Silence is the Answer - Faye/Elias (12/3)
Mar 13, 2021 12:35:14 GMT
Ian (Menace), Jamie J, and 1 more like this
Post by Elias/Frigus/Chartreuse/Azriel on Mar 13, 2021 12:35:14 GMT
Under the light of the full moon, Faye melts into the shadows and slips almost silently from Fort Ettin, the only sound of movement is a small pouch of colourful stones tied to their hip.
Their training had been clear, when a member of the Advent wants to get the attention of the Lady of Silence there are a number of steps to follow. The first is to find a Fairy Circle, Faye found one not too far from Fort Ettin, a small circle of white mushrooms, perhaps BB would find these interesting?
Next, place the stones that each member of the Advent carries in an intricate pattern. Most would glance at it and think it was just pixies and sprites showing off their latest steal. But the moonstones, the moonstones have a special meaning to the Advent. It is their position in relation to the mushrooms that tells the Lady Silence where to go. Faye’s pattern is the most complex they have ever tried, with numerous false stones placed in places that would lead to locations that also look like probable meeting points. They stand from their crouch and admire the complex mathematical calculation they have set up and a thought crosses their mind. Damn… I’m good.
Once that is done a simple sending spell will tell the Lady where to find the map to the meeting.
*************************************************************************************
Elais meets with their friends under the moonlight 22 hours later. Just enough time to make it to Angel Bark where she will no doubt be waiting.
One the way Faye gives all the details they have, which are not many. “I must stress if there is any time in which you feel uncomfortable or in danger, I do not expect you to continue.” The emerald green eyes of Elias’ spring form fix on Sheryl as they say this. With no objections from their friends Faye carried on.
As expected by Faye, there is no sign of Lady Silence until the polite clearing of a throat from behind them. Damn… she was good. As much as Faye feared the Lady’s abilities, they couldn’t help but be in awe of them. Faye is certain they could have searched for hours and never set eyes on her without that clear of the throat. “My Lady,” Faye bows, “forgive me if pleasantries are not in order… perhaps we should go straight to business”.
“Pleasantries are always in order for civilised people,” and she returns the bow, her movements even more graceful than Faye’s. Damn… she is good.
Pleasantries were exchanged and finally the Lady Silence shared with them the job. Recover one asset from the Court of Glory and, if possible, recover Titania’s plans of attack from the Amber Duchess. However, the Green Knight is on the way and knows who the asset is… this would be dangerous no doubt. The Green Knight was not someone Faye was sure they could beat in a fight.
However, the fear of facing the Green Knight was soon put to one side at the talk of payment, the opportunity to be welcomed home and one favour from Morinn. Elias’ heart fluttered at the mention of the favour. Finally, a chance to free their mother from their prison. But a few things needed to be guaranteed first. “This asset that we are going to acquire, you won’t use this to start a fight?”
The Lady of Silence turns back to Faye “The Winter Court never strikes first. However, we do prepare so that if our enemies strike us, it does not end well for them.”
“The Lady’s of Secret said that to free my mother, I would have to melt Morinn’s heart. Will this favour be enough to release her?” Faye holds their breath as they wait for a response.
“I suppose she would be the lesser of two evils. Just know that facilitating your escape was the least of her crimes.” At these words from the Lady, Faye’s entire body freezes. They glance back to Merla, hoping the halfling can once again affirm their belief that this is a lie. A slight shake of the head and there is a sinking feeling in Elias’ chest. Of course, Lady Silence would not have her mind read by anyone. She was too damn good.
Faye sets aside their concern for the moment. They will find out the truth eventually. They are damn good. They affirm the plan once more with Lady Silence before turning to their friends, “Once again, I will not ask you to do something that you feel you cannot do,” their eyes meet Merla’s again “If you would still like to help me then I think we are ready to go.”
“What happens if Elias fails?” Merla asks, a familiar power behind her voice that Elias knows she uses when she means business.
“It will depend on the nature in which they fail. Obviously, the Queen will not honour their end of the bargain.” Lady Silence states every word as though talking about the colour of the sky.
