the Phyin, wash away all ties to the mortal plane, preparing the chosen for her journey to Valfala." Two attendants, dressed in ceremonial silver tunics, carried an ornate pitcher to the altar. They tilted it, and streams of the glowing Phyin poured over Ilvera. As the water touched her skin, a shimmering aura enveloped her, and her body began to glow with a radiant purple light. Gasps of awe rippled through the gathered fairies, and a reverent silence followed. One by one, the fairies approached Ilvera, touching her glowing arms or placing a hand over their hearts in farewell. Elysia¡¯s mother, Aiaris, gently led her reluctant daughter forward. Elysia: "No, Mum... I don¡¯t want to." Aiaris (sternly but softly): "Ely! You must learn to be brave. This is a blessing, not a curse. Come now." Elysia''s small frame trembled as Aiaris took her hand and pressed it against Ilvera¡¯s glowing arm. The warmth of the light surged through her fingers, but her heart felt heavy, not uplifted. She quickly pulled her hand back and clung to her mother¡¯s tunic, eyes wide with fear. A sudden shift in the atmosphere silenced even the faintest whispers. Four figures, cloaked in thick dark purple tunics with hoods obscuring their faces, stepped forward in unison. Their entrance was marked by an eerie stillness, the music and dancing halting as if the world itself held its breath. The Virtis had arrived. Leader: "The keepers of the sacred flame, the Virtis, come forth to honor the divine covenant. Let the Light be released and returned to its eternal source." The Virtis moved with an otherworldly grace, their silence commanding absolute attention. They formed a circle around Ilvera, who stepped onto the Hvan altar, her glowing figure a stark contrast to their shadowy forms. The purple flames surged higher, licking the edges of the hollow platform. The Virtis began to chant, their voices low and resonant, weaving an ancient spell. The flames responded, roaring to life, their vibrant hues flickering and dancing in rhythm with the chant. One of the Virtis gestured to Ilvera. She nodded and turned to face the crowd, her smile unwavering even as the flames beckoned her forward. Leader: "Chosen of Light, step into the Hvan. Your sacrifice is our salvation, your ascension our blessing. Go forth, bearer of Light, and be one with Valfala." Ilvera took a deep breath, her glowing figure resolute. With deliberate steps, she walked into the roaring flames. At first, her face remained calm, serene, but as the fire engulfed her, her screams tore through the air. The sound was raw and piercing, cutting through the sacred hymn like a jagged blade. Elysia clamped her hands over her ears, burying her face into her mother¡¯s side. She peeked out just long enough to see the flames consume Ilvera entirely, leaving no trace of her physical form. From the heart of the fire, a small, vibrant pink orb emerged, floating gently above the Hvan. The Virtis raised their hands in unison, and the orb hovered over the palm of one of them. With a slow, deliberate motion, the Virtis clenched her fist, and the orb vanished in a burst of soft light. The ritual was complete. The silence hung heavy for a moment, a solemn acknowledgment of what had transpired. Then, as if on cue, the music resumed, joyous and lively, and the fairies began to dance once more. The crowd celebrated with renewed fervor, their faith unshaken, their devotion burning brighter than ever. But Elysia did not move. She remained rooted to the spot, her small hands gripping her mother¡¯s tunic tightly. Her eyes were wide, her mind swirling with unanswered questions and a growing fear that she could not shake. The laughter and music around her felt distant, muffled by the pounding of her heart. For everyone else, the ritual was a reaffirmation of their faith, a moment of glory. For Elysia, it was a terrifying reminder of the cost of that faith. 4. Rashily Elysia¡¯s Evening ¨C A Usual Routine, An Unusual Mystery The soft glow of the hallway lights flickered as Elysia stepped inside her room, her legs aching from the long day. As per routine, she was immediately greeted by her bot assistant, Pix. Pix (Automated Voice): "WELCOME BACK, ELYSIA! I HOPE YOU HAD A GREAT DAY. YOUR CURRENT ROOM TEMPERATURE IS STABLE AT 22 DEGREES. ALL SYSTEMS FUNCTIONING NORMALLY. NO PENDING MESSAGES. WOULD YOU LIKE A RECAP OF YOUR DAY?" Elysia ignored the voice and dived into her bed like a lifeless body, letting out an exhausted sigh. Pix, however, continued as usual¡ªunbothered by her fatigue. Pix: "WOULD YOU LIKE TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR EVENING PLANS?" Elysia (groaning, face buried in the pillow): "No. My evenings are usually busy with research." Pix: (cheerfully) "THAT¡¯S RIGHT! I TOO HAD TO WAKE UP LATE WITH YOU." Elysia snorted, still lying face-down. Elysia (muffled): "Nice one, Pix. But you¡¯re just a device. You don¡¯t sleep, do you?" Pix: "NO. YOU ARE RIGHT!" A small chuckle escaped her, but then her expression sobered as she pushed herself up to sit. Elysia: (serious now) "Pix¡­?" Pix: "WHAT IS IT, ELYSIA?" She hesitated for a moment before asking. Elysia: "Where was I last night?" Pix: (pausing, then responding neutrally) "SORRY, I CAN¡¯T HELP YOU WITH THAT. YOU SET MY CHARGING TIMINGS FOR THE ENTIRE NIGHT. BUT LOGICALLY, YOU MUST HAVE BEEN SLEEPING LAST NIGHT. AND SPEAKING OF YOUR SLEEP, I RECOMMEND YOU TO¡ª" Elysia stopped listening. Her thoughts drifted. Livia and Trigaha. They insisted she had been out last night. That she had done something unexpected. That they had run from something, and that she had enjoyed it. But she remembers nothing. A strange unease settled over her. Pix¡¯s voice still chattered in the background, but it faded into a hum.
Distraction ¨C A Moment of Curiosity Pix: "YOU SHOULD CHANGE NOW! WOULD YOU LIKE ME TO PLAY SOMETHING FOR YOU?" Elysia didn¡¯t respond. Instead, she got up, shaking off the thoughts. Maybe she just needed rest. Maybe she had been too tired last night, and her mind was playing tricks on her. She went to her closet, pulled out a comfy tunic, and slipped into it. After a quick dinner and a hot shower, she finally returned to her bed, feeling a little more like herself. She reached for her Prodge, scrolling absentmindedly through the latest updates. And then¡ªcuriosity struck. She searched for Ethan. Her fascination with the Savior had always been quiet, but consistent. Something about him¡ªhis existence, his achievements, the way he had done so much without the powers of a Blessed One¡ªintrigued her. Her screen filled with the latest news.
NEWS HEADLINE: "OUR SAVIOR ETHAN! HE PROVED HIMSELF ONCE AGAIN. TODAY, HE INSTALLED FOUR NEW DYFOSTS IN SYLVIR, STRENGTHENING INTERREALM CONNECTIVITY¡­" (continues)
Elysia''s lips curled into a soft smile, her eyes flickering with admiration. Elysia (whispering to herself) "I wish I could meet you one day¡­" And with that thought lingering in her mind, she drifted into sleep.
A Dark Exchange in the Shadows Somewhere in the city¡­ A corner of the streets lay shrouded in shadows, away from the vibrant glow of Mirgeth¡¯s floating holograms and arcane-lit buildings. This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. Two figures stood hidden in the darkness. One was clad in a thick, dark purple tunic, the hood casting an eerie shadow over their face. The other was dressed in a simple tunic, fidgeting nervously. The one in the simple tunic was waiting. Terrified. Figure in Simple Tunic (hurried, voice shaking): "P-please, make it quick! I don¡¯t want anyone following me." The other figure remained silent, unmoving. Then¡ªa single hand extended outward. A demand. No words. The nervous fairy swallowed hard, hesitating. Figure in Simple Tunic (whispering, barely above a breath): "I know you are Blessed¡­ but I am a Bringer. If they caught me¡ª" Before she could finish¡ª The hooded figure¡¯s gaze snapped up, piercing, deadly. The nervous fairy fell silent immediately. The warning was clear. Finally, with trembling hands, she handed over a small object. A small, unremarkable artifact wrapped in cloth. Figure in Simple Tunic (whispering, scared): "What¡¯s¡­ special about this?" At the question, the hooded figure¡¯s stare darkened. A long silence stretched between them. Then¡ª Figure in Simple Tunic (quickly, backing off): "Sorry! I¡ªI never asked that!" The hooded figure said nothing. Instead, they slowly unraveled the cloth, inspecting the object silently, carefully. Then, without another word, they turned and disappeared into the night. Leaving the other fairy shivering in the darkness. The Morning Mystery ¨C Rashily in the School Elysia woke up, tired and lazy as ever. The previous night¡¯s sleep had done nothing to ease the strange weight in her mind. Ignoring Pix¡¯s enthusiastic automated morning announcements, she lazily checked her fingertips. Still dark. The color hadn¡¯t faded¡ªit wasn¡¯t ink, nor was it some stain. It was part of her now. She sighed, decided to ignore it again, and headed to school.
A Different Kind of Hustle The usual morning chatter and movement of the school was different today. There was an unusual crowd gathered in one section¡ªan area where no Bychs were supposed to be loitering. As always, Elysia, Livia, and Trigaha stood at a distance, watching the commotion unfold. Livia (curious, arms crossed): "What¡¯s this mess about?" Trigaha (grinning lazily): "Maybe some rich-glowing-fairy is about to make a grand entrance." Livia (playfully nudging Trigaha): "Ooooorrr¡­ it¡¯s our Wigor¡¯s retirement party." Elysia (rolling her eyes): "Shut up! Look closely. There are five Rashily. And they¡¯re armed with Gartx. That means they¡¯re here to guard something." At the mention of Rashily, both Livia and Trigaha snapped their attention toward the scene. The Rashily, were not normally seen like this. And yet, here they were. Armed. Alert. On high security. Livia (grinning at Elysia): "Classic Elysia. Always spotting what no one else does. But¡­ guarding what?" Elysia (shaking her head, still watching them): "Not sure." Before they could speculate further, the school bell rang, signaling it was time for lectures. As they turned to leave, Elysia¡¯s gaze lingered on the Rashily. Something wasn¡¯t right.
Inside the HoldForth ¨C Cami¡¯s Orders Deep inside the Library. Not just anywhere¡ªinside the HoldForth. This was a place almost no one was allowed to enter. A restricted section, known only to a handful of fairies. And yet, today, Cami stood within its walls, her expression hardened with deep concern. Facing her were two Rashily, standing bold and straight, awaiting orders. Cami (firmly, despite her rasping voice): "I want no one to even breathe beyond this door." (coughs slightly before continuing) "Not until we transfer the HoldForth to Havl Wing." The Rashily remained still, their postures unwavering. Cami (continuing, voice strict): "Two of you must be here at all times. I don¡¯t care how you manage your shifts, but this door is never left unguarded. Is that clear?" Both Rashily (in unison, without hesitation): "Understood!" Cami gave them a final glance before stepping inside the HoldForth. The door clicked shut behind her, sealing away whatever secrets lay beyond.
Elysia Overhears the Conversation Meanwhile, Elysia sat in the Library, flipping through texts as part of her usual study routine. She had overheard everything. Her fingers absentmindedly tapped against her book as she processed what she had just heard. Elysia (to herself, whispering): "HoldForth? Never heard of that before." But unfortunately, her voice didn¡¯t stay unheard. From beside her, a low whisper answered. ???: "It¡¯s a restricted room." Elysia turned her head, noticing a fellow Bych sitting nearby¡ªa girl she didn¡¯t know well. She had been quietly reading but had apparently heard everything. Elysia (lowering her voice): "Restricted? You mean, some kind of forbidden place?" Bych (nodding slightly, voice hushed): "They say it holds books that aren¡¯t available to just anyone." Elysia: (leaning in, intrigued) "What? You mean like¡­ dark books?" The Bych hesitated. Bych: "Maybe. I don¡¯t know exactly. But¡­ haven¡¯t you heard?" Elysia (narrowing her eyes): "Heard what?" The Bych glanced around, making sure no one else was listening before whispering¡ª Bych: "Someone tried to break into HoldForth the night before yesterday." Elysia¡¯s breath hitched. Elysia (whispering back, eyes wide): "No. I didn¡¯t hear that. Is that why they¡¯re moving it to Havl Wing?" Bych (nodding slightly): "Maybe." Elysia exhaled sharply, realization dawning. Everything suddenly made sense. The Rashily. The sudden high security. The movement of HoldForth. Someone had breached the school¡¯s most restricted place. And now, everything was being relocated for protection. Her fingers curled slightly. What could be inside HoldForth? And more importantly¡ª Who was trying to get in? 5. The Breach The HoldForth Transfer ¨C A Day of Movement The following day, the school¡¯s atmosphere remained casual, but one area was buzzing with movement¡ªbetween the Library and the Havl Wing. Jisfters, sleek levitating transport machines, hovered back and forth, carefully carrying sealed boxes filled with delicate, classified contents. Each box glowed with faint arcane inscriptions, ensuring its security and protection during transit. Cami stood inside HoldForth, watching the process with sharp eyes, ensuring nothing went wrong. Cami (giving instructions, coughing slightly): "Move them gently¡ªno sudden shifts! If even one inscription is disturbed, you¡¯ll have more than a scolding to deal with." She observed as Rashily guards supervised the loading process, their presence ensuring that no Bych or curious fairy got too close. Outside, students whispered, some stealing glances at the unusual activity. Bych 1 (whispering to another): "What¡¯s in those boxes? Why so much security?" Bych 2 (shrugging): "Something important, obviously. Maybe dangerous." The transport continued smoothly, with no interruptions. But as the day ended, and the night fell¡ªeverything changed.
Nightfall ¨C The Silent Breach The school, now bathed in darkness, stood in unnatural silence. The Rashily guards remained stationed as per protocol. Two guards patrolled outside the HoldForth, while the other three watched over the Havl Wing, where the boxes had been transferred. The security panel on the HoldForth door blinked with protective enchantments, locking its secrets away. But in the shadows, a figure moved. Silent. Invisible to the eye. Predatory. A thick, dark hooded tunic concealed its form, blending into the darkness with unnerving ease. It reached the Library, keeping to the edges, moving with precision. Finally, it stood behind a wall corner, facing the HoldForth entrance. The two Rashily guards, unaware of the lurking danger, were engaged in casual conversation.
The Rashily Conversation Rashily 1 (smiling slightly, showing a holographic image on her Bracon): "It¡¯s my Nyna¡¯s Aul. She¡¯s grown so fast." The holographic image displayed a young fairy, eyes filled with wonder. Rashily 1 (chuckling softly): "No matter how tired I am, she always wants me to craft illusions of different lands before bed." Rashily 2 (smirking, arms crossed): "Bringer she is, isn¡¯t she?" Rashily 1 (nods with warmth in her tone): "Yes¡­ but we don¡¯t mind. She¡¯ll do fine. I¡­" (pauses for a second) "I think she¡¯ll do fine." Rashily 2 (leaning against the door, sighing): "Who knows¡­ The realms are changing. First, our Phinixes left us. Then, cycles later, Tigath attacked. And now? This whole Ethan thing¡­ don¡¯t even get me started on it." Rashily 1: "Yeah, it¡¯s like¡ª" She stopped. Her expression shifted. Her head turned sharply, eyes scanning the air around her.
The First Suspicion Rashily 2 (frowning, noticing her reaction): "What?" Rashily 1 (voice lower now, controlled but alert): "Vyshek." I can sense it." And then¡ª A small click. Something fell to the floor behind them. Both stiffened. Rashily 2 (exchanging a glance with Rashily 1, then nodding): "I¡¯ll check it out." She moved forward cautiously, her footsteps silent, her Arcane energy already forming in her hands. Both guards activated their Arcane abilities, their palms glowing purple, ready to strike at any threat. As Rashily 2 reached the corner, she peeked behind it¡ªnothing. The library stood still. Silent. Normal. She turned back to signal Rashily 1 that it was clear¡ª But her stomach dropped. Rashily 1 was on the ground.
The Attack Unconscious. Collapsed without a sound. Her body completely motionless. The realization barely had time to register before¡ª A sudden Arcane blast. It struck Rashily 2 directly, sending her flying backward, crashing into the bookshelves. Books rained down. A sharp pulse of energy crackled through the air. Darkness reclaimed the scene. The hooded figure moved forward silently. And just like that¡ª The HoldForth was left unguarded. The Office of Medisa ¨C The Aftermath of the Breach The temperature in Medisa¡¯s office was tense, mirroring the anger radiating from Cami as she shouted at the Rashily guards. Her aged voice strained, her fury barely contained. Cami (coughing after a long rant): "How can¡¯t you two see it?! Even my old eyes can sense a Vyshek in the darkest of dark nights!" (coughs harshly again, shaking her head in frustration.) Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. The two Rashily guards stood with their heads lowered, silent, knowing they had failed. Meanwhile, Medisa remained composed, her focus sharp on the surveillance footage. The holographic screen in front of her flickered, showing the repeated scene¡ªa hooded figure moving like a ghost through the library, attacking the Rashily with precision, and vanishing without a trace. She rewound it. Played it again. And again. Her usual calm demeanor remained, but her mind raced. Finally, she spoke. Medisa (simply, but with authority): "Stop." Cami turned to look at her, her breathing uneven from the shouting. Medisa waited for her to settle down, then asked the most important question. Medisa (calm, direct): "Damage?" Cami¡¯s jaw clenched. Cami: (grimly) "The Book of Kardloh." For the first time, Medisa¡¯s expression changed. Her usual detachment broke as her brows furrowed slightly¡ªa rare moment of visible concern. Medisa (quiet, but heavy with meaning): "Kardloh." The name alone carried weight. Cami (coughing, voice raspy but serious): "It¡¯s like she was looking for it only. Nothing else was touched." (coughs again) "And the Book of Kardloh is not some simple Arcane book. It¡¯s¡ª" (coughing, struggling to continue) "¡ªit¡¯s the root of Arcane." Medisa already knew. But her concern wasn¡¯t the book itself¡ªit was who wanted it. And why now? After a long silence, she made her decision. Medisa (firmly): "Transfer the rest of the books and inscriptions. Make it quick." Cami nodded, already heading for the door. Cami (coughing, but determined): "Right." She exited, leaving Medisa alone with the footage. Medisa leaned back, her fingers tapping against the desk. Her voice was low, almost to herself. Medisa: "Vyshek. Here in Arcanaeum? How?" The question lingered¡ªunanswered.
The Garden ¨C Laughter and Shocking News Elsewhere, the world remained normal. The garden was filled with carefree voices, laughter, and the sound of Bychs relaxing after long classes. Among them sat Elysia, Livia, and Trigaha¡ªlaughing, chatting, wasting time. Well¡ªLivia and Trigaha were. Elysia? She was glued to her Prodge, scrolling. She wasn¡¯t looking at research this time. She was reading Ethan¡¯s latest news. Livia, noticing, grinned mischievously. Livia (teasing, snatching the Prodge from Elysia¡¯s hands): "OOOOHH!! Ethan!!" Elysia sighed, smiling, and quickly took it back. Trigaha (smirking): "Come on, Ely! Just embrace it¡ªyou¡¯re a fan too!" Elysia (rolling her eyes): "What? Everyone is his fan. But not like you two, who watch his videos 100 times a day." Livia (shrugging, grinning): "So what? He may be an outsider. He may not be a fairy like us. But he changed our realms. He saved Cleps from Vith." Trigaha (nodding in agreement): "Right! That¡¯s worth watching his videos 100 times a day." The three laughed together. But their laughter was short-lived. Because at that moment, Elysia¡¯s Prodge blinked red. A school-wide alert.
?? SCHOOL NEWS ¨C SECURITY BREACH LAST NIGHT IN LIBRARY. PRINCIPAL MEDISA RELEASED FOOTAGE TO HELP IDENTIFY THE BREAKER.
Elysia read it aloud, and immediately opened the footage. A holographic projection flickered to life in front of them. It showed a dark figure¡ªhooded, fast, deadly¡ªsneaking into the HoldForth. Livia (chuckling at first, watching the figure move): "Security breach? Like we did two nights ago." Trigaha (laughing): "Yeah! But¡ª" (suddenly stops, eyes narrowing at the footage) "Wait¡­" Her expression changed. From amusement to shock. Trigaha (staring, eyes wide, voice low): "What?" Elysia (focused on the footage, tilting her head slightly): "Who is she¡­?" Livia and Trigaha turned to look at each other. Their faces paled. They weren¡¯t just shocked. They were horrified. Because they had seen that tunic before. Two nights ago. On Elysia. Elysia (still looking at the footage, oblivious to their expressions): "Looks like she¡¯s¡ªoh!! She hit Rashily too!" She sounded impressed. Livia and Trigaha? They weren¡¯t. Their eyes snapped back to Elysia. Their breathing quickened. Then, in complete shock¡ª Livia (mouth wide open, barely whispering): "Elysia¡­" Elysia finally noticed their reactions. Elysia (blinking, confused): "What?" Trigaha, still staring at the footage, slowly turned to her. Her voice was barely a breath. Trigaha: "Ely¡­ it¡¯s you." The Moment of Realization The air between them shifted. Elysia froze, her stomach tightening at their serious expressions. Elysia (shocked, confused): "What?" Livia (firmly, almost whispering): "Ely¡­ It¡¯s you." Elysia stared at them, her mind refusing to accept what they were saying. And then¡ªshe laughed, shaking her head. Elysia (rolling her eyes, trying to brush it off): "And? I stole¡­ what? We don¡¯t even know what¡¯s inside there." (she shrugged, waving it off) "Come on, you two! Stop messing with me." But Livia and Trigaha weren¡¯t laughing. They were looking at each other¡ªconcerned. Livia hesitated for a moment before speaking again. Livia (more serious now, glancing at Trigaha): "Ely¡­ You wore that same tunic two nights ago. When we playfully sneaked into the library." Elysia blinked. Her heartbeat skipped. Elysia (calm, trying to stay in control): "Liv. T." (pauses, taking a breath) "I know you love teasing me. But this is enough. Just stop." Livia (softly, hesitant): "What? You¡­ remember that night, right?" Something about her tone¡ªthe way she asked it¡ªsent chills down Elysia¡¯s spine. Elysia''s expression shifted. From annoyance to unease. Elysia (tired of this, voice rising slightly in frustration): "What night? What are you even talking about?" Trigaha showed her footage. Trigaha (patient, voice steady): "Look, Ely¡­ you have this tunic. You wore it."
The Snap Elysia stood up sharply. She turned and faced them directly. Her voice wasn¡¯t teasing anymore. It was louder. Sharper. Elysia (frustrated, almost yelling): "NO. I DON¡¯T HAVE IT!" Silence. For a moment, all three of them just stood there. Livia and Trigaha were looking at her confused. But Elysia? She was more confused than anyone. She could feel it¡ªsomething wasn¡¯t right. And then¡ª Livia (eyes widening, suddenly scared): "Ely! Your fist!" Elysia¡¯s breath caught. Her eyes snapped downward. Her right fist was clenched¡ªtight. Unconsciously. And worse? It was glowing. A deep, intense purple glow of Arcane energy.
Something is Wrong Elysia¡¯s heart pounded. Glowing purple was normal. For anyone using Arcane, their hands would glow when they summoned energy. But this? She hadn¡¯t summoned anything. Her fist had started glowing on its own. And worse¡ª She hadn¡¯t even realized it.
Elysia (shaking, slowly opening her fist) The purple glow faded instantly. And underneath¡ªher pale skin. But her fingertips¡­ Still black.
Panic Sets In Elysia took a step back. Her breath shallow, her thoughts racing. She felt it now. Something wasn¡¯t right. Something was happening to her. She couldn¡¯t explain it¡ªbut she knew it. Her body wasn¡¯t hers anymore. She didn¡¯t remember that night. She didn¡¯t know why her hands were turning black. And now? Now she was using Arcane without knowing it.
She did the only thing that made sense. She ran. Without another word¡ªwithout looking back¡ªElysia turned and ran. Away from the garden. Away from Livia and Trigaha. Away from the truth she wasn¡¯t ready to face. 6. [PAST] Every Cycle The next morning, sunlight filtered through the thatched roof as Elysia stirred awake, her bright smile lighting up her small face. With her tousled hair and sleepy eyes, she followed the familiar routine: looking for her mum. She found Aiaris seated by the window, her hands deftly sewing intricate patterns on a tunic. The rhythmic movement of the needle was soothing, yet Aiaris¡¯s focus was intense. Elysia (rubbing her eyes as she shuffled closer): "Mum!" Aiaris (glancing at her with a warm smile): "My sweet Aul is awake!" Elysia leaned against her mum, resting her sleepy head on Aiaris''s thigh, seeking the comfort of her warmth. Aiaris (still sewing): "I''ve made Vahi and Murito for you. They''re on the table. I can''t join you right now, though¡ªI need to finish this tunic on time." Elysia (pouting): "Okay¡­" Aiaris noticed her daughter''s disappointment and paused, cupping Elysia''s face with one hand. She kissed her cheek, her tone softening. Aiaris: "You know, Ely, this tunic won¡¯t sew itself. Now, go on, my little sunshine, fill your growling tummy before it starts scaring the ryuit away." Elysia (eyeing the tunic critically): "This tunic looks like those bad and ugly Fliha from ritual last night." The word "Fliha," a teasing nickname for the Virtis, made Aiaris stiffen. She set her sewing down, her voice sharp but controlled. Aiaris: "Elysia! Don''t say such things. Those are Virtis¡ªnot some ¡®ugly Fliha.¡¯ They are sacred, blessed by the Light itself." Elysia¡¯s smile vanished as she shrank back, startled by her mum''s sudden sternness. Aiaris softened immediately, pulling her daughter onto her lap. Aiaris (gently): "Listen, Ely. The Virtis are the most holy among us. Even their gaze carries blessings from the Phinix. You must respect them." Elysia (hesitant): "But¡­ they burned her." Her small voice trembled, and her eyes searched her mum''s face for reassurance. Aiaris: "No, Ely. They didn¡¯t burn her. That was a sacred ritual. Each Light-Bringer fulfills her purpose and ascends to Valfala, where she joins the Phinix. It¡¯s not the end, little one¡ªit¡¯s a beginning." Elysia looked up at her mum, her young mind trying to grasp the enormity of the concept. But one thought dominated her: would her mum, too, have to burn? Elysia (blurting out): "You too?" Aiaris¡¯s expression softened, her smile reassuring as she stroked Elysia¡¯s hair. Aiaris: "One day, when you¡¯re all grown up and strong." Elysia (panicking): "No! I don¡¯t want you to go!" She threw her arms around her mum, clutching her tightly, as though her small embrace could protect her from the inevitable. Aiaris (pulling her closer): "Shh, my little one. Don¡¯t worry about such things. I promise you, I¡¯ll always be with you. No matter what happens, you¡¯ll never be without me." Elysia¡¯s fear eased, though a small seed of worry lingered. Elysia (timidly): "But Mum¡­Why Valfala?" Before she could ask more, Aiaris gently nudged her off her lap and stood her on the floor. Aiaris (playfully): "Enough questions for one morning, curious one! Go eat your Vahi and Murito before they get cold. And after that, find your friends and play. No more worrying, alright?" Elysia giggled as her mum tickled her side, her earlier fear momentarily forgotten. She turned towards the table, her small feet pattering away, her mind already drifting to the simple joys of breakfast and play.
