The gates of Everspring creaked open as Aurelith approached. Golden sunlight spilled through the entrance, illuminating a gathering of familiar faces that made her heart swell. Aelindor stood at the forefront, his silver hair catching the light. Beside him, the village advisors clustered together while Thalindor's beard twitched with barely contained excitement.
Her boots crunched on the gravel path as she crossed the threshold. Despite the exhaustion that weighed on her limbs, a smile tugged at her lips. Dried demon blood still clung to her armor, and her quiver hung nearly empty at her side.
"I'm back." Aurelith's voice carried across the courtyard, met with grins and knowing looks from her welcoming party.
"And in one piece, lass." Thalindor stepped forward, his eyes already assessing the state of her equipment. "Though that armor's seen better days."
"Welcome home, Aurelith." Aelindor's warm tone washed over her like a healing balm. He gestured toward the village hall. "I trust you have much to tell us."
The group fell into step around her as they made their way through the village. Lira appeared at her side, pressing a water skin into her hands. "Drink first, talk later."
The familiar wooden doors of the village hall swung open, revealing the circular chamber within. Sunlight streamed through the high windows, dancing across the carved wooden table where they conducted their most important meetings.
As they settled into their seats, Aurelith felt the tension in her shoulders begin to ease. Here, surrounded by those who had become her family, she could finally share the weight of what she'd discovered.
"Now then," Aelindor leaned forward in his chair, "tell us everything."
Aurelith spread her field maps across the wooden table, pointing to the marked locations.
"The first site showed signs of a skirmish, broken arrows, blood trails, and scorch marks from magical attacks. But what caught my attention were these." She traced her finger along the sketched patterns.
"Corruption markings, spreading in a spiral pattern from where the demons fell. The trees around that area had started to blacken, their leaves withering despite being in season."
She moved to the second location on the map. "Here, the corruption was more pronounced. The demon's presence had turned the soil ashen gray. The vegetation showed signs of decay extending about twenty feet in every direction. What's concerning is how the corruption seemed to pulse like it was alive, spreading through the root systems."
Aelindor leaned forward, his brow furrowed. "And the third site?"
"That's where I encountered three demons." Aurelith pulled out a detailed sketch. "The corruption there was different. Instead of spreading outward, it concentrated in specific patterns." She laid out her drawings of the markings. "These symbols appeared where the demons died. They match ancient texts about demon summoning rituals, but they're incomplete like fragments of a larger design."
She pointed to specific details in her sketches. "The trees near these markings didn't just die. They transformed. The bark turned black and crystalline, and the branches twisted in unnatural angles. Even the air felt wrong, heavier as if the corruption was seeping into the very essence of the forest."
"In all three locations, I found these recurring patterns." Aurelith arranged her sketches to show the similarities.
"They're not random. The demons are leaving these marks deliberately, possibly preparing for something larger. The corruption spreads faster in areas with more magical energy, and it seems to be drawn to ley lines."
Her fingers traced the path between the three sites. "The spacing between these locations isn't random either. They form an equilateral triangle, with each point exactly seven leagues apart. Whatever they're planning, these positions were chosen with purpose."
Aelorin's fingers drummed against the wooden table. "Tell us about the demons you encountered. Their formations, their behavior."
Aurelith traced the battle site on her map. "Three demons total. Two blade dancers carried corrupted steel longswords. The metal had turned black with veins of sickly purple running through it. They crouched by a makeshift camp, tearing into what looked like deer meat."
Her nose wrinkled at the memory. "The third, an archer, stood apart from them near the treeline."
She sketched quick marks on the parchment. "The archer focused on carving corruption markings into the trees and ground. Each stroke of their blade left trails of dark energy that seeped into the bark."
"How did you engage them?" Aelorin leaned forward, her warrior's mind already analyzing the tactical situation.
The archer posed the biggest threat with their corruption-spreading ritual, so Aurelith prioritized eliminating them first. She moved like a shadow through the dense underbrush, her centuries of forest training evident in each silent step.
When she finally had clear sight of the archer's exposed neck, she struck with lethal precision. Her enchanted dagger sliced through corrupted flesh with a whisper, and she caught the demon's body before it could crumple noisily to the ground.
She shifted the worn map slightly, her eyes flickering with the memory.
"The sword demons hadn't noticed their companion's death at first but somehow learned about it just moments later. but by that time I was already nocking an arrow, channeling wind magic into its shaft, the specialized kind that creates violent micro-turbulence around the arrowhead. When it struck the first dancer's neck, the wind magic shredded through muscle and bone like leaves in a storm. Not even their corrupted armor could withstand the focused destruction."
The advisors exchanged glances at the mention of her wind enhancement technique, a rare skill that had taken her decades to master.
"The last demon charged at me with its blade." Aurelith traced her finger across the map, recreating the battle scene. "I had no choice but to meet it head-on."
Her voice remained steady as she described infusing her entire body with wind magic, pushing it to its absolute limits. The magic coursed through her muscles and bones, transforming her movements into something beyond mortal capability.
The demon's corrupted blades whistled through empty air as she darted past its defenses, her daggers finding vital points with surgical precision.
The room fell into a heavy silence. Aurelith glanced up from her map, puzzled by the sudden tension. Even Aelindor's usual calm demeanor had shifted to something more grave.
Nimroth cleared his throat. "And what happened when you pushed wind enhancement to such extremes? This was your first time, wasn't it?"
"Oh, that." Aurelith shrugged. "All the muscles in my legs tore. But Elena's healing potion worked perfectly, good as new within hours."
"That explains the blood on your leggings," Aelorin pointed to the dark stains visible beneath the tears in her armor.
A chill ran down Aurelith's spine as she registered the shift in atmosphere. Every advisor, from Nimroth to Aelorin, fixed her with intense stares. Even Aelindor's usually warm gaze had turned sharp and critical. The temperature in the room seemed to drop several degrees as their collective disapproval bore into her.
She'd faced demons with less trepidation than she felt under their combined glares. The realization slowly dawned on her. Perhaps treating such a serious injury so casually hadn't been the wisest choice.
"I had to push myself because…" Aurelith's words were cut short by Aelorin slamming her palm on the table.
"Reckless! Absolutely reckless!" Aelorin's eyes blazed. "I taught you better than to destroy your own body like that. What if the healing potion hadn't worked? What if there had been more demons?"
"But I calculated the risks…"
"Calculated?" Aelindor's voice carried a sharp edge she'd rarely heard. "There was nothing calculated about tearing your legs apart. You could have been stranded out there, alone."