When nobody objects Faye turns back to Lady Silence “I believe we are ready to go.” It starts to snow. Light at first but soon thick flakes are falling all around. The reflect an image that is not the Angelbark forest, rather somewhere Mountainous? Is that home? They appear in the mountains of the Winter Court and almost immediately feel rumbling. A giant Vyrm* bursts from the ground.
The rider, Darius of the Rider Core takes of his helmet and shakes out his long white hair. “You asked for a ride?”
Faye and the others hopped into the Vyrm and whilst Astra and Elchior followed in the sky they burrowed deep beneath the earth. After almost falling off by being hit in the face with a rock they had to wonder… damn, maybe I am not that good.
*************************************************************************************
The Court of Glory was alive with excitement and energy. The Huge tree some 90 stories tall stood with roots as big as houses. Its branches had houses, stairways, roads carved into it so much so that it was comparable to a city.
Faye returned from scouting ahead just in time to hear Baine musing on the confusing nature of having multiple names. “So, what should I call you then?”
Elias mused on it “I think my friends can call me Elias… yes let’s go with Elias. Now for the plan. It is important that we get in there and find the asset and get out. The Lady of Silence was right when she said that the Winter Court does not strike first. The plan is just to walk in and walk out with the asset, if anyone asks, we are tourists coming to see the amazing view from the top of the tree, we’ve heard it’s wonderful.”
Merla seems to consider this. “Perhaps it is best that I create a distraction, rather than come with you? Baine perhaps you should come with me?”
Faye nods, they know this is going to be hard for their friend, “That is probably wise. It would be best if there is no connection between this job and you. BB and Ghesh are you ok to go with me?” BB looks up from a mushroom they have been examining, she has a nibble of it and they both confirm they are happy to come.
Merla leaves ahead with Baine and it is not long before their voice is ringing in Faye’s head “the Green Knight is here, I will try to distract him, but you need to go now.”
*************************************************************************************
They slipped through the city with ease, Faye’s training as an Advent once again falling into place and leading them down the best routes. They knew they would overtake the Green Knight and were sure Baine and Merla could provide adequate distraction.
They headed for the top. The tree had a convenient transportation system of crystalline tubes that shot them up through the sap system of the tree, like a blood cell moving through an artery. They emerge into the canopy of the tree, currently a huge concert venue with a very familiar performer. An idea forms in Faye’s head. Damn… I am good.
A quick message later and Faye is on the stage performing a song.
They place emphasis on the lines, May Winter sun fall at your hands. In that Glory you will find serenity.
A part of them hopes that Lady Silence will be impressed with how they managed to slip the code words, Winter sun and Serenity into the song. Why search for the asset when they can search for you… The finish their performance with a flourish and are quickly approached by Lady Alanaya. Faye's eyes almost widen with surprise, but they keep a cool exterior.
“That was quite the performance.” Faye nods not breaking the rouse they have going “With all these fans around you it seems like you may need rescuing”.
Ghesh quickly nudges BB, who appears to have eaten too much mushroom. I am sure it made the concert better… Faye’s eyes rise to see the Helmed figure of the Green Knight, flanked by soldiers.
“Shall we go with plan B?” suggests BB. Damn, BB was good.
“Do you want to cast it or shall I? Lady Alanaya you must trust us on this.” She nods and with a flick of BB’s wrist she falls into the shape of a badger. Faye scoops her and places her delicately on their shoulder.
They quickly slip through the crowd. Ghesh effortlessly avoiding the soldiers, damn, Ghesh is good. BB gets stopped and Faye starts to reach for the pocket dimension where their scythe is waiting. But quickly it is apparent that the soldier believes the mushrooms have had too much effect for BB to be involved in any nefarious plots. Their hand retracts. They were in the clear.
Then the hand fell on their shoulder. “Don’t I know you?” Faye’s eyes rose to meet the helm of the Green Knight's armour. Tapping into the same energy that the Advent taught them, that Lady Silence taught them “No? Have you been to the Spring Court? Perhaps we met there?” The lie leaves there mouth as though they are saying that the sky is blue.
