Tara and Dhruveen were not humans, fairies, or any other life form. They were the embodiment of fire and magic, just like their children, Meer and Mihir. His mind was flooded with memories as he pondered the girl's words. She was right; they were unique. In the castle, only immortal fairies were permitted, those created by the goddess herself at the birth of the universe. Their magic was unparalleled, their names based on their abilities, and they were revered by all.
However, despite being called theirs, Meer knew he and his brother were perpetual outsiders. He was no protector, no soldier, just a boy living a royal life because of his father's actions. He lacked his own identity, despite his many contributions to Moonrun. He smiled wistfully, acknowledging his predicament.
He tightly grasped a clump of grass, attempting to stifle his emotions, but the pain ran deep. He felt utterly alone, a sensation that had rarely gripped him before. He gazed at the imposing statues in the garden before him – statues of his parents. His father, with a long cape on his back, shield on his body, and sword in hand, engaged in a battle with a defeated demon. His mother, Tara, looked proudly on. This garden had been a source of solace for him, but today, it offered no respite.
"Father, you were great, and look at me now, defeated by a girl with no identity of my own, unable to save my brother. I'm a failure, Father," he whispered to the statues, a smile masking his inner pain. "I've tried my best, but I'm a failure who can't accomplish anything. I know you must be disappointed in me, and rightfully so."
He paused for a moment, then continued, "Sometimes, Father, I even contemplate ending it all, but I can't do that to Meer. I can't leave him alone. However, once he finds someone and isn't alone without me, I'll come to join you and Mother. I hope you'll accept me."
Suddenly, a voice interrupted his thoughts. It was Ruri, the brown elf, looking concerned. "My Lord," he called, drawing Mihir's attention. "What happened, Ruri? Is everything alright?" Mihir asked, his eyebrows raised.
"Lord Meer," Ruri began, tears welling up. Mihir's hands trembled with urgency. "What happened to Lord Meer? Tell me, you fool!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with horror.
"He was shaking violently; the healers said he had almost no life energy left, and..." Ruri couldn't finish his sentence. Mihir pushed past him and rushed to Meer's chambers, pushing aside elves and fairies along the way.
When he reached the chamber, he was met with a distressing sight. All the fairies, including the Queen, were gathered, trying to infuse Meer with magical life essence. Meer lay lifeless on a cloud, his body a dark blue hue. Mihir's heart sank. Life essence was a potent magic used to save someone on the brink of death, but it seemed insufficient for Meer's dire condition.
Queen Fairy wept openly, while others stood in shock. Meer's body grew even darker in shade. Mihir's legs buckled as he leaned against a pillar.
As night fell, they were playing near the forest. The sky was overcast, a gentle breeze whispered through the air, and they tossed a ball between them. Mihir's kick sent the ball straight into Meer's face, causing him to cry. Mihir, initially amused, joined in laughter. In his anger, Meer ran towards the forest.
"I won't talk to you!" he had yelled, running toward the woods. Mihir stopped laughing and waited for him to return. He picked up the ball and continued playing. After a while, he heard a sharp cry from the forest.
"Meer!" Mihir cried out as he ran in the same direction. The forest was dark, trees towering into the clouds, and various animals were asleep. "Meer, where are you? Come out!" he yelled.
Leaves rustled, and Mihir shivered as he ventured deeper into the forest. "I won't hurt you again, please come back. I'm sorry, Meer. Please, come out!" he shouted. Suddenly, he felt something behind him and turned to see a group of dracanids, their menacing jaws dripping with saliva.
Mihir ran without a second thought, the dracanids in hot pursuit. He ran deeper and deeper until he fell into a hole, crying out in pain. His body was covered in dirt, his once-white shirt now earthy in color.
"Meer," he heard his brother sobbing from behind. Mihir turned to see Meer, tears flowing down his dirt-covered face. He ran to him, and they both hugged, crying uncontrollably. Mihir held Meer and said, "Don't worry, Meer. I'm here for you."
As they parted, they noticed the large hole filled with bones and skulls of dead animals. It was a nightmarish sight. They looked up, hoping to escape, but the dracanids blocked their way, saliva still dripping menacingly.
"What do we do, Mihir?" Mihir held Meer even closer, and they closed their eyes in fear. Just as the dracanids were about to attack, a melodious sound filled the air, accompanied by a brilliant light. Both brothers looked up in awe as their savior appeared.
"I think I can help him," the boy they had saved from Krityalok said, his face partially concealed by long tresses. He extended his hand and released a powerful surge of life essence, stunning everyone present.
"We should do the same," Mystic Fairy suggested, and others followed suit. Soul Fairy also used her powers. Meer's body began to regain its normal color.
"It's working," Thunder Fairy noted. Mihir closed his eyes and channeled every ounce of his essence into Meer. The room filled with a white mist. Finally, Meer showed some signs of life; his hand trembled, and his complexion improved.
"It worked," the healer exclaimed in surprise. "You can all stop now." They followed his instructions, and he administered a potion to Meer, who slowly opened his eyes, his olive orbs filled with life once more.