Caladwen's lips curled into a sneer. "And here I thought you were actually intelligent. Seems I overestimated you."
"The wind enhancement technique isn't meant for full-body application," Nimroth's scholarly tone carried disappointment. "The magical theory alone should have told you…"
"I understand the theory," Aurelith straightened her spine. "But in that moment…"
"In that moment you chose to gamble with your life," Thalorin cut in, his deep voice rumbling with concern. "What good are you to anyone if you're dead?"
"Listen, I…"
"No, you listen," Aelorin's voice rose. "This isn't about your skill or your power. This is about your complete disregard for your own safety!"
Each attempt at explanation only fueled their concerns, their voices overlapping in a crescendo of worry and disappointment. Aurelith's shoulders slumped lower with each rebuke, the weight of their words pressing down on her.
Finally, she bowed her head. "I'm sorry. You're right. It was reckless. I should have found another way." Her voice dropped to barely above a whisper. "It won't happen again."
The tension in the room shifted as Thalorin stroked his beard, his eyes softening. "Lass, you're the youngest advisor Everspring has ever had. Book knowledge isn't the same as battlefield experience."
"He's right," Aelorin crossed her arms. "Reading about demon combat and facing one are worlds apart. Your tactical mind is sharp, but theory can only take you so far."
Aurelith's shoulders dropped further. "I understand. My actions were born of inexperience. I apologize for causing everyone such worry."
"What did you learn from this encounter?" Nimroth leaned forward, his scholarly interest piqued.
"The wind enhancement technique..." Aurelith's eyes fixed on the table.
"I pushed it beyond its limits because I panicked. The texts mentioned demons' superior strength and speed, but experiencing it firsthand..." She shook her head.
"Instead of adapting my strategy, I resorted to brute force. The damage to my legs could have left me defenseless if there had been more enemies."
Aelorin nodded. "And?"
"I should have maintained distance, used the terrain to my advantage. The forest offered plenty of cover for guerrilla tactics." Aurelith's fingers traced the battle map. "My arrows and wind magic would have been more effective from range. Instead, I engaged in close combat and nearly crippled myself."
The room fell silent, the weight of her words hanging in the air. Sunlight streamed through the high windows, dust motes dancing in the golden beams.
Aelindor's voice broke through the quiet, warm and relieved. "We're all glad you made it home safe, Aurelith."
Aurelith wiped her face with her sleeve, attempting to regain her composure. "Well, at least I brought back some demon parts for study. Though they're probably not as intact as…" Her voice cracked, and tears spilled down her cheeks. She pressed her palms against her eyes, but the dam had broken. Years of pressure, of trying to be perfect, of pushing herself beyond limits, came pouring out in quiet sobs.
"Now look what you've done, Aelindor." Thalorin's eyes twinkled with mischief. "You made the poor lass cry."
"What? But I…" Aelindor's silver brows furrowed in confusion.
"Such a stern father figure." Aelorin shook her head, fighting back a smile. "Making your daughter cry in front of everyone."
"That's not…" Aelindor's protests were cut short by Nimroth's theatrical sigh.
"And here I thought you were the gentle one among us." Nimroth clicked his tongue.
"You all scolded her just as much as I did!" Aelindor's ears reddened. "Why am I suddenly the villain?"
Thalorin stroked his beard. "Ah, but you're the father figure. That makes it worse."
Even through her tears, Aurelith couldn't help but laugh at Aelindor's flustered expression. The sound came out as a half-sob, half-giggle that set the other advisors chuckling.
Aelindor let out a long-suffering sigh and rose from his chair. He walked over to Aurelith and placed a gentle hand on her head, just as he had done countless times since she was a child.
"Good job coming home safe," he said softly. "Just... try not to worry your old man so much next time."
As the situation subsided, Caladwen cleared his throat, determined to lighten the mood further. "Well, at least she didn't end up like that demon who walked into a bar." He paused for dramatic effect. "He got a splitting headache."
The room fell into dead silence. Aurelith wiped away the last of her tears to stare at him in disbelief. Thalorin's beard twitched as he struggled to maintain his composure.
"By the ancient trees," Aelorin pinched the bridge of her nose. "That was terrible."
"What? It's because demons split into…" Caladwen's attempt to explain his joke only made it worse.
"Please stop," Nimroth held up his hand. "You're making my ears hurt."
Thalorin burst into deep, rumbling laughter. "Lad, stick to your books. Comedy isn't your strong suit."
"I thought it was rather..." Caladwen's defense trailed off as the entire room erupted in laughter.
"If you keep this up, you'll become the village jester instead of an advisor," Aelindor's eyes crinkled with mirth.
"Remember when he tried to make that jest about the enchanted scroll last month?" Aelorin wiped tears from her eyes. "Even the apprentices were embarrassed for him."
Caladwen's ears turned bright red as his colleagues continued to roast his attempts at humor. Even Aurelith, who moments ago had been crying, now clutched her sides with laughter.
"At least I'm trying to…" Caladwen started.
"No, please don't try anymore," Nimroth cut him off, shoulders shaking. "We can only handle so much secondhand embarrassment in one day."
As the laughter faded from the chamber, Aurelith reached into her enchanted pouch and spread the demon remains across the table. The corrupted items cast an eerie purple glow across the wooden surface.
"I collected everything I could." She arranged the specimens methodically. "The weapons still pulse with dark energy, and the corruption hasn't faded even after death."
Aelorin picked up one of the blackened blades, the bow and some arrows, her keen eyes studying the purple veins that ran through the metal.
"The craftsmanship is unlike anything I've seen. These weren't forged by human hands." She gathered the weapon fragments and pieces of corrupted armor.
"I'll analyze their composition in the training grounds."
Caladwen's attention fixed on the sections of tree trunk bearing the demon's markings. His fingers traced the air above the corrupted symbols, careful not to make contact.
"These patterns... they're similar to ancient demonic texts, but the structure is different." He collected the marked pieces, already lost in scholarly contemplation.
"The bodies are remarkably intact." Nimroth leaned over the demon remains. "The corruption seems to have preserved them somehow." He wrapped the specimens in protective cloth before gathering them. "This will help us understand their physiology better."
Thalorin selected several samples of corrupted vegetation, tree bark, grass, and soil. "The spread pattern here could tell us how their magic affects the natural world."
"Good." Aelindor rose from his chair. "I want everyone to investigate their findings thoroughly. We'll reconvene once you've had time to study the evidence." His silver hair caught the sunlight as he surveyed his advisors. "This information could be crucial to understanding what we're facing."