“I have been many places. But no… that’s not it. Were you performing? Have you seen the rest of the band anywhere?”
“Oh yes I couldn’t resist the option to do a little song whilst I was here. Maybe that’s where you know me from?” He relaxes his grip, almost in the clear just need to sell it a little more… “Why do you need the band? Are they in trouble? I’ll look out for them, but did they do something wrong? No wait, you probably can’t tell me this looks really official!” his hand leaves Faye’s shoulder. Damn. I. Am. Good. “Well if I see them, I’ll let you know!” Faye moves for the crystals and they quickly reconvene.
“We need to go now.” They say and the group slip out of the Court with no resistance. Darius’ Vyrm unfortunately was out of the Mountains for too long… Its body remained behind.
*************************************************************************************
They appeared in the same spot as they had left from. No sign of Lady Silence until the polite clearing of a throat.
Faye spun, reached out with the badger in hand, “We have acquired the asset. The plans would have been too much of a risk, the Green Knight was already there and there was already a large portion of the Court surrounding the Duchess Amber’s quarters.”
The Lady of Silence takes the badger with little reaction. She soothingly strokes it. Faye awaits the scolding for failing to get the plans... but they are not met with any. “Your caution was prudent. It is no matter you have earned the Queen’s favour.”
“I have to know, before I request for my Mother’s release. What were her other crimes?” Elias asks hesitantly unsure if they can handle the answer.
The Lady Silence’s voice is cold as the words ring out “She conspired to change things beyond what was possible in the Court. She tried to tear down everything we stand for. Facilitating your escape was the final straw, the one thing she failed to cover up that revealed everything, including that the woman I love betrayed me and my child.” She looks directly at Faye and Faye’s entire body freezes as the jaws of their companions drop.
“Y-you’re my mother?”.
“You better not be lying to my friend.” Merla’s threat rings out from Faye’s side.
Despite Merla’s concerns it all makes sense to Elias now. Why wouldn’t Morinn have killed Faye when they went to the Winter Court unless there was a reason to keep Faye alive? Like being the child of your most trusted General. Why would she have allowed them to speak to the Ladies of Secret? Likely she was hoping Faye, or someone would ask why their mother was imprisoned, rather than how to break them out. Elias’ mind reels with the information as so many pieces click into place. This is why they were in the Advent in the first place, where they get their talent from.
"I-I don;y know what to do..." Faye is paralysed with the decision. Do they release their mother, a potential anarchist that might disrupt the Courts further... Or ask Morinn to support peace and let someone they love stay in a frozen prison.
Lady Silence looks at their child with the most expression Faye has seen from her yet “You do not have to decide now. But your place, in the order of things is open for you.” Faye nods solemnly. There is a chance now that maybe… they can get the peace they’ve been looking for.
*************************************************************************************
After their Mother leaves, Merla approaches Faye. “I think this may be the last thing I can help you with for a while Elias. I am glad you could get what you wanted, but knowing it was Lady Alanaya whom we extracted...” She shakes her head, as though clearing her thoughts. “I have things I must think on, and I’m not sure I can in good conscience help the Winter Court again.”
Merla takes Elais’ hands in hers and holds them tightly, smiling up at them. “I am glad you got your mother back, though it was not the one you may have initially sought.” Faye feels as though she has more to say but she decides otherwise. Then she lays a kiss on Faye’s hand, moves it up to her forehead, kisses the knuckles and then let’s go.
She starts to walk away. But Elias cannot let it end this way. “I know today was difficult. I appreciate you putting me first and I won’t forget it. I would hope it goes without saying that I love you like a sister and I understand if you feel you can’t help anymore.” They pause as though worrying about what to say next.
“Alanaya came as a shock to me too... and I will try to work out what it was that drove her to work with Morinn but... I hope that your decision to not help the Winter Court does not mean that you won’t help my plans to encourage the Courts to work together? I do believe that today, difficult as it has been, was a necessary move to help get the attention and potentially the support of Queen Morinn for a peaceful alternative to this war. Perhaps with this I have her ear enough to have her approach Titania with a peaceful option.”