As the cycles turned, the ritual became a somber, immutable rhythm of life in the mand. Each time, a chosen Light-Bringer, usually an elder who had fulfilled her duties, willingly stepped into the Hvan''s sacred flames. And each time, Elysia witnessed their screams echo through the square, their faces twisted in a mix of devotion and agony. The questions within her multiplied with every cycle: Why Valfala? What is it that compels them to endure such pain? Who truly are the Virtis, and why do they appear so shrouded, so ominous? Will my mother face the same fate one day? These doubts became the silent companions of her growing years. She sought answers from the elders of the mand, hoping their wisdom could soothe her turmoil. But their responses only added layers of unease, their cryptic reverence deepening her suspicion. Now, on the eve of the 13th cycle¡¯s ritual, Elysia sat with her two closest friends, Rya and Osilvis, in the open fields. The sky was painted in shades of deep purple and glowing red, the colors of dusk heavy with an ominous beauty. Their laughter, casual and fleeting, shifted when Rya broached the topic of the chosen one. Rya: ¡°Did you hear about tomorrow''s chosen one for the ritual?¡± Osilvis: ¡°Yeah! And guess what? It¡¯s not a Fliha this time.¡± Elysia (frowning): ¡°Not a Fliha? But it¡¯s always the elders who go.¡± Rya: ¡°Not this time, Ely. This time, it¡¯s someone younger.¡± Elysia: ¡°Younger? Who?¡± The mand was small. Everyone knew each other, and Elysia¡¯s heart quickened as curiosity mixed with unease. Osilvis: ¡°Decna. Erlis¡¯s Aul.¡± The name struck her. Elysia knew Decna¡ªperhaps not closely, but well enough to know she wasn¡¯t the sort to speak about this. Decna, so young, eager to live¡ªsacrificing herself? Elysia: ¡°Decna? She¡¯s... happy about this?¡± Rya (with a chuckle): ¡°Happy? You should¡¯ve seen her, Ely. She can¡¯t wait for tomorrow. She¡¯s practically glowing.¡± Elysia (softly, almost to herself): ¡°But why? And why wasn¡¯t this announced in the mand sooner?¡± Osilvis (teasing): ¡°Where have you been all day, Ely? They announced it this morning. Oh, wait¡ªyou were probably snoring away like the world doesn¡¯t exist.¡± They laughed, but Elysia barely mustered a smile. Their words echoed in her head: Decna can¡¯t wait. She¡¯s glowing. How could anyone be happy about this? As the sun dipped below the horizon, the field grew dim, signaling it was time to return home. Walking alone, Elysia¡¯s mind churned. Why Decna? She¡¯s not old. Erlis isn¡¯t even old and has another Aul to raise. Isn¡¯t the ritual for those who¡¯ve fulfilled their life duties? She paused, staring into the darkening sky. Should I talk to her? If I try, will she think I¡¯m questioning her faith¡ªor worse, competing for her place? The thought left her uneasy. Decna was about to die tomorrow, and she was happy. How could that be? Her footsteps felt heavier as she approached her home, her mind a storm of unanswered questions and the unsettling possibility of a conversation she couldn¡¯t avoid. The central square was alight with flickering lanterns, casting warm glows against the night¡¯s dark veil. The rhythmic chants of the Virilis dancers swayed in perfect harmony with the beat of ceremonial drums. Around the towering Hvan, the air was electric, charged with the anticipation of the Ritual. Fairies of all ages were gathered, dressed in their finest tunics, their expressions ranging from solemn reverence to joy. This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Elysia arrived with her mother, Aiaris, both wearing matching embroidered tunics Aiaris had painstakingly crafted. Though the scene was familiar, this time, it felt heavier, weighed by the knowledge of who the chosen one was. As they weaved through the crowd, Aiaris leaned toward Elysia, her voice low but firm. Aiaris: ¡°Ely, listen to me. Please don¡¯t start questioning things again. Not here, not now. Just¡ª" Elysia: ¡°Okay, okay!¡± she interrupted with a cheeky grin. ¡°No need to scold me with that sweet voice of yours. It¡¯s weird, you know.¡± Aiaris gave her daughter a pointed look, her stern expression softening despite herself. Aiaris: ¡°Last cycle, you embarrassed me in front of my friends. Why can¡¯t you just accept things as they are?¡± Elysia¡¯s smile faded slightly as she glanced toward the Hvan. Its fiery heart crackled and roared, casting an ominous glow over the square. Elysia: ¡°Because I can¡¯t, Mum,¡± she replied quietly. ¡°And this time, it¡¯s not just another Fliha. It¡¯s Decna. They will burn her. She¡¯s young, like me. She hasn¡¯t even¡ª¡± Aiaris placed a hand on Elysia¡¯s head, ruffling her hair in a gesture meant to comfort but also silence her. Aiaris: ¡°Oh, Ely. At least don¡¯t say burn. She¡¯s offering herself. It¡¯s sacred.¡± Elysia huffed, crossing her arms. Elysia: ¡°Sacred, purest, holy... and it still means she¡¯s going to burn, Mum. Call it what it is.¡± Aiaris sighed, shaking her head, knowing this wasn¡¯t a battle she could win. Aiaris: ¡°Just promise me you won¡¯t embarrass me tonight, alright? Please.¡± Elysia¡¯s teasing grin returned, but her voice softened with sincerity. Elysia: ¡°I won¡¯t, Mum. I¡¯m mature now, remember? You¡¯ve got nothing to worry about.¡± Aiaris squinted at her daughter, clearly skeptical, but she couldn¡¯t help smiling. Aiaris: ¡°You¡¯d better prove it, my mature troublemaker.¡± Elysia: ¡°Oh, Mum! Your sweet voice can¡¯t stay mad at me for long!¡± she said with mock dramatics, leaning in to hug her mother and plant a quick kiss on her cheek. Aiaris laughed despite herself, kissing Elysia¡¯s cheek in return. Aiaris: ¡°You¡¯re lucky I adore you, Ely. But don¡¯t push it!¡± Elysia stepped back, hands raised in mock surrender. Elysia: ¡°I swear, no antics tonight. Promise.¡± With that, Aiaris moved to join her own friends, leaving Elysia to wander toward her companions, Rya and Osilvis. The crowd was lively, and the festive air buzzed with energy. But Elysia¡¯s mind was far from festive as she approached her friends, her heart heavy with questions she couldn¡¯t escape. Rya: ¡°Ely! Over here!¡± Elysia joined them, her steps lighter but her mind heavy. Osilvis greeted her with a nudge. ¡°So, what¡¯s the verdict? Did your mum lecture you all the way here?¡± ¡°Only a little,¡± Elysia quipped, brushing her hair off her shoulder. ¡°She gave me the usual: ¡®Don¡¯t embarrass me, don¡¯t question the ritual.¡¯ The works.¡± Rya chuckled. ¡°Sounds about right. She just doesn¡¯t want you getting into trouble.¡± ¡°Trouble?¡± Elysia scoffed. ¡°Trouble is a young fairy about to be burned alive, and everyone¡¯s treating it like a festival.¡± Osilvis shot her a glance, her tone shifting. ¡°Ely, not so loud. You know how fairies get about the ritual.¡± ¡°Yeah, yeah,¡± Elysia muttered. She crossed her arms, her eyes drifting back to the Hvan. ¡°It¡¯s just¡­ Decna. She¡¯s our age. Doesn¡¯t it bother you?¡± Rya hesitated but shook her head. ¡°She¡¯s happy, Ely. You saw her this morning¡ªshe was glowing. Literally.¡± Osilvis added, ¡°It¡¯s what she wants. She¡¯s fulfilling her purpose.¡± Elysia¡¯s voice lowered, almost to herself. ¡°I just don¡¯t understand why. What¡¯s so special about Valfala that it¡¯s worth this?¡± The conversation tapered off as the crowd began to shift. The dancers formed a final circle, the music crescendoed, and the air grew thick with reverence. The ritual was about to begin. Elysia¡¯s friends turned their attention forward, but she couldn¡¯t help glancing over her shoulder, her mind racing with unspoken questions. As the ritual''s gravity settled over the square, the air shimmered with tension. The leader''s voice resonated through the silent crowd, each word a solemn invocation of devotion. Elysia¡¯s eyes wandered from Decna to the towering flames and then back to her glowing, serene face. The entire mand was alight with reverence, yet Elysia¡¯s mind buzzed with unease. "Nyna and Asho of Light," the leader intoned, "gathered here under the gaze of our eternal Phinix Nemin, we honor the sacred cycle of renewal. The Light, gifted to us by the divine, is a fragment of the eternal flame that sustains all. Today, we witness a blessed soul ascend beyond this mortal realm to the embrace of Valfala, where eternal joy and unity with the Phinixes await. "This sacrifice is not an end, but a glorious beginning¡ªa gift to our Phinix, ensuring her blessings upon us remain steadfast." She paused, her arms outstretched as the purple flames surged higher, casting eerie shadows across the gathered fairies. "Behold the flame that marks her acceptance! Let us dance, let us sing, for in this act, we preserve our covenant with the divine. This Light, surrendered willingly, is a bridge to our eternal bond with the Phinixes. Let the chosen fairy step forth, not as one who dies, but as one who ascends to greatness. May her sacrifice bring peace to us and glory to the realms. Praise be to the Light, and to the Phinixes who guide us!" The crowd erupted into cheers and chants of devotion. Elysia¡¯s heart pounded as her eyes flicked to the chosen fairy, Decna with serene resolve etched on her face, stepping toward the altar. Two attendants, dressed in ceremonial silver tunics, carried an ornate pitcher to the altar. They tilted it, and streams of the glowing Phyin poured over Ilvera. As the water touched her skin, a shimmering aura enveloped her, and her body began to glow with a radiant purple light. One by one, the fairies approached Ilvera, touching her glowing arms or placing a hand over their hearts in farewell. When it was their turn, Aiaris nudged her forward gently. ¡°Ely, don¡¯t linger. Just offer your blessings and move along,¡± she whispered, her tone a careful balance of affection and urgency. Elysia approached Decna, the purple glow from her friend¡¯s skin casting soft shadows across her features. Decna¡¯s calmness was unnerving, her radiant smile almost alien amidst the gravity of the moment. When Elysia touched her hand, the warmth was surreal, like holding a sunbeam. ¡°I thought you¡¯d be busy raising a house full of Auls by now,¡± Elysia quipped, a smirk tugging at her lips. Decna chuckled softly. ¡°Elysia, you haven¡¯t changed a bit. Always quick with the jokes.¡± Her voice was steady, but her eyes gleamed with something deeper¡ªresolve, perhaps, or resignation. Elysia tilted her head, studying her. ¡°So, why didn¡¯t you tell me? I¡¯ve seen you nearly every day since the last cycle. You couldn¡¯t spare a hint?¡± Decna hesitated, her glowing fingers tightening briefly around Elysia¡¯s. ¡°It wasn¡¯t planned. Fliha Auni was meant to be the one, but...she fell ill. When the opportunity arose, I volunteered.¡± Elysia¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Opportunity? That¡¯s what we¡¯re calling this now?¡± Her voice dropped low, sharp with incredulity. ¡°And since when can someone our age even be chosen? I thought there were rules about¡ª¡± ¡°Ely!¡± Aiaris¡¯s voice cut through her questioning, firm but restrained. ¡°Enough. There are others waiting to give their blessings.¡± Elysia shot her mother a look but nodded. ¡°Just a moment.¡± She turned back to Decna, her voice softening. ¡°Are you sure about this? Really sure?¡± Decna smiled, though it faltered briefly. ¡°The Light calls, Elysia. It¡¯s...an honor.¡± Elysia stepped back reluctantly, her mother¡¯s gentle hand pressing her shoulder. As they walked away, her thoughts churned. She glanced back over her shoulder, catching Decna¡¯s glowing form, surrounded by reverent whispers and outstretched hands. Elysia and Aiaris stepped away from Decna, the lingering warmth of her glowing hand left an impression deeper than mere touch. Elysia¡¯s mind swirled with unspoken thoughts. She walked beside her mother, who smiled politely to passing fairies, but Elysia''s attention was elsewhere. Her heart drummed a restless beat. Why Decna? She glanced back at the radiant figure, now surrounded by others offering their farewells. Decna¡¯s serene expression both puzzled and unsettled her. How can someone so full of life, of potential, be so at peace with this fate? Aiaris broke the silence, her voice a soft murmur. ¡°Ely, you promised. No questions this time.¡± ¡°I know,¡± Elysia whispered back, her gaze fixed on the altar. ¡°I just¡­ I don¡¯t understand how it¡¯s decided. It used to be those who¡¯d lived their lives, raised their Auls. But Decna? She could¡¯ve had so much more.¡± Aiaris sighed, her tone balancing patience with frustration. ¡°It¡¯s not for us to decide. The Light chooses, Ely. And Decna accepted. She¡¯s honored, not burdened.¡± Elysia stopped in her tracks, causing Aiaris to turn back. ¡°But what if she didn¡¯t want to? What if she felt pressured, or¡ª¡± ¡°Enough!¡± Aiaris¡¯ voice, though still quiet, carried the weight of authority. ¡°This is a sacred moment, Ely. Don¡¯t tarnish it with doubts. Decna chose to honor the Light and her mand. That is all there is to it.¡± Elysia bit her lip, suppressing the urge to argue. She looked away, her eyes catching the vibrant glow of the flames that would soon consume Decna. Her mother pulled her gently toward the crowd gathering at the perimeter. Why can¡¯t I feel that pride? Elysia wondered, her chest heavy with conflicting emotions. A sudden shift in the atmosphere silenced even the faintest whispers. Four figures, cloaked in thick dark purple tunics with hoods obscuring their faces, stepped forward in unison. Their entrance was marked by an eerie stillness, the music and dancing halting as if the world itself held its breath. The Virtis had arrived. Leader: "The keepers of the sacred flame, the Virtis, come forth to honor the divine covenant. Let the Light be released and returned to its eternal source." The Virtis moved with an otherworldly grace, their silence commanding absolute attention. They formed a circle around Decna, who stepped onto the Hvan altar, her glowing figure a stark contrast to their shadowy forms. The purple flames surged higher, licking the edges of the hollow platform. The Virtis began to chant, their voices low and resonant, weaving an ancient spell. The flames responded, roaring to life, their vibrant hues flickering and dancing in rhythm with the chant. One of the Virtis gestured to Decna. She nodded and turned to face the crowd, her smile unwavering even as the flames beckoned her forward. Leader: "Chosen of Light, step into the Hvan. Your sacrifice is our salvation, your ascension our blessing. Go forth, bearer of Light, and be one with Valfala." Decna took a deep breath, her glowing figure resolute. With deliberate steps, she walked into the roaring flames. At first, her face remained calm, serene, but as the fire engulfed her, her screams tore through the air. The sound was raw and piercing, cutting through the sacred hymn like a jagged blade. From the heart of the fire, a small, vibrant pink orb emerged, floating gently above the Hvan. The Virtis raised their hands in unison, and the orb hovered over the palm of one of them. With a slow, deliberate motion, the Virtis clenched her fist, and the orb vanished in a burst of soft light. The ritual was complete. 7. Murder The Night of No Return The night was silent. The dark figure moved in the shadows, just as before¡ªswift, unseen, unstoppable. But tonight, she wasn¡¯t after books or secrets hidden within the HoldForth. Tonight¡ªshe came for something else. She stopped before a building, its exterior bathed in the faint glow of Mirgeth¡¯s holographic street lights. Her movements were calculated. She slipped inside¡ªundetected. Gliding through the hallways, she made her way to a specific door. She raised her hand, Arcane power surging, her palm glowing purple, swirling with raw energy. With a deliberate motion, the door unlocked itself. And then¡ªshe stepped inside.
The Confrontation The room was dark, save for the faintest glimmer of light filtering through the curtains. Two figures lay in their beds. As the dark figure stood still at the foot of one bed, the presence alone was enough to disturb the sleeper. A soft rustling of sheets. A slow inhale. A pair of sleepy eyes fluttering open. Livia. She stirred, blinking in the darkness, her mind sluggish but already sensing something was wrong. Livia (murmuring groggily, straining to see the shadow in the room): "Who¡¯s there?" The figure did not move. Did not speak. Livia (now uneasy, her heartbeat quickening): "Trigaha! Wake up! Someone''s¡ª" A sleepy mumble came from the other bed. Trigaha (barely conscious, mumbling in her sleep): "Umm¡­ wha...?" Livia didn¡¯t wait. Her hand shot out, grabbing her Bracon. Her fingers were just about to activate a distress signal¡ªcall for the Sattira. And then¡ªshe saw it. The light from her Bracon flickered across the figure. And for just a second¡ªthe tunic was revealed. Dark. Thick. Purple. The same tunic from the security footage. The realization hit like lightning. Her grip on the Bracon tightened. Her mouth opened¡ªto scream. But before she could¡ª A sudden surge of Arcane power¡ª A single wave of energy knocked the Bracon from her grasp, sending it flying into the wall. It shattered. The sound of it breaking startled Trigaha fully awake. Trigaha (jerking up in bed, eyes wide, breathing hard): "W¡ªwhat was that?!" Livia¡¯s chest heaved. Her hands trembled. She turned back to the figure, forcing herself to speak. Livia (shaky, voice barely above a whisper): "Wh¡­ who are you?" (then, as the terror set in, realization hitting her like a stone) "Elysia¡­??" The figure remained still. Watching. Trigaha snapped to full alertness. Her eyes adjusted. She saw it too. She saw the tunic. The same tunic. The one Elysia wore two nights ago. Her stomach dropped. Trigaha (barely audible, disbelieving, staring at the figure): "Elysia¡­?" Livia forced herself to speak quickly, to bargain, to survive. Livia (desperate, voice shaking): "W¡­wait¡­.I don¡¯t know who you are! If this is about the footage¡ªwe won¡¯t tell anybody!" Trigaha (staring, voice cracking, trying to understand): "Elysia¡­?" But the figure finally spoke. A voice. Cold. Unfamiliar. Emotionless. The Figure (quietly, but deadly): "You know about her."
The Final Moments Livia¡¯s breath hitched. Her body stiffened. Livia (voice barely above a whisper, trembling): "A¡­ about who?" Trigaha (panicked, barely breathing, voice breaking apart): "A¡ªand who¡­ who are you?" The figure took one slow step forward. Then another. The Figure (firmly, darkly): "Elysia." The name hung in the air like a curse. Livia shook her head quickly, hands raised slightly¡ªan instinctive gesture of surrender. Livia (pleading, eyes wide with fear): "Sh¡ªshe¡¯s our friend! Please! We don¡¯t¡ªWe don¡¯t even know what we did!" Trigaha (desperate, eyes darting to the door, realizing they had no escape): "What¡­ about Elysia?!" The figure¡¯s hand lifted. A dark glow of Arcane energy swirled into existence¡ªpower compressing, growing, intensifying. And then¡ª Two blinding Arcane blasts erupted in an instant. The energy struck both of them, a pulse of raw destruction bursting through the room. Livia and Trigaha never had the chance to scream. In one swift, merciless moment¡ªthey were dead. Gone.
The Aftermath The room fell silent. Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. The figure stood there, breathing steady, unmoved. Her gaze lingered on their still, lifeless forms. Then¡ª A single whisper. Not regretful. Not emotional. Just a quiet declaration. The Figure (softly, to herself): "I have to protect her." A moment of stillness. Then¡ªshe turned. She stepped through the door, leaving the darkened room behind. She disappeared once more¡ªback into the shadows. The Weight of Grief The news of Livia and Trigaha¡¯s murder spread like wildfire. But for Elysia, the world stopped. She shut herself in her room, refusing to step outside. She didn¡¯t eat. She didn¡¯t sleep. She didn¡¯t cry at first¡ªbut when the grief hit, it came crushing down like an avalanche. For two days, she laid in bed, motionless, lifeless, her body there but her mind somewhere else. She replayed every laugh they shared. Every moment together. And now¡ªthey were gone.
The Morning Visit ¨C Wigor Mishis On the third morning, a soft knock echoed through the silent room. Elysia didn¡¯t respond. The door opened, and Wigor Mishis stepped inside. She took in the sight of her once-bright student¡ªnow dull, lifeless, and drained. With a quiet sigh, she pulled a chair beside Elysia¡¯s bed and sat down. Mishis (soft, but firm): "I know it¡¯s been hard for you, Elysia. But¡­ you have to move on." Elysia didn¡¯t move. Didn¡¯t acknowledge her presence. Mishis sighed again. She stood up from the chair and sat beside her on the bed. Mishis (gently, trying to reach her): "You were always a good Bych in class. Look at me. You¡¯re stronger than this." A long silence. Then¡ªa cracked voice. Elysia (finally, sobbing, voice breaking): "I loved them. They were my best friends." Mishis (softly, placing a comforting hand on her back): "I know¡­ I know¡­" Elysia broke down again. Her body shook, but she didn¡¯t fight it this time. She let herself cry. For Livia. For Trigaha. For the piece of herself that died with them.
A Moment of Normalcy After some time, Elysia sniffled, wiping away her tears with the back of her sleeve. She sat up. Elysia (quietly, voice hoarse): "I¡­ I¡¯m sorry, Wigor. I didn¡¯t even ask if you wanted Vahi." Mishis: (soft smile) "No. It¡¯s okay." But Elysia still stood up, heading toward the small kitchen space in her room. Even in grief, some habits were unshakable. She began making Vahi, her movements slow but purposeful. For a few moments, there was silence. Then¡ªMishis spoke again. Mishis (careful, hesitant): "Elysia¡­ It feels heavy for me to ask you this, but¡­" (pauses, watching her closely) "Do you know if they had any enemies? Someone who would want to harm them?" Elysia¡¯s hand froze for just a second. Then¡ªshe continued stirring. Elysia (without turning, voice low): "No. They can¡¯t have any enemies. I knew them the best." There was no hesitation in her voice. Mishis studied her for a moment, then nodded slightly. Mishis (gently): "We¡¯re trying to find out who could have done this. And¡­ if you could look at the footage we got, it would be a big help."
The Footage Elysia turned. Mishis projected the footage in the air¡ªa holographic image flickering to life. The video played. A dark figure walked down the hallway. A hooded tunic¡ªthick, dark purple. Elysia¡¯s blood ran cold. Her mouth parted slightly, her breath stopping. She froze. Mishis (watching her, noticing her reaction): "I know¡­ she looks like the same one who breached the Library a few nights ago." Elysia¡¯s ears buzzed. She wasn¡¯t even hearing Mishis¡¯ words anymore. Her mind was elsewhere. That tunic. That same tunic. Livia and Trigaha had told her¡ª "Elysia¡­ you wore that tunic two nights ago." "Elysia, it¡¯s you!" And now¡ª It was here. Again. Her hands trembled. Her thoughts spiraled. What¡¯s happening? What¡¯s going on? Why does this keep leading back to me?
The Aftermath Mishis reached out, placing a hand on her shoulder. Mishis (softly, pulling her back to reality): "Elysia?" Elysia snapped back. Her eyes were unfocused. Her body felt cold. Mishis (gently, but serious): "I¡¯m sorry you have to go through all of this. But if you think¡­ you have anything¡ªanything at all¡ªthat could help us, you know where to find me." Elysia didn¡¯t answer. She was still lost. Still trying to put the pieces together. Mishis stood up. She saw the unfinished Vahi on the counter and quietly completed it herself. She set the bowl in front of Elysia on the table. Before leaving, she patted her shoulder one last time. Mishis (gently, yet firm): "Be strong." And then¡ªshe was gone.
The Realization Elysia didn¡¯t touch the Vahi. She didn¡¯t move. Her mind was racing. Her heart pounded. She felt like she was choking on air. "Elysia, it¡¯s you!" "Elysia, you wore that tunic!" The Library breach. The murder footage. The same tunic. It was all connected. And somehow¡ª It all led back to her. Elysia clenched her fists. She couldn¡¯t ignore it anymore. She had to find out what was happening to her. Before it was too late. The Search for Truth Elysia stood up, determined. No more hiding. No more ignoring. She had to know the truth. Elysia (to herself, voice steady but anxious): "If I wore that tunic, it must be here somewhere." She searched. She tore through her closet, checking every folded tunic, every hidden corner. Nothing. She checked under the bed, behind the shelves, even inside her small travel trunk. Still nothing. It was all her stuff. Nothing odd. Nothing from outside. She paused. Her mind raced. Elysia (trying to reason, voice shaky): "Maybe¡­ maybe someone else is trying to frame me. Maybe it¡ª" And then¡ªshe looked at her hands. Her breath caught. The darkness was spreading. Her fingers¡ªhalf-black now. What started as a small discoloration had grown. Elysia (staring at her hands, horror creeping in): "It all started the night Livia and Trigaha said we sneaked into the library." She rushed to her books, yanking them from the shelf. Her hands moved frantically¡ªsearching for a specific one. Until¡ª Elysia (muttering, flipping through pages): "Here¡­ this one." She found the passage. Her eyes scanned the words. She read aloud¡ª
The Answer Elysia (reading): "Vyshek¡­ A Vyshek can be identified by their Arcane. And to confirm, we check if they have¡­" She froze. Her breath hitched. Her vision blurred. And then¡ª A wave of dizziness hit her. Her body collapsed. She fell to the floor¡ª Unconscious.
The Investigation ¨C Sattira at the Crime Scene Meanwhile¡­ Inside Livia and Trigaha¡¯s room, the Sattira were already at work. The air was tense, heavy, filled with the echoes of Arcane residue. A lifeless silence hovered over the once lively space. Two Sattira officers analyzed every trace of energy, their expressions stern. Sattira 1 (examining the damage, pointing at burn marks on the wall): "Hit by Arcane. Probably a Laphia Blast. See this mark here?" Sattira 2 (scrolling through readings on her Prodge): "What do the reports say? Did we trace the Arcane signature?" Sattira 1 (nodding, showing the data on her Prodge): "There was a signature¡ªright here, outside the building." At that moment¡ªMedisa walked in. Her presence commanded silence. She stood tall, calm, unreadable. Medisa (direct, firm, no wasted words): "Progress?" The Sattira immediately reported.
The Findings Sattira 2 (professional, efficient): "The suspect is still at large." Medisa (nods, waiting for more) Sattira 2 (continuing): "We found traces of Arcane signature outside the building. Based on the energy pattern, the caster likely came from Building Rilk." Medisa (sharp glance): "Inside?" Sattira 2 (confirming): "Yes. The suspect is from inside the school." A pause. Medisa¡¯s eyes darkened. Medisa (thoughtful, quiet for a moment, then firm): "The pattern of Arcane energy¡­ does it match the Library breach?" Sattira 2 (nodding): "Yes. The same signature. Whoever did this is the same person who broke into HoldForth." Silence settled. Then¡ªMedisa made her decision. Medisa (calm, decisive): "Take necessary measures. Especially at night." Sattira 2 nodded¡ªnot as an order, but as agreement.
A Quiet Exit Medisa turned and walked away. Her expression unchanged. Her thoughts? Far deeper than anyone could read. The Sattira watched her leave. A moment passed before one of them spoke. Sattira 1 (raising an eyebrow, muttering to the other): "Is she always this quiet? Or is she just bad with words?" Sattira 2 (chuckling slightly, shaking her head): "I don¡¯t know. Next time, why don¡¯t you try having small talk with her?" A beat of silence. Then¡ªSattira 1 quickly looked away, clearing her throat. The investigation continued. But somewhere else¡­ Elysia was about to wake up¡ªand everything was about to change. 8. Sattira Dyn The Arrival of Sattira Dyn KNOCK. KNOCK. The sound echoed through Elysia¡¯s quiet room. She sat at her desk, hunched over her notes, furiously scribbling theories about Light. She barely reacted¡ªuntil the door opened. A smiling woman stood there, arms crossed, head tilted slightly in amusement. She had sharp eyes, the kind that could see through walls and people alike. Her tunic? Blue and white. As if no other colors existed in her world. And her voice? Smooth, casual, as if she was just visiting an old friend.
The Unconventional Introduction Dyn (grinning, reading from her Proge): "Hmmm¡­ El¡­Eli..Els¡­ Oh stars¡ªwhy do you all have such long names? Elysia." Elysia stood still, gripping the door. She blinked. Elysia (slowly, guarded): "Yes?" Dyn (matter-of-factly, still smiling): "So, you are Livia and Trigaha¡¯s friend. Or¡ªwas." The way she said it¡ªso emotionless¡ªmade Elysia¡¯s stomach twist. Elysia (voice quieter now): "Yeah¡­" Without waiting for permission, Dyn stepped inside. She immediately started looking around, her sharp gaze not missing a thing.
Casual Chaos Dyn (eyeing the small assistant bot on the desk, smirking): "Hmmm¡­ so you too like these small bots." Pix (brightly, automatically): "HELLO, SATTIRA DYN! PLEASE MAKE YOURSELF..¡ª" Elysia (groaning, quickly cutting off Pix): "Okay, okay, STOP!" Dyn chuckled. Dyn (mock-serious, grinning at Pix): "Oh, come on, don¡¯t be so rude to her. After all, she¡¯s just a bot, right? Oh¡ªwhat¡¯s your name?" Pix (cheerfully): "I¡¯M PIX. ELYSIA¡¯S PERSONAL BOT." Dyn (nodding approvingly): "Oh¡­ so sweet. Pix! I like that. You know, I have my own. I call it¡ª" Elysia (exasperated, cutting in): "Okay! Stop. Why are you here?" Dyn turned to her, smirking. Dyn (playfully, tilting her head): "Why would a Sattira be here?" Elysia folded her arms, not amused. She didn¡¯t answer. Just stared at her. Dyn (chuckling, finally getting to the point): "Oh, come on. I¡¯m here to investigate your murdered friends."
The Lack of Sympathy Elysia¡¯s fists clenched. Her grief, her anger¡ªit all boiled up. Elysia (frustrated, voice sharp): "Look! You¡¯re some Asuh Sattira. First, show some feelings. They died. At least pretend that you¡¯re sorry." Dyn rolled her eyes. Dyn (shrugging, completely unfazed): "Nah. I¡¯m fed up with that." Elysia¡¯s brows furrowed. Dyn (leaning against the desk, nonchalantly): "But hey¡ªI used to feel sorry. When I first started my career as a Sattira, Then I started to pretend. But you know what?" She tilted her head slightly, looking at Elysia with that piercing gaze. Dyn (smirking, voice casual but laced with something deeper): "It never stops. Death? Murders? Loss? It keeps coming. And coming. So, I just¡­ stopped." She paused, letting that sink in. Then¡ª Dyn (grinning again, gesturing vaguely): "You can do your crying and sobbing if you like. I¡¯ll wait."
Elysia¡¯s Breaking Point Elysia threw up her hands, groaning. Elysia (sarcastically, throwing her head back): "GREAT." Dyn laughed. Dyn (mockingly, smirking): "See? You¡¯ll get used to it." Elysia rolled her eyes so hard she almost saw another realm. She sighed deeply, rubbing her temples. Elysia (grumbling): "Just start this already and get out. I have stuff to do." Dyn tapped her chin, thinking. Then¡ªshe grinned. Dyn (brightly, clapping her hands together): "I know! How about a Vahi first?" Elysia stared at her. Her light left her body for a second. She blinked. Elysia (flatly, deadpan): "Really?" Dyn grinned wider. Dyn (smirking, leaning closer, whispering playfully): "Oh, absolutely." Interrogation Over Vahi The table was silent, except for the faint clinking of cups. The aroma of warm Vahi filled the air, but the tension between Elysia and Dyn remained thick. Dyn sat casually, sipping her drink slowly, as if she had all the time in the world. Elysia? She sat rigid, fingers curled around her cup, her patience wearing thin.
The Small Talk Dyn (taking a sip, relaxed): "So¡­ where are you from in Mirgeth?" Elysia (flatly, not in the mood for small talk): "Dohi Mand. Some 80-85 Byots away from Zidha Uth." Dyn (raising an eyebrow, amused): "Oh, great! My mum was from Zidha. You know, we used to have a small bookstore there. It was¡ª" Elysia (cutting in, sharp, impatient): "Get it done. I said." Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site. Dyn paused. She stared at Elysia for a long moment¡ªas if analyzing her. Then, she smirked. Dyn (leaning back, smirking): "Hmm¡­ what¡¯s the hurry?" Elysia glared. Dyn took another slow sip, deliberately stalling. Then, finally¡ªshe set her cup down. Dyn (sighing dramatically, stretching her arms): "Alright. Let¡¯s get to the part where I ask questions and you pretend you don¡¯t know anything."