* * *
After the samples were distributed, Aurelith turned to Aelindor. "What news did I miss during my investigation?"
Thalorin straightened in his chair. "We sent word to Seraphine about accepting the alliance. The messenger returned with this." He pulled out an echoshard from his robes, its crystalline surface gleaming in the chamber's light.
"Shortly after the messenger's return, we received our first communication." Thalorin placed the crystal on the table. "Seraphine expressed her joy at finding, in her words, 'a reliable ally for the cause.'"
The room fell into an uneasy silence. Aurelith's gaze darted between the faces of her fellow advisors, noting their tense expressions.
"Why do I feel there's more to this message?" Her fingers drummed against the wooden table.
Aelindor's silver hair caught the light as he leaned forward. "Listen carefully." He activated the echoshard with a gentle touch.
Seraphine's voice filled the chamber, clear and measured, each word carrying the weight of diplomatic consideration: "In light of our new alliance, I have a proposal. Your advisor, Aurelith, shows remarkable potential. Her reputation for strategic brilliance has not gone unnoticed, even from afar. We at Stonehold would welcome her presence here, where she could gain invaluable experience working directly, not under but, with our forces. The challenges we face against the demon armies could benefit greatly from her unique perspective. Consider this an open invitation for her to join us."
The crystal's resonance gave her words an almost ethereal quality, hanging in the air like autumn leaves caught in a gentle breeze.
The crystal's glow faded, leaving Aurelith staring at the now-dormant echoshard. Her golden-brown eyes widened, flecks of red and orange swirling in their depths as she processed the unexpected offer.
"She wants me to go to Stonehold?" Aurelith's voice came out barely above a whisper.
The chamber fell into a heavy silence after Seraphine's message faded. Aelindor's face remained unreadable, his eyes fixed on the echoshard.
Thalorin broke the quiet first, his voice carrying the measured tone of diplomatic consideration. "This could be an invaluable experience for you, Aurelith. Working directly with Stonehold's forces would broaden your understanding of military tactics beyond our forest borders."
"Indeed." Nimroth's scholarly demeanor brightened. "Such practical exposure might help channel that... enthusiasm of yours into more calculated approaches. Perhaps then we won't have to worry about you facing three demons alone."
Aelorin nodded, her practical nature showing through. "Books and training can only teach so much. In Stonehold, you'll get hands-on experience with everything we've taught you. The dwarven military structure alone would be worth studying."
The room turned to Aelindor, who finally lifted his gaze to meet Aurelith's. "The choice remains yours, but consider this. If you still plan to claim your rightful position, such an alliance could prove crucial." His voice softened. "Though as your guardian, I must warn you. The journey ahead holds great danger. Think carefully before you decide."
Caladwen's face twisted into a smirk as he crossed his arms. "No matter how hard you struggle or how many demons you defeat single-handedly, I'll become chief before you. Your reckless actions only prove you're not fit for leadership."
Aurelith's face sparkled with amusement. "Oh? And here I thought your nose was permanently stuck in those dusty tomes. How will you lead from behind a mountain of books?"
"At least I know the value of knowledge over blind action." Caladwen's fingers tightened around his sleeves. "Unlike someone who charges into battle without…"
"It's time, Caladwen." Aelindor's voice cut through their bickering. "There's something you need to know."
Aurelith's eyes widened, her playful demeanor vanishing. "Must he? Chief, I…"
"He should know." Thalorin's gentle but firm voice supported Aelindor's decision. "It's been long enough."
Aelindor leaned forward, his silver hair catching the light. "Caladwen, listen carefully. What I'm about to tell you must never leave this room." He paused, his gaze intense. "Aurelith is the princess of Emberveil."
Caladwen's smirk froze on his face, then slowly melted away as the weight of Aelindor's words sank in.
Caladwen's eyes darted from face to face around the chamber, seeking confirmation. One by one, the advisors nodded solemnly. His face drained of color as the reality of the situation crashed over him like a tidal wave.
"The princess of... but that means..." His normally eloquent speech, fragmented into broken phrases. The scholar's hands trembled as he gripped the edge of the table. "All this time?"
Memories flooded his mind. Every snide comment, every dismissive gesture, every competitive jab he'd thrown at Aurelith over the decades. His face cycled through a spectrum of emotions: shock, disbelief, horror, shame. The blood drained from his features as each recollection hit harder than the last.
"I called you..." His voice cracked. "Last month, I said your strategic planning was fit for a village idiot." He ran his hands through his hair, tugging at the strands in distress. "Two months ago, I compared your archery skills to a blind troll's."
Caladwen slumped in his chair, his usual composed demeanor shattered. "By the ancient trees, I told the princess of Emberveil to go stuff her head in a beehive."
His eyes grew wide with mounting horror. "The jokes about your heritage... I said you must have been raised by squirrels because no elf could be that scattered..." Each memory seemed to physically pain him, making him sink lower in his seat.
The proud scholar looked like a man who'd just discovered he'd been juggling dragon eggs. The magnitude of his past actions crushing down on him with devastating clarity. His face flushed deep red, then pale, then red again as he remembered every interaction through this new lens.
"Why wasn't I told?" He whispered, his voice barely audible. "All these years..."
A smirk played across Aurelith's lips as she watched Caladwen's meltdown. "Now this is something for the history books. The great scholar of Everspring, reduced to a stammering mess." She leaned back in her chair, savoring the moment. "Should I make notes? Document this rare occurrence for future generations?"
Caladwen's face cycled through another shade of red.
"Oh, how the mighty have fallen." Aurelith's face sparkled with mischief. "Remember last spring when you said my battle tactics belonged in a children's fairytale? I wonder what other gems of wisdom you've bestowed upon your future queen."
"Aurelith." Aelindor's voice carried a note of warning, but she pressed on.
"Wait, wasn't it you who suggested I'd have better luck herding cats than leading missions? The irony is just..." She gestured expansively, "...delicious."
"That's enough." Aelindor's firm tone cut through her amusement. He turned to Caladwen, who looked ready to sink through the floor. "We kept this from you for a reason. The fewer people who knew Aurelith's true identity, the safer she would be. The demons who destroyed Emberveil still hunt for her."
"The knowledge of her heritage was shared only with those who needed to know, me, Thalorin, and a select few others who were present when she arrived." Aelindor's silver hair caught the light as he leaned forward. "Your rivalry with her, though sometimes problematic, helped maintain her cover. No one would suspect a princess would engage in such... spirited debates with an advisor."