Their tone changes slightly as though trying to put a positive spin on it “My mother, it feels unusual saying that so fast... Lady Silence, was right though... the Winter Court doesn’t strike first. I don’t think anything bad will happen with whatever they learn from Alanaya...” they hesitate as a grim thought passes their mind “Unless it’s plans for Titania to attack the Winter Court.”
They pause and look down... still shaken from the news they received just minutes before. When they look up the dazzling green eyes, bursting with the life of Spring meet Merla’s “I need you to know Merla my allegiance is with you and the Feywild.”
Merla had been half turned away, but she looks back at Elias as they speak. “You are still arael’ebrath to me, Elias. If you need anything... I will do what I can.” She smiles softly, the glow from the gem in her circlet warming her expression as her ocean blue eyes meet their bright green spring ones. Then she turns away, walking over to Astra who is already kneeling, waiting for mistress. Merla gives one last lingering look to Elias before Astra takes off into the sky.
Worry and anxiety creeps through Elias. Have they just traded a friend for a Mother…
*Vyrm - a giant worm like creature that is used by the Winter Court soldiers.
Their training had been clear, when a member of the Advent wants to get the attention of the Lady of Silence there are a number of steps to follow. The first is to find a Fairy Circle, Faye found one not too far from Fort Ettin, a small circle of white mushrooms, perhaps BB would find these interesting?
Next, place the stones that each member of the Advent carries in an intricate pattern. Most would glance at it and think it was just pixies and sprites showing off their latest steal. But the moonstones, the moonstones have a special meaning to the Advent. It is their position in relation to the mushrooms that tells the Lady Silence where to go. Faye’s pattern is the most complex they have ever tried, with numerous false stones placed in places that would lead to locations that also look like probable meeting points. They stand from their crouch and admire the complex mathematical calculation they have set up and a thought crosses their mind. Damn… I’m good.
Once that is done a simple sending spell will tell the Lady where to find the map to the meeting.
*************************************************************************************
Elais meets with their friends under the moonlight 22 hours later. Just enough time to make it to Angel Bark where she will no doubt be waiting.
One the way Faye gives all the details they have, which are not many. “I must stress if there is any time in which you feel uncomfortable or in danger, I do not expect you to continue.” The emerald green eyes of Elias’ spring form fix on Sheryl as they say this. With no objections from their friends Faye carried on.
As expected by Faye, there is no sign of Lady Silence until the polite clearing of a throat from behind them. Damn… she was good. As much as Faye feared the Lady’s abilities, they couldn’t help but be in awe of them. Faye is certain they could have searched for hours and never set eyes on her without that clear of the throat. “My Lady,” Faye bows, “forgive me if pleasantries are not in order… perhaps we should go straight to business”.
“Pleasantries are always in order for civilised people,” and she returns the bow, her movements even more graceful than Faye’s. Damn… she is good.
Pleasantries were exchanged and finally the Lady Silence shared with them the job. Recover one asset from the Court of Glory and, if possible, recover Titania’s plans of attack from the Amber Duchess. However, the Green Knight is on the way and knows who the asset is… this would be dangerous no doubt. The Green Knight was not someone Faye was sure they could beat in a fight.
However, the fear of facing the Green Knight was soon put to one side at the talk of payment, the opportunity to be welcomed home and one favour from Morinn. Elias’ heart fluttered at the mention of the favour. Finally, a chance to free their mother from their prison. But a few things needed to be guaranteed first. “This asset that we are going to acquire, you won’t use this to start a fight?”
The Lady of Silence turns back to Faye “The Winter Court never strikes first. However, we do prepare so that if our enemies strike us, it does not end well for them.”
“The Lady’s of Secret said that to free my mother, I would have to melt Morinn’s heart. Will this favour be enough to release her?” Faye holds their breath as they wait for a response.
“I suppose she would be the lesser of two evils. Just know that facilitating your escape was the least of her crimes.” At these words from the Lady, Faye’s entire body freezes. They glance back to Merla, hoping the halfling can once again affirm their belief that this is a lie. A slight shake of the head and there is a sinking feeling in Elias’ chest. Of course, Lady Silence would not have her mind read by anyone. She was too damn good.