The Interrogation Begins Dyn (leaning forward, tapping the table): "You were close to Livia and Trigaha. Tell me about the last time you saw them." Elysia¡¯s jaw tightened. Elysia (quietly): "That morning. Before¡­ before they¡­" (her voice faltered for a second, but she forced herself to continue) "We were in the garden. Just¡­ talking." Dyn (nodding, studying her closely): "Talking about?" Elysia (hesitant): "Ethan." Dyn¡¯s eyebrows lifted slightly. Dyn (curious, tapping her fingers lightly): "Oh? Ethan?" Elysia (nodding, swallowing hard): "Yeah. We¡­ we were watching his news. And then¡ª" She hesitated. She remembered what happened next. The security alert. The footage. Livia and Trigaha¡¯s faces when they looked at her. How they had recognized something that she didn¡¯t. How they said¡ª "Elysia¡­ it¡¯s you." Her heart pounded. Dyn (watching her reaction, voice casual but sharp): "And then?" Elysia snapped back. Elysia (quickly, shaking her head): "And then the news came in about the security breach. We watched the footage together." Dyn narrowed her eyes. She took another sip of Vahi, then set the cup down gently. Dyn (calmly, but eyes sharp): "You hesitated." Elysia stiffened. Elysia (defensive): "I just¡­ I was remembering." Dyn smirked. Dyn (leaning in slightly, voice dropping to a whisper): "Or you were choosing your words carefully." Elysia¡¯s fingers clenched. Dyn watched her closely, then suddenly pulled out her Prodge. She swiped her fingers across the air, and a holographic projection appeared. The security footage. The figure in the dark purple tunic. Walking down the hallway¡­ moving toward Livia and Trigaha¡¯s room. Elysia¡¯s breath hitched. Dyn (watching her expression, voice low and sharp): "You recognize this?" Elysia stared at it. She couldn¡¯t speak. She could barely breathe. Dyn (softly, pressing further): "You do. Don¡¯t you?"
A Dangerous Game Elysia swallowed hard. Her mind raced. She needed to say something. But what? How could she explain the unexplainable? The fact that Livia and Trigaha told her she wore that tunic. That she didn¡¯t remember. That her fingers were turning black. That she collapsed after reading about Vyshek. Was she being set up? Or was she becoming something she didn¡¯t understand? Elysia (forcing herself to stay calm): "It¡¯s the same tunic from the Library breach." Dyn tilted her head slightly. Dyn (casually): "Yes. That¡¯s what we thought too." She let that sit. Then, she added¡ªvery deliberately¡ª Dyn (leaning in, voice lower, curious): "You wouldn¡¯t happen to own a tunic like that, would you?"
Elysia¡¯s Test Elysia felt her heartbeat in her throat. She forced herself to breathe normally. If she said no¡ªwould Dyn believe her? If she said yes¡ªwhat would happen next? This was a test. She could feel it. Dyn was watching her every move. Waiting. Listening. Elysia forced a calm expression. Elysia knew she didn¡¯t do anything wrong. She was here, in her room, the night Livia and Trigaha were murdered¡ªsleeping. So why was she feeling uneasy? She took a slow breath, forcing herself to relax. Then, she rolled her palms, keeping them low on the table¡ªhiding her darkened fingers. She met Dyn¡¯s gaze without hesitation.
The First Test Elysia (calm, shrugging slightly): "No. What kind of question is that, even? Why would I own something that¡¯s being hunted for murdering my friends?" Dyn didn¡¯t reply immediately. She just watched her. A slow, knowing smirk curled on her lips. Then, she leaned forward slightly and spoke¡ª Dyn (smooth, casual): "Right. That means you wouldn¡¯t mind if someone came to this beautiful room of yours¡ªPix included¡ªand searched it." Elysia tilted her head slightly, keeping her expression neutral. Elysia (nonchalant, leaning back slightly): "Not at all." Dyn studied her for a moment. Then, as if nothing happened, she took another slow sip of her Vahi.
A Shift in Focus Dyn (smirking, setting her cup down): "So, Elysia¡ªtell me about yourself!" Elysia (frowning, caught off guard): "What?" Dyn (shrugging, smiling slightly): "I heard from your Wigor Mishis that you¡¯re a bright Bych in class." Elysia didn¡¯t like this shift. What did her studies have to do with anything? She chose her words carefully. Elysia (shrugging, dismissive): "I don¡¯t know. I just do my work¡ªmy part." Dyn tapped her fingers on the table. Dyn (casual, but sharp): "But Mishis also said that your behavior changed these past few days. That you were getting more aggressive." Elysia looked away for a second. Her jaw tightened. Then, she sighed. Elysia (muttering, looking down): "Fairies change." Dyn smirked slightly. Dyn (playful, but pressing on): "So¡­ what made you change then?" Elysia¡¯s fingers curled slightly. Her mind raced. Then¡ªshe made a mistake. Elysia (slipping, frustrated): "I don¡¯t know if I¡¯ve changed or not! Yeah, maybe I yelled at Livia and Trigaha when they started talking about that night¡ª" She stopped herself. But it was too late. Dyn¡¯s eyes gleamed. She leaned in. Dyn (calmly, smoothly): "What night?"
The Cover-Up Elysia¡¯s heart pounded. Why did I say that?! She needed to fix this¡ªfast. She forced a chuckle, shaking her head as if it wasn¡¯t important. Elysia (shrugging, casual tone): "When we¡­ we sneaked out of campus for fun." Dyn tilted her head. Dyn (softly, but precise): "And when was that night?" Elysia (keeping her voice steady): "A few days ago." Dyn (raising an eyebrow, pressing more): "And what happened that made you yell at them?" Elysia forced herself to stay calm. She needed to make this believable. Elysia (leaning back, sighing dramatically): "It was just a fun sneak. We went to Uth. They always teased me about Ethan. Everyone¡¯s his fan, but they loved to mess with me about it. So that night, we decided to go for a movie. But instead, I stopped at a holograph showing Ethan¡¯s news¡­ and they started teasing me for it." Dyn watched her carefully. For a moment, she said nothing. Then¡ª She leaned back, smirking. Dyn (grinning slightly, nodding): "Ohh, I can feel that. I¡¯m his fan too." Silence. Elysia stared at her, unsure. Then¡ª Dyn lifted her empty cup. Dyn (mockingly dramatic): "And look at this. You didn¡¯t even touch your Vahi." Elysia rolled her eyes, frustrated. Elysia (dry, unimpressed): "Are we here to discuss this? Or did you run out of questions?" Dyn grinned. She liked this one. Dyn (chuckling, amused): "Hmm¡­ direct. I like that."
Final Moves Dyn stood up and began looking around the room. Her eyes landed on Elysia¡¯s notes. The pages filled with research on Light. She tapped a finger against them. Dyn (curious, flipping through a page): "Cami¡ªthe Librarian¡ªshe said you spend a lot of time in the Library." Elysia watched her carefully. Elysia (nodding slowly): "Yeah. I¡¯m doing extra research. Something outside of the curriculum." Dyn nodded approvingly. Then¡ªher next question hit like a blade. Dyn (glancing at her, voice smooth but sharp): "At night too?" Elysia¡¯s stomach tightened. Her breath hitched¡ªjust slightly. Elysia (forcing an even tone): "No. Why at night?" Dyn smirked. Dyn (casually, shrugging): "Oh, nothing special. Just asking." She moved past Elysia, heading toward the door. Before stepping out, she paused. She turned her head slightly, flashing a small smile. Dyn (playfully, as if she just enjoyed the conversation): "Good to see you, Ely. I hope we meet again." Elysia exhaled slowly. Elysia (deadpan, crossing her arms): "Yeah. Please be quick next time. It cost me six Huris for two Vahi." Dyn grinned. Then¡ªwithout another word¡ªshe left.
Elysia¡¯s Thoughts After the Interrogation The door clicked shut. Elysia stayed seated, staring at the untouched Vahi. Her hands clenched slightly. Dyn was smart. She wasn¡¯t asking random questions. She was testing her. And the way she pushed about the night¡­ Something told Elysia¡ªthis wasn¡¯t over. Not even close. 9. Changed Elysia¡¯s Return to Class ¨C The Unexpected Answer Elysia finally decided¡ªshe needed to move forward. The loss of Livia and Trigaha was a weight on her chest, but staying locked in her room wouldn¡¯t change anything. She walked slowly through the academy, every corner bringing memories of them. The way they used to laugh in the hallways. The way Trigaha would playfully bump into her. The way Livia would always tease her about Ethan. Now¡ª She was alone. She didn¡¯t know who her new friends would be. Didn¡¯t know if she was ready for new ones. She entered the classroom, her mind still lost in memories.
The Lecture ¨C An Answer That Shouldn''t Be Known At the front of the class, Wigor Osumi was already deep in lecture. Her voice echoed through the room, steady and clear. Osumi (explaining, pointing at a projected diagram): "So, when the Kundla of Light bonds with the CHD of our body, it produces a small Arci." Elysia barely heard her. She was still looking around, remembering where Livia used to sit. Where they used to pass notes. Where they used to laugh silently during boring lectures. Osumi (continuing): "Now, who can tell me how this Arci produces Arcnus?" A brief silence. Then¡ªwithout thinking¡ª Elysia answered. Her voice was calm, steady, and precise. Elysia: "When these Arci get fluxioned, they accumulate at the Blivein. The flow of these Arci in the Blivein makes the Arcnus. And when the host uses their conscious, the Arcnus is channeled through it and managed as per the host¡¯s will." A pause. Then¡ª The entire class turned to look at her. Like she had just said something completely alien. Because she had. This wasn¡¯t common knowledge. This was root knowledge. Something far deeper than what was taught in class. Osumi (blinking, slightly shocked): "That¡­ that¡¯s correct." She paused, studying Elysia with curiosity. Osumi (more carefully now): "And¡­ it¡¯s good to see you back, Elysia." She meant it. But she was also wondering¡ªhow did Elysia know this? Even Osumi herself had never learned it in such detail. Elysia swallowed. Her own mind raced. "Where did that come from?" She hadn¡¯t studied that. She didn¡¯t even know she knew it. Her hands clenched slightly under the desk. Elysia (hesitant, confused): "Th¡­ thank you, Wigor." But when she turned to look at her classmates¡­ They were all staring at her.
Medisa¡¯s Office ¨C The Plan to Lure the Suspect Far from the lecture halls, in a room filled with floating holographic screens and security reports, Medisa and Sattira Dyn stood facing each other. The air between them was heavy. Dyn stood near the window, watching the city outside, arms crossed. A small chuckle left her lips. Dyn (casually, but with a sharp edge): "Suspect." (she chuckled, shaking her head) "Suspect is just an illusion we create to convince ourselves we have someone to capture." Then¡ªshe turned to Medisa. Her usual smirk faded. Her eyes were serious now. Dyn (firmly, directly): "Medisa¡­ I don¡¯t suspect." Medisa didn¡¯t react. Didn¡¯t blink. Didn¡¯t even move. Her cold, calculating gaze met Dyn¡¯s. Her next words were simple. The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. Medisa (calm, direct): "Can you expose her?" Dyn didn¡¯t answer right away. Instead¡ªshe walked over to a chair and sat down slowly. Then¡ªshe smirked. Dyn (leaning back, teasing): "You know¡­ you should add a few more words when you talk." Medisa simply stared. Unmoved. Dyn sighed dramatically. Then¡ªshe grinned. Dyn (relaxing in the chair, finally serious): "Okay. Fine. I need to lure her out." Medisa¡¯s gaze narrowed. Medisa (calmly, but expectantly): "With what?" Dyn¡¯s smirk widened. She leaned forward, elbows resting on her knees. Her next word was clear. Dyn (with certainty): "HoldForth." A sharp silence. Then¡ª Medisa (flatly, immediately): "Denied." Dyn wasn¡¯t surprised. But she was prepared. She tilted her head slightly, pushing forward. Dyn (persuasive, with a knowing smirk): "Come on, Medisa. Cami said she sensed Vyshek. It¡¯s our only way to trap her." Medisa watched her carefully. Considering. Measuring. Then, Dyn added something else. Something Medisa couldn¡¯t ignore. Dyn (leaning in, voice dropping slightly): "Plus¡­ it¡¯s the fastest way too." A long silence. Medisa stared at her. Her mind calculating the risks. If it failed, HoldForth would be compromised. If it worked¡ªthey would catch her. Or¡ª She would trap herself. Finally¡ª Medisa spoke. Medisa (firm, testing): "If it fails?" Dyn grinned. She already knew the answer. Dyn (smirking, eyes gleaming): "It won¡¯t." She stood up. Dyn (confidently, playfully): "Either we catch her, or she gets trapped. Either way¡ªwe win." Medisa watched her for a long moment. Then¡ª Finally¡ª She nodded. Medisa (simply): "Plan?" Dyn smiled. A real smile. Because Medisa had agreed. And now¡ªit was time. The Trap ¨C A Battle in the Dark The night was silent. Too silent. A lone figure lurked in the shadows, hidden in the folds of darkness. She moved with purpose. With determination. Wrapped in a thick, dark purple tunic, she was ready. Tonight, she knew the HoldForth had been moved. Its security tightened. Its secrets locked away. Yet¡ª As she approached the new location, her sharp eyes scanned the area. Something was off. No guards. No Sattira. Nothing. A perfect entry. She moved silently, blending into the darkness. There was only one guard standing before the gate. She never saw her coming. A swift strike¡ªand she was down. She bent down, grabbed the key from her belt, and unlocked the gate. It clicked open. She stepped inside. And that¡¯s when she felt it. A trap. A place like HoldForth, which had been moved under heavy security, now unguarded? Her instincts screamed. She spun around¡ª But it was too late. The gate slammed shut behind her. Locked.
Caught ¨C The Fight for Escape A perfect trap. Set by Dyn. And now¡ªshe was caught. But she was no ordinary intruder. She was a Vyshek. She turned, her piercing eyes scanning the vast HoldForth. She needed something. Something powerful. Something that could get her out. She moved quickly, weaving through the shelves and rags of books. Ancient texts, some locked in enchanted shackles. And then¡ªshe found it. Shrishgic. A book of forbidden spells. She reached for it¡ªbut the moment her hands touched the shackled book, pain seared through her skin. The enchantment burned deep. A scarlet mark formed on her palm. She ignored it. She had no time for pain. She opened the book, flipping rapidly through pages. She knew what she needed. And there it was. A spell for a destructive blast. A spell to break free. But just as she was about to cast it¡ª
The Sattira Arrive A voice cut through the silence. Rashily: "Put the book down. I won¡¯t ask twice." She didn¡¯t stop. Didn¡¯t even acknowledge them. Her fingers traced the runes, channeling the arcane energy. But it was too late. The Rashily¡¯s hand glowed purple, ready to strike. So did hers. A sharp, deadly pulse of arcane energy exploded from her palm¡ª Hitting the Rashily first. The force threw her back, slamming her into the shelves. A loud crash. The battle had begun.
The Fight in the HoldForth The room erupted in chaos. The Sattira and Rashily spread out, forming a circle. Their hands glowed, arcane energy crackling in the air. She moved. Swift. Silent. Deadly. They tried to corner her¡ª But she was already moving. Between the shelves. Between the books. Her footsteps barely a whisper. But the lights¡ª The lights exposed her. The glow illuminated the thick purple tunic. She wasn¡¯t hidden anymore. And so¡ªshe took them out. One by one. Lights shattered. Glass rained down. The room darkened. The Sattira struggled to see. She struck hard. Fast. A Rashily fell. Then another. One by one. She didn¡¯t hesitate. Didn¡¯t hold back. Until¡ª She stopped. Because someone stood before her. Waiting. Watching.
The Final Stand ¨C Dyn vs. The Intruder Dyn. Her eyes sharp. Focused. Unshaken. She didn¡¯t attack. Didn¡¯t move. She just spoke. Dyn (calm, firm): "STOP!" Her voice echoed through the HoldForth. The intruder stood still. Her hood down, her face hidden. Dyn (stepping closer): "You can¡¯t get out of here. Turn around. Show me your face." The figure didn¡¯t move. Didn¡¯t speak. Behind Dyn, the remaining Rashily and Sattira were closing in. The room was surrounded. And yet¡ª She didn¡¯t surrender. She made her choice. In an instant¡ªarcane energy pulsed from her hands. A blast. Directly at the Sattira. They couldn¡¯t dodge in time. One was thrown back into the wall. And in that small opening¡ª She ran.
The Chase ¨C A Narrow Escape Dyn reacted instantly. She summoned her Arcane, forming a Chakra. And she threw it. The spinning disc of energy sliced through the air¡ª And hit its target. The intruder staggered, pain searing through her leg. A deep wound. She faltered¡ªjust for a second. But she didn¡¯t stop. She kept running. Dyn rushed after her. She reached the corridor¡ª But she was already gone.
The Aftermath ¨C A Bitter Failure Dyn stopped. Her hands clenched into fists. She turned back to the HoldForth. The battlefield. Books scattered. Shelves broken. Sattira and Rashily injured. And¡ª The book of Shrishgic¡ªgone. She exhaled slowly. A sharp, frustrated breath. Then, she whispered to herself¡ª A bitter, quiet admission. Dyn (low, defeated): "I failed." 10. [PAST] The Truth The night was eerily quiet as Elysia stormed out of her house, the door creaking on its hinges behind her. The biting air stung her cheeks, but her thoughts were far too loud for her to feel the chill. Her mother''s words echoed in her mind, cutting deeper than she expected. She wasn¡¯t just frustrated¡ªshe was lost, trapped in a labyrinth of questions and expectations. Her mother wanted her to stay. The world demanded she follow the ritual. But Elysia wanted neither. As her boots crunched against the frost-bitten path, her feet carried her instinctively to the only place that might have answers. The Virtis. The Virtis lived on the outskirts of the mand, in a shadowed castle that loomed like a forgotten specter against the night sky. Its jagged towers seemed to pierce the stars themselves, and the soft, otherworldly glow of purple lights spilled out from its windows, painting the surrounding trees in an eerie hue. The closer Elysia got, the heavier her chest felt. By the time she reached the massive gate, her palms were clammy, and her legs felt like stone. She hesitated, her knuckles hovering over the door. "I can do this," she whispered to herself, the words trembling as much as her body. Finally, she knocked. The sound echoed like a hollow drumbeat through the night. The door creaked open slowly, revealing a figure cloaked in deep purple. The thick hood obscured their face, making it seem like a void stared back at her. The silence between them stretched uncomfortably long before Elysia managed to stammer, "Vi...Virtis. I...I apologize for coming so late." The figure remained still, their shadowed gaze boring into her. Elysia¡¯s breath hitched as she instinctively took a step back, the weight of the Virtis¡¯s presence pressing against her like a storm. Then, without a word, the figure stepped aside, leaving the door open just enough for Elysia to enter. The invitation¡ªor was it a challenge?¡ªhung in the air. Swallowing her fear, Elysia stepped inside. The interior was unlike anything she had ever seen. The walls glimmered faintly with runic symbols, shifting and twisting like living ink. Shelves lined with books bound in metal, ancient artifacts, and glowing orbs filled the cavernous hall. The air buzzed faintly, as if the castle itself were alive and watching her. The interior was bathed in the same purple glow, casting long, wavering shadows on the walls. The air was thick with an unidentifiable scent¡ªsomething ancient and metallic. Shelves lined with peculiar objects loomed in the corners, their shapes indiscernible. Books with metal covers sat stacked on tables, their spines etched with runes that seemed to shift when glanced at. Elysia shuddered. This wasn¡¯t a home; it was a domain. "Th-thank you..." she murmured, her voice faltering. The Virtis who had opened the door disappeared into one of the many shadowy rooms without a word, leaving Elysia alone in the vast central hall. The silence was suffocating, broken only by the faint hum of the glowing lights. She wrapped her arms around herself, suddenly feeling very small and very foolish. Before she could second-guess her decision further, a faint sound¡ªlike fabric rustling in the wind¡ªcaught her attention. Her breath hitched as she looked up. Descending from the shadowed ceiling, hovering as though gravity had no claim on her, was the head Virtis. Her form was regal, her dark cloak trailing behind her like liquid night, and the air around her seemed to hum with an unseen force. Elysia''s knees nearly buckled, but she forced herself to stand, bowing her head in an automatic gesture of respect. "I... apologize, Virtis, for disturbing you this late," she said, her voice cracking under the weight of her nerves. The head Virtis did not reply immediately. Instead, she began to circle Elysia, her movements slow and deliberate, her bare feet soundless on the stone floor. Elysia felt the weight of the Virtis¡¯ gaze, though her face was still obscured by her hood. Each step seemed to stretch the silence, amplifying the pounding of Elysia''s heart. Finally, the head Virtis stopped in front of her. When she spoke, her voice was calm but carried a gravity that seemed to fill the room. "Elysia Ogijya." Elysia flinched. Hearing her name in that voice was like being struck by lightning. She swallowed hard, her throat dry. "Y...yes. Aiaris Ogijya''s Aul." "I know who you are," the Virtis said, her tone unchanging. "A Light-blessed fairy, born to a bringer. A rare occurrence in your mand." Elysia''s mind raced. How did the Virtis know so much about her? Was it her duty to know everyone in the mand? Or was there something more sinister at play? Doubts and regrets clawed at her resolve, but she stood her ground, even as her legs threatened to betray her. "H-how do you know me?" she asked, her voice barely audible. The head Virtis paused. Then, with deliberate slowness, she reached up and pushed back her hood. Elysia¡¯s breath caught in her throat. None in the mand had ever seen the face of a Virtis¡ªnot during the rituals, not during their rare appearances. The face before her was both beautiful and otherworldly, with sharp, angular features and skin that shimmered faintly, as if dusted with stars. Her eyes glowed with the same eerie purple light that filled the castle, and her expression was unreadable, a mask of power and mystery. "I know you," the Virtis said, her voice softer now but no less commanding, "because I am a Virtis. And the Virtis see all." Elysia stood frozen as the Head Virtis settled into her grand chair, the fabric of her dark purple tunic pooling around her like liquid shadow. The silence in the castle pressed against Elysia¡¯s ears, heavy and suffocating. The air itself felt different here¡ªthick, charged, waiting. The Virtis tilted her head slightly, her glowing eyes unwavering. ¡°You look scared, my child. Don¡¯t be. Sit.¡± Elysia¡¯s throat tightened, her voice resisting every attempt to come out. She swallowed hard, shaking her head weakly. ¡°N-nn-no. Thank you. I¡­ I just came here¡ª¡± The Head Virtis leaned forward, cutting through her hesitation with a voice as cold as the stone walls. ¡°To seek answers. I know.¡± Elysia flinched. ¡°I¡­ I want to go to Valfala.¡± A slow, deliberate hum escaped the Virtis as she studied Elysia. ¡°Hmmm¡­ I see. You want to see Valfala, don¡¯t you?¡± Something about the way she said it sent a ripple of unease through Elysia¡¯s spine. And then it broke out of her, raw and desperate: ¡°I want to know what¡¯s there that makes every fairy of our mand so eager to die. Why? What¡¯s there that makes them walk into the flames with a smile?¡± The Head Virtis stood. Elysia stiffened as the woman began to approach her, each step slow, deliberate. The floor beneath her feet didn¡¯t creak, didn¡¯t make a sound¡ªit was as if she was gliding. Then she lifted a single hand, swirled her finger in the air¡ªand the world around them shifted. A wave of light rippled outward from the Virtis¡¯ motion, swallowing the eerie, shadowed hall in a blinding radiance. The heavy, ancient walls of the castle dissolved. The air became fragrant with an intoxicating sweetness. The purple glow of the castle¡¯s lamps melted into warm, golden hues. Elysia gasped. She turned sharply, her breath catching at the sight before her. They were no longer in the castle. They stood in an endless expanse of pure white light, a realm so beautiful, so serene that it seemed to hum with divinity itself. In the distance, towering structures of shimmering crystal gleamed under an eternal sky of gold and silver. The air pulsed with warmth, and the scent of blooming flowers filled her lungs, though she could see none. There was no weight, no fear¡ªjust endless tranquility. The Head Virtis extended her arms. ¡°This,¡± she said, her voice velvety smooth, ¡°is Valfala. The paradise where our Phinix resides. The end destination of our journey. The place where the Light returns. Now you see, my child¡­ this is why they are willing to walk into the flames.¡± Elysia spun, taking in the breathtaking scene, her heart pounding. ¡°This is beautiful,¡± she whispered in awe. ¡°This¡­ this is incredible.¡± A place like this¡ªif it was real¡ªthen maybe¡­ But then, as quickly as it appeared, it was gone. The light fractured, the warmth vanished, and in the span of a breath, the cold, dark castle swallowed them once again. Elysia staggered back, the shock of the transition leaving her disoriented. The air returned to its unnatural stillness, the metal-covered books once again sitting in their eerie glow, and the shadows in the corners watching like silent spectators. Her skin prickled. She turned sharply toward the Head Virtis, her mind catching up, the wonder melting into something else. Suspicion. Her breath came unevenly. ¡°How¡­¡± she hesitated, struggling to voice the realization that clawed at her chest. ¡°How did you do that? It felt real. It looked real.¡± The Head Virtis said nothing. She only watched. And that was when Elysia¡¯s heart started to race. She had seen something real. But it wasn¡¯t Valfala. It wasn¡¯t paradise. It was an illusion. A trick. The truth hit her like ice-cold water, her eyes widening. Elysia took a step back, horror creeping into her voice. ¡°Wait¡­¡± Her breath hitched. ¡°That¡ªthat wasn¡¯t real, was it?¡± The Head Virtis didn¡¯t answer. Instead, she took a slow, measured step forward, her glowing gaze locked onto Elysia¡¯s like a predator watching its prey. Elysia staggered back again. ¡°You¡­ You created that,¡± she said, her voice growing shaky, her mind spinning with the implications. ¡°That wasn¡¯t real. Valfala isn¡¯t real.¡± Still, the Head Virtis said nothing. But she smiled. And it was the most terrifying thing Elysia had ever seen. Elysia¡¯s breathing quickened as realization crashed over her like a tidal wave. ¡°There¡¯s no Valfala,¡± she whispered, the words tasting like betrayal on her tongue. ¡°It¡¯s¡­ it¡¯s all a lie.¡± The Head Virtis took another step forward. ¡°No.¡± Her voice was as cold as the night outside. ¡°You are right.¡± The words felt like a dagger in Elysia¡¯s chest. The world spun. The floor beneath her feet felt unsteady, as if she had stepped onto thin ice, and below her was a truth too dark to comprehend. The sacrifices. The songs. The joy. The flames. This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work. All of it. A lie. Her stomach twisted violently, her knees threatening to buckle. And then, beneath the crushing weight of revelation, another thought surfaced¡ªone far more terrifying. If she knew now¡­ If the Virtis had let her see¡­ Then what happened next? The Head Virtis watched her carefully, her eyes flickering with unreadable intent. Elysia¡¯s blood ran cold. She wasn¡¯t supposed to know. And now, she was trapped. Elysia stood paralyzed, her breath shallow, her heartbeat deafening in her ears. The truth she had so desperately sought was now unraveling before her, and it was nothing like she had imagined. It was cruel. Twisted. A nightmare disguised as a sacred path. She was never meant to know. And now, she would never leave. The Head Virtis smiled, her dark lips curling like a serpent coiled and ready to strike. The glow of the purple torches cast long, flickering shadows across her face, making her eyes gleam with a sick, eerie delight. ¡°The life itself is a false reality, my child.¡± Her voice was soft, almost soothing, as if she were telling Elysia a bedtime story. ¡°One day, you were just a happy little thing, playing with your mother, learning to sew. And the next¡­ you decided to seek the truth.¡± She took a slow step closer, her presence suffocating. ¡°But tell me, child¡­ what is truth? What is reality?¡± She leaned down, her face inches from Elysia¡¯s, her breath impossibly cold. ¡°There is none. Even reality itself¡­ is just another illusion.¡± Elysia¡¯s knees nearly buckled. ¡°P-please,¡± she stammered, her voice cracking. ¡°Don¡¯t kill me. I won¡¯t tell anyone. I swear.¡± The Head Virtis chuckled, and with a flick of her wrist, a swirling mass of raw, crackling purple energy coiled around her fingers like living tendrils. It pulsed, radiating power¡ªpower unlike anything Elysia had ever seen before. ¡°Oh, Elysia.¡± Her tone was almost pitying. ¡°You are a Light-blessed one. Did you know that?¡± Elysia swallowed hard, her body trembling. ¡°And not just you,¡± the Virtis continued, examining the raw energy in her palm with fascination. ¡°There are many Light-blessed fairies in your mand. Each one brimming with untapped potential.¡± She chuckled, the sound both velvety and venomous. ¡°And yet¡­ none of you ever even tried to use the power you carried within you. Never tried to feel it. To command it. To bend reality itself.¡± Elysia¡¯s mind reeled. Light? Power? Had something always been inside her? Inside all of them? Why had no one told them? The Head Virtis tilted her head, watching Elysia''s expression shift. ¡°Yes,¡± she murmured, her voice teasing, ¡°I see that look in your eyes. You¡¯re beginning to understand, aren¡¯t you? That the very thing which makes you who you are¡ªyour precious Light¡ªhas been wasted on you.¡± Her expression darkened. ¡°Which is why we take it.¡± Elysia¡¯s breath hitched. She finally understood. They weren¡¯t just guiding the mand. They weren¡¯t protectors of sacred traditions. They were stealing the Lights. ¡°Why?¡± Elysia choked out, her hands trembling. ¡°Why are you doing this? What do you gain from controlling us?¡± The Head Virtis smiled like a satisfied predator. ¡°You do ask questions, after all. But, poor child¡­¡± She exhaled dramatically. ¡°This will be the last question you ever ask.¡± She turned away briefly, pacing leisurely, her presence alone enough to make the air feel heavier. ¡°You know of Light, don¡¯t you?¡± she mused, running her fingers through the air as if painting something invisible. ¡°The force that makes us fairies. The essence that defines our existence.¡± She turned back to Elysia, her eyes glowing brighter. ¡°But you have only been allowed to know what you needed to believe.¡± Elysia¡¯s throat tightened as the words seeped into her mind like poison. ¡°That a fairy has only one Light. That Light cannot be created, nor transferred. That it is divine and untouchable.¡± A slow, eerie chuckle escaped her lips. ¡°All of it¡ªWRONG.¡± The word echoed in the vast, empty hall like the crack of a whip. Elysia shook her head, her mind screaming in denial. ¡°No¡­¡± she whispered. The Head Virtis took a sharp step toward her, her dark cloak billowing unnaturally. ¡°With a Light, one can become a Phinix.¡± Elysia¡¯s eyes widened in horror. ¡°And once a Light is corrupted, it can be controlled. Shaped. Molded to obey the will of its master.¡± The purple energy in her hands crackled violently. ¡°This is why you have power, Elysia. This is why some of you are Light-blessed while others are Light-bringers. But what you never realized¡­ is that you were all nothing more than a resource to be harvested.¡± Elysia¡¯s body went cold. Her stomach twisted violently, bile rising in her throat. The rituals. The sacrifices. The burning. All of it. Not for Valfala. Not for some divine paradise. It was for her. For the Virtis. For power. The Head Virtis exhaled sharply, her lips curling into something sinister. ¡°All these years, you fools offered your Light in the name of Valfala.¡± She spread her arms wide. ¡°And every single time, those Lights came to me.¡± She slammed her hands together. A gust of power surged through the room, making the walls tremble. ¡°IT WAS ALWAYS FOR ME.¡± Elysia stumbled backward, her breath ragged. Her wide eyes darted toward the door. She had to get out. Now. ¡°You¡­¡± her voice trembled, barely above a whisper. ¡°You¡¯re a murderer.¡± The Head Virtis tilted her head, amused. ¡°Murderer?¡± she echoed, placing a delicate hand on her chest as if insulted. Then she smiled. A slow, wicked, knowing smile. ¡°Oh, my child¡­ What else do you think gods are?¡± Elysia¡¯s blood ran cold. She turned sharply, her gaze locking onto the door. A way out. But the moment she took a step back¡ª ¡°Ah, ah, ah.¡± The Head Virtis raised a hand. The air around Elysia thickened instantly, pressing against her body like an invisible weight. She gasped, feeling the force grip her limbs, freezing her in place. ¡°You weren¡¯t thinking of leaving, were you?¡± The Virtis whispered mockingly. Elysia¡¯s heart pounded. She struggled against the unseen force, her lungs heaving, her body refusing to move. She was trapped. The Head Virtis smirked, taking slow, deliberate steps toward her. ¡°You¡¯ve learned too much, little one.¡± Her fingers curled¡ª And the purple energy around them flared¡ª ¡°I think I¡¯ll be taking your Light now.¡± Elysia screamed. Elysia¡¯s eyes fluttered open to the soft glow of morning light filtering through the thatched roof. Her body ached, exhaustion still clinging to her limbs from the previous night¡¯s terror. But before she could process her thoughts, the first thing she saw was her mother. Aiaris sat beside her, watching her with the quiet relief only a mother could hold. The moment their eyes met, Aiaris smiled. A small, genuine smile¡ªnot of scolding, not of frustration, just relief. ¡°Thank the stars, you are okay.¡± Elysia sat up slowly, rubbing the sleep from her face. She tried to smile back, but it faltered. Her expression shifted to something heavier¡ªguilt, sorrow. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mum. I shouldn¡¯t have¡ª¡± Aiaris raised a hand, cutting her off gently. ¡°Later.¡± She stood, stretching slightly before turning toward the door. ¡°Go and make yourself clean. I¡¯m making us Vahi.¡± And then she left the room. Elysia blinked after her, confused. No scolding. No anger. No lecture about responsibility or the dangers of running from home. Just... Vahi. She should be furious with her. Should be threatening to punish her. But she wasn¡¯t. And somehow, that made Elysia feel worse.
The table was set with two cups of steaming Vahi, the earthy aroma filling the small room. Aiaris took her usual seat, her movements calm, unhurried. Elysia sat across from her, staring at the cup in her hands, the heat seeping into her fingers. Neither of them spoke. The silence was thick, heavy¡ªlike the one from last night before she ran away. Aiaris wasn¡¯t looking at her like she always did. No watchful glances. No amused sighs. And Elysia couldn''t take it anymore. ¡°Mum...¡± she finally said, her voice quiet. ¡°I... I¡¯m sorry. I really am.¡± Aiaris didn¡¯t reply at first. She took a slow sip of her Vahi, her expression unreadable. Elysia swallowed. ¡°I won¡¯t do it again. I promise. Please... forgive me.¡± Aiaris exhaled softly, setting her cup down. Then, she spoke. ¡°One day, you were playing with Rya.¡± Elysia blinked, caught off guard by the sudden recollection. Aiaris continued. ¡°You two got into a fight over a simple question¡ª¡®What is outside our realm, Mirgeth?¡¯ Rya said there was nothing. Just our realm, nothing more. But you...¡± she chuckled slightly, shaking her head. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t accept that answer. You said you couldn¡¯t believe something until you saw it yourself.¡± Elysia furrowed her brows, trying to recall the same memory. Aiaris smiled faintly, looking down at her cup. ¡°It was such a small thing. It didn¡¯t even matter. To the rest of us, it never mattered what was outside and what wasn¡¯t. But you¡­ you were never at peace with simple beliefs.¡± Elysia¡¯s stomach twisted. She lowered her gaze, feeling the weight of her mother¡¯s words. ¡°Mum, I really am sorry for what I did¡ª¡± ¡°No,¡± Aiaris interrupted gently. ¡°I understand now.¡± She leaned back slightly. ¡°You can¡¯t live like the rest of us.¡± Elysia¡¯s breath hitched. ¡°But I think,¡± Aiaris continued, her voice softer, ¡°that you learned your lesson last night.¡± She looked at Elysia carefully. ¡°When I saw you... how scared you were. How you ran straight into my arms, crying. I realized¡­ now you know that it¡¯s easier to live with beliefs without questioning them.¡± Elysia¡¯s hands curled into fists under the table. She looked down at her plate, nodding slowly. ¡°I... I get it. And I promise I won¡¯t do it again.¡± Aiaris smiled slightly. ¡°Don¡¯t make promises to change yourself, Ely. You¡¯re already changed.¡± Elysia hesitated, feeling her mother¡¯s careful gaze on her. ¡°The scared look is still on your face,¡± Aiaris said quietly. ¡°It tells me that something bad happened to you.¡± Elysia stiffened. For a moment, she wanted to tell her. She wanted to say everything. That she had gone to the Virtis to be sent to Valfala. That she saw the illusion they created. That she knew the truth now¡ªknew that all the sacrifices, all the rituals, were a lie. But she couldn¡¯t. Even if she told Aiaris, she wouldn¡¯t believe her. She would think it was another one of Elysia¡¯s refusals to accept the faith. She would look at her with pity. So instead¡ªshe lied. ¡°I... I got lost,¡± she said, forcing a small, nervous laugh. ¡°I got all alone in the dark, and I got scared.¡± She stuttered, pretending to fumble over her words, playing the part of the frightened, naive girl. ¡°I... I ruined everything.¡± Aiaris sighed, reaching across the table to place a gentle hand on Elysia¡¯s shoulder. She said nothing. But the warmth in her touch was enough. Elysia clenched her jaw, her mind screaming at her. She had to lie. She had to pretend. She couldn¡¯t let her mother¡ªor anyone¡ªknow the truth. Because if she did... She would end up in the flames, too.
Elysia glanced at Aiaris again. Her mother should be angry. Should be scolding her. But she wasn¡¯t. Instead, she simply shook her head with a sigh. ¡°You¡¯re not angry?¡± Elysia asked, barely above a whisper. Aiaris chuckled softly. ¡°No.¡± Elysia blinked, surprised. Her mother gave her a knowing smile. ¡°But you scared me to death.¡± Without thinking, Elysia blurted out, ¡°Sorry, Mum. I really am. It was a mistake.¡± Aiaris chuckled again. ¡°I know.¡± She reached out and lightly flicked Elysia¡¯s forehead. ¡°But don¡¯t do it again. This time, if you run away... I won¡¯t come looking for you.¡± She said it with a teasing smile, but there was something serious beneath her words. Elysia laughed weakly, before leaning forward and wrapping her arms around her mother. Aiaris hugged her back, resting her chin on her daughter¡¯s head. For a moment, Elysia let herself melt into the warmth, the comfort, the safety. But in the back of her mind... The truth still burned. She made her decision. She would take revenge. Not today. Not tomorrow. But one day. The Virtis had taken everything from her people. And she would make sure they paid for it. Even if it killed her.
Days passed, and Elysia played her part well. She no longer questioned the beliefs of the mand, nor did she voice her doubts. To the others, she had finally accepted the way of things. But deep inside, she saw the truth¡ªthe rituals, the faith, the songs of devotion¡ªall of it was a beautifully woven deception, a cage of obedience built by the Virtis. She helped her mother with the sewing, laughing and smiling as they worked, living a peaceful life. But at night, when the mand was quiet, she lay awake, staring at the ceiling, her thoughts racing. Another ritual would come. Another fairy would be burned in the false name of Valfala. This time, she knew. And this time, she couldn¡¯t watch it happen.
That afternoon, she sat beside her mother, carefully threading a golden pattern into a deep purple tunic. Her fingers worked, but her mind was far away. Aiaris, who had long since mastered the art of reading her daughter, smirked slightly. ¡°They say when you run your mind too much, it gets away from you.¡± Elysia blinked out of her trance and chuckled at her mother¡¯s sarcasm. ¡°And if you don¡¯t run it at all, it turns into goo.¡± She countered. Aiaris put a hand on her chest, feigning offense. ¡°Oh! A counterattack? My little Aul grows bolder by the day.¡± Elysia laughed softly. But as silence settled between them, Aiaris glanced at her daughter, knowing full well that something deeper weighed on her. ¡°So,¡± Aiaris said after a moment, keeping her voice light, ¡°what¡¯s on your mind now?¡± Elysia hesitated. She placed the tunic aside and took a breath. ¡°Nothing. I was just¡­ thinking about how we could expand our little business.¡± Aiaris arched a brow. ¡°You know, Ely, this isn¡¯t a business. We do this because we¡¯re skilled in it. It¡¯s our work¡ªsewing tunics on order for the fairies of our mand.¡± ¡°And we take whatever they give us in return,¡± Elysia added knowingly. ¡°Right.¡± Aiaris nodded. Then, with a knowing look, she set her sewing down. ¡°So tell me what you were really thinking.¡± Elysia swallowed, gathering her thoughts. She slowly knelt beside her mother, placing a gentle hand on her arm, making sure she had all of her attention. She hesitated. ¡°I can¡¯t do this for the rest of my life.¡± Aiaris¡¯ expression remained unreadable. Elysia continued, her voice soft but firm. ¡°I want to help you. I love sewing with you. But¡­ I¡ª¡± ¡°You want to study,¡± Aiaris finished for her. Elysia¡¯s eyes widened slightly. ¡°You¡­ how did you¡ª¡± Aiaris gave her a small, knowing smile. ¡°Rya told me. She said you want to go to Uth and study Light.¡± Elysia exhaled, caught between relief and surprise. ¡°You knew all this time?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Aiaris didn¡¯t say more. Elysia hesitated before finally asking the question she had been afraid to voice. ¡°So¡­ can I go?¡± Aiaris¡¯ hands stilled. Her jaw tightened ever so slightly. For a moment, Elysia thought she would say no. Then, with a voice heavier than Elysia had ever heard before, Aiaris whispered¡ª ¡°Yes.¡± Elysia¡¯s heart leaped. She beamed at first, but the excitement faltered when she noticed the way her mother¡¯s hands trembled slightly, the way she swallowed hard, holding back emotion. She knew this wasn¡¯t easy for her. ¡°Oh, Mum!¡± Elysia hugged her tightly. ¡°Come on, don¡¯t cry. If you don¡¯t want me to go, I won¡¯t.¡± Aiaris let out a soft laugh, brushing her fingers through Elysia¡¯s hair. ¡°No, it¡¯s not that. I want you to go. I want you to learn, to see the world beyond this mand. It¡¯s just¡­¡± She exhaled shakily. ¡°I have to learn to live without my only charmer.¡± Elysia felt her own eyes sting. ¡°And I have to learn to live without my only scolding and precious mum.¡± They both laughed, and Aiaris pulled her into a tight embrace. For now, they held onto each other. But in Elysia¡¯s heart, she knew¡ª This was just the beginning. 11. Two Selves The Aftermath ¨C The Pressure on Dyn The Sattira were already deployed. Every alley, corner, and shadow was being searched. But the Vyshek was gone. And so was Dyn¡¯s usual charm. Her failure sat like a heavy weight in the room.
Medisa¡¯s Office ¨C The Heated Discussion She stood before Medisa, her posture stiff. She wasn¡¯t alone. In the room sat¡ª And then¡ª The first words were spoken. Cami (coughing, her voice laced with concern): "The Book of Shrishgic is gone. Do you even know how dangerous it is in the wrong hands?" Dyn (clenching her jaw, muttering): "I know. Okay?" Meshis (snapping, her voice sharp like a blade): "Oh, wow. So you know the deal? THEN GO AND BRING IT BACK!" Her shout echoed in the room. But Dyn didn¡¯t flinch. She exhaled sharply. Dyn (gritted teeth, voice even): "My team is on it already. We¡¯re looking." Osumi (leaning forward, voice cool but firm): "First the Book of Kardloh. Now the Book of Shrishgic. The same fairy. The same Vyshek." The weight of those words hung in the air.
The Blame Game Cami coughed again, gripping the table. Cami (weak but pointed): "You¡­(coughs)¡­you all should thank me that I transferred HoldForth here. Otherwise¡­ (coughs hard)¡­" Barem (crossing her arms, unimpressed): "And what¡¯s the difference? It still got compromised." A sharp silence. Then¡ª Barem (scoffing slightly, muttering): "I don¡¯t think we¡¯re getting many admissions next cycle. Two murders. A Vyshek roaming free. This is too much." Meshis turned her fury back to Dyn. Meshis (accusing, stepping forward): "Dyn! You said she¡¯s from inside the school." Dyn (folding her arms, uninterested): "So? What?" Meshis (challenging, pressing on): "Then deploy your fairies to search every room. Every corner." Dyn rolled her eyes. Dyn (deadpan): "And what do you think is happening right now in the campus?" The tension peaked. Until¡ª Medisa stood up. Her presence alone was enough to silence the room. Medisa (calm, firm, final): "Enough." A pause. All eyes turned to her.
The Threat of Arcaneaum¡¯s Sattira Medisa¡¯s expression was cold, unreadable. Then¡ªshe spoke. Medisa (level, pointed): "Did you see her face?" Dyn (exhaling, frustrated): "No. She was smart. Stealthy." Medisa nodded slowly. Then¡ª She delivered the final blow. Medisa (calm, but threatening): "Then I¡¯m calling Arcaneaum¡¯s Sattira to handle this if Mirgeth¡¯s can¡¯t." A sharp silence. Dyn stiffened. No. She couldn¡¯t lose this. Letting Arcaneaum¡¯s Sattira take over would be a permanent stain on her career. She had to keep control. Dyn (quickly, serious now): "No. I can do this. Give me two days." Medisa didn¡¯t blink. Medisa (flatly): "One." A pause. Dyn exhaled sharply. Dyn (through gritted teeth): "Fine." She turned on her heels and stormed out.
The Final Words As the door closed behind her, Cami let out a heavy sigh. She coughed again, then spoke. Cami (grumbling, tiredly): "She can¡¯t do this. You know that." Medisa didn¡¯t disagree. Instead¡ªshe simply stated the cold truth. Medisa (calm, matter-of-fact): "I know. But if she can bring the Vyshek out¡­ she can catch her too." A pause. Then¡ª The meeting ended. And outside¡ªDyn clenched her fists. Because now¡ªshe had one day. And she was going to find the Vyshek. No matter what. The Realization ¨C A Clue in the Hands Dyn in the Canteen ¨C A Small Revelation Dyn sat alone in the canteen, her breakfast untouched. A cup of Vahi in one hand, a plate of Tald in front of her. But she wasn¡¯t eating. Her fingers gripped the warm cup tightly, but her eyes¡ª Her eyes were lost. She was staring into the center of the Vahi, her mind replaying the battle over and over. Every movement. Every strike. Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. Every arcane blast. Trying to find a pattern. Trying to find her.
Dyn (to herself, her grip tightening): "Who could she be? Who¡­? Think, Dyn. Think." She closed her eyes for a second, forcing herself to remember. The way the Vyshek moved. The way she fought. The way her arcane had struck the Sattira. Then¡ª A sudden crash. A cup fell to the floor, shattering. The noise snapped her out of her thoughts. She turned instinctively. A Bych was crouched, picking up the broken pieces. Normal. Not a big deal. Dyn exhaled and turned back to her Vahi. But¡ª Something caught her eye. Her fingers stopped midair. Her breath hitched. Her mind raced. The Vyshek¡¯s hand. She had burned it when she unshackled the enchanted book. A burned hand. A wounded hand. That was it. That was her clue. Dyn (whispering, eyes gleaming with realization): "Hands¡­ a wounded hand." She leaned forward, thinking faster now. Dyn (muttering to herself, a smirk forming): "Wounds heal faster for a light-blessed one. But a wound from a spell¡­ takes time." She had to look. She had to check every Bych. Because somewhere among them¡ª Was the Vyshek.
Elysia¡¯s Morning ¨C The Horrifying Truth A Normal Start ¨C Or So She Thought Meanwhile¡ª In Elysia¡¯s room, the alarm buzzed. A robotic voice filled the air. PIX (VOICE): "CONJOR, ELYSIA. YOUR SCHEDULE TODAY INCLUDES¡ª" Elysia (groggy, muttering into her pillow): "Umm¡­ stop. I¡¯m awake." The alarm clicked off. She sat up sluggishly, rubbing her eyes. Dragging herself to the bathroom, she turned on the tap. Cold water flowed. She reached out to splash her face¡ª And froze. Her breath caught in her throat. Her eyes widened. On her hand. A burn. Dark. Painful. Fresh. A deep mark. Elysia staggered back. Her hand ached as if the wound had just happened. Elysia (shocked, staring at her palm): "What¡¯s this now??" Her heart pounded. Her mind raced. Then¡ª A terrifying thought hit her. Elysia (voice trembling, whispering to herself): "Is it¡­?" She turned away from the mirror, stumbling out of the bathroom. She clutched her burned hand, trying to make sense of it. Elysia (frustrated, fed up, almost shouting at herself): "What is happening to me?!" A brief silence. Then¡ª A voice responded. A voice that shouldn¡¯t be there.
The Nightmare Standing Before Her PIX (VOICE): "YOU ARE DEHYDRATED. CONSIDER DRINKING SOME WATER." Elysia ignored it. She rushed to her medic kit, pulling out a medic for burns. She needed to fix this. She needed to understand this. Her hands shook as she applied the medicine¡ª Then¡ª A second voice. A voice that wasn¡¯t Pix¡¯s. A voice that came from inside her room. VOICE: "That won¡¯t work." Elysia froze. Her body went cold. A sharp chill ran down her spine. Her hands trembled. Her heart pounded against her ribs. Slowly¡ª So slowly¡ª She turned. And then¡ª She saw her. The figure. The same one. The thick, dark purple tunic. Standing in front of her. Still. Silent. Watching. Elysia¡¯s blood ran cold. Her legs went weak. She felt the air leave her lungs. Her chest tightened. She couldn¡¯t move. She couldn¡¯t breathe. Her vision blurred. Her mind screamed. And then¡ª Darkness. She collapsed. Falling into unconsciousness. The Truth in the Mirror Elysia¡¯s mind was spinning. Her breathing was shallow. Her hands were shaking. But¡ª She wasn''t running. Because the figure sitting before her wasn''t just anyone.
The Moment of Realization When Elysia had first opened her eyes, the shock had been instant. A thick, dark purple tunic, sat calmly in the chair. Still. Unmoving. Watching. Not attacking. Not threatening. Just there. Elysia didn''t waste time asking who are you or what do you want. Because¡ªshe already knew. And so¡ª She asked the real question. Elysia (voice shaking, barely above a whisper): "Are you here to kill me too?" The figure stayed still. Then¡ª A simple, calm reply. Figure (soft, plain): "No." Elysia¡¯s breath hitched. And then¡ª The figure moved. She turned fully, facing Elysia. And as she did¡ª Elysia saw her face. Her own face. Her own eyes. Her own expression¡ªcold and calm.
The Horror of Reality Elysia froze. Her body locked up. Her mind refused to believe it. She stumbled back on the bed, pressing herself against the wall. Her chest tightened. Her head spun. Elysia (shaking her head rapidly, panicking): "No. No. This isn¡¯t real. This isn¡¯t real." Her voice cracked. Elysia (frantic, voice rising): "Someone is manipulating reality. This is an illusion. A trick. A spell." She moved fast, her hands glowing with arcane energy. She began casting a dispel spell. The energy rushed out, rippling through the room. A wave of power. The air shifted. But¡ª Nothing changed. The figure still sat there. Watching. Unmoved. Unchanged. No illusion. No false reality. No manipulation. This was real. Elysia felt her stomach drop. Her breath came faster. Elysia (weakly, whispering to herself): "No¡­" Her hands shook. Then¡ª She grabbed her Bracon. She had to call for help. Elysia (frantic, pressing the emergency command): "Pix¡ªcall Sattira Enforcement!" A brief pause. Then¡ª PIX (VOICE): "CALLING SATTIRA ENFORCEMENT¡ª" But before the call could go through¡ª Elysia¡¯s own voice cut through the room. Elysia (without meaning to, without control): "No. Stop." Elysia¡¯s eyes widened in horror. She hadn''t meant to say that. But she had. Or¡ª Something inside her had. PIX (VOICE): "CANCELING EMERGENCY REQUEST." Elysia¡¯s hand trembled. Her throat tightened. She tried to speak again. Elysia (whispering, struggling to force the words out): "No. Call¡ª" Her voice died in her throat. She couldn''t say it. She couldn''t call for help. Something was stopping her. Something inside her. Her breath turned shallow. Her hands went cold.
The Figure Moves The figure stood up. Slowly. Smoothly. Like a shadow unfolding. She stepped closer. And it felt like Elysia was watching herself move¡ªbut without control. Elysia (panicking, scrambling back in bed): "No. No. Stay there. Stay right there!" The figure stopped. Silent. Still. Then¡ªshe spoke. Figure (calmly, evenly): "We need to talk." Elysia stopped moving. She stared. Breathing fast. Her mind screamed at her to run. But¡ª Her body didn''t move. Because¡ª Somewhere deep down¡ª She knew. She already knew the truth.
The Talk ¨C A Meeting of Two A few moments later¡ª Elysia sat in a chair, across from herself. Her hands rested on her lap, gripping her own fingers tightly. She was calm. But still scared. Because now, she knew¡ª This figure, this other Elysia, wasn¡¯t here to kill her. She could speak to her. Or¡ª She could speak to herself.
The First Words The figure leaned back slightly. Her face wasn¡¯t cruel. It wasn¡¯t mocking. It was just calm. Plain. Emotionless. Then, she spoke. Figure (softly, easily): "Don''t be scared of me." Elysia¡¯s fingers clenched. Her throat dry. Her voice was hoarse when she finally spoke. Elysia (whispering, shaky): "You¡­ you look like me." Her voice grew louder. Elysia (accusing, panicked): "And you are the one in the footage!" The figure didn¡¯t flinch. Didn¡¯t deny it. She just stared. Then¡ª She answered. Figure (calm, steady): "No. It¡¯s not like that." Elysia (angry, still shaken): "Then what is it? Who are you?" The figure didn¡¯t respond immediately. She simply exhaled softly. Then¡ª Her voice lowered. Figure (gently, slowly): "First, I want you to calm down." Elysia breathed heavily. Her heart pounded. Elysia (snapping, defensive): "How can I?! Sattira are hunting you! And you¡ª" The figure cut in. Her voice was sharp now. Figure (firm, steady): "Elysia! If I told you the truth right now, you would break." Elysia froze. Something about the way she said it¡­ Something in her voice¡­ Elysia swallowed hard. Her lips parted slightly. Her mind racing. Then¡ª The figure spoke again. Figure (softer now, almost reassuring): "I need you to calm down first. I¡¯m here to protect you." Elysia¡¯s heart pounded harder. Her breath hitched. She tried to process. Elysia (whispering, shaken): "What? Protect me? From what?" The figure watched her. Then¡ª She gave her final warning. Figure (soft, serious, final): "Take a deep breath. I don¡¯t want you fainting again. We have work to do." Elysia stared. She didn¡¯t speak. She just watched. Trying to understand. 12. Fiesa The Truth Unfolds ¨C The Birth of Fiesa Elysia couldn''t calm down. How could she? There was someone sitting in front of her¡ª Someone wearing the same thick dark purple tunic seen in the footage. Someone for whom the Sattira were hunting. And worst of all¡ª That someone looked exactly like her.
The Accusation Elysia¡¯s breath was shaky, her chest tight. Her voice came out sharp, accusing, unforgiving. Elysia (anger and disbelief filling her words): "What truth?! Why are you here?!" Then¡ªher voice broke slightly. Her fingers tensed. Her hands shook. Elysia (whispering, accusing, but deeply hurt): "You¡­ killed my friends." The figure stirred slightly. Her calm composure wavered just a little. She tried to soothe Elysia, to make her understand. Figure (gentle, but firm): "Elysia! It¡¯s not like that." Elysia (snapping, voice rising, demanding answers): "Then what is it like?! Tell me!" The figure exhaled, looking at Elysia intently. There was a pause. Then¡ª Figure (quietly, almost to herself): "I thought this would be easier¡­" Elysia clenched her fists. She had enough. Elysia (sharp, demanding, pressing forward): "What?! Snap it out. Who are you?!" The figure¡¯s lips pressed together. She hesitated. Then¡ª She spoke the truth.
The Revelation ¨C A Creation of the Mind Figure (calm, steady, unwavering): "You created me." Elysia (blinking, confused): "What?!" Figure (firmer now, pressing on): "I¡¯m you, Elysia." A pause. A heavy, deafening silence. Elysia stared at her. Her heart pounded. Her breathing stopped. No¡ªthat wasn¡¯t possible. That couldn¡¯t be possible. How could she be her? How could she be two? She was one. She had always been one. Her voice came out hollow, disbelieving. Elysia (whispering, confused, refusing to accept it): "What?" The figure nodded. Figure (confirming, absolute): "Yes." Elysia felt her world tilt. Her fingers dug into the chair¡¯s armrest. Her voice was quieter now, almost trembling. Elysia (low, shaken): "Okay. Okay. I get it¡­" Then¡ªher voice rose again. Elysia (angry, rejecting it, pointing at the door): "GET OUT. NOW." But the figure didn''t move. Her expression remained calm. Then¡ªshe spoke again. Figure (softly, patiently, like explaining to a child): "Elysia, try to understand. You can¡¯t separate from me. And I can¡¯t separate from you." Elysia (furious, shouting now, voice shaking with emotion): "ENOUGH. WHOEVER YOU ARE. GET OUT!" The figure let out a long sigh. Then¡ªshe muttered to herself. Figure (exasperated, shaking her head): "Oh, stars¡­ how do I make myself understand me?"
The Test ¨C Proving the Truth A moment of silence. Then¡ª The figure sat forward slightly. Her expression shifted. She had to convince Elysia. Figure (calm, trying a different approach): "Look. Let¡¯s try this another way." She waited for Elysia to listen. Figure (slow, careful): "Ask me questions. Questions that only you know. Secrets that only you hold." Elysia¡¯s eyes narrowed. Her hands clenched into fists. She didn¡¯t trust her. But¡ª She had to be sure. Elysia (warning, deadly tone): "One wrong answer¡ªand I¡¯ll blow you right where you¡¯re sitting." The figure nodded. Figure (without hesitation, steady): "Agreed."
The Questions Begin Elysia¡¯s breathing slowed. She looked at the figure¡ªat herself¡ªdirectly. Then¡ª She asked the first question. Elysia (testing, firm): "Mum?" Figure (without hesitation, smoothly): "Aiaris." Elysia¡¯s jaw tightened. Okay. Lucky guess. She continued. Elysia (sharper now): "Who told Mum that I wanted to study?" Figure (immediate, no pause): "Rya." Elysia¡¯s eyes narrowed. That was right. She pressed further. Elysia (fast, pushing now): "What is Phyin?" Figure (coolly, without a second thought): "A purple liquid used for rituals in our Mand." Elysia¡¯s breath caught. Her fingers curled tighter. This was too precise. She felt a chill crawl up her spine. Her thoughts raced. And then¡ª A voice cut through them. Figure (calmly, knowingly, with a small smile): "I heard what you thought." Elysia¡¯s body stiffened. Her chest tightened. Figure (gently, reassuringly): "I know all of this because I am you."