Caladwen's mouth opened and closed several times, but no words emerged. The revelation had effectively silenced the usually verbose scholar.
Thalorin's diplomatic demeanor softened as he addressed Caladwen. "You were exactly what she needed a fresh graduate from Aurora's Grace Academy, specializing in investigation tactics. Your passion for knowledge, your dedication to books... it made you the perfect mentor."
"Perfect might be stretching it." Nimroth's eyes crinkled with amusement. "But your academic achievements were impressive. Your research methods and analytical skills provided a foundation Aurelith desperately needed."
Aelorin let out a short laugh. "Even if you can't hold a bow straight to save your life, your thirst for knowledge is unmatched. The way you devour books like they're your last meal. It's both impressive and slightly concerning."
"The council saw an opportunity." Thalorin gestured between them. "Someone closer to Aurelith's age, someone who could show her the power of knowledge firsthand."
Aurelith's expression softened as she looked at her longtime rival. "I didn't like the idea at first. Being paired with someone who seemed to exist solely to challenge everything I did?" She shook her head, auburn hair catching the light. "But they were right. Your drive pushed me to be better, to think deeper, to question everything."
She met Caladwen's stunned gaze. "I feel terrible for using you like this, but I couldn't refuse such a golden opportunity. Your rivalry forced me to grow in ways I never expected." She paused, fingers tracing patterns on the wooden table. "Even if you were insufferably smug about it most of the time."
Caladwen sat there, processing this new information, his worldview shifting like leaves in an autumn wind. The realization that his role in Aurelith's life had been carefully orchestrated from the beginning left him speechless.
Caladwen rose from his chair, his shoulders squared despite the visible tension in his frame. "Your Highness, I must apologize for my past behavior. The things I said were…"
"Stop." Aurelith lifted her hand, cutting through his formal tone. "If you start treating me like some delicate royal flower, I'll stuff your precious books down the nearest hollow tree."
"But the things I said…"
"Were exactly what I needed." Aurelith's eyes fixed on him.
"I'll accept your apology on one condition. You keep treating me exactly as you have been. No bowing, no 'Your Highness,' no walking on eggshells."
Caladwen blinked rapidly, processing her words. "You want me to continue insulting you?"
"Well, someone needs to keep my ego in check." Her lips curved into a smile. "Though perhaps lay off the jokes about Emberveil. Those hit a bit too close to home."
Color returned to Caladwen's face as he straightened.
"I... understand. You have my word. I'll never mock Emberveil or its legacy again." He paused, a hint of his usual confidence returning.
"But your strategic planning still needs work."
"And your archery still looks like a drunk squirrel trying to dance." Aurelith's eyes sparkled with mischief. "At least the squirrel might occasionally hit its target."
Laughter echoed through the chamber as Aurelith and Caladwen traded their familiar barbs, the tension from earlier revelations dissolving into the comfortable rhythm of their usual banter. Even Aelindor's stoic demeanor cracked, a smile playing at the corners of his mouth.
"Since you two seem to have found your footing again," Aelindor's eyes twinkled, "Caladwen, would you be interested in working more closely with Aurelith? The position is open."
Caladwen's mouth fell open, his quick wit failing him for the second time that day.
"You're one of the resources I need to achieve my goals," Aurelith said seriously despite her earlier playfulness.
"Your knowledge, your research skills. They're invaluable."
"What exactly are you planning?" Caladwen's voice carried a mix of curiosity and caution.
Aurelith's spine straightened, her bearing suddenly every inch the princess she was born to be. "I plan to retake Emberveil and restore it to its former glory. It won't be quick. We're looking at decades of work but if you're interested, there's a place for you in this endeavor."
Caladwen's eyes widened to the size of dinner plates, his usual eloquence deserting him once again.
Nimroth and Aelorin exchanged knowing grins. "Look at that," Nimroth chuckled, "we've finally found something that leaves our resident scholar speechless. Three times in one day. T that must be some sort of record."
"Give him time," Aelorin added with a smirk. "His brain's probably still processing the fact that he's been inadvertently training the future queen of Emberveil all these years."
"Of course," Aurelith nodded, amusement dancing in her eyes. "Take all the time you need, Caladwen. Though preferably before the next century rolls around."
Aelindor's silver hair caught the evening light as he surveyed the room. "Is there anything else we need to address?"
"Yes, about those refugees you encountered." Thalorin leaned forward. "They mentioned a demon among them?"
Aurelith's features gleamed.
"The demon thought it blended in perfectly. But its movements were too precise, too calculated. No refugee stumbling through the forest moves like that."
"How did you handle it?" Aelorin's interest peaked.
"I watched it from the moment the group approached. When the right moment came, I struck." Aurelith's fingers traced an invisible line across her neck. "One clean cut between the third and fourth vertebrae. Its head came off before it realized I knew what it was."
Nimroth's eyebrows shot up. "You severed its spine without alerting the others?"
"Actually, I cut its head off in front of everyone," Aurelith corrected, her auburn hair catching the fading light. "The refugees needed to understand the danger. Demons are getting better at mimicking appearances. They had to see it with their own eyes."
Nimroth leaned forward. "And?"
"They were furious at first. Called me a murderer." Aurelith's lips curved into a wry smile. "But when the head rolled and the glamour faded, revealing those obsidian eyes and scaled skin... well, their tune changed rather quickly."
"The refugees thanked me afterward. Said they'd never have known until it was too late." She shrugged. "Sometimes the harsh truth is better than comfortable ignorance."
"Brilliant," Aelorin nodded approvingly. "Not just eliminating the threat, but turning it into a teaching moment. That's the kind of thinking we need."
Nimroth's eyes sparkled with pride. "Using the situation to educate others about demon infiltration tactics. That's exactly what I'd expect from my best student."
Aelindor rose from his chair, his silver hair gleaming in the dying light. "I believe we've covered everything for today." His gaze softened as he looked at Aurelith. "Get some rest. You've earned it. And take some time to consider Seraphine's offer. Stonehold could provide valuable experience."
The other advisors stood, gathering their materials. Each paused to address Aurelith on their way out.
"Sleep well," Thalorin smiled warmly.
"Don't forget to think about Stonehold," Nimroth added.
"Rest up," Aelorin clasped her shoulder. "You'll need your strength for whatever comes next."
* * *
I stepped out of the village hall, my muscles aching from the long meeting. The market's familiar bustle wrapped around me, a welcome change from the tense atmosphere inside.