Faye sets aside their concern for the moment. They will find out the truth eventually. They are damn good. They affirm the plan once more with Lady Silence before turning to their friends, “Once again, I will not ask you to do something that you feel you cannot do,” their eyes meet Merla’s again “If you would still like to help me then I think we are ready to go.”
“What happens if Elias fails?” Merla asks, a familiar power behind her voice that Elias knows she uses when she means business.
“It will depend on the nature in which they fail. Obviously, the Queen will not honour their end of the bargain.” Lady Silence states every word as though talking about the colour of the sky.
When nobody objects Faye turns back to Lady Silence “I believe we are ready to go.” It starts to snow. Light at first but soon thick flakes are falling all around. The reflect an image that is not the Angelbark forest, rather somewhere Mountainous? Is that home? They appear in the mountains of the Winter Court and almost immediately feel rumbling. A giant Vyrm* bursts from the ground.
The rider, Darius of the Rider Core takes of his helmet and shakes out his long white hair. “You asked for a ride?”
Faye and the others hopped into the Vyrm and whilst Astra and Elchior followed in the sky they burrowed deep beneath the earth. After almost falling off by being hit in the face with a rock they had to wonder… damn, maybe I am not that good.
*************************************************************************************
The Court of Glory was alive with excitement and energy. The Huge tree some 90 stories tall stood with roots as big as houses. Its branches had houses, stairways, roads carved into it so much so that it was comparable to a city.
Faye returned from scouting ahead just in time to hear Baine musing on the confusing nature of having multiple names. “So, what should I call you then?”
Elias mused on it “I think my friends can call me Elias… yes let’s go with Elias. Now for the plan. It is important that we get in there and find the asset and get out. The Lady of Silence was right when she said that the Winter Court does not strike first. The plan is just to walk in and walk out with the asset, if anyone asks, we are tourists coming to see the amazing view from the top of the tree, we’ve heard it’s wonderful.”
Merla seems to consider this. “Perhaps it is best that I create a distraction, rather than come with you? Baine perhaps you should come with me?”
Faye nods, they know this is going to be hard for their friend, “That is probably wise. It would be best if there is no connection between this job and you. BB and Ghesh are you ok to go with me?” BB looks up from a mushroom they have been examining, she has a nibble of it and they both confirm they are happy to come.
Merla leaves ahead with Baine and it is not long before their voice is ringing in Faye’s head “the Green Knight is here, I will try to distract him, but you need to go now.”
*************************************************************************************
They slipped through the city with ease, Faye’s training as an Advent once again falling into place and leading them down the best routes. They knew they would overtake the Green Knight and were sure Baine and Merla could provide adequate distraction.
They headed for the top. The tree had a convenient transportation system of crystalline tubes that shot them up through the sap system of the tree, like a blood cell moving through an artery. They emerge into the canopy of the tree, currently a huge concert venue with a very familiar performer. An idea forms in Faye’s head. Damn… I am good.
A quick message later and Faye is on the stage performing a song.
They place emphasis on the lines, May Winter sun fall at your hands. In that Glory you will find serenity.
A part of them hopes that Lady Silence will be impressed with how they managed to slip the code words, Winter sun and Serenity into the song. Why search for the asset when they can search for you… The finish their performance with a flourish and are quickly approached by Lady Alanaya. Faye's eyes almost widen with surprise, but they keep a cool exterior.
“That was quite the performance.” Faye nods not breaking the rouse they have going “With all these fans around you it seems like you may need rescuing”.
Ghesh quickly nudges BB, who appears to have eaten too much mushroom. I am sure it made the concert better… Faye’s eyes rise to see the Helmed figure of the Green Knight, flanked by soldiers.
“Shall we go with plan B?” suggests BB. Damn, BB was good.
“Do you want to cast it or shall I? Lady Alanaya you must trust us on this.” She nods and with a flick of BB’s wrist she falