Jarec and Velaris sat near the fire inside that cozy wooden stone house of a small village. Lyria — the name on which they now all agreed for that poor girl who had not only gotten lost, but been thankfully saved. To the village where she had been born and raised, wedged deep within Valorium itself. A place of peace that sent her mother Lyria running out in welcome with glad tear-filled eyes to share a warm meal if bare fare given by barren earth.
By evening, the quiet tug of darkness had settled over Eldergrove and candlelight fluttered quietly against the walls in Elara's small home. The smell of stewing meat filled the room and mixed with the dense sweet odor of cooked mushrooms. Jarec and Velaris sat at a pine table, basking in the heat from the hearth after their long day.
The serving girl was Lyria, a child with an innocent sparkle in her eyes as she placed dishes and bowls down. Jarec was still trying to figure out how his world could possibly be this new one he was a part of, and should have been resolute compared the girl in front had not she proven him before; established bravery. Jarec caught Lyria watching him and Velaris with a bit of awe, mingled with curiosity as they sat down to eat.
Jarec was grateful and interested to know why Elara had done this. You were a bit taken aback to see Velaris and I earlier, Is there something weird about us, is what I am saying here?
Lyria blinked, somewhat surprised by the inquiry. There was a pause before she spoke. Uhm, yeah… you see I never.. like.. lmean have not even meet another certainly gifted in person if we are going be outside of our Village Chief.
Velaris, always watching: leaned in. " Your village chief is a gifted?
Elara, the mother of Lyria nodded, looking at him pensively. Yeah but, he is the only one I knew. You with your powers, and talking companion—it just sounded different. Gifted like you, we only heard about it.
Jarec smile, reassured. "I understand. This is all new to me too. What stories would you like to know about its history? How did I end up here and what this is….I just want to know.
Elara set the pot down and then she came to join them at their table, having heard all they had said. Her motherly presences was warm and welcoming, which made a calming notion to Jarec. "You must be curious about Valorium? From battle and blood spilled over the land of Rosebreed to our lies concealed by shadows, it is but a formation on combat for each region reflects different parts slaying those against out deity Rexar.
Jarec nodded eagerly. "Yes, exactly. I want to learn more about the various regions as also people of that region.
When Elara heard those words, her eyes lit up as she began to explain. Valorium is a continent heavily inspired by the ideals of Rexar, God of War and Valor. His ideals were related to only one region separately.
First the **Ironclad Kingdom**. This kingdom of Rexar epitomizes his courage and fortitude. The Ironclad Kingdom.impregnable fortresses, formidable military might, and unassailable strength of arms are the envy of all.lessern powers. The individuals found and trained here from a very young age in combat, honor. Their leader, King Thaddeus was a tactical mastermind often touted for his battlefield wisdom.
Elara went on with the **Emberfall Empire** Emberfall itself lies under the shadow of an ancient volcanic mountains, which long ago became a symbol for their near constant struggle on every front in battle. The empire is home to some of the best blacksmiths and combatants in all corners of Leyraningen. The fiery aspect of Rexar is the charismatic-and-innovative-leader-vibe Emperor Darius, presented as a living embodiment. The inferno forge of the Empire is a crucible where strength and resolve are forged.
Somehow, even mentioning the **Frostpeak Dominion** made Elara's expression take on a pensive glint. Fractured Dreams Series Book TwoAn icy wasteland where the people prosper in their harsh… After all, the Frostpeak Dominion embodies the perseverance and willingness to endure so deeply ingrained in Rexar… The clans here are wild and free, fierce as life should be. Wise, old Eira commands the clan with respect as their matriarch Clan Chief; guiding them through each icy test that winters night.
She followed up with the **Stormwatch Province**. The storms that are constantly hitting the coast demonstrate to us how brutal and insatiable warfare is. Sea-dwelling sailors and storm mages, the residents are renowned for their nautical skills as well as their ability to withstand incredibly harsh storms. Their leader is Governor Maren, who can control the storms that have always plagued their lives.
The **Verdant Vale** Elara captured. A land, of green fields and productive farms; where men live with the changing seasons. The Vale is the preparation, growth side of battle. With their Cascadian way of life lady Seraphina rules her people feeling the prosperity and good health upon this land, revolts from the land's abundance.
**The Shaodowfen Enclave,** Elara turned her attention more somberly. A deeply wooded and swampy area, of which the shadows are king. Shadowfen is a land of quiet perseverance; its people are masters of herbs and poisons. The enigmatic Warden Nyssa rules from the shadows, representing the more skulking and tactical elements of warfare.
At this moment, Elara began to address the **Sunfire Territory**. "Land of rolling plains and fields kissed by the Sun, where wealth goes around. These lands form the base economic and strategic power essential for any successful nation. Lord Alistair governs the land with a focus on trade and diplomacy, smartly ensuring his peoples' prosperity by common law or tactful negotiation.
The Eldergrove village is located in one the great forest in Valorium.
Jarec soaked in the lengthy diatribes, hearing them for a second time with new ears. "Well, Valorium is significantly influenced by the tenets of Rexar; with each region representing various aspects of his ideology.
Elara nodded approvingly. "Yes, different regions have their ways of saluting and practicing the laws of war and courage. What Valorium has going from its highlands, to it's swamps and back up again is that diversity in how different parts of the continent contributes a piece or pieces of what makes you fall for this turbulant world.""
The more they talk the more fate Jarec starts to blend back in with his surroundings. Knowing there was more to Valorium than a bunch of regions tied by Rexar gave him perspective on this piece of the universe he had been manufactured in. He learned the tales of distant lands and their people, his desire sparked by that determination.
Lyria finally interjected as she watched the exchange with interest. "So, what's your plan now? Do you plan to remain in Eldergrove for long or —?
Jarec looked thoughtful. I believe we need to discover more, acquaint ourselves with the terrain. There is much to learn, and what you will learn from this world prepares one for beyond all that may follow."
Elara smiled warmly. "That's a wise decision. Valorium is a vast world with mysteries and opportunities all around. Just remember to stay vigilant and have faith in yourself. The land may present both allies and foes on your journey."
Jarec The night wore on, Jarec soona a feeling of belonging and understanding. The glow of the hearth, tales from Valorium, and hospitality shared by his hosts bought him a little time for peace on that long road. Having Velaris and knowing how expansive Valorium was, Jarec had thought he could meet whatever it took him to navigate the new land.