A new stall caught my eye. One of the refugees from Stonehold had set up shop, the aroma of freshly baked pies drawing curious customers.
The woman behind the counter looked up as I approached. Her weathered face broke into a warm smile. "Advisor Aurelith! We heard about your return."
"How are you settling in?" I leaned against her wooden counter, taking in the neat rows of golden-crusted pies.
"Better than we could've hoped. The people here..." She wiped her hands on her apron. "They've been so kind. Here…" She wrapped one of her pies in cloth. "For bringing us safely to Everspring."
"Oh, I couldn't…"
"Please, I insist." She pressed the warm package into my hands.
Before I could protest further, the wine merchant two stalls down called out. "Lady Aurelith! A drink for our brave advisor?" He held up a bottle of amber liquid.
The fruit vendor joined in, offering fresh juice. Soon I found myself laden with gifts. The community's way of showing gratitude for my safe return.
"Thank you, all of you." My throat tightened at their generosity.
I found a spot under an old oak tree, its leaves casting dancing shadows on the ground. The pie's crust crumbled perfectly, revealing savory meat and vegetables inside. I alternated between sips of wine and juice, letting the market's peaceful atmosphere wash over me.
Once finished, I gathered my things and headed toward Elena's shop. The gifts had lifted my spirits more than I'd expected. Sometimes it was easy to forget that behind all the strategy meetings and combat reports, there were real people whose lives we were protecting.
I pushed open the door to Elena's shop, the familiar tingle of magical wards washing over my skin. The bell chimed, and Elena's head snapped up from her workbench. Her eyes lit up like a child during the harvest festival.
"You're back! Did you bring me anything?" She practically bounced around her counter, knocking over a few empty vials in her excitement.
I couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm. "Actually..." I reached into my pack and pulled out the carefully wrapped demon remains. "I found something rather unique during my mission."
Elena's eyes widened as I unwrapped the package. The demon scales caught the afternoon light streaming through her window, their surface shifting between deep purple and midnight blue.
"These scales..." I traced one with my finger. "They're different from any demon I've encountered before. The iridescence remained even after death."
"Fascinating!" Elena pulled on her work gloves and lifted one of the scales closer to her face. "The crystalline structure appears to be maintaining its magical properties despite cellular breakdown." She grabbed her magnifying glass from her workbench. "And you say this came from the demons you encountered?"
"Yes, but be careful. The body's already decomposing."
Elena waved off my concern, already sorting through her collection of preservation jars.
"Please, I've handled worse. Remember that rotting troll liver from last spring?" She efficiently began preparing the specimen for study, her movements precise and practiced.
"This could provide valuable insights into demon physiology. Thank you, Aurelith."
"Just promise you'll share your findings with me?"
"Of course! Though you might regret asking when I start rambling about cellular structures and magical resonance patterns."
I caught Elena staring at me with that familiar glint in her eyes, the one that spelled trouble. A shiver ran down my spine as her lips curved into a mischievous smile.
"No. Don't tell me…"
"It's experiment time!" Elena clapped her hands together.
"Not another potion experiment." I backed away from her workbench. "Remember what happened last time? My skin turned blue for a week."
"But this one's different!" She rummaged through her shelves, pulling out a small crystal vial filled with shimmering liquid. "I've perfected the formula."
"Elena..."
"Please?" She batted her eyes at me. "You're the only one I trust with my experimental potions."
I crossed my arms. "That's because everyone else knows better."
"Just one tiny drop?"
Those pleading eyes. I'd faced down demons with less difficulty than resisting Elena's enthusiasm. My shoulders slumped in defeat.
"Fine. What's it supposed to do?"
Elena bounced on her toes. "It promotes hair growth! If it works, we could help all those poor dwarves who lost their beards in forge accidents."
"Well..." I touched my hair. "At least if it goes wrong, I can just cut it."
"Perfect! Hold still." Elena uncorked the vial, carefully tilting it to get a single drop.
Her hand slipped.
"Elena, wait…"
The drop landed squarely on my left eyebrow. We both froze, staring at each other in horror.
"That... wasn't supposed to happen." Elena's voice came out in a squeak.
My left eyebrow tingled. Then it started growing. And growing. And growing.
"Elena!" I swatted at the hair now dangling in front of my eye. "Do something!"
"Don't panic!" Elena grabbed scissors from her workbench. "I'll fix this!"
The eyebrow hair reached my chin, then kept extending. Elena lunged forward with the scissors.
"Stop trying to cut it!" I batted her hands away. "With this growth speed, there's no end! Find an antidote!"
"But it's growing so fast…"
"An antidote! Why are you trying to cut instead of finding something to stop this?"
Elena froze mid-snip, scissors hovering in the air. "Oh. Right. Why didn't I think of that?"
"ELENA!"
She jumped at my scream, dropping the scissors. "Sorry! Sorry!"
The eyebrow now reached my waist, a curtain of dark hair obscuring half my vision. Elena scrambled to her shelves, knocking over bottles in her haste.
"It has to be here somewhere..." She rummaged through various potions, muttering to herself. "No, not the strength potion... definitely not the fire resistance..."
"Hurry up!" The hair was now pooling at my feet.
"Found it!" Elena snatched a small blue bottle from the back of her highest shelf. "This should counteract the growth formula!"
I reached for the bottle, but my newly-grown eyebrow had tangled around my arm. "Just give me the antidote before I trip over my own eyebrow!"
Elena burst into laughter, doubling over as she held the antidote. "I'm sorry, I just… your face… and the eyebrow…"
"This isn't funny!" I swatted at the still-growing hair. "Give me that bottle!"
She wiped tears from her eyes and uncorked the vial. The liquid inside looked... wrong. Greenish-brown and viscous, it clung to the sides of the bottle like old honey gone bad. My stomach turned at the sight.
"Elena, that looks terrible."
"Trust me, this is definitely the antidote." She dipped a finger in, and the substance stretched between the bottle and her hand in sticky strings. "I know it looks... unusual, but it'll work!"
My eyebrow had reached the floor and started coiling around my feet. The weight of it pulled at my forehead. "Are you absolutely certain?"
"Would I give you something dangerous?" She paused. "Don't answer that."
The hair grew another foot while I debated. At this rate, I'd need a cart just to carry my eyebrow around Everspring.
"Fine." I closed my eyes and tilted my head. "Just do it."
Elena's fingers touched my eyebrow, spreading the cold, slimy substance along its length. It felt like slugs crawling across my skin. I suppressed a shudder.