The Final Test ¨C The Darkest Truth Elysia swallowed. There was one last question. A question that no one else should know. Something so deep. Something so painful. Elysia (soft, careful, a test she was afraid of losing): "What is Virtis¡¯ truth?" The figure met her gaze. Then¡ª She spoke. Figure (with certainty, with weight in her voice): "They made the false reality of Valfala." Elysia¡¯s heartbeat slowed. Figure (continuing, unwavering): "They manipulated the fairies of our Mand. They took their Light. They stole it for themselves." Elysia stopped breathing. Her body felt numb. Her thoughts collapsed in on themselves. Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! Every answer. Perfect. Precise. Every truth. Undeniable.
The Truth Clicks ¨C The Birth of a Name And then¡ª The figure spoke again. Figure (softly, almost gently, completing the thought for her): "And this is why you created me." Elysia¡¯s lips parted slightly. Her voice came out quiet. Elysia (barely a whisper, realization dawning): "To take revenge on Virtis." The figure smiled. A small, knowing smile. Then¡ª Elysia spoke a name. A name she had imagined long ago. A name she had given to the stronger version of herself she once dreamed of. Elysia (whispering, with realization, with acceptance): "Fiesa." The figure¡¯s smile widened slightly. Fiesa. Elysia¡¯s own creation. Her other self. Her revenge. Fiesa (softly, gently, as if welcoming her home): "And here I am." The Weight of the Truth ¨C The Burden of Fiesa Fiesa was her creation. And now, here she was. The stronger version of herself. The one she had imagined. The one she had willed into existence. But how?
The Horrifying Explanation Elysia¡¯s voice was barely above a whisper. Elysia (quiet, shaking her head, trying to grasp it all): "How¡­?" Fiesa met her gaze. And then¡ª She answered. Fiesa (calm, steady): "I''m not real." Elysia¡¯s eyes narrowed. A sharp sting of doubt in her chest. Elysia (scoffing, stepping back slightly): "Not real?" Fiesa (clarifying, patient): "I mean¡­ right now, I¡¯m not real. But I can take over you. Then¡ªyou become me." A cold shiver crawled up Elysia¡¯s spine. Her fingertips went numb. And then¡ª She stood up from the chair. Fast. Jolting upright. Her breathing picked up. Her mind raced. Fiesa lifted her hands slightly, trying to calm her. Fiesa (gently, trying to explain further): "Okay. Look at it this way. When I¡ª" Elysia spun around. Cutting her off.
The Cold Realization Elysia (voice low, sharp, bitter): "No. I get it." She exhaled sharply, pressing her fingers against her temples. Her thoughts swirled like a storm. Elysia (continuing, realization sinking in, her voice shaking slightly): "You take over me. And then this face¡ª" (she motioned to herself) "¡ªbecomes Fiesa." She let out a shaky breath. Elysia (softly, more to herself now): "I get that." Fiesa watched her. She could hear Elysia¡¯s thoughts. Her mind had drifted¡ª To her friends. Livia and Trigaha. The ones who had died. The ones she had lost. And Fiesa knew¡ª It was time for that part of the truth.
The Guilt ¨C The Shattered Heart Fiesa (softly, but firm): "I''m sorry." Elysia¡¯s chest tightened. Fiesa (gently, carefully choosing her words): "I had to kill them." A sharp, twisting pain stabbed through Elysia¡¯s heart. Fiesa (continuing, softer now): "To protect you." Silence. A heavy silence. Elysia didn¡¯t speak. She didn¡¯t move. Because¡ª She was seeing this from her own view. Not Fiesa¡¯s. And in her view¡­ It wasn¡¯t Fiesa who had killed them. It was her. Her lips parted slightly. Her voice came out hollow. Empty. Elysia (whispering, staring blankly at the floor): "No¡­" Tears welled in her eyes. Her breath caught in her throat. Her voice broke. Elysia (barely audible, trembling): "I¡­ killed them." Her body felt heavy. Her chest ached. And then¡ª She couldn¡¯t hold it in anymore. Tears slipped down her face. She buried her face in her hands. Her voice barely came out as a whisper. Elysia (lost, shaking her head, sobbing softly): "I killed my own friends." And she meant it. Because Fiesa was her. Fiesa stood there. Silent. Unmoving.
The Justification ¨C The Impossible Choice After a long moment, Elysia lifted her head. Her voice was shaky. Unstable. Broken. Elysia (weak, pleading, whispering like a child): "Why?" Fiesa (quiet, but certain): "Because they knew it was you in the footage." Elysia¡¯s breathing hitched. Fiesa continued¡ªher tone never wavering. Fiesa (soft, but firm): "And I couldn¡¯t risk it." Her next words¡ª Cut through Elysia like a blade. Fiesa (final, absolute): "You could have been taken. You could have been in custody." Elysia¡¯s heart clenched. Then¡ª She snapped. Her hands curled into fists. Her voice rose¡ªloud and raw. Elysia (shouting, furious, sobbing): "SO WHAT?!" Tears streamed down her face. Her voice cracked midway. Elysia (crying, voice breaking with grief): "At least they¡¯d be alive today!" Her legs gave in. She stumbled back onto the bed. And then¡ª She broke completely.
The Breakdown ¨C The Collapse Elysia buried her face in the pillow. Her shoulders shook. The weight of everything crashed down on her. Fiesa watched. But she didn¡¯t move closer. Didn¡¯t speak. Because she knew. This was a moment Elysia had to go through alone. Then¡ª A whisper. Muffled. Barely heard through the fabric of the pillow. Elysia (voice hoarse, choked, broken): "Get away from me." She curled up tighter. Elysia (weaker now, sobbing into the pillow): "I don¡¯t need you." Fiesa didn¡¯t respond. Because they both knew¡ª That wasn¡¯t true.
Meanwhile ¨C The Hunt Continues In the campus, the search was intensifying. Dyn stood in the center of the courtyard, watching Sattira and Rashily move across the school. Every Bych¡¯s hands were being checked. One by one. No exceptions. Dyn¡¯s voice rang through the air. Dyn (commanding, sharp, determined): "I want every last Bych of this school checked." The Sattira moved swiftly, obeying. Then¡ª A new voice. Calm. Measured. Medisa (approaching, skeptical, raising an eyebrow): "You sure you¡¯re not wasting your time?" Dyn exhaled sharply, but didn¡¯t turn to face her. Dyn (low, firm, focused): "I know what I¡¯m doing." She scanned the crowd. Her sharp eyes flicking over every face. Every hand. Looking. Searching. Because she knew¡ª The Vyshek was here. Somewhere. Inside this very campus. Medisa (arms crossed, unimpressed): "You were sure last time, too." Dyn¡¯s jaw tightened. Then¡ª She turned her head slightly, meeting Medisa¡¯s gaze. Dyn (sharp, confident, deadly serious): "And we had her trapped." Medisa studied her. Then¡ª Without another word¡ª She turned and walked away. Dyn watched her go. Then¡ª She turned back to the search. Her fingers curled slightly. Her mind raced. Her voice was a whisper¡ª Only for herself to hear. Dyn (low, threatening, to herself): "Come on¡­ come out, you coward Vyshek." Her eyes darkened. Her lips pressed together. Dyn (voice dropping to a deadly whisper): "This time¡ªI''m not letting you go." The Pact Between Two ¨C A Balance of Shadows The room was quiet. The storm of emotions had passed¡ªbut the wreckage remained. Elysia sat up slowly, her body drained from crying. Her eyes were red, her breathing uneven. And yet¡ª Fiesa was still there. Sitting in the same chair. Unmoving. Unwavering. She had no more words left. Nothing that could fix what she had done. But¡ª She still wanted to convince Elysia. To make her understand. To make her accept her.
Fiesa¡¯s Apology ¨C A Purpose Misunderstood Fiesa (softly, guilt heavy in her voice): "I''m sorry¡­ I made you go through this." Elysia didn''t answer. And why would she? Fiesa was her creation. She owned her. She made her. Fiesa took a breath and leaned forward slightly. Trying to break the silence. Fiesa (firm, pressing on, trying to push her forward): "Come on. You¡¯re not planning to sit here like this for eternity, are you?" She tilted her head slightly. Fiesa (raising an eyebrow, testing her): "We should be practicing the spells of Shrishgic." But¡ª Elysia didn''t move. She didn¡¯t flinch. She didn¡¯t even blink. She just sat there, staring at nothing. Fiesa sighed. And then¡ª She tried a different approach. Fiesa (pushing, pressing into her emotions): "Great. So this is how you¡¯re going to take revenge on Virtis?" Still¡ª Elysia said nothing. Then¡ª After a long, heavy pause¡­ She finally spoke. Her voice was flat. Hollow. Elysia (staring at the floor, whispering): "You can''t make friends, can you?" Fiesa froze slightly. Then¡ª She gave in. She shifted, moving from the chair¡ª And sat beside Elysia. Fiesa (softly, remorsefully, honestly): "No." She hesitated¡ª Then, quietly, carefully, almost pleading¡ª Fiesa (low, sincere): "But¡­ I can be your friend." Elysia¡¯s shoulders tensed. A sharp sting hit her chest. She turned her head slightly¡ªnot enough to face Fiesa. Just enough to acknowledge her. Her voice was still distant. Emotionless. Elysia (slow, empty, final): "I don''t want you."
Understanding ¨C The Weight of Their Actions Fiesa closed her eyes for a moment. She had expected this. She had prepared for this. But still¡ª It hurt. Fiesa (softly, trying to reassure her): "I know how you¡¯re feeling right now." Elysia let out a bitter chuckle. She turned slightly, her eyes dull, tired. Then¡ª She whispered. Elysia (cold, but broken inside): "Do you even remember their last words?" Fiesa paused. Then¡ªshe nodded. Her voice was soft. Honest. Fiesa (quietly, sincerely): "They said¡­ you were their best friend." Elysia¡¯s chest ached. Her fingers curled into the bedsheets. Her breath hitched slightly. Then¡ª Her next words came out shaky. Elysia (weak, whispering, struggling to accept it): "And so were you." Fiesa¡¯s eyes softened. Then¡ª She did something unexpected. Something Elysia didn¡¯t think she could do. She lowered her head. She broke her usual calm demeanor. And she spoke words filled with regret. Fiesa (quiet, honest, raw): "I am sorry." A long silence. Then¡ª Elysia¡¯s lips pressed together tightly as she swallowed back another wave of pain. Her voice came out flat. Empty. Elysia (low, lifeless): "It doesn¡¯t matter now." Her hands tightened into fists. Her next words came out sharp¡ªself-loathing. Elysia (bitter, hollow, condemning herself): "They¡¯re gone. And I¡­ I killed them."
Strength vs. Humanity Fiesa¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change. She exhaled softly, looking at her hands. Then¡ª She spoke the words Elysia didn¡¯t want to hear. Fiesa (calm, but firm): "Being strong means you have to give up your feelings." Elysia clenched her jaw. Her breath hitched slightly. Fiesa (continuing, trying to make her see the truth): "You created me for one purpose. To kill and to take revenge." A heavy pause. Then¡ª Her voice lowered. Her words came out softer. More regretful. Fiesa (softly, honest, wishing things were different): "I wish¡­ I could change that." Elysia stared forward. Her fingers trembled slightly. Then¡ª She spoke quietly. Her voice wasn¡¯t angry anymore. Just tired. Worn. Hurt. Elysia (whispering, accepting, but bitterly sad): "But I never wanted you to be my dark self." Fiesa exhaled slowly. Her voice was gentle. Fiesa (softly, understanding her pain): "You made me from your rage. From your revenge. From your fear." She turned slightly, looking Elysia in the eye. Fiesa (serious, absolute, final): "I cannot be pure." A brief pause. Then¡ª Fiesa (gentler, reassuring, trying to comfort her): "The only thing I can do right¡­ is protect you." Elysia took this in. The words settled. And for the first time¡ª She understood.
The Pact ¨C A New Agreement Elysia let out a slow, shaky breath. Then¡ª She looked directly at Fiesa. And she made a decision. Her voice was careful, measured, absolute. Elysia (serious, firm, setting rules): "Then promise me." Fiesa waited. Elysia (continuing, clear and strict): "You will never take control unless I ask you to." Fiesa tilted her head slightly. She listened closely. Elysia¡¯s next words came heavier. Elysia (low, steady, commanding): "There will be no Fiesa¡ªunless Elysia asks." A pause. Then¡ª Fiesa smiled softly. She extended her hand. Her voice was smooth. Certain. Fiesa (nods, firm, promising): "I promise." Elysia studied her. Then¡ª She shook her own hand. A pact was made. And as they pulled back¡ª Fiesa¡¯s voice softened. Fiesa (gently, hopeful, almost pleading): "But please¡­ don¡¯t stop talking to me." Elysia exhaled sharply. Then¡ª A small, sad chuckle escaped her lips. Elysia (dryly, teasing, shaking her head slightly): "And you¡ªstop killing." They both chuckled lightly. A mutual understanding was made. Two sides of the same soul. Two halves of the same being. Darkness and Light. Fiesa and Elysia. And now¡ª They had a new rule to follow. 13. Let me take over The Perfect Deception ¨C Fiesa¡¯s First Help
The Hidden Power ¨C A Solution from the Shadow Fiesa stood up, looking at Elysia¡¯s burnt hand. The wound was deep¡ªmarked by Arcane shackles. It was the only proof Dyn needed to catch her. And Fiesa knew it. She met Elysia¡¯s gaze. Fiesa (calm, confident, reassuring): "Now, let me help you." Elysia frowned slightly. Elysia (hesitant, wary): "Now what?" Fiesa¡¯s lips curved into a small smirk. She reached out her own hand. Fiesa (playful, teasing, but knowing exactly what to do): "How about we start with your hand?" Elysia looked down. At her own burnt, blackened fingertips. She didn¡¯t ask how Fiesa knew what to do. She simply let her.
Meanwhile ¨C The Hunt Continues In the school¡¯s open area, the search was at its peak. Sattira were scanning every Bych, leaving no one unchecked. The air was tense¡ªfilled with the sound of sharp orders and shuffling feet. Sattira 1 (commanding, strict): "Get in line! Drop anything you have!" Sattira 2 (to a Bych, checking her hands): "Show me your other hand." Sattira 3 (suspicious, to another Bych): "What¡¯s this? Open it." And in the middle of it all¡ª Dyn watched. Her arms were crossed. Her sharp eyes flicked across the crowd. Something felt off. Something wasn¡¯t right. She could feel it.
Dyn¡¯s Realization ¨C The Missing Piece Dyn¡¯s mind raced. Every Bych was here. Even the ones who never attended class. Even the ones who only showed up for exams. Every. Single. One. And yet¡ª She still wasn¡¯t caught. Dyn muttered under her breath, pacing. Dyn (frustrated, thinking fast): "What am I missing?" She thought back. She replayed everything in her head. Livia and Trigaha? No. They were already gone. Then what? Dyn stopped pacing. Her breath hitched. Her eyes widened. Then¡ª It clicked. Dyn (whispering, realization striking her like lightning): "Elysia!" She wasn¡¯t here. At least¡ª Not right now. And why? She needed to find out. Because maybe¡ª She was the one.
Dyn Moves In ¨C The Interrogation Begins Dyn stormed through the halls. Straight to Wigor Mishis'' chamber. And without any warning¡ª SLAM! She slammed her hands on the desk. Dyn (demanding, urgent, sharp): "Where is Elysia?!"
The Raid ¨C Confronting Elysia Next scene¡ª Elysia¡¯s room. A loud, sharp knock. KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK! Dyn¡¯s voice echoed through the hall. Dyn (commanding, sharp, impatient): "Sattira Dyn! Open the door!" Her voice was cold, demanding¡ª As if she would break down the door if it didn¡¯t open in the next second. And then¡ª The door opened. Slowly. Casually. Elysia stood at the entrance. Her face calm. Relaxed. Not even a hint of panic. Dyn¡¯s eyes narrowed. She didn¡¯t wait. Didn¡¯t waste a second. The Sattira moved in. Fast. Efficient. And within an instant¡ª Elysia was on the floor. Her arms pinned. Her body restrained. Sattira 1 (barking, sharp): "Keep your hands open!" Elysia tried to move. Elysia (shocked, confused, protesting): "Hey! Hey! Easy! What¡¯s going on?!" But she got no answer. One of the Sattira stepped forward. And in her hands¡ª Was the Celsor. A device made to suppress the power of Light-Blessed fairies. With a quick motion¡ª They snapped it onto her wrists. And the moment it locked¡ª Elysia felt her arcane drain away. Her fingers tingled. Her energy dropped. She was powerless.
The Final Test ¨C Proof or Failure? Dyn crouched down. Her cold eyes fixed on her. Her voice low, deadly, controlled. Dyn (calm, but sharp, demanding the truth): "Show us your hands." Elysia blinked. Her eyebrows furrowed. Elysia (confused, hesitant): "What?" Dyn didn¡¯t repeat herself. She simply gave a short nod. And without hesitation¡ª The Sattira forced Elysia¡¯s hands open. Held them up for Dyn to see. And then¡ª Dyn froze. Her eyes widened slightly. A sharp, silent pause. Because¡ª Her hands were clean. No wounds. No burns. Not even a scratch. Just pale, flawless skin. The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. Even the blackened fingertips¡ª Completely normal.
The Moment of Defeat Dyn¡¯s mind spun. How?! How was this possible?! She was so sure. She was so close. Her jaw tightened. Her breath was slow, controlled. But inside¡ª She was raging. She had failed. Again. Dyn (muttering under her breath, disbelief in her tone): "How¡­?" She looked straight into Elysia¡¯s eyes. Her voice lowered. Darker. Dyn (gritted teeth, quiet but deadly serious): "It¡¯s not you?" Elysia stared back. She didn¡¯t flinch. She didn¡¯t panic. She didn¡¯t stutter. Instead¡ª She simply looked genuinely confused. Elysia (frustrated, confused, almost offended): "Who?! And why did you tie me up?!" Silence. Dyn¡¯s hands curled into fists. She had nothing. No proof. No reason to hold her. No justification to take her in. She had failed. Again.
The Hidden Victory ¨C A Silent Exchange Elysia held her breath. Waited for Dyn to say something. For her to make a move. But¡ª Nothing. And in that moment¡ª A voice echoed inside her mind. Fiesa (calm, amused, whispering in her head): "Told you. I got this." Elysia didn¡¯t react. She didn¡¯t let it show. She simply kept playing her part. Because now¡ª She had won. The Deception ¨C Fiesa¡¯s Perfect Illusion
A Last Attempt ¨C Dyn Refuses to Accept It Dyn wasn¡¯t done yet. She refused to accept defeat. Her eyes darkened. Her voice came out sharp, cold. Dyn (barking orders, voice filled with frustration): "Check the room!" The Sattira moved in. Elysia remained still. Watching silently. Waiting. Dyn turned to her. And smiled. Dyn (mocking, taunting, testing her calmness): "I don¡¯t think you¡¯d mind. Right?"
The Silent Battle ¨C Fiesa¡¯s Presence A few moments later¡ª The setting had changed. Elysia and Dyn now sat across from each other. The same table. The same chairs. But¡ª There was no Vahi this time. Elysia¡¯s hands were tied. The Celsor was still on. She was trapped. And behind Dyn¡ª Fiesa stood. Invisible. Unseen. Only Elysia could see her. Only Elysia could hear her. Because Fiesa was a part of her. And right now¡ª Fiesa was pacing restlessly. Her face tense. Her mind racing. Meanwhile¡ª Elysia sat calm. Unshaken.
The Interrogation ¨C Elysia¡¯s Cold Confidence Dyn leaned forward slightly. Her eyes sharp, studying her. Dyn (low, firm, controlled): "Please, leave Pix out of this. You know she can¡¯t bear this much drama." Elysia gave a small, amused smirk. Elysia (calm, almost playful): "Come on, I told you before¡ªI got nothing to hide." Dyn¡¯s lips curled slightly. But her eyes remained cold. Dyn (dead serious, voice low and warning): "If we find something¡ªanything¡ªon you, mark my words, Pix is going with me." Elysia held her gaze. Didn¡¯t flinch. Didn¡¯t react.
A Silent Exchange ¨C Fiesa¡¯s Urgency Fiesa (pacing, voice urgent, only Elysia could hear): "Ely! The Book of Shrishgic. It¡¯s here. We need to do something!" Elysia remained still. Her face showed nothing. Her breathing stayed normal. She had to keep it calm. She had to stay in control. Dyn¡¯s voice broke the silence. Dyn (demanding, pressing harder): "Where were you last night?" Elysia tilted her head slightly. And smirked. Elysia (mocking, casual, teasing): "Ummm¡­ maybe sneaking into Medisa¡¯s office." Dyn¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change. She didn¡¯t buy it. Not for a second. Her eyes narrowed. Her voice hardened. Dyn (sharp, deadly serious): "Answer the damn question." Elysia exhaled dramatically. Leaning back slightly. Elysia (casual, shrugging): "Where would I be? I was sleeping here. Right there in my bed."
The Silent Takeover ¨C Fiesa Steps In Fiesa wasn¡¯t satisfied. She knew Dyn was getting closer. She knew they couldn¡¯t risk the book being found. Fiesa (low, commanding, urgent in Elysia¡¯s mind): "Elysia! Let me take over. We can¡¯t risk this. If they find that book¡ª" Elysia turned her head slightly. And for just a fraction of a second¡ª Her eyes locked with Fiesa¡¯s. Then¡ª She closed her eyes. And in the next instant¡ª It wasn¡¯t Elysia anymore. It was Fiesa. Inside her body.
The Distraction ¨C A Perfectly Timed Escape Dyn noticed something. A shift in her posture. A shift in her energy. Dyn (suspicious, pressing on): "So, you¡¯re in a good mood today?" Elysia (as Fiesa) smiled. But this time¡ª The smile was different. Sharper. Stronger. Elysia (as Fiesa) (calm, confident, untouchable): "Good mood or not¡ªlet me tell you this. If you think you can suspect me for anything¡ªyou¡¯re wrong." And in that exact moment¡ª CRASH! One of the Sattira accidentally knocked over a decorative jar. The shattering sound filled the room. For a split second¡ª Dyn¡¯s attention flickered away. And in that instant¡ª Elysia (as Fiesa) broke the Celsor. With a quick, subtle movement¡ª Her power rushed back. Her arcane energy surged. But by the time Dyn looked back at her¡ª She was calm. Normal. Like nothing happened. Elysia sighed dramatically. Elysia (herself) (mock annoyed, teasing): "Hey! You¡¯re gonna pay for that." Dyn¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly. She felt something. Something was off.
The Illusion ¨C Making the Book Disappear Elysia (as Fiesa) acted fast. While Dyn was watching the fallen jar¡ª She used her power. A false reality. A perfect illusion. And in an instant¡ª The Book of Shrishgic¡ª Vanished. To the Sattira¡¯s eyes¡ª It was never there.
The Moment of Defeat ¨C Dyn Fails Again One of the Sattira turned around. Scanning the room. Checking the shelves. Checking Elysia¡¯s belongings. Then¡ª Sattira 1 (confident, sure, reporting back): "Clear! Nothing here." Another Sattira nodded. Sattira 2 (confirming, dismissing suspicions): "It¡¯s just her stuff. Nothing unusual." Dyn exhaled slowly. She didn¡¯t react. Didn¡¯t show anything. But inside¡ª She was furious. She had failed again. Her voice was low, controlled, warning. Dyn (muttering, dangerous, looking at Elysia one last time): "You¡¯re lucky, Elysia." She took a step back. Her eyes sharp. Piercing. Studying her. Dyn (cold, certain, determined): "But I¡¯ll find her. I will find her out." She turned. And left.
The Hidden Victory ¨C Elysia and Fiesa¡¯s Silent Triumph Elysia exhaled. And in her mind¡ª Fiesa laughed softly. Fiesa (amused, whispering in her head): "I told you¡ªI got this." Elysia didn¡¯t react. Didn¡¯t show it. She simply stayed still. Kept playing her part. Because now¡ª For the second time¡ª She had won. The Game Flips ¨C The Moment Dyn Wins¡­ and Loses
The Trap That Almost Worked Dyn was almost out the door. Her mind buzzed with frustration. She had no proof. No way to keep Elysia. She had to let her go. But then¡ª Elysia called her from behind. Elysia (calm, casual, almost teasing): "Hey! You forgot this." Dyn turned around. And saw her lifting her tied hands. The Celsor was still on. Or so she thought. Dyn smirked. Dyn (mocking, playing along): "Oh! My bad. You know, I sometimes¡ª" But as she reached out to untie her¡ª She saw it. The Celsor. Broken. Elysia had used her power. She had lied. She had cheated. And Dyn knew it. But she didn¡¯t flinch. Didn¡¯t react. Didn¡¯t show anything. Because if Elysia knew she saw it¡ª She would run. Or worse¡ª Do something else.
The Counterattack ¨C Dyn¡¯s Sudden Strike Dyn untied the Celsor. Turned around. Took one step forward. Then¡ª Without warning¡ª BOOM! A blast of Arcane energy erupted from her hand. It hit Elysia straight in the chest. Throwing her back¡ª Slamming her into the bed. Elysia gasped. The room shook slightly from the impact. Dyn¡¯s voice cut through the air. Dyn (barking, commanding, sharp as a knife): "Hold her up!" The Sattira moved in instantly. Grabbed Elysia¡¯s arms. Pinned her down. She couldn¡¯t move. And then¡ª The illusion flickered. Then¡ª It shattered. And right before their eyes¡ª The Book of Shrishgic appeared. Exposed. No more tricks. No more lies. She was caught.
Dyn¡¯s Victory ¨C The Truth Revealed Dyn stepped forward. Slowly. Her eyes gleamed with triumph. She bent down, picked up the book. Held it in her hands. Dyn (mocking, slow, savoring the moment): "Well, well, well¡­ look what we found." She turned back to Elysia. Eyes full of amusement. Dyn (smirking, satisfied): "And here I thought our sweet little Elysia had nothing to hide." She let out a short chuckle. It was over. Or at least¡ª She thought it was.
The Internal Struggle ¨C Fiesa Begs to Take Over In Elysia¡¯s mind¡ª Fiesa was restless. Fiesa (urgent, pushing, desperate): "Elysia! She found it. Let me protect you!" But Elysia refused. Her voice was firm. Elysia (gritted teeth, determined): "No!" Dyn¡¯s eyebrows furrowed. She had noticed. Dyn (suspicious, confused): "Oh, poor you. Every accused says that ¡®No¡¯ when they get caught." Fiesa wasn¡¯t giving up. She pushed harder. Fiesa (pleading, frustrated, urgent): "Elysia, let me take over! I can make you escape!" Elysia gritted her teeth. She knew what that meant. Fiesa would kill them. And she wouldn¡¯t let that happen. Her voice was sharp, rejecting her outright. Elysia (snapping, refusing, determined): "No! You would hurt them." Dyn¡¯s eyes sharpened. Her head tilted slightly. Dyn (confused, intrigued, pressing further): "Hurt who?" Who was Elysia talking to? Fiesa grew desperate. Fiesa (pushing, begging, desperate): "I can¡¯t let them take you!" Elysia squeezed her eyes shut. She was losing control. Elysia (snapping, cutting her off, still resisting): "I can handle this!" Fiesa growled. Her voice turned low. Dangerous. Fiesa (final warning, dark, serious): "Elysia! Trust me! I promised I wouldn¡¯t kill anyone." Elysia¡¯s breathing slowed. Her voice was soft, testing her. Elysia (low, suspicious, giving in slightly): "Then show me." Dyn leaned closer. Her patience was running thin. Her voice snapped. Dyn (barking, demanding, pressing hard): "HEY! WHO ARE YOU TALKING TO?!"
The Transformation ¨C Fiesa Reveals Herself And then¡ª It happened. Elysia stiffened. Her body shuddered. Her eyes darkened. And before Dyn¡¯s very eyes¡ª The transformation began. Her tunic changed. The color deepened. The fabric thickened. It turned into the same thick, dark purple tunic. The same one from the security footage. The same one from the crime scenes. The same one the Vyshek wore. Dyn¡¯s breath caught in her throat. Her eyes widened. Her mind screamed¡ª ¡°No way.¡± And then¡ª Elysia was gone. And standing in her place¡ª Was Fiesa. Real. Right in front of her. Her voice came out cold. Fiesa (calm, strong, completely in control): "She was talking to me."
Dyn¡¯s Shock ¨C The Impossible Reality Dyn stared. Her heart pounded. Her mind raced. This wasn¡¯t illusion. This wasn¡¯t mind control. This was real. Elysia had turned into someone else. Dyn had seen magic. She had seen illusions, arcane, deception. But this? She had never seen anything like this before. Her voice came out quietly. A whisper. Filled with pure disbelief. Dyn (stunned, shaken, breathless): "What¡­ are you?" Fiesa smirked. And took a step forward. Ready for whatever came next. 14. Ive found her Fiesa vs. Dyn ¨C The Clash of Fire and Shadows
The Monster in the Light Fiesa stood tall. Cold. Deadly. Her eyes locked onto Dyn. Fiesa (low, sharp, unforgiving): "I''m Fiesa." And in the next instant¡ª BAM! With blinding speed, she struck the Sattira holding her. One¡ªdown. Two¡ªdown. Before Dyn could even blink.
Dyn¡¯s Shock ¨C The Impossible Unfolds Dyn stumbled back. Her hands glowed with Arcane energy. But she was too stunned to attack. She had spent her entire career hunting criminals. Tracking Vysheks. Fighting the worst of the worst. But this? This was something else. This was powerful. Precise. Ruthless. And worst of all¡ª It was Elysia¡¯s face. Dyn (breathless, barely processing it): "What in the¡ª?" But Fiesa wasn¡¯t waiting for her to recover. Her eyes locked onto the book in Dyn¡¯s hands. Her voice came out sharper than a blade. Fiesa (cold, final, unwavering): "Give me that book." Dyn snapped back to reality. Her grip on the book tightened. She inhaled. Focused. The shock was gone. The fire was back. Her smirk returned. Dyn (challenging, confident, provoking): "Oh, you want this? Come take it." Fiesa¡¯s jaw tightened. Her fingers curled. Her voice dropped. A warning. Fiesa (low, menacing, deadly serious): "Don¡¯t make me do this." Dyn didn¡¯t blink. Didn¡¯t hesitate. Her hand moved to her Bracon. She pressed the emergency beacon. Dyn (sharp, fast, commanding): "Backup required in Rilk F3/4! I found her. I repeat¡ª" CRACK! Fiesa¡¯s Arcane crushed the Bracon. Shattering it into nothing. Dyn¡¯s hand dropped. Her smile widened. Dyn (quiet, fearless, amused): "Oh, you don¡¯t know how much I want this." She set the book aside. And raised her fists. Taking her stance. Ready. Fiesa exhaled. Then charged.
The Fight ¨C Fiesa vs. Dyn Dyn struck first. A fast Arcane blast¡ª Fiesa dodged. Just barely. The impact trembled the walls. Dyn smirked. Dyn (taunting, eyes gleaming with fire): "Let¡¯s do this." BOOM! Fiesa countered. Her Arcane lashed out¡ª Dyn dodged, rolled. The blast smashed into the wall¡ª Burning it black. Dyn rushed in. Fiesa blocked her punch¡ª Twisted¡ªstruck back. A fast exchange. Fist to fist. Arcane to Arcane. One strike from Dyn¡ª Fiesa blocked. Countered. A hit from Fiesa¡ª Dyn took it, barely staggered. Both were skilled. Both were lethal. It wasn¡¯t a fight of brute force. It was a dance of survival. Dyn ducked under a strike¡ª Rammed her shoulder into Fiesa. Fiesa stumbled back¡ª But recovered in an instant. She spun¡ª Her foot slammed into Dyn¡¯s ribs. CRACK. Dyn gasped¡ª But fought through the pain. She grabbed Fiesa¡¯s arm¡ª Pulled her in¡ªflipped her over. THUD! If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. Fiesa hit the ground¡ªhard. Dyn lunged¡ª But Fiesa kicked out. Her foot slammed into Dyn¡¯s knee¡ª Sending her crashing down. Both were panting. Sweating. But neither backed down.
The Escape ¨C Fiesa Wins the Fight Dyn threw a final punch¡ª Fiesa dodged¡ª And struck back. A full-powered Arcane blast. BOOM! Dyn flew back¡ª Crashing into the wall. She groaned. Struggled to get up. Fiesa didn¡¯t wait. Her eyes snapped to the book. She grabbed it. And ran.
Dyn¡¯s Last Call ¨C The Chase Begins Dyn forced herself up. Her Bracon was destroyed. But she still had her voice. She activated the school¡¯s security beacon. Her voice rang through the entire system. Dyn (breathless, pained, but fierce): "She¡¯s on the loose! I repeat¡ªshe¡¯s on the loose! Cover the Rilk Building!" She stumbled forward. Then sprinted after her. Fiesa was fast. But Dyn was relentless. She wouldn¡¯t lose her again. Not this time.
The Moment of Exposure ¨C The Monster in Daylight Fiesa burst out of the building. And froze. Her escape was cut off. Sattira. Rashily. Wigors. All waiting. All armed. No shadows to hide in. No darkness to cover her. And worst of all¡ª It was broad daylight. She stood exposed. Before the entire school. Before everyone. No more hiding. No more mystery. No more secrets. For the first time¡ª They saw her. And what they saw shocked them. Because it wasn¡¯t a faceless fugitive. It wasn¡¯t some unknown Vyshek. It was Elysia. But they didn¡¯t know the truth. They didn¡¯t know this wasn¡¯t her. They didn¡¯t know Elysia and Fiesa were different. All they saw¡ª Was their brightest student. Standing there as a criminal. Meshis stared in disbelief. Meshis (whispering, numb, shaken): "Elysia¡­?" Cami felt her heart drop. Cami (weak, whispering, coughing hard): "No¡­" Barem stepped forward, eyes wide. Barem (stunned, unable to process it): "It¡­ can¡¯t be." Medisa remained still. But her expression darkened. Her voice came out sharp. Medisa (low, direct, powerful): "Contain her. Now." A Sattira stepped forward. Her gun locked on. Sattira 1 (firm, commanding, steady voice): "Stand down. You are at point of 12 assault guns and 6 Rashily." She tightened her grip. Her next words were final. Sattira 1 (cold, unwavering, merciless): "Surrender yourself."
Fiesa Stands Alone Fiesa stood still. The book clutched in her hands. The world against her. Her face was unreadable. Her heart was steady. And in the silence¡ª She smiled. Because surrender? Was never an option. The Fall of the Fugitive ¨C Fiesa¡¯s Escape
The Final Stand The Sattira and Rashily closed in. Step by step. Their weapons raised. Their eyes locked onto her. No fear. No hesitation. Their voices boomed in unison. Rashily 1 (sharp, commanding, final warning): "Put the book down. Get on your knees." Fiesa didn¡¯t move. Didn¡¯t flinch. Didn¡¯t surrender. Her eyes scanned the area. Any escape? Any vulnerability? Nothing. She was surrounded. And then¡ª She saw her. Elysia. Not physically. Not real. But she was there. Beautiful. Kind. Only Fiesa could see her. Because Elysia was a part of her. And Fiesa was a part of her. Their eyes met. And in that moment, Fiesa felt something she never had before. Doubt.
The Argument Between Two Selves Elysia (soft, pleading, desperate): "Fiesa¡­ no. Please. No more." Fiesa gritted her teeth. Her fists clenched tighter around the book. Fiesa (low, intense, unwavering): "Elysia! Let me protect you!" Elysia took a step forward. Tears in her eyes. Elysia (shaking her head, begging): "No! Surrender. I''ll talk to them. We''ll find another way out." The Rashily¡¯s voice cut through the air. Rashily 2 (louder, harsher, final warning): "ON YOUR KNEES!" Fiesa¡¯s jaw tightened. She could hear their Arcane charging up. She could hear the weapons unlocking. Her voice dropped to a whisper. Fiesa (soft, but firm, final decision made): "There¡¯s no other way. They¡¯re going to hurt us." Elysia (pleading, breaking, voice cracking): "Please. Don''t do this. They are my friends. You are my friend." Fiesa¡¯s eyes flickered. Something inside her twisted. But she couldn¡¯t stop. She wouldn¡¯t stop. Not when Elysia¡¯s life was in danger. Fiesa (low, whispering, final words to Elysia): "That''s why I¡¯m doing this. To protect you." The Sattira and Rashily stepped closer. Just a few steps away. Their voices hardened. Their patience was gone. Rashily 3 (sharp, cold, merciless): "THIS IS YOUR LAST WARNING! ON YOUR KNEES¡ªNOW!" And in that moment¡ª Fiesa made her choice.
The Arcane Explosion ¨C Breaking Free Fiesa closed her eyes. Summoned her Arcane. Her hands glowed purple. Bright. Powerful. Deadly. Elysia screamed. Elysia (desperate, horrified): "NO¡ªDON¡¯T¡ª!" BOOM! A massive blast erupted. The ground shook. The air trembled. The Sattira and Rashily were thrown back. Crashing into walls. The ground. Each other. A moment. A single moment to escape. And Fiesa took it.
The Hunt Begins ¨C The World Watches The Rashily were fast. They recovered quickly. And they ran after her. The chase was on. The whole school was watching. Cameras were rolling. News drones circled in the air. The world saw it. The fugitive in broad daylight. Fiesa knew she couldn¡¯t escape through the front gate. The Yalzets would already be there. She had one option. Inside the school.
Dyn¡¯s Fury ¨C The One That Got Away Dyn emerged from the Rilk building. Her body ached from the fight. Her jaw clenched. She saw the destruction Fiesa left behind. Sattira groaning on the ground. Rashily pulling themselves up. She exhaled sharply. And let out a single bitter curse. Dyn (furious, breathless, low growl): "Got away. Again." Her hands burned with Arcane. She wouldn¡¯t let this happen. Not this time.
Inside the School ¨C The Final Plan Fiesa darted through the halls. She wasn¡¯t running blindly. She knew exactly where she was going. She burst into the Tyshik Room. Where artifacts of Arcane magic were kept. She slammed the door behind her. Locked it with a spell. BOOM! The Sattira were outside. Banging on the door. Trying to break through.
The Argument Continues ¨C Elysia Fights Back Inside, Elysia stood before Fiesa. Elysia (panicked, desperate, heart pounding): "Why are we here?" Fiesa (flipping through the book, focused, calculating): "It''s our only escape." She found the spell. Started chanting. A seal glowed across the door. A powerful lock. Elysia (watching, horrified, voice shaking): "What did you just do?" Fiesa (not looking up, urgent, distracted): "A spell to lock the door. We don¡¯t have much time." She turned. Searched through the artifacts. Then¡ª She found it. The Fost of Mathyra. A legendary artifact. One capable of bending Arcane itself. Elysia gasped. Elysia (horrified, realizing what she¡¯s doing): "The Fost of Mathyra?! No. No. NO." Fiesa ignored her. She set it on the ground. Flipped through the pages. Found the spell. Started chanting. A bright, swirling vortex began to form. A portal. Elysia backed away. Elysia (shaking her head, voice trembling): "This is insane. I better never have created you." BOOM! The door cracked. The Sattira broke in. Dyn stepped forward. Her eyes landed on the glowing vortex. And she knew. Her voice rang out. Dyn (sharp, commanding, desperate): "She¡¯s using the Fost of Mathyra! Shoot her!" The Sattira raised their weapons. But¡ª It was too late. Fiesa grabbed the book. Looked at Elysia one last time. And stepped into the portal. Gone.
The Aftermath ¨C The One That Slipped Away The room fell silent. The portal faded. Fiesa was gone. The Sattira stood frozen. Dyn let out a sharp exhale. Her hands fist clenched. Her jaw tightened. Her mind raged. She had her. She had her. And now¡ª She was gone. Her voice was quiet. Controlled. But furious. Dyn (gritted teeth, bitter, breathing heavily): "Damn it." She had lost. Again. And this time¡ª Fiesa was further away than ever. 15. Unexplainable Interrogation of Dyn ¨C The Unexplainable Truth
Location: Arcaneaum Enforcement Facility ¨C Interrogation Chamber The room was cold. Metal walls. Dim purple lighting. A single floating holographic recorder hovered above. Two figures sat at the interrogation table. One was Sattira Dyn. Back straight. Arms crossed. Jaw tight. Eyes burning with frustration. The other¡ª Asheer Veyin. Captain of Arcaneaum Enforcement. A fairy of precision. Every word she spoke was measured. Every movement calculated. Her icy stare locked onto Dyn.
The Interrogation Begins Asheer Veyin (calm, precise, piercing gaze): "Sattira Dyn. Do you know why you''re here?" Dyn (flat, arms crossed, unimpressed): "I don¡¯t know, Asheer. Maybe because I lost a fugitive in broad daylight and now every single realm is screaming her name?" Veyin didn¡¯t react. Didn¡¯t flinch. She simply tapped her Prodge. A holographic projection appeared. The news headlines flooded the air. ? FIESA: THE RUNAWAY VYSHEK. ? SATTIRA LET HER ESCAPE. ? DARKNESS HIDES AMONG US ¨C WHERE IS FIESA? ? A LIGHT-BLESSED BECAME A VYSHEK? IMPOSSIBLE. The last one hit Dyn the hardest. Her fist clenched.
Asheer Pushes ¨C Dyn Snaps Asheer Veyin (leaning forward, sharp, slow words): "Explain to me, Dyn. How a normal, kind, promising bych suddenly turned into a Vyshek¡ªright in front of your eyes?" Dyn exhaled sharply. Her nails dug into her palm. Her mind raced. How the stars was she supposed to explain this? How was she supposed to put into words what she saw? Dyn (leaning forward, voice rising, frustrated): "I don¡¯t know! Alright? I don¡¯t know!" Veyin remained still. Watching her. Waiting. Dyn (pushing her hair back, voice dripping with irritation): "You want me to tell you that a Vyshek infiltrated the school? Fine. Easy. That¡¯s what we all thought. But what do I say when I tell you that I saw Elysia standing in front of me, and then in the next moment, her body changed, her voice changed, her whole presence changed¡ª and she wasn¡¯t her anymore?!" A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. Veyin (calm, unwavering, voice cold as ice): "Are you saying the Vyshek was inside her?" Dyn laughed bitterly. Shook her head. Sat back in her chair, hands gripping the sides. Dyn (sarcastic, biting, full of anger): "Oh yes, Asheer. That¡¯s exactly what I¡¯m saying. That a normal fairy suddenly had a Vyshek hiding in her soul. That she transformed in front of my eyes. And that, apparently, I¡¯m the only one in the history of the realms to witness something like this. Because that¡¯s just what I needed in my career. To sound completely insane." Her breathing was heavy. Her chest rising and falling. Veyin remained emotionless. Then¡ª She swiped her Prodge. A new holographic display appeared.
The Footage ¨C The Moment of Change It was security footage from Elysia¡¯s room. Dyn watched herself interrogate Elysia. The calm demeanor. The mocking words. Then¡ª The transformation. Elysia¡¯s body shifted. Her tunic darkened. Her presence changed. She was no longer Elysia. She was Fiesa. A completely different being. Yet¡ª Still her.
Asheer¡¯s Verdict ¨C Dyn¡¯s Defiance Asheer Veyin (folding her hands, voice sharp as a blade): "This is impossible. No fairy can have a second consciousness. No fairy can become a Vyshek without being corrupted." Dyn (deadpan, voice laced with exhaustion): "Oh. You don¡¯t say." Veyin ignored the sarcasm. Her gaze piercing through Dyn. Asheer Veyin (cold, calculating, final judgment): "Do you think she was hiding it? That she knew what she was?" Dyn exhaled. Her anger simmering beneath the surface. She thought back. To Elysia¡¯s eyes. The way she froze. The way she fought herself. The **way she called out to something¡ªsomeone¡ª**inside her. And then¡ª The way Fiesa looked at her. Deadly. Cold. Protective.
The Final Answer ¨C The Unsolved Mystery Dyn (serious, slow, final words): "I think she didn¡¯t know. And that¡¯s what scares me the most." Veyin¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change. She simply stood up. Took one last look at Dyn. And walked out. Leaving Dyn alone. With the unexplainable. With the impossible. With the truth¡ª That no one else in the realms could understand. The Ghost of Elysia ¨C A Fugitive¡¯s Name in the Air
Arcaneaum School Grounds ¨C Days After the Escape The school was not the same. Not after what happened. Not after her name became something cursed. Elysia. The brightest bych of Arcane magic. The one who had promise. The one who was admired. The one who was loved. Now¡ª She was a fugitive. A criminal. A murderer. A betrayer. A dark entity. Not Elysia. Fiesa. But the world didn¡¯t see the difference. They only saw one face. And that¡¯s what they were going to believe.
The Hallways ¨C The Rumors Never Stop The hallways were always alive. Always buzzing with voices. Laughter. Gossip. Energy. But now¡ª Whenever Elysia¡¯s name was mentioned, The voices lowered. The laughter stopped. The air turned colder.
Bych 1 (whispering, anxious, looking around): "Did you see the new footage? They¡¯re still looking for her." Bych 2 (nervous, wide-eyed): "She could be anywhere. What if she comes back?" Bych 3 (hushed, voice shaking slightly): "That wasn¡¯t Elysia. That was¡­ something else." Bych 4 (mocking, sarcastic, cruel): "Oh, come on! Face it¡ªshe¡¯s gone dark. You saw her. That was Elysia." Bych 2 (defensive, unsure): "No¡ªmaybe she was possessed? Or cursed? Maybe¡­" Bych 1 (cutting in, eyes sharp, whispering with conviction): "Doesn¡¯t matter. She killed Livia and Trigaha. She stole the Book of Shrishgic. She fought against the Sattira. What does that make her?" Silence. Then¡ª A quiet voice. One word. One label. One truth the realms chose to believe.
Bych 3 (low, final, whispering like it¡¯s forbidden to say out loud): "A Vyshek." And just like that, the voices faded. They moved on. Their conversations changed. Their focus shifted. But the shadow remained. A ghost in the air. Elysia¡¯s name. Her face. Her legacy. Now stained forever.
The News Screens ¨C A Face No One Will Forget Everywhere in the school, holographic news panels floated. The headlines were never-ending. ? FUGITIVE ON THE RUN ¨C FIESA STILL MISSING. ? MURDERER, THIEF, TRAITOR ¨C THE FALL OF ELYSIA. ? IS SHE A VYSHEK? EXPERTS DEBATE. ? 10 REALMS IN PURSUIT ¨C NO SIGN OF THE CRIMINAL YET. Her face was everywhere. Her crime was burned into history. And no matter what the truth was¡ª No matter how wrong they were¡ª No matter that Elysia and Fiesa were not the same¡ª The world had already decided. They had already chosen. Elysia was not a bright bych anymore. She was a criminal. And nothing would change that. 16. Get Along The Fugitive¡¯s Sanctuary ¨C A Battle Between Selves
Location: Mirgeth Grasslands ¨C Hidden from the World The air was thick with magic. Not the gentle arcane of Mirgeth. Not the pure light of the Phinixes. But something darker. Something untamed. Something dangerous. Fiesa sat on a rock in the open field, the Book of Shrishgic spread before her. Dark black and purple energy coiled around her like a living entity. Whispers of forgotten spells echoed in the air as she chanted. Long. Steady. Commanding. She was reshaping reality.
Fiesa (chanting, deep, commanding): "Tashiv koren mirthas vek''noa¡­" The air shimmered. The grass faded. The sky brightened. A calm, endless ocean appeared. Gentle waves rolled over pristine white sand. The air smelled of salt and water. It looked exactly like Nathro. It felt like Nathro. And for a moment¡ª It was.
The Shift Back ¨C Elysia¡¯s Turn Then¡ª With a slow wave of Fiesa¡¯s hand, The illusion dissolved. The ocean vanished. The air grew thick again. And they were back. Back in the open grasslands of Mirgeth. Back to reality. Elysia stood nearby, watching. Waiting. She was not in control yet. Not until Fiesa allowed it.
Elysia (awed, breathless, excited): "Whoa! That was so real. It was like we were actually in Nathro for a while." Fiesa didn¡¯t respond. She remained silent. Focused. Distant. Elysia sighed. She walked over and sat beside her on the rock. She looked at her other self. The cold. The silent. The unforgiving. But the one thing that never changed¡ª Fiesa cared about her. Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.
Elysia (nudging Fiesa, teasing, but slightly hurt): "Come on. Say something. You haven¡¯t talked much to me since we escaped." Fiesa didn¡¯t even glance at her.
Fiesa (cold, distant, focused on the book): "Let me do this."
The Argument ¨C A Clash of Wills Elysia leaned closer. Her expression softened. Her voice lowered.
Elysia (gently, serious): "Is this really you? Because back in my room, it was you who begged me not to stop talking to you."
Fiesa closed the book. But she didn¡¯t look up.
Fiesa (firm, unwavering): "I only mean to protect you."
Elysia sighed loudly. She leaned back on her hands, staring at the sky.
Elysia (dry, sarcastic): "Yeah, yeah, you did that. THANK YOU. But now, I want my control back."
Fiesa didn¡¯t move. Didn¡¯t answer. Just exhaled slowly.
Fiesa (calm, measured, serious): "Not until I finish learning how to craft my own spell."
Elysia turned to her sharply. Her eyes narrowed.
Elysia (sharp, demanding): "Hey! You promised me that you wouldn¡¯t take control unless I asked you to!"
Fiesa sighed. For the first time, she looked at Elysia. Her expression was unreadable. But her voice softened.
Fiesa (genuine, serious): "Look¡­ I care about you. And right now, we are fugitives. I can¡¯t risk you¡­ until I make sure you¡¯re safe."
Elysia looked away for a moment. Letting those words sink in. Then¡ª She exhaled sharply.
Elysia (tired, but firm): "I am safe. Who in the realms is going to find us here?"
Fiesa watched her carefully. Then¡ª She gave in.
Fiesa (sighing, reluctant): "Okay. Fine. But the moment¡ª"
Elysia (grinning, cutting her off): "Yeah, yeah, okay. Now take the back seat."
The Shift ¨C Fiesa Steps Back And with that¡ª The dark, hooded, cold form of Fiesa Shifted. The thick purple tunic dissolved. The sharp gaze softened. The aura of darkness faded. And sitting there now¡ª Was Elysia. Bright. Free. Herself. She inhaled deeply, stretching her arms.
Elysia (grinning, teasing): "Much better."
Fiesa (inside her mind, impatient, serious): "Now walk. We gotta go."
Elysia (groaning, annoyed, standing up slowly): "Not fair! You could¡¯ve looked up a spell that could teleport us."
Fiesa (dry, unimpressed): "There¡¯s no such spell."
Elysia (rolling her eyes, muttering as she walks): "Fine. I¡¯m walking." And with that¡ª The two of them moved forward. Through the grasslands. Through exile. Through a world that no longer welcomed them. And even though Elysia had her body back¡ª She could still feel Fiesa with her. Always. The Fugitive Returns ¨C The Warrior is Named
Scene 1: Outside Dohi Mand ¨C A Daughter¡¯s Doubt Elysia sat on a rocky ledge overlooking the familiar sight of her mand. Dohi Mand. Her home. The place where she grew up. Where her childhood began. Where her mother still lived. But now¡ª She was not the same Elysia who had left. Now, she was a fugitive. Now, she was feared. And she didn¡¯t know if her mother would still accept her. Fiesa sat beside her, arms crossed, gaze sharp.
Elysia (staring at the distant mand, voice low, hesitant): "What if she saw the news?"
Fiesa didn¡¯t hesitate. She always knew what to say.
Fiesa (firm, confident): "She would accept us."
Elysia let out a humorless laugh.
Elysia (shaking her head, bitterly): "You mean she¡¯d accept me. It was you who did all this."
Fiesa didn¡¯t argue. Didn¡¯t deny it. She simply nodded.
Fiesa (quietly): "I know. I accept that."
Elysia buried her face in her hands. Tired. Lost. Afraid.
Fiesa (gently, almost pleading): "We have to at least try."
Elysia exhaled. She knew. She knew they had nowhere else to go. No one else to turn to.
Elysia (whispering, nodding to herself): "That¡¯s all we¡¯ve got right now."
And so¡ª She stood. Walked toward the home she once knew. And knocked.
KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK! The door creaked open. Aiaris stood there. Elysia had imagined a hundred reactions. Would she be angry? Would she be afraid? Would she slam the door? But instead¡ª Aiaris smiled. Just a little. And then¡ª She let her in. The door closed behind them. And for the first time in weeks¡ª Elysia was home.
17. Home The Fugitive and the Mother ¨C A Hunt Begins
Scene 1: Dyn¡¯s Fury ¨C The Hunter¡¯s Resolve Inside a dimly lit apartment, a storm raged. Not outside¡ª Inside Dyn. She was not herself. She was not calm. She was not the playful, easy-going, sharp-tongued Sattira anymore. She was betrayed. By herself. By her own senses. By the Elysia she thought was innocent. And now, she was furious.
Dyn (grabbing a glass, throwing it against the wall, shattering it): "She was right there! Right before my eyes!"
A vase. Slammed against the floor. Fragments of ceramic scattered.
Dyn (breathing heavily, pacing, fists clenched): "I should have known! I should have kept my eyes on her!"
She slammed her fist against the wall. A dull ache shot up her knuckles¡ª She welcomed the pain. She deserved it.
Dyn (gritting her teeth, voice cracking): "Why didn¡¯t I suspect her? Why was she so clean?"
And then¡ª She stopped. She stood still. Breathing. Thinking. Replaying everything. Her mind racing. Her hands shaking. And then¡ª It hit her. Like lightning striking her core.
Dyn (whispering, realization dawning): "Dohi."
The memory flashed.
Elysia''s voice, soft yet firm: "Dohi Mand. That¡¯s where I¡¯m from."
Dyn''s lips curled into a slow, dark smile. She had her destination. She had her next move. And Elysia¡­ She had nowhere left to run.
Dyn (smirking, grabbing her coat): "She¡¯s there. Or if she isn¡¯t¡ª Her mother will be."
With a swift blur, she was gone. The hunt had begun.
Scene 2: Dohi Mand ¨C A Daughter Returns Dohi Mand. Home. Safe. Warm. But to Elysia¡­ It had never felt so cold. She sat in the familiar room of her childhood, feeling both comforted and terrified. Her mother, Aiaris, stood by the table. Silent. She had not spoken since Elysia arrived. And that silence was heavier than any words could ever be.
Elysia (smiling nervously, picking up an old sewing needle from the table): "Mum! You still have these¡­!"
Aiaris turned slowly. Her face soft. Her eyes unreadable.
Aiaris (quietly): "These were yours."
Elysia¡¯s heart tightened. Her hands trembled. She tried to smile. Tried to laugh. Tried to make things normal. But deep down¡ª She knew. She knew what this meant.
Elysia (forcing a chuckle, holding up the needle): "We used to sew together. Remember?"
Aiaris smiled. A small, sad smile. And it broke Elysia inside. Because that smile wasn¡¯t warm. It was knowing. It was accepting. It was goodbye.
Fiesa stood in the shadows, arms crossed, leaning against the wall. She said nothing. She knew Elysia wouldn¡¯t listen to her right now. The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement. So she watched. Waited.
Elysia glanced at Fiesa. Ignored her. Took a deep breath. And then¡ª She spoke the words she had been terrified to say.
Elysia (softly, hesitating): I¡¯m sorry. But I really wanted to see you. I didn¡¯t do it. It wasn¡¯t me."*
Aiaris didn¡¯t flinch. Didn¡¯t move. Didn¡¯t react. She only stared. Then, she spoke softly. Almost too softly.
Aiaris (whispering, gentle yet firm): My Aul. Not two."*
Elysia froze. Her breath hitched. Her chest tightened. Because¡ª That meant one thing. Her mother had seen the news.
Elysia (whispering, barely breathing): "So¡­ you saw it. Didn¡¯t you?"
Aiaris stopped. Mid-motion. Didn¡¯t answer. And in that moment¡ª Elysia knew. Her mother had already decided. Already judged. Already chosen what to believe. And Elysia¡­ Was not her daughter anymore
The Lies We Tell ¨C A Daughter¡¯s Deception
Scene 1: The Unspoken Truth Elysia wanted to scream. Wanted to shout. Wanted to tell her mother the truth. That it wasn¡¯t her. That she didn¡¯t kill her friends. That the fairy they were hunting across all ten realms wasn¡¯t Elysia¡ª It was Fiesa. But how could she even begin to explain it? She glanced sideways. Fiesa. Standing in the corner, leaning against the wall. Watching. Waiting. She knew exactly what needed to happen¡ª But she was waiting for Elysia to break. Waiting for her to give in. Waiting for her to say, "Take over. Show her." But Elysia wouldn¡¯t. Not yet. Maybe not ever.
Elysia (pleading, voice shaking): "Mum¡­ I know what you¡¯re thinking. But please¡ªPlease. Just listen to me."
Aiaris (gentle, touching her daughter''s cheek): "What is there to listen to, my Aul?"
Elysia (desperate, voice cracking): "That it wasn¡¯t me! It¡¯s¡ª It¡¯s¡­ complicated."
Aiaris stepped closer. She cupped Elysia¡¯s face. Her hands were warm. Her voice was soothing. But what she said next¡ª It nearly broke Elysia completely.
Aiaris (smiling softly): "I know."
Elysia froze. Her heart pounded. She searched her mother¡¯s face, eyes wide. Did she know? Did she already understand? Did she know about Fiesa? Did she know what Elysia had become? But then¡ª Aiaris kept speaking. And it shattered everything.
Aiaris (with quiet certainty): I know it takes time to become a Rashily."*
Elysia¡¯s breath caught. Her mind spun. What? What did she just say? Did Aiaris not know? Did she really believe Elysia was still just a student? Still normal? Still her daughter?
Elysia couldn¡¯t respond. Her mouth opened, but no words came out. Her thoughts raced. Had her mother¡­ Had she not seen the news? Did she not know she was a fugitive? A murderer? A betrayer?
Elysia (blinking, hesitating): "You¡­ don¡¯t know?"
Aiaris (smiling, simple, kind): "I know everything. That you¡¯re preparing to be a Rashily. Aren¡¯t you?"*
Elysia exhaled sharply. Her mind raced. She could tell the truth. Right now. She could end the lie before it even began. Or¡­ She could play along. Just for a while. Until she figured out what to do next.
Elysia (forcing a smile, nodding quickly): "Oh¡ªYes! Yes, I am! I was¡­ preparing for it."
Aiaris beamed. Her smile was so genuine. So trusting. So loving. It nearly destroyed Elysia.
Aiaris (gently): "Then go freshen up, hmm?"
Elysia (swallowing, forcing a smile): "Yeah. Okay."
Scene 2: The Argument with Herself Inside the bathroom, Elysia splashed cold water onto her face. Trying to breathe. Trying to calm herself. But the moment she looked up at the mirror¡ª Fiesa was already there. Arms crossed. Staring. Waiting.
Fiesa (flatly, direct): "Tell her the truth."
Elysia (shaking her head, whispering fiercely): She doesn¡¯t know right now."*
Fiesa (tilting her head slightly): "Better hurt her now than stab her later."
Elysia froze. Her grip on the sink tightened. She took a long, shaky breath.
Elysia (exhaling, quietly): "No."
She turned away, grabbed a towel. Fiesa was there again. Sitting on the bed. Waiting. Always waiting.
Fiesa (watching her closely): "You know you have to show me."
Elysia (sharply, snapping): I should have never created you."*
Fiesa didn¡¯t react. Not to the anger. Not to the blame. Because she had heard it all before.
Fiesa (calm, unwavering): Your anger did. Your ambition did. I only took another form."*
Elysia (scoffing, bitterly): My life is a mess. Thanks to you."*
Fiesa exhaled. She didn¡¯t argue. She didn¡¯t fight. She just watched. And for once¡ª She looked almost sad.
Because deep down, Fiesa knew the truth. Elysia could hate her all she wanted. But in the end¡ª They were one and the same.
Scene: Defying Orders ¨C Dyn¡¯s Reckless Pursuit
Inside the Asheer¡¯s Office¡­ Dyn was not having it. She leaned forward, her hands gripping the edge of Asheer Veyin¡¯s desk, eyes blazing with determination and frustration.
Dyn (firm, unwavering): "I know where she is!"
Asheer Veyin¡ªcalm, collected, infuriatingly unreadable¡ªarched an eyebrow. She tilted her head slightly, fingers laced together as she leaned back in her chair.
Veyin (slow, amused): "Okay¡­ And?"
Dyn (exhaling sharply, pressing forward): "She¡¯s in Dohi Mand. It¡¯s her home. Where else would she go?"
Veyin studied her. Unmoved. Unimpressed. Unconvinced. She let Dyn ramble on.
Dyn (insisting, voice urgent): Her only family. If she¡¯s gone, I can at least find out where she¡¯s heading."*
Another long pause. Veyin''s eyes flickered with thought, but her face remained unreadable. Then, finally¡ª
Veyin (leaning back, waving a hand dismissively): Thank you, Dyn."*
What? Dyn¡¯s breath caught. That¡¯s not why she was here. She wanted to go herself¡ªnot have some bureaucratic team comb through Dohi Mand like mindless drones. This was her case. Her hunt. Her failure to fix.
Dyn (frustrated, shaking her head): I need to go. I know her. I understand her. I¡ª" (Veyin cuts her off)
Veyin (firm, final): We¡¯ll take it from here."*
No. No way. Veyin had no idea who she was dealing with. Dyn never backed down. Her jaw tightened. Her fingers curled into fists. She took a step back, rubbing her temples in exasperation. She knew Asheer Veyin¡ª Once she made a decision, she wouldn¡¯t budge. But Dyn wasn¡¯t leaving without a fight.
Dyn (pleading now, but forcing nonchalance): Come on, please."*
Veyin¡¯s gaze was ice cold. She stared at Dyn like she was the most exhausting fairy in the world. Her silence? The final rejection. Request denied. Again. Dyn threw her hands up. This was pointless.
Dyn (muttering, turning away): "Great. Just great."
She stormed out of the office, letting the door shut behind her with more force than necessary. But she wasn¡¯t done. Not even close. Standing outside, she planted her hands on her hips, her mind racing. They weren¡¯t going to let her go. But she was going anyway.
Dyn (to herself, smirking slightly): "I¡¯m coming, Fiesa."
And this time, nothing was going to stop her
18. Welcome Back Scene: Elysia¡¯s Inner Battle ¨C A Struggle Between Light and Darkness
Inside Elysia¡¯s Home ¨C Lunch with Aiaris The home was peaceful¡ªa stark contrast to the storm brewing inside Elysia. Aiaris, calm and warm, sat across from her daughter at the fine, sleek table. The meal was perfect. Too perfect. Elysia took a spoonful of Murito, savoring the taste like it was a memory of a different life.
Elysia (soft, nostalgic): "Mmm¡­ still the same, Mum. Still the same taste¡­ I missed this so much."
Aiaris (chuckling): "It¡¯s your favorite from childhood."
Elysia (smiling, slightly forced): "It still is. Especially the way you make it."
Aiaris (gentle): "I¡¯m happy you came home. Tell me about your school."
Silence. Elysia froze. Her grip on the spoon tightened. She couldn¡¯t tell her. She couldn¡¯t tell her what had happened. How could she? The murder. The betrayal. The fugitive life. She glanced subtly at Fiesa, who stood by the living room, arms crossed, watching without emotion. Elysia forced a smile.
Elysia (awkwardly, forcing enthusiasm): "Oh¡­ it¡¯s great. Just¡­ awesome."
Aiaris didn¡¯t suspect anything¡ªat least, not yet. She took a sip from her glass before asking:
Aiaris (casually): "And your two teasing friends? What were their names¡­ Livia and Trigaha?"
Everything inside Elysia shattered. Her fingers curled. Her chest tightened. Livia and Trigaha. The ones she murdered. With these hands. She choked. Coughed violently. Aiaris jumped up, alarmed, and poured her a glass of water.
Aiaris (concerned, soothing): "Ely! Easy! Here¡­"
Elysia grabbed the glass, drinking hurriedly, trying to steady her breath. She felt Aiaris¡¯s comforting hand on her back, rubbing gentle circles¡ª And that only made it worse. She couldn¡¯t take this. She had to get out. Now.
Elysia (rushed, avoiding eye contact): "I¡¯m going to the bathroom."
Before Aiaris could respond, Elysia was already gone.
Inside the Bathroom ¨C Elysia¡¯s Breaking Point She shut the door. Leaned against it. Heart pounding. Breath uneven. And there she was. Waiting. Like always. Fiesa. Standing in the corner, calm, cold, unreadable. She always showed up when Elysia was at her weakest.
Fiesa (simply): "Embrace it. You have to tell her."
Elysia¡¯s eyes burned. Fiesa would never understand. Fiesa was her creation, born from rage and revenge. Fiesa didn¡¯t feel pain the way Elysia did. She didn¡¯t feel loss. She didn¡¯t feel guilt. She only existed to destroy. And the worst part? She was right. Elysia¡¯s fists shook.
Elysia (snapping, voice trembling): "Just go away. Leave me alone."
Fiesa (calm, unmoving): "You know that¡¯s impossible. We are one."
Elysia (furious, stepping forward): "Why are you even here?! You¡¯re not making this any easier! This is all your fault!"
Fiesa (shrugging, detached): "Let me show her. Tell her the truth if you can¡¯t."
Elysia (voice breaking, desperate): "It would break her."
Fiesa waited. No reaction. Just silence. She wasn¡¯t cruel. She wasn¡¯t kind. She was just there. And that was worse. Elysia stumbled back, gripping the edge of the sink. Her mind flashed back to that night. The Head Virtis. The ritual. How she begged for her life. She should have let them kill her. She should have just died that night. Tears welled up. Her reflection in the mirror blurred.
Elysia (sobbing, whispering): "I shouldn¡¯t have begged her to let me live. It¡¯d be better if that Head Virtis had just killed me."
Fiesa¡¯s expression darkened. And for the first time, anger crept into her voice.
Fiesa (cold, sharp): "You¡¯re still so lame. So weak. So scared."
That was it. The last push. Elysia snapped. Her fist clenched. Purple light erupted from her hand, and she swung at Fiesa. But¡ª Nothing. Fiesa didn¡¯t move. Because she wasn¡¯t real. The punch landed on the wall instead, leaving a small crack. And Fiesa just stood there, watching her fall apart.
Elysia (screaming, voice breaking): "NO!"
Fiesa (quiet, unfazed): Not you."*
Elysia fell to her knees. Her whole body shaking. Tears streaming down her face. If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. She was so tired. So messed up. So lost. She covered her face with her hands, sobbing.
Elysia (voice cracking, barely a whisper): "What do I do? I¡¯m so messed up right now¡­"*
Fiesa watched her. Silent. Unmoving. Because for all her power¡ª For all her cold strength¡ª Even she didn¡¯t have an answer.
Scene: Fiesa¡¯s Return to the Virtis Castle
Location: The Red-Lit Castle of the Virtis ¨C Midnight A shadow moved through the darkness. Hooded. Silent. Unfazed. She walked across the central courtyard, passing the blood-red fountain, the dim light casting her long silhouette against the stone path. She didn¡¯t sneak. She walked openly. Because she was expected. The tall, ancient doors creaked open¡ªwithout a knock. As if someone inside already knew she was coming. The Virtis Castle was different from the rest of the realms. In a world where technology thrived, where realms were filled with holographs, levitating platforms, and energy systems, This place was frozen in time. The walls were deep crimson, the lighting was low, and the air thick with the scent of burning incense. Inside, in the vast living hall, she stood¡ªcalm, bold, unreadable. And then¡ª She arrived. The Head Virtis. She stepped in from one of the many dark doorways, her presence commanding, unshaken. She was graceful, dangerous, and most of all¡ªpatient. She approached the shadow. Fiesa. And stopped.
Head Virtis (soft, unreadable): "Did you get it?"
Without a word, Fiesa reached into her tunic and pulled out a book. The ancient leather cover reflected the red light. The title was clear. ¡®Shrishgic¡¯. The Head Virtis took it from her hands without hesitation. She studied it briefly, then looked back at Fiesa.
Head Virtis (amused, almost casual): "Must''ve been easy for you?"
Fiesa¡¯s voice was cold. Emotionless.
Fiesa: "No. Had to kill some fairies."
She expected some reaction. Some acknowledgment. But instead¡ª Nothing. The Head Virtis only hummed¡ªlike it was nothing. And of course, to her, it was nothing. Fiesa hated that.
Head Virtis: "Hmm¡­" (She flipped through the book, eyes scanning the delicate, ancient pages.) "Does she know?"
Fiesa stiffened. She knew exactly who she meant. She didn¡¯t answer immediately. That was enough of an answer. The Head Virtis paused. Her lips curled into a slow, knowing smile.
Head Virtis: "Then kill her too."
The air tensed. Fiesa didn¡¯t respond. Didn¡¯t move. But the silence made the Head Virtis raise an eyebrow. She closed the book deliberately, her fingers brushing the cover as she observed the lack of response. A faint chuckle escaped her lips.
Head Virtis: "Hmmm¡­ I see."
Fiesa (quiet, firm): "Leave her out of this."
The Head Virtis took a step closer.
Head Virtis (mocking, soft smile): "You know this doesn¡¯t work like that."
Fiesa¡¯s jaw tightened. Her muscles tensed. She was holding back. But the Head Virtis? She enjoyed this.
Fiesa (stern, cold): "You got what you wanted. My part is over."
She turned. Ready to leave. But¡ª A hand on her shoulder. A gentle hand. Yet immovable. The Head Virtis stopped her.
Head Virtis (smirking, voice laced with quiet amusement): "We are not done yet."
Fiesa gritted her teeth. She knew this would happen. She knew.
Fiesa (low, dangerous): "Then you should have killed her when she begged you."
At this, the Head Virtis let out a small laugh¡ªa knowing one. She tilted her head, watching Fiesa with something between curiosity and amusement. And then¡ª She said it. The one thing Fiesa hated hearing the most.
Head Virtis (smirking, satisfied): FIESA."*
Fiesa froze. She didn¡¯t flinch. She didn¡¯t react. But inside? She was burning. This woman¡­ This woman had the audacity to say her name like that. Like she owned her. Like she was her creation. Her property. Her pawn. Slowly¡ª Fiesa lowered her hood. Revealing her face. And in that moment¡ª Fiesa wasn¡¯t just Fiesa. She was Elysia¡¯s face. But with eyes filled with something darker. Something deadlier. The Head Virtis smiled. Like a mother pleased with her creation.
Head Virtis (soft, dangerous): Elysia."*
Fiesa clenched her fists. Her hands twitched with restrained arcane power.
Fiesa (voice low, warning): LEAVE HER."*
The Head Virtis only chuckled. And then, slowly¡ª She circled Fiesa. Step by step. Like a predator studying its prey. But Fiesa wasn¡¯t prey. She was something far worse. But the Head Virtis wasn¡¯t intimidated. Because she knew something that Fiesa refused to accept.
Head Virtis (mocking, amused): Since when does a Vyshek get attached?"*
Fiesa didn¡¯t answer. She wouldn¡¯t. She knew better than to feed into it. Because the Head Virtis was a master manipulator. And Fiesa refused to play her game. The Head Virtis studied her for a moment. And then¡ª She smirked.
Head Virtis (soft, knowing): You still don¡¯t understand, do you?"*
Fiesa finally spoke. Her voice was low. Firm.
Fiesa: That I will rip this place apart¡­ If you ever touch her."*
The Head Virtis laughed softly. And for the first time¡ª There was something dangerous in her eyes.
Head Virtis (smiling, satisfied): Now that¡ª That is exactly what I wanted to hear."*
Scene: Confrontation in the Virtis Castle
The dim red light of the Virtis Castle flickered against the stone walls. Fiesa stood alone in the center of the living hall, her stance unshaken, her eyes locked onto the Head Virtis. The air between them was thick. A tension¡ªlike a blade pressed against skin. The Head Virtis studied her, almost disappointed. Then, she sighed.
Head Virtis (softly, shaking her head): "Come on, Fiesa¡­ You¡¯re going to betray your creator for that pathetic fairy?"
Fiesa said nothing. Her jaw tightened. The Head Virtis took a slow step forward, eyes narrowing.
Head Virtis (mocking): "You are not like this."
Fiesa¡¯s voice was calm but sharp.
Fiesa: "If this is meant to keep her out of this, then I won''t have a second thought on it."
A slow, knowing smirk appeared on the Head Virtis¡¯ lips.
Head Virtis: She¡¯s changed you."*
Fiesa exhaled. Not in frustration. Not in regret. But because it was true.
Fiesa (quietly): "You won¡¯t understand."
The Head Virtis let out a cold, amused laugh. And then¡ª Her smile faded. And she spoke, voice low and final.
Head Virtis (simply): I understand perfectly."* (She took a slow step forward.) Then I will."*
Fiesa¡¯s heart stopped. She had expected this. But something inside twisted violently. And in that moment¡ª She knew. There was only one way this was going to end.
Fiesa (warning, cold): "Don¡¯t make me do this."
The doors of the living hall creaked open. Three Virtis entered. They moved without hesitation, closing in around her. Encircling her. The fight was about to begin.

Scene: Dyn¡¯s Pursuit

Location: Dohi Mand ¨C Midnight A dark figure stood before a quiet home. Sattira Dyn. She had gone against orders. She had been denied a search team. She had been ordered to stand down. But this time, she wasn¡¯t letting Fiesa escape. Not again. Her heart pounded. She was so close. She knocked.
KNOCK. KNOCK. Silence. No answer.
KNOCK. KNOCK.
Dyn (loud, demanding): "SATTIRA ENFORCEMENT! OPEN THE DOOR!"
Inside, Aiaris stirred awake. She rubbed her eyes, confused. She glanced at the clock. A Sattira? At this hour? Slowly, she rose, tightened the belt of her tunic, and made her way to the door. She opened it¡ª And standing there, on her doorstep, was Sattira Dyn. Aiaris tensed. Not in fear¡ªbut in unease. Sattira knocking on your door this late was never a good thing.
Aiaris (calm but wary): "Yes?"
Dyn scanned her. Aiaris wasn¡¯t alarmed. She had no idea.
Dyn (confirming): "Aiaris Ojijya?"
Aiaris: "Yes?" (Slight hesitation.) "Is something wrong?"
Dyn tilted her head slightly. She couldn¡¯t come right out and say it. Not yet. So¡ªshe lied. A smooth, easy, perfect lie. She smiled.
Dyn (casual, friendly): Do Elysia still live here?"*
Aiaris relaxed slightly. Dyn studied her reaction carefully. She didn¡¯t flinch. She didn¡¯t hesitate. She didn¡¯t know. Aiaris had no idea what Elysia had done. That meant Elysia hadn¡¯t told her. That meant¡ª She was still lying.
Aiaris (softly, confused): Why? What happened?"*
Dyn smiled again. A perfectly charming, easy-going smile.
Dyn (laughing slightly): Just some routine verification."*
Aiaris blinked. Elysia? Applying for the Sattira? That didn¡¯t sound like her daughter at all. But¡ª Would she really know anymore? Elysia had been away for so long. Maybe she had changed. Maybe¡ª This was real.
Aiaris (hesitant but polite): "Oh¡­ I see. But at this hour?"
Dyn shrugged. A smooth, effortless gesture.
Dyn (casual, friendly): Plus, this mand is so far from the Uth. I had to take the last Ranit to get here."*
Aiaris nodded slowly. It made sense.
Aiaris: Umm¡­ Vahi?"*
Dyn chuckled. Perfect.
Dyn (shaking her head, smiling): Actually¡ªcan I see Elysia?"*
Aiaris turned slightly, glancing toward Elysia¡¯s room. She hesitated¡ªjust for a moment. Then nodded.
Aiaris: "Right. She must be in her room. Let me go get her¡ª"
Dyn immediately stood up. Too fast. Too sharp. A mistake. Aiaris paused, confused. Dyn quickly recovered. She smiled, laughing lightly.
Dyn (playful, easy): I promise, she knows me. She used to annoy me back in school. I could get some playful revenge."*
Aiaris chuckled softly. That did sound like Elysia. She nodded.
Aiaris (smiling): "Alright. That¡¯s her room." (She pointed.) "I¡¯ll make the Vahi."
Dyn flashed a grin and made her way toward the room. Her steps were calm, but her mind was racing. Her heart pounded. This was it. She was so close. She gripped the door handle¡ª Slowly. Carefully. She pushed it open¡ª And then¡ª Her stomach dropped.
Dyn (whispering, furious): "Not again."
The bed was empty. Elysia was gone.
19. Virtis Scene: The Snap of Sattira Dyn
Aiaris barely had time to react. One moment, Dyn was calm. Casual. Charming. And then¡ª Like a switch had been flipped¡ª She snapped. Her voice¡ªa bark. Her energy¡ªwild. Her rage¡ªuntamed.
Dyn (furious, searching the room, overturning everything): "No. No. NO! You can¡¯t run this time!"
She tore through every corner. Every shadow. Every possible hiding spot. But¡ª Elysia was gone. Again.
Dyn (whipping around, eyes burning, voice sharp): "Where are you hiding her?! TELL ME!"
Aiaris barely had a moment to process. She turned¡ªand then suddenly¡ª Dyn was on her. Her hand clenched around Aiaris¡¯ throat. Her palm glowing purple¡ªcrackling with Arcane power.
Aiaris (choking, wide-eyed, panicked): "W¡­w¡­w-what?!"
Dyn (snarling, shaking her slightly, tightening her grip): "Where is she?! TELL ME!"
Aiaris tried to breathe. Tried to process. Her own heart pounded. This wasn¡¯t just an interrogation anymore. This was a threat. A death sentence.
Aiaris (coughing, barely getting words out): "Sh¡­sh¡­she¡¯s in her room!"
Dyn (voice ice-cold, a dangerous whisper): You¡¯re involved in this, too. Aren¡¯t you?"*
Aiaris coughed harder. Dyn¡¯s grip tightened. The Arcane glow around her hand darkened. Her rage¡ªa wild storm, uncontrollable.
Dyn (roaring, eyes blazing, voice shaking with fury): "TELL ME!"
Aiaris¡¯ body jerked. Her breath strangled. Her vision blurred. For a split second¡ª She thought¡ª "She¡¯s going to kill me."
And then¡ª Dyn let go. She stumbled back. Her own hands shaking. Her own breath ragged. She looked at Aiaris¡ª Her wide, terrified eyes. Her quivering hands against her bruised throat. And Dyn realized¡ª She had almost killed her.
Dyn (stunned, whispering): "No¡­ no¡­ What have I done?"
Aiaris coughed violently, gasping for breath. Dyn¡ªdazed, horrified, panicked¡ª Hurriedly grabbed a glass of water and handed it to her.
Dyn (shaken, rambling): "I¡ªI¡¯m sorry. I¡­ I didn¡¯t mean to¡­ I¡­ I lost control. I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯m sorry."
Aiaris, still weak, barely holding herself together, croaked out the only word in her mind.
Aiaris (hoarse, worried, panicked): "Elysia¡­?"
Dyn froze. Then, her eyes darkened. She exhaled sharply. And then¡ª The words left her mouth before she could stop them.
Dyn (cold, harsh, ruthless): Again."*
Aiaris (shocked, confused, desperate): "What?? Why would she run?"
Dyn (voice shaking, furious, explosive): YOUR ELYSIA IS A FUGITIVE ON THE RUN!"*
Silence. Aiaris froze. The room¡ªtoo quiet. Her breath stilled. Her entire world¡ªshattered.
Aiaris (whispering, breaking, shaking her head): "No¡­ No. That¡¯s wrong. That¡¯s not true."
And then¡ª BOOM. A distant explosion. A violent shockwave rippling through the mand. The walls shook. The ground trembled. The air hummed with raw Arcane power. And then¡ª The sky cracked. A massive plume of purple lightning smoke twisted into the sky. It was dense. Violent. Dark. And it was coming from¡ª The Castle of the Virtis.
Dyn (whispering, breathless, stunned): "What in the¡­?"
Outside, the mand awakened. People stumbled from their homes. Faces turned toward the sky. Their expressions¡ªfearful. Because they all knew. A purple lightning explosion like that? There was only one kind of fairy who could do that. And she was in that castle.
Dyn¡¯s breath shook. Her rage burned. Her mind spun. There was no doubt anymore. She clenched her fists. Elysia. Fiesa. Whichever it was¡ª She was there.
Dyn (muttering, voice ice-cold, dangerous): "I¡¯ve got you now."
Scene: The Battle in the Castle of Virtis
The walls shook. Lightning arced across the ceiling. The air crackled with violent energy, charged with the force of the battle raging within. Fiesa stood in the center¡ªpanting, bleeding, shaking¡ªbut standing. The four Virtis surrounded her. Four against one. A trap. She should have known.
Head Virtis (calm, circling like a predator): "You should have surrendered, Fiesa. Now look at you¡ª" She gestured with a mocking smile to Fiesa¡¯s bruised arm, the torn fabric of her tunic, the blood trailing down her lip. Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. "¡ªtired, weak, alone."
Fiesa (panting, wiping the blood from her lip, voice raw): "You talk too much."
The moment she said it¡ª A flash of Arcane energy hurtled toward her¡ª Too fast. Too close. Fiesa barely dodged. The attack seared past her face, burning a lock of her hair. BOOM! The second Virtis struck next¡ª Her hand raised¡ªspinning a dark purple orb of Arcane energy. She hurled it¡ª
Fiesa (clenching her fists, summoning her own energy, defiant): "Not fast enough!"
She swung her arm¡ªblasting the attack away¡ª But she barely had time to recover before¡ª CRACK! The third Virtis appeared behind her¡ª A knee slammed into her spine. Fiesa gasped in pain¡ªstumbling forward.
Fourth Virtis (laughing, taunting): "She thinks she¡¯s a warrior!"
Before Fiesa could move¡ª A palm infused with Arcane energy struck her in the stomach. BOOM! A shockwave rippled through her body¡ª She crashed backward, slamming into a stone pillar. The impact cracked the wall behind her. Her vision blurred. Her ribs burned.
Head Virtis (approaching, voice smooth and victorious): "You are powerful, Fiesa. But not powerful enough."
Fiesa clutched her ribs. She forced herself up. She had to keep fighting. She had to¡ª
SWOOSH! The Second Virtis lunged¡ª Twin blades of Arcane energy forming in her hands. She swung¡ª
Fiesa dodged¡ªjust barely¡ª One blade sliced past her cheek, drawing blood. The other¡ª Fiesa blocked with her forearm. A burning pain shot up her arm. Her knees buckled. She was getting slower. Weaker.
Fiesa (gritting her teeth, voice shaking but defiant): "I won¡¯t lose to you!"
Third Virtis smirked. And before Fiesa could move¡ª A bolt of Arcane energy struck her chest. BOOM! Fiesa was sent flying¡ª Her body crashed through a stone railing¡ª She fell. She hit the lower floor hard. Her breath left her. Her vision spun.
Above her, the four Virtis stood. Looking down. Predators. Hunters. Their expressions victorious.
Head Virtis (stepping forward, amused): "You still refuse to kill her? I''ll spare your life¡­ if you do it."
Fiesa coughed. Blood dripped from her lips. She tried to stand. Her legs shook. Her body burned. But she wouldn¡¯t fall.
Fiesa (hoarse, voice like steel): "No! You have to kill me too if you want her dead."
Head Virtis crouched before her. She studied Fiesa¡¯s face. Then¡ªshe smiled.
Head Virtis (soft, calm, yet terrifying): "Oh, Fiesa. You did a great job¡ªbringing this book to me. No doubt. But... you shouldn¡¯t forget why I created you."
Fiesa said nothing. She was panting. Bleeding. Unable to speak much. But her rage burned brighter than ever.
Head Virtis (smirking, standing up, circling her like prey): Revenge. Rage. Determination. The fire of a fairy who would stop at nothing to end this¡­ To end the Ritual that these mindless fairies follow every cycle."*
Fiesa¡¯s breathing hitched.
Fiesa (snarling, furious): "You used her!"
Head Virtis (amused, tilting her head): You used her. I simply gave her rage a form. Gave her ambition a form. I gave you form¡ªinside her."*
Fiesa clenched her fists. Her body trembled. With anger. With realization. With pain.
Head Virtis (chuckling, matter-of-fact): You controlled her. It was you who used her."*
Fiesa (furious, her Arcane energy flickering wildly): "She¡¯s in pain because of you!"
Head Virtis (mock surprise, laughing softly): Oh, Fiesa. No. It wasn¡¯t me who killed those two fairies. It wasn¡¯t me who became a fugitive. It wasn¡¯t me who is hunted across all ten realms. It was you. Or should I say¡­Elysia? Hmm?"*
Fiesa froze. Her mind spiraled. Her heart pounded. For the first time¡­ She felt it. Doubt. Was she really just protecting Elysia? Or had she become the monster she was created to be?
Scene: The Fall of Fiesa & The Return of Elysia
Fiesa trembled. Her body was failing. The wounds burned. Her breath came ragged. But worse¡ªher control was slipping. Elysia was waking up. No. No. No.
Fiesa (gritting her teeth, resisting, desperate): "No. No¡­ Elysia, stay back!"
Head Virtis watched the struggle unfold. Her lips curled in amusement. She enjoyed this. The fall of Fiesa. The rise of Elysia.
Head Virtis (mocking, smooth): "Yes¡­ Let her come out."
Fiesa clutched her head, shaking, her body flickering between forms. Her tunic dark and heavy¡ªthen lighter¡ªthen dark again. The fight was internal.
Fiesa (fighting, breath shaking): "No! No, Elysia!! Not now. Not here!"
But Elysia was oblivious. She had been asleep. Her mind locked away while Fiesa fought. But now¡ª Now she was waking up. And Fiesa could do nothing to stop it.
Head Virtis stepped forward. A slow, taunting stride. Then¡ª She kicked Fiesa. CRACK! Fiesa¡¯s body soared through the air¡ª Shattered through the main door¡ª And crashed onto the dirt outside.
The castle doors burst open. Wood splinters rained down. Dust swirled. And Fiesa¡ª Fiesa was barely moving.
She tried¡ª**desperately¡ª**to hold on. She dug her fingers into the dirt. Her body flickered again¡ª Elysia¡¯s face surfacing¡ªthen fading. No. No.
Fiesa (weak, whispering, clenching her fists): "No, Ely! I can''t let you¡ª!"
But her grip slipped. And Elysia surfaced. Her bright eyes flickered open¡ª Confused. Lost. Afraid.
Elysia (groggy, barely whispering): "¡­What?"
Her body ached. Her vision spun. She looked down at her hands¡ª Bruised. Bleeding. Her arms covered in wounds she didn¡¯t remember getting.
Elysia (blinking fast, panicked): "Why am I hurt? Where am I?"
Fiesa¡¯s voice echoed inside her. But Elysia didn¡¯t understand.
Head Virtis (calm, pleased, stepping outside the castle): "Welcome back, Elysia."
Elysia turned. And her stomach dropped. That face. That cold, wretched face. The one she feared. The one she hated. Head Virtis.
Elysia¡¯s blood ran cold. Her mind swirled. How was she here? How did she end up in the place she swore to never return to?
Elysia (hoarse, dazed, shaking her head): "No¡­ No, no. How am I here?!"
Head Virtis (mocking): "You¡¯re home."
No. No. No. NO. This wasn¡¯t home. This was where it all began. Where she begged for her life. Where they made Fiesa.
Elysia struggled to stand. She stumbled on weak legs. Her mind tried to catch up. But nothing made sense.
Fiesa (inside her mind, desperate, screaming): "RUN, ELYSIA! NOW!"
Head Virtis (watching her struggle, amused): "Look at you¡­ Broken. Weak. This would be the perfect time to kill you, wouldn¡¯t it?" She tilted her head. "But where¡¯s the fun in that?"
Then¡ª A voice cut through the night. A sharp, commanding voice. A voice full of fury.
Dyn (bold, Arcane gun raised, stepping into the scene): "STAND BACK! She¡¯s mine!"
The air shifted. For the first time, Head Virtis looked mildly interested. She turned. And saw Sattira Dyn¡ª Arcane energy glowing in her hands¡ª Eyes burning with determination.
Head Virtis (amused, smiling): "And who are you, my friend?"
Dyn¡¯s grip on her Arcane gun tightened. She wasn¡¯t here to play games. Not this time. Not again.
Dyn (voice cold, steady, seething): "The one who¡¯s going to take you down."
The battle wasn¡¯t over. Not yet. And this time¡ª Elysia wasn¡¯t fighting alone.
Scene: The Escape & The Hunt
The battlefield was set. The night was thick with Arcane tension. The air hummed with danger. And in the center of it all¡ª Elysia.
She was worn. She was wounded. She was weak. And worst of all¡ª She was confused.
Fiesa (inside her head, urgent, desperate): "RUN!! NOW!"