"There!" Elena stepped back. "Now we wait."
I cracked one eye open. The endless stream of hair had finally stopped growing. Relief flooded through me until I noticed Elena's expression.
"Why are you making that face?"
"What face?" She tried to look innocent. "I'm not making any face."
"Elena..."
"Well..." She twisted her hands together. "The good news is your eyebrow stopped growing."
"And the bad news?"
"The antidote might take a few hours to... reverse the growth," Elena said, wringing her hands nervously. "Maybe three or four. Six at most."
"Can't we just cut it?" I gathered the endless stream of hair in my hands. "This is ridiculous. I can't walk around looking like I'm wearing half a curtain on my face."
Elena shook her head, her eyes sparkling with that dangerous curiosity I'd come to fear. "There's no guarantee what might happen when the reversal kicks in. The hair could grow back wrong, or…" She bounced on her toes.
"Actually, it might be fascinating to see the effects! Think about it. If we cut it now, we could observe how the magic redistributes itself."
"Elena." I narrowed my eyes. "You're not using my eyebrow for another experiment."
"But what if it grows back in spirals? Or changes color?" She leaned closer, examining the still-excessive length. "The worst case is you'll end up with no hair on your left eyebrow."
"No hair! Elena!"
"Which would also be interesting to document!" She grabbed her notebook. "We could track the regrowth patterns…"
"Absolutely not." I dropped the mass of hair, letting it pool around my feet. "I'm not risking a bald eyebrow for your research."
"Fine." She pouted, setting down her quill. "But you're missing out on a unique opportunity for magical study."
"I'll survive the disappointment." I slumped against her workbench. "How long did you say this would take?"
I stared at the pile of eyebrow hair around my feet, my stomach sinking. The auburn strands formed a small mountain of silk-like threads that practically mocked me. "A few hours?" My voice came out higher than intended.
"But hey, at least it's not still growing!" Elena backed away from my glare, bumping into her workbench and rattling several glass vials. She gave a weak laugh.
"Maybe we could braid it? You know, make the best of the situation? I hear eyebrow braids are quite fashionable in some circles..."
"ELENA!" I screamed at the top of my lungs, my patience finally snapping. The force of my shout made the nearby candles flicker, and I could feel my face burning with a mix of embarrassment and frustration.
I slumped in Elena's worn leather chair, watching my reflection in her brass mirror as my eyebrow slowly retracted. The mountain of hair on the floor shrank with each passing minute until finally, mercifully, my eyebrow returned to its normal length.
Elena snorted, trying to contain her laughter. "You should have seen your face when it first started growing."
"I'm never testing your potions again." I shot her a dark look.
"Oh come on, you looked like a very confused cat with all that hair in your face." She doubled over, shoulders shaking. "Remember when you tried to drink your tea and got a mouthful of eyebrow instead?"
"That's not…" I tried to maintain my stern expression, but Elena's infectious laughter cracked my resolve. The corner of my mouth twitched. "It wasn't that funny."
"It absolutely was." She wiped tears from her eyes. "And the way you kept tripping over it? Priceless."
Despite my best efforts, a chuckle escaped. "Fine. Maybe it was a little amusing."
"There's the smile I was looking for!" Elena rummaged through her shelves. "Here, I have something for you. And no, it's not another experimental potion."
She pulled out a small crystal vial filled with pale golden liquid. "Lavender and chamomile oil. For your muscles after that long journey. Just add a few drops to your bath."
The oil caught the afternoon light, tiny sparkles dancing within. I took the vial, uncorking it to catch its soothing scent.
"Thank you, Elena." I tucked the vial into my pocket. "Though I'm still not testing any more of your potions."
"We'll see about that." She grinned. "I have this fascinating new formula I'm working on…"
"No!"
"But…"
"Absolutely not."
* * *
The scent of coal and hot metal greeted me as I pushed open the heavy wooden door to Thalindor's forge. The dwarf stood by his workbench, his silver-streaked beard neatly braided and his leather apron already covered in soot despite the early hour.
"I wondered when you'd show up." His eyes crinkled at the corners.
"Miss me already? We just saw each other this morning." I set my weapons on his bench. "Thanks for checking on me at the gate, by the way. Though I think Elena's potion was worse than any demon wound."
He let out a belly laugh that shook his whole frame. "How's that eyebrow doing?"
"Back to normal, thank the stars." I touched it self-consciously. "But I'd rather face three more demons than test another of her experiments."
"Speaking of demons." He picked up my bow, running his calloused fingers along its length. "How'd my babies perform?"
"Like a dream." I unstrapped my armor. "The draw weight is perfect now, and the new string sang true with every shot. The armor..." I gestured to my blood-stained leggings. "Well, it kept me alive."
"Aye, I see you've added some interesting red detailing." He squinted at the dried blood. "Not quite the color scheme I had in mind when I crafted it."
"What can I say? I'm an artist at heart."
Thalindor snorted and began examining each piece of equipment with meticulous care. His thick fingers traced every scratch and dent, making small sounds of disapproval at particularly deep marks.
"You really put these through their paces, lass." He held up my dagger to the light. "Though I suppose that's what they're for."
"There's something else I need to ask you about." I shifted my weight, wincing at the lingering pain in my legs. "Remember that wind magic technique we discussed last month?"
Thalindor's bushy eyebrows shot up. "The one I specifically told you was too risky without proper protection?"
"I might have used it." I traced the fresh scratches on my armor, feeling the rough edges beneath my fingertips.
"I faced a situation where if I didn't use it, the demon might have overwhelmed me, and I couldn't let that happen. Not when others were counting on me. So I channeled the wind to launch myself forward, just like we discussed."
"By the forge!" He slammed his hammer down with such force that the tools on his workbench rattled. "Show me your legs. Now."
I rolled up my leggings, wincing at the tender flesh as I revealed the purple-black bruising that spread across my calves and thighs like spilled ink.
"The impact was... more intense than I expected. The force propelled me faster than any arrow I've ever shot, but the landing…" I gestured at the mottled skin. Though Elena's potions had worked their usual miracles and I could walk properly now, the damage wasn't completely gone. The memory of that bone-jarring impact still made me shudder.
"Nearly shattered your bones, I'd wager." He prodded the bruises with expert fingers, his touch gentle despite his gruff demeanor. Each press made me bite back a wince.
"You're lucky you're still walking, lass. Damned lucky."