Elysia (panting, struggling to stand): "W-what¡­? What is happening??"
Dyn didn¡¯t take her eyes off Head Virtis. Her grip tightened on her Arcane gun.
Dyn (growling): "She¡¯s mine to kill!!"
Head Virtis (amused, tilting her head): "Why not? But I am going to kill her first."
The two enemies locked eyes. Both wanted the same thing. Both wanted Elysia.
Dyn (still aiming her gun, voice deadly): "Stay right where you are¡ªwhoever the hell you are. I won¡¯t think twice before shooting."
Head Virtis (smirking, mockingly): "Like your little toy can kill me? Please¡­ go ahead. Give it a try."
Dyn (cold, steady): "Oh, no. You don¡¯t know what you¡¯re dealing with."
Head Virtis (laughing, unimpressed): "No, darling. It is you who doesn¡¯t know. Not me."
Dyn (suddenly realizing, eyes darting): "Wait! Where¡¯s Elysia??"
Too late. Elysia was gone.
While they were busy fighting over her¡ª She took her chance. She ran. She fled into the ruins. Into the debris of the shattered castle. Into the dark.
Head Virtis (snapping, furious): "GO!" She turned to her Virtis. "FIND HER!"
Elysia¡¯s breath was ragged. She hid behind a half-collapsed wall. Her body trembled. Her wounds ached. Her mind spun. She didn¡¯t know how she got here. She didn¡¯t know why she was hurt. But one thing was certain¡ª She had to survive.
Fiesa (inside her mind, calm but firm): "Listen to me, Elysia." "You have to find the Book of Shrishgic." "It has¡ª"
Elysia (furious, whisper-shouting): "WHAT?! STOP! JUST STOP!"
Fiesa silenced. Elysia was breaking. Too many secrets. Too many half-truths. Too many questions with no answers.
Elysia (shaking, desperate): "Tell me what¡¯s going on! Why is that book here??"
Fiesa (firm, unwavering): "I can¡¯t tell you now. But listen. I have to protect you."
Elysia (choking, voice trembling): "No! Enough of your games! Look at me right now!" She spread her arms¡ª Gesturing to her bruised, bleeding body.
Elysia (shouting, voice raw): "LOOK AT ME!!"
Fiesa didn¡¯t flinch. She never did. She was built from rage. She was built from vengeance. She was not meant for mercy.
Fiesa (calm, steady): "I know. But listen." "Right now¡ªI¡¯m your only escape." "If you don¡¯t leave now¡ªthey will hurt mum."
Silence. Elysia¡¯s chest tightened. Her pulse pounded.
Elysia (horrified, whispering): "What? Mum?? Why?"
Fiesa (urgent, pressing): "If Dyn is here, that means she¡¯s already met your mother." "¡ªshe¡¯ll use Aiaris to lure you out."
Elysia (panicking, shaking her head): "No¡­ No. Not Mum."
Fiesa (soft, but firm): "Yes. So listen." "Get up. Find the Book of Shrishgic." "I know how to end this."
Elysia (shaking, whispering): "How?"
Fiesa (one final question): "Do you trust me?"
Silence. Elysia stared at nothing. She was terrified. She was lost. But she knew one thing¡ª If Fiesa truly wanted her dead¡­ If Fiesa wanted complete control¡­ She could have taken it long ago. She could have killed her already. But she didn¡¯t.
Elysia (exhaling, eyes darkening): "I do."
Fiesa (a small, dark smile forming): "Then go." "Let¡¯s show them who we are."
20. Shrishgic Scene: The Hunt for the Book The ruins were silent. Only the distant crackle of Arcane energy echoed through the broken castle. Elysia trembled. Every step was a battle against pain. Her body ached. Her legs shook. She couldn¡¯t breathe properly. But she kept moving. She had to.
Fiesa (inside her head, urgent, pushing her forward): "Yes. Inside the hall. It was there..."
Elysia (whispering, seething): "Just shut up." She didn¡¯t want to hear Fiesa. Not now. Not after everything.
Fiesa (calm, guiding): "Right there!! On that table."
Elysia (hissing, clenching her teeth): "I said SHUT UP. I can see it!"
She crouched lower. Steadying herself. Her fingers curled against the debris-covered floor. She was so close.
Fiesa (sudden, sharp): "GET DOWN!!"
Without thinking¡ª Elysia dropped to the ground.
A pair of Virtis walked into the hall. Their red-cloaked figures moved slowly, cautiously. Scanning. Searching. Elysia held her breath. Her heart pounded in her ears. She could feel her own pulse in her throat. Too loud. Too fast.
Elysia (whispering, bitterly): "Okay. But don¡¯t expect a thank you from me."
Fiesa (plain, unaffected): "I won¡¯t."
The Virtis turned away. The moment they did¡ª Elysia moved. Silent. Quick. She snatched the Book of Shrishgic from the table. She ducked back into the shadows. And she waited.
Elysia (whispering, panting): "What now??"
Fiesa (serene, controlled): "Let me do it now."
Elysia felt it immediately. The shift. The way her muscles relaxed. The way her fingers moved without her command. Fiesa was in control. And Fiesa was swift. Her fingers flipped through the ancient pages. She found the spell. She stopped. And then, calmly¡ªshe spoke.
Fiesa (cold, final): "Now I need you to get ready."
Elysia (narrowing her eyes, tense): "Ready for what?"
Fiesa (pausing, then simply): "Pain."
And with that¡ª Fiesa began to read.
The Ancient Spell¡ª (From the Book of Shrishgic) "Yzeth korvas, dymor uthein¡ª Enthrash venor, vathrin kaeln!" "Tysum arcuth, zeymor elthas¡ª Bindorah felm, shynthaen velr!" "Aethel Zhoros! Aethel Zhoros! Aethel Zhoros!"
The moment the words left her lips¡ª The Book of Shrishgic glowed. Bright. Violent. Blinding. And then¡ª It burned. Not on fire. Not destroyed. But absorbed. Mending into flesh.
Elysia screamed. A sound of pure agony.
Her nerves felt like they were tearing apart. Her skin burned¡ªlike acid sinking into her veins. The book was becoming her. Its knowledge. Its power. Every spell. Every fact. Every forbidden secret¡ª Was being carved into her very blood.
Virtis 1 (from outside, hearing her screams): "Did you hear that??"
Virtis 2 (sharp, nodding): "It¡¯s coming from the Hall. MOVE!"
And then¡ª All of them ran.
Inside the hall¡ª Elysia lay on the ground. Panting. Shaking. Her veins glowed purple. Bright. Alive. Every pulse of her heart was Arcane energy. She wasn¡¯t just herself anymore. She was something else. Something more.
Fiesa (inside her head, almost¡­ awed): "Power. I can feel it."
Elysia (gasping, barely able to speak): "W-what did you do?"
Fiesa didn¡¯t answer. Because they weren¡¯t alone anymore.
Footsteps. Shadows. And then¡ª Head Virtis entered. Her eyes scanned Elysia. Her face twisted¡ªnot in anger. But in realization.
Head Virtis (serious, stepping forward): "What did you do?"
Behind her¡ª Dyn stood frozen. Her Arcane gun gripped tightly. But for the first time¡ª She hesitated. Something felt different. Something felt¡­ off.
Dyn (watching Elysia carefully, muttering): "What happened to her?"
And then¡ª It began. The transformation. But this time¡ª It wasn¡¯t Elysia willingly giving control. It wasn¡¯t Fiesa asking for permission.
This time¡ª It was happening on its own.
Her body shifted. Her wounds disappeared. Her dark tunic formed around her like smoke. Her eyes turned sharper. Colder. She became Fiesa.
But not just Fiesa. Something beyond that. Something more powerful. Something not even Fiesa had expected.
Head Virtis (breathless, almost whispering): "She consumed the Shrishgic."
Fiesa (voice deeper, colder, deadlier): "Something that you always wanted to¡ªdidn¡¯t you?"
Head Virtis finally looked¡­ worried. For the first time.
And Dyn¡­? She gritted her teeth. She wasn¡¯t going to let her escape this time.
This wasn¡¯t just about Fiesa anymore. This wasn¡¯t just about Elysia. This was about something more dangerous. Something that nobody was prepared for.
THE FALL OF VIRTIS The air cracked open. Purple lightning spiraled. The ground trembled beneath them.
Fiesa stood tall¡ª Taller than she had ever been. Not just Fiesa. Not just Elysia. A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation. Something greater. Something beyond both of them.
Head Virtis (furious, summoning her Arcane energy, her voice a snarl): "IT WAS MINE!!"
She lunged. A blast of Arcane power¡ª Roaring through the air. Sharp. Precise. Deadly.
Fiesa moved. Effortlessly. The blast missed. Like it was nothing.
Dyn (watching in disbelief, gripping her Arcane gun tighter, whispering): "What in the¡ª?" She had never seen anything like this. This wasn¡¯t Elysia. This wasn¡¯t Fiesa. This was something new. Something unstoppable.
Dyn (shouting, raising her gun): "STOP! I¡¯ll shoot you!"
Fiesa (grinning, dark amusement in her voice): "Oh, Dyn." She tilted her head. "You should have stayed in school."
Dyn (rage boiling over): "NO! Not after you destroyed my career!"
Head Virtis (eyes burning with fury, stepping forward): "Enough. Let¡¯s end this¡ªonce and for all."
AND THEN¡ª THE BATTLE BEGAN.
BOOM! The entire castle shook.
Head Virtis struck first. A wave of crushing Arcane energy¡ª Searing. Blinding. Relentless. She poured everything into it. Trying to erase the monster she had created. Trying to erase the mistake she had made.
But Fiesa¡ª Didn¡¯t even flinch.
The attack smashed into her¡ª And dispersed. Like smoke against the wind. Like it was nothing.
Fiesa (smirking, unbothered, cocking her head): "That¡¯s it? That¡¯s all?"
Head Virtis snarled. She rushed forward¡ª Hands glowing, shifting, twisting¡ª Her Arcane energy forming into a jagged, burning spear.
She thrust it forward¡ª Straight at Fiesa¡¯s heart.
Fiesa moved. Effortlessly. A blur of motion. A flicker of dark energy.
The spear missed. Fiesa twisted¡ª Catching Head Virtis¡¯ wrist. A pulse of power surged from her fingertips. Dark, electric, suffocating.
Fiesa (leaning in, whispering, cold and taunting): "I can feel your fear."
And then¡ª She crushed her wrist. SNAP. Head Virtis SCREAMED. The Arcane spear shattered. A wave of energy exploded outward¡ª Throwing them both apart.
Dyn (gritting her teeth, raising her gun, muttering): "Time to end this."
She aimed. She fired. A bright shot of Arcane energy¡ª Straight toward Fiesa¡¯s head.
Fiesa caught the bullet. Caught it. With her bare hand. The energy crackled in her palm. Then she crushed it¡ª Snuffing it out like a dying flame.
Fiesa (mocking, smirking): "Nice try, Dyn. Want to try again?"
Dyn didn¡¯t hesitate. She charged. Gun in one hand. Arcane blade in the other.
Fiesa met her halfway.
A clash of Arcane steel and raw power. Blades flashed. Punches landed. Energy surged between them¡ª Sparks erupting in every direction.
Dyn slashed. Fiesa dodged. Dyn spun, aiming low¡ª A kick to Fiesa¡¯s ribs. It connected¡ª But Fiesa barely moved.
Fiesa (grinning, taunting): "You¡¯ll have to do better than that."
And then¡ª She slammed her palm against Dyn¡¯s chest. A pulse of raw power exploded outward¡ª BOOM! Dyn was sent flying. She hit the ground¡ª Rolling. Coughing. Gasping for air.
Head Virtis recovered. She gathered her energy. Summoning a storm of Arcane fire. The flames surged around her hands. Growing brighter. Hotter. Deadlier.
She unleashed it. A blazing inferno¡ª Aimed straight at Fiesa. A firestorm meant to incinerate her where she stood.
Fiesa stood still. Watching it come. And then¡ª She raised her hand. And stopped it.
The flames twisted. Curled. Shifted.
And then¡ª Fiesa turned them back. Redirecting the firestorm toward Head Virtis instead.
Head Virtis barely dodged. The flames seared past her. Scorching the castle walls. The ground beneath her feet melted.
Head Virtis (panting, eyes wide, furious): "You¡ª You¡¯re a MONSTER!"
Fiesa (smirking, tilting her head): "Oh, I¡¯m more than that." Her eyes glowed brighter. Her energy surged. Her power pulsed¡ª Darker. Denser. Unstoppable.
Fiesa (cold, final, deadly): "I am Wrath itself."
The battle was over. And they all knew it. Fiesa was beyond them now. Beyond all of them. Beyond Elysia. Beyond control.
She had won. And now¡ª She would decide what came next.
THE FALL OF VIRTIS & THE RETURN OF ELYSIA The air was thick with silence. The moonlight bathed the streets of Dohi Mand. The cold wind whispered through the gathered crowd. And there¡ª At the center of it all¡ª Fiesa stood tall. A dark entity draped in shadows. Her thick dark purple tunic billowing. Her hands glowing with raw Arcane fury. Her eyes burning¡ª Not just with power¡ª But with rage.
Head Virtis lay crumpled on the ground. The most revered figure of the Mand¡ª The one the people worshiped¡ª The one for whom they sacrificed themselves. And yet¡ª She was here. Wounded. Weak. Defeated. Brought low before the very people who once saw her as divine.
Murmurs spread like wildfire. Fear. Confusion. Doubt.
Aiaris (whispering, her breath stolen from her chest): "Elysia¡­?"
Fiesa turned to the crowd. Her voice boomed¡ª Loud. Commanding. Unwavering.
Fiesa (eyes scanning the fairies, her voice direct and accusing): "Fairies! This is your Virtis!" She gestured down at the fallen figure. "The one you worship!" "The one in whose name you BURN YOURSELVES ALIVE!"
Gasps. Fairies exchanged uneasy glances. Whispers grew louder. Questions began to swirl.
Fiesa (stepping forward, her voice sharp as a blade): "She has been manipulating you for cycles!"
Head Virtis (weak, desperate): "No¡­ Don¡¯t¡­"
Fiesa (her fury rising, voice shaking the very ground beneath her): "She is NOT a Phinix!" "She is NOT the path to Valfala!" "She is a LIAR!"
Fiesa grabbed Head Virtis by the throat. Lifted her off the ground with ease. Head Virtis choked¡ª Struggled¡ª Yet smiled.
Fiesa (snarling, demanding): "TELL THEM THE TRUTH!" "TELL THEM WHAT REALLY HAPPENS AFTER THEY SACRIFICE THEMSELVES!" "TELL THEM¡­ OR DIE!"
Head Virtis (eyes dark, lips curling into a smirk despite the pain): "Kill me." "It will only make you a monster."
Fiesa¡¯s grip tightened. Head Virtis gasped for air. Her smile didn¡¯t waver.
Fiesa (roaring, Arcane energy crackling around her): "I¡¯M NOT A MONSTER¡ª"
But then¡ª A voice. Soft. Calm. Soothing.
Elysia (from within Fiesa, gentle but firm): "No, Fiesa." "This isn¡¯t you."
Fiesa¡¯s grip faltered. Her breath hitched. Her fury wavered.
Fiesa (struggling, shaking her head, trying to block out Elysia¡¯s voice): "No. Either she tells them¡­ or she DIES!"
Elysia (pleading, steady): "Then kill me too." "I can¡¯t watch you like this."
Fiesa froze. Her power wavered. Her form flickered.
Head Virtis (watching with amusement, barely breathing): "Yes¡­ that¡¯s it. That kindness in you¡­ is your weakness." "Go on, Fiesa. Kill me." "Be who you were meant to be."
Elysia (firm, unwavering, filled with love): "No, Fiesa." "You are my friend." "Even if you killed Livia and Trigaha¡ª" "I still love you." "We are one."
Fiesa clenched her jaw. Her hands trembled.
Head Virtis (mocking, challenging): "Kill her too, Fiesa." "Be the real you."
Something inside Fiesa snapped.
Fiesa (screaming, defiant, shaking, her voice breaking): "NO!"
She threw Head Virtis aside. Her chest rose and fell in heavy breaths. Her fury burned¡ª But her resolve¡­ cracked.
And then¡ª Her body stiffened. Her gaze fell to the ground. A whisper. Soft. Uncertain.
Fiesa (quiet, broken): "Do you love me?"
Elysia (gentle, inside her mind, no hesitation): "I do." "No matter what." "We are one."
Fiesa gave in.
Her body began to shift. The dark Arcane power softened. The thick dark purple tunic faded away. The fury melted. The glow in her hands dimmed.
And then¡ª She was gone.
And in her place¡ª Elysia stood.
Her face soft. Her presence kind. Her eyes gentle.
The entire Mand watched. In stunned silence.
Murmurs. Confusion. Shock.
One moment, a monster. The next, a girl. The same face. But a different soul.
Aiaris stepped forward. Tears in her eyes. Her hands trembling. Her heart racing.
Aiaris (whispering, barely breathing, eyes filled with disbelief and love): "Elysia¡­?"
Elysia turned to her. Her breath caught. Her chest tightened. Her lips quivered. And then¡ª She fell into her mother¡¯s arms. Crying. Shaking. Home.
But the world was not at peace.
Head Virtis watched. Bruised. Wounded. Beaten. But smiling. Because she knew¡ª This wasn¡¯t the end.
THE FALL OF VIRTIS & THE FREEDOM OF ELYSIA The moon stood still, casting its silver glow over the Mand. The streets were silent, save for the whispers of the wind. And at the center of it all¡ª Elysia stood tall. Fiesa was gone. The battle was over. But the real fight¡ªthe fight for the truth¡ªhad just begun.
HEAD VIRTIS LAY ON THE GROUND. Her robes, once a symbol of divinity, were now torn. Her hands trembled. Her ego fought to stand tall¡ª But the truth had crushed her.
Elysia stepped forward. Her eyes softened, but her voice remained firm.
Elysia (low, steady): "If I hadn¡¯t stopped Fiesa¡­ you¡¯d be dead."
Head Virtis (rasping, still clinging to her pride): "Then you should have let her kill me." "I don¡¯t want your kindness."
Elysia studied her. Saw the flicker of doubt in her eyes. The weakness behind the defiance. And she understood.
Elysia (voice piercing, unwavering): "It¡¯s because deep down, you know you don¡¯t deserve it." "After everything you¡¯ve done, you know you don¡¯t deserve kindness."
Head Virtis flinched. The words struck deep. Because they were true. She had felt it. All these cycles, all these lives she had taken, all these fairies she had deceived¡ª Had led to this moment. To her downfall.
Elysia (turning to the crowd, voice rising with conviction): "I don¡¯t know how this all started." "One moment, I was asleep in my bed¡ª" "The next, I woke up with her trying to kill me."
Gasps. Murmurs. Fairies exchanged glances. They had seen Elysia¡¯s transformation. But now, they heard the truth. Head Virtis had tried to kill her. Why?
Elysia (gesturing toward the crowd, her voice softening): "Look at them." "Look at these innocent faces." "They did nothing wrong." "And yet, they worship you."
Head Virtis'' hands clenched. Elysia¡¯s words tore through her. This simple fairy¡ªthis girl she had once dismissed¡ª Was now the one condemning her. And worse¡ª She was right.
Elysia (pressing forward, eyes piercing): "Tell them the truth." "Free them from the illusion you created just to make yourself powerful."
Silence. The air grew heavy. And then¡ª Head Virtis exhaled. The fight left her shoulders. Her body slumped. And for the first time in her existence¡ª She accepted defeat.
Head Virtis (whispering, barely audible): "You win."
Elysia reached out a hand. And Head Virtis¡­ took it.
She stood. Faced the crowd. Her followers. Her victims. Her people.
Head Virtis (soft, broken, raw): "My fairies¡­" "I¡¯m sorry." "I¡¯m sorry for everything I¡¯ve done to you." "I used you for my own gain."
Murmurs. Confusion. Shock. Disbelief.
Head Virtis (swallowing, her voice cracking): "Valfala¡­ is a lie." "A myth I created to lure you into sacrificing yourselves." "A lie so I could take your Light and make myself stronger."
Gasps. Cries. The crowd erupted. Fairies fell to their knees. Clutched their chests. Years¡ªcycles¡ªof faith, devotion, and worship¡ª Shattered.
Head Virtis (whispering, her voice raw and pained): "I was never a Phinix." "I was a monster." "A monster who consumed you all."
The crowd broke. The first fairy screamed. Then another. Then another.
Fairy 1 (furious, voice shaking): "Kill her!" Fairy 2 (enraged, fists clenched): "She used us!"
The rage swelled. The mob grew restless. They surged forward.
Elysia (shouting, desperate, standing between them): "STOP!" "NO! This isn¡¯t right!" "PLEASE¡ªcalm down!"
The mob halted. But their fury did not fade.
And then¡ª A firm voice cut through the chaos.
Dyn (stepping beside Elysia, her Sattira badge flashing): "She¡¯s right." "I understand your anger." "But let¡¯s not become what she was." "Let¡¯s not kill her without justice." "Let¡¯s set an example¡ªso no one else ever does this again."
Silence. The fairies hesitated. Then stepped back.
Sattira forces arrived. Clad in armored tunics. Weapons ready. But there was no fight left.
They shackled Head Virtis. Sealed Celsors around her hands. And led her away. For trial. For justice.
Dyn turned to Elysia. Her face unreadable. Then¡ª She smirked.
Dyn (raising an eyebrow): "And you."
Elysia (throwing her hands up, exasperated): "Oh, COME ON! You¡¯re still after me?"
Dyn (grinning, pulling out shackles): "Get on your knees."
Elysia (gaping): "WHAT?! I just exposed the REAL threat!" "I literally saved EVERYONE!"
Dyn (mock-serious, amused): "On your knees."
Elysia groaned. But dropped to her knees.
Dyn shackled her wrists. A moment of silence. Then¡ª A small laugh.
Dyn (grinning, unlocking the shackles instantly): "Gotcha."
Elysia (staring, confused): "Wait¡ªwhat?"
Dyn (smirking, stepping back): "I just wanted to catch you." "To prove myself." "And I did."
Elysia (blinking, processing): "Sooo¡­ I¡¯m¡­ free?"
Dyn (shrugging, crossing her arms, playful but sincere): "You¡¯re clear." "Go."
Elysia exhaled. Relief washed over her. She looked at Dyn. For the first time¡ª With respect.
Dyn (smirking): "Now, go hug your mum before I change my mind."
Elysia turned. Saw Aiaris. Tears shining in her eyes. Waiting.
Elysia ran into her arms. And for the first time in what felt like forever¡ª She was home.
21. Meet Elysia CLOSING THE CASE Asheer Veyin¡¯s office. A cold, professional space¡ªits walls lined with reports, holo-screens, and mission logs. At the center of it, behind a sleek metal desk, sat Asheer Veyin. And before her, standing with her usual smirk and casual posture, was Sattira Dyn.
Veyin (stern, tapping fingers on desk): "Let me get this straight¡ª" "First, you defy direct orders and go after the fugitive." "Then, you return saying she¡¯s ¡®gone¡¯?" "Gone as in¡ªdead?"
Dyn (smiling, crossing her arms): "Dead? No." "She¡¯s very much alive." "She¡¯s just¡­ gone."
Veyin (leaning forward, irritated): "Gone where, Dyn?"
Dyn (grinning, rocking on her heels): "I don¡¯t know." "But there¡¯s no Fiesa anymore."
Veyin (scoffing, rubbing her temple): "Who the stars is Fiesa??"
Dyn (shrugging, smirk widening): "Exactly." "There¡¯s no one left to catch." "So, Asheer, I¡¯d say it¡¯s time to¡ª" "¡ªclose the case."
Veyin (voice tight with frustration): "Dyn¡ªwhat in the¡ªwhat are you even saying??" "What happened in Dohi Mand??"
Dyn (casual, turning toward the door): "Nothing much." "Just a fairy who stopped existing." "No threat. No case." "Problem solved."
And with that, Dyn strolled out of the office. Her mission was over. She had caught Elysia. She had been wrong. But instead of feeling anger or failure¡ªshe had learned. And she had made her decision: To let Elysia go.
Veyin watched her leave, baffled, confused¡ªyet somehow, she knew she wasn¡¯t getting another answer. With a sigh, she leaned back in her chair. And Dyn¡¯s final words lingered in the air. "There¡¯s no one left to catch."

ONE WITH THEMSELVES

Outside Dohi Mand. A quiet, peaceful evening. The sky burned gold and crimson as the sun dipped behind the horizon. A soft wind rustled the grass. And at the edge of a hill, perched on a smooth rock, sat two figures. Or rather¡ªone. Elysia. And Fiesa. Together. As always.
Elysia (leaning back, watching the sky): "You said you¡¯d tell me later." "How did I even get there? At the castle?" Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.
Fiesa (calm, unmoved, gazing ahead): "It doesn¡¯t matter now."
Elysia (mock-offended, turning toward her): "Excuse me?" "You owe me an explanation." "And while we¡¯re at it¡ªyou didn¡¯t even thank me for saving you."
Fiesa (without looking at her): "Thank you."
Elysia (grinning, nudging her shoulder): "That was dry. Ever tried saying it with some feeling?" "Like¡ª¡®Thank you, Elysia! You¡¯re amazing! You¡¯re the best! I owe you my life!¡¯"
Fiesa (flat, unimpressed): "No."
Elysia (throwing her hands up dramatically): "Unbelievable." "At this rate, Mum will never make you Murito."
Fiesa (finally glancing at her): "I don¡¯t even like Murito."
Elysia (gasps, clutching her chest, mock-betrayed): "WHAT??" "You¡ªHOW DARE YOU¡ª" "I TAKE BACK MY TRUST¡ª" "I AM NOT TALKING TO YOU ANYMORE."
Fiesa (expression blank, waiting patiently): ¡­
Silence. A long silence. The wind whispered through the grass. The stars began to peek through the fading sky.
Fiesa (finally): "Are you done?"
Elysia (huffing, arms crossed, looking away): "I don¡¯t know." "Maybe." "Maybe not." "Maybe I¡¯ll just stay mad forever."
Fiesa (calm, unreadable): "You won¡¯t."
Elysia (scoffs, tossing a pebble down the hill): "Stars, I hate you." "So much."
Fiesa (calm, steady, knowing): "You love me."
Because Fiesa was her. And Elysia was her. They were one. Forever.

THE END... FOR NOW.

Scene 2: Mirgeth Yarlim ¨C The Council of War Elsewhere¡ª In the heart of Mirgeth¡¯s military base, Yarlim¡ª A council of commanders gathered. This was not a place of talking. This was a place of decisions. The room was dimly lit, holographic projections hovering in the air. The central table displayed details of a single name.
ATHMORKEE. A terror to the realm. A force of destruction. And now¡ª A problem too great for Mirgeth¡¯s forces alone.
Stegos Xchina (grim, pointing at the map): "Last seen in Rac¡¯jl Uth. She caused more damage than last time."
Stegos Kasisd (tightening her fists): "I lost 14 Yalzets. It¡¯s a bad report, but it is what it is."
Aarthel Laonia (stoic, practical): "No battle is without losses. If we fight, we sacrifice something."
Stegos Xchina (angrily): "That doesn¡¯t mean we keep losing our Yalzets. We need something better."
Stegos Kasisd (carefully, suggesting): "Then I propose we involve Savior Ethan."
The room fell silent. Tension thickened. The Savior. The outsider who changed everything. But before anyone could respond¡ª Aarthel Laonia spoke.
Aarthel Laonia (shaking her head): "And what do we tell Elysin Alara? That our bravest commanders cannot handle this? That we need a human to do it for us?"
The two Stegos lowered their heads. And then¡ª A new voice spoke. Firm. Absolute. Commanding.
Archos Ardine (the Supreme Commander): "We don¡¯t need the Savior. We need someone equal to Athmorkee."
The room stirred. Murmurs. Concern. Aarthel Laonia¡¯s face hardened.
Aarthel Laonia (serious, firm): "Please, Archos.Don¡¯t think of her. She is not meant for this."
Archos Ardine¡¯s eyes glowed sharply. A dangerous determination in them.
Archos Ardine (cold, unwavering): "Then make her meant for this."
Aarthel exhaled, frustrated.
Aarthel Laonia (gritted teeth): "We don¡¯t even know if she¡¯s capable of this."
Archos smiled. A sharp, knowing smile. And with a flick of her hand, she pulled up a new projection. Footage played in the air. A recording of a battle. Of a lone figure standing against impossible odds. Of arcane blasts that defied reason. Of ruthlessness unmatched. And rage that burned like a storm.
Archos Ardine (pointing at the footage): "If she can do this¡ª Then why not this?"
Aarthel Laonia looked at the footage. Her jaw tightened. Her fists clenched. But she couldn¡¯t argue. She knew what she saw. She knew what it meant. And she knew who they were talking about.
Aarthel Laonia (quietly, defeated): "But Archos¡­"
Archos Ardine (final, absolute): The same level of anger. The same ruthlessness. A perfect opposition. A perfect weapon. Unless we waste our time debating, she¡¯ll only slip further. No one is ever ready for anything. Not you, not me, not any of us when we joined the force. It¡¯s up to us to decide her fate."*
Aarthel exhaled slowly. She knew there was no stopping this.
Aarthel Laonia (final, resigned): "I understand, Archos. We will take this matter into our hands."
Stegos Kasisd (hesitant, cautious): "Who exactly¡­ are we talking about?"
Aarthel turned. She swiped through the holographic display. And then¡ª She revealed the name. The face. The one who had fought against them. The one who had escaped. The one who had disappeared into the shadows. And now¡ª The one they would turn into a weapon.
Archos Ardine (cold, certain, triumphant): "Meet Elysia."