"That's why I'm here." I met his concerned gaze steadily. "Is there a way to reinforce the armor? Something to absorb that kind of impact if I need to use that technique again? Because we both know there will be a next time."
Thalindor stroked his beard, his eyes taking on that distant look he got when solving complex engineering problems.
"Could layer the greaves with reinforced padding, maybe incorporate some shock-absorbing runes. But lass, even the finest armor has limits."
"I know, but having the option could mean the difference between life and death. Not just for me, but for others too."
"Hmph." He pulled out a worn leather notebook and began sketching. "I might have an idea. Remember those ancient Emberveil texts you brought me last year? There was something about impact-resistant enchantments.
Combined with some dwarven metalwork principles..." His pencil flew across the page. "It'll take time, and resources we don't have much of, but…"
"Whatever it costs, I'll cover it." The mention of Emberveil texts made my heart skip, but I kept my voice steady.
"Thank you, Thalindor. Your improvements have saved my life more times than I can count." I traced the sketches in his notebook, admiring the intricate rune work.
"Just promise me one thing." He set down his pencil and fixed me with a stern look.
"Train properly before you try that wind technique again. I've seen too many young warriors rush into mastering advanced skills without proper preparation. Don't let your eagerness outpace your abilities."
"I promise." I pressed my hand to my heart. "No more improvising with untested techniques."
"Good." He nodded, satisfied. "Now, what's this I hear about Seraphine inviting you to Stonehold?"
"Word travels fast." I leaned against his workbench. "She wants to collaborate on investigating the increased demon activity in Stonehold. What do you think? Should I accept?"
Thalindor wiped his hands on a cloth, leaving streaks of coal dust. "If I were in your boots? I'd accept without hesitation."
"Really?" I raised an eyebrow. "Even with all the risks?"
"Think about it, lass. What's there to lose? You're already investigating the demons. Having Stonehold's resources and information at your disposal would only help." He picked up a hammer, testing its weight.
"And Seraphine didn't ask you to work for her. She asked you to work with her. That's a crucial difference."
"But can we trust them?"
"Trust is earned through action, not words." He set the hammer down with a solid thunk. "This could be the first step toward building that trust. Besides, Stonehold's smiths have access to materials and techniques we can only dream of here. The potential benefits far outweigh the risks."
"Thank you, Thalindor. Your advice means more than you know." I pushed myself off the workbench, my muscles protesting the movement. "Though if I do accept Seraphine's invitation to Stonehold, you might regret being so encouraging."
"Oh?" His thick eyebrows lifted. "And why's that?"
"You know how Stonehold's warriors are." I gestured to my weapons laid out on his bench. "Once they see your craftsmanship, the requests will pour in faster than ale at a dwarven feast. Every fighter will want their own set."
A slow grin spread across Thalindor's face, his eyes twinkling with unmistakable pride and anticipation. "Bring them here. Every last one of them."
"You sure about that? You're already swamped with work for Everspring."
"Lass, do you know how long it's been since I've had a proper challenge?" He patted his forge with affection. "Besides, showing those Stonehold smiths what a 'humble village blacksmith' can do? Worth every sleepless night."
"I'll let you know once I've made my decision." I gathered my weapons, careful not to aggravate my bruises. "Though something tells me you're already planning improvements to your forge."
His only response was another grin as I headed for the door, the familiar scent of coal and metal following me out into the cool morning air.
The marketplace bustled with its usual morning energy, but I spotted Lira's silver hair easily among the crowd. She lounged against a fruit stall, haggling with the merchant over a basket of apples.
"Three silver for these? They're barely bigger than acorns." Lira held up one of the fruits, turning it in the sunlight.
"Save your breath," I called out. "Old Finn never budges on his prices."
Lira's face lit up. "Look who finally emerged from Thalindor's smoke den." She tossed a coin to the merchant and pocketed two apples. "Want to grab a drink? The tavern's quiet this time of day."
We made our way to The Dancing Pines, our usual haunt. The tavern smelled of fresh-baked bread and pine smoke, with morning light streaming through the windows. We claimed our favorite corner table, away from prying ears.
"So," Lira bit into her apple, "what's on your mind? You've got that look."
"What look?"
"The one where you're planning something that'll probably get us into trouble." She slid the second apple across the table. "Spill it."
I caught the fruit and set it aside. "Seraphine invited me to Stonehold. To help investigate their demon problem."
"Stonehold?" Lira's eyes widened. "The dwarven stronghold? That's... unexpected."
"Want to come with me?" I traced the wood grain on the table. "Could use someone to watch my back. Plus, you've always wanted to see their famous archery ranges."
"Their underground archery ranges, you mean." Lira wrinkled her nose. "How do they even practice in those caves?"
"They use special crystals for lighting. Or so I've heard." I leaned forward. "Come on, when's the last time we had a real adventure?"
"You mean besides your solo demon-hunting expedition that had the whole village in an uproar?" She raised an eyebrow. "The one you're still sporting bruises from?"
"That was different. This would be official business. Diplomatic, even."
"You? Diplomatic?" Lira snorted. "Now I have to come if only to see that."
"I knew you'd come around." I grinned at Lira. "The look on those dwarven faces when we show up was priceless."
"Speaking of showing up." Lira leaned back in her chair, taking another bite of her apple. "Those bruises on your foot look nasty. What exactly happened out there?"
I pulled up my leggings, revealing the mottled purple skin. "Remember that wind enhancement technique that I've been working on? Well, I might have pushed it too far."
"Show me." Her eyes lit up with curiosity.
I held out my hand, letting a small whirlwind dance across my palm. "It's like compressing a tornado into your muscles. Makes you faster, stronger, but the landing..." I winced. "Let's just say I need more practice."
"You should talk to Nimroth about this. He'd love to help refine it. And cure those faster."
"That's the plan, after we finish here." I took a sip of water. "Though first I need to figure out what to call it. Can't keep saying 'that wind thing that almost broke my legs.'"
Lira's eyes sparkled with mischief. "How about 'The Graceful Face-palm'?"
"Very funny." I rolled my eyes. "What about 'Storm Surge'?"
"Too basic. 'Whirlwind Sprint'?"
"'Hurricane Steps'?"
We traded increasingly ridiculous names back and forth between bites of food.
"'The Flying Squirrel'?"
"'Wind's Embrace'?"
"'Tornado Tango'?"
Finally, I sat up straighter. "'Gale Force'" The name felt right on my tongue, capturing both the power and precision of the technique.
"That's... actually perfect." Lira nodded approvingly. "Though I still think 'The Graceful Face-palm' had potential."
"It's amazing, you know" Lira leaned forward, her silver hair catching the afternoon light. "Creating your own magic skill from scratch? Most mages spend centuries just mastering existing spells."
I shrugged, rotating my wrist to dispel the lingering wind currents.
Lira whistled low. "From basic wind spells to Gale Force. That's quite the journey." She raised her cup. "To persistence and probably a lot of broken bones along the way."
"More than I care to count," I clinked my cup against hers. "But worth every moment."
By the time Lira and I finished our meal, the sun started declining lower from the mid point. She grabbed the last bite of her apple and flicked the core into a nearby waste bin.
"Try not to break any more bones while practicing your 'Gale Force,'" she said, rising from her seat. "And let me know when you want to head to Stonehold. I need time to polish my arrows. Besides I can't let those dwarven archers think we're amateurs."
"I'll send word once I've sorted things out with Nimroth." I stood, suppressing a wince as my legs protested. "Thanks for Lunch."
"What are friends for?" She waved and disappeared into the crowd.
I made my way through Everspring's winding paths toward Nimroth's tower. The old structure rose above the treetops, its weather-worn stones covered in creeping vines.
The door to Nimroth's study creaked open before I could knock. Books and scrolls covered every surface, and the air smelled of ink and old parchment. The mage himself stood at his desk, his silver hair tied back as he studied an ancient text.
"I was wondering when you'd visit." He didn't look up from his work. "Elena told me about your... creative application of wind magic. I didn't expect you to actually use it in battle."
"I had to." I approached his desk, careful not to disturb the precariously balanced towers of books.
Nimroth let out a heavy sigh, his eyes fixed on my legs. "How are they?"
"Elena's potions worked their usual magic, but..." I shifted my weight. "The damage hasn't completely faded."
"Show me."
I rolled up my leggings, revealing the mottled bruises. Nimroth knelt down, his weathered hands hovering over the injured areas. Warm healing magic flowed from his palms, seeping into my aching muscles.
"What are your plans now?" His magic pulsed steadily as he worked.
"I want to master Gale Force before heading to Stonehold. or at the least, improve it."
His hands paused. "So you're actually going there?"
"Yes, I've decided. And Lira's coming with me."
A smile tugged at his lips. "Well, with Lira around, I suppose you'll be fine. Doubt anyone will try courting you or slipping something in your drink this time."
"Will you stop treating me like a child?" Heat crept up my neck. "That was decades ago."
"Oh? Shall we discuss the time you tried impressing that merchant's son with your archery skills and shot your own hat off instead?"
"That was different…"
"Or perhaps when you attempted to charm that visiting dignitary but accidentally shred his ceremonial robes with your wind magic?"
My face burned hotter. "I was still learning wind magic…"
"And let's not forget the infamous dancing incident at the annual festival."
"Nimroth!"
He chuckled, clearly enjoying my discomfort. "What about that time you tried brewing your own healing potion and turned your hair green for a month?"
I buried my face in my hands, unable to stop the blush spreading across my cheeks. "Are you done?"
Nimroth's laughter finally subsided, though his eyes still sparkled with mischief. He pulled back his hands from my legs, the warmth of his healing magic fading.
"There, that should do it." He stood, joints creaking as he made his way to a cluttered shelf. His fingers danced over dozens of glass vials until he found what he wanted, a small bottle filled with swirling blue liquid. "Rest tonight and drink this before you sleep. You'll be healed completely by dawn."
I took the vial, watching the contents shimmer in the lamplight. "Thank you, Nimroth. Not just for this, but for everything. I wouldn't have made it this far without your guidance."
"Save the sentiment for someone who hasn't seen you trip over your own wind currents." But his voice held warmth, and he squeezed my shoulder with familiar affection. "Now go rest those legs before you find some new way to injure yourself."
I pocketed the vial and headed for the door, pausing only to dodge a floating stack of books that drifted past. "Good night, Nimroth."
* * *
I set down my bags of ingredients on the kitchen counter and began preparing dinner. The familiar motions of chopping vegetables and seasoning meat helped ease the tension in my shoulders. Soon, the aroma of herbs and roasted meat filled my small home.
While the stew simmered, I headed to the bathroom and poured Elena's healing oil into the stone tub. Steam rose as hot water mixed with the oil, carrying the scent of lavender and mountain herbs. I sank into the warm water, letting out a long breath as my muscles began to relax.
The smooth stone walls reflected the soft candlelight as I leaned back, mind drifting to the problems at hand. The wards needed some improvement as knowing something crossed them wasn't enough anymore.
We needed to know what and how many. Perhaps combining wind and earth magic could create a more detailed detection system? The wind could track movement patterns while earth magic could sense weight and numbers.
My thoughts shifted to Seraphine. The human commander had shown wisdom in handling the demon infiltrator. What gift would be appropriate? Something practical yet meaningful...
The water rippled as I adjusted my position, considering how to better control Gale Force. The technique's raw power was incredible, but the toll on my body was too high.
I needed to find a way to channel the wind currents more efficiently, maybe start with smaller bursts before attempting full-body enhancement.
My legs still ached from the earlier strain, reminding me of the work ahead. I'd have to begin training at dawn, focusing on precise control rather than pure speed.
The smell of dinner wafting in from the kitchen told me it was time to get out of the bath. I reached for a towel, my mind still turning over ward modifications and training methods.
I laid out the spread on my wooden table, herb-crusted venison, roasted root vegetables, and fresh bread from the market. The hearty aroma made my stomach growl. After the past few days, a proper meal was exactly what I needed.
Between bites of tender meat, my hand brushed against the ring on my finger, reminding me of the demon archer's arrows stored inside. The crystalline shafts had an unusual composition, not quite ice, not quite stone.
Nimroth would want to examine them. The demon's longsword was in there too, its blade wickedly sharp despite its crude appearance.
"At least something good came from that fight," I muttered, sopping up the last of the gravy with a piece of bread.
The medicine Nimroth gave me sat on the counter, its green liquid swirling with golden specks. I uncorked the vial and downed it in one gulp, grimacing at the bitter taste. But the effect was immediate. Warmth spread through my limbs, easing the lingering soreness from using Gale Force.
My eyelids grew heavy as the medicine took hold. I cleaned my dishes, leaving them to dry on the rack, then made my way to bed. The soft sheets welcomed me as I sank into their embrace. For once, sleep came easily, without the usual weight of responsibilities keeping me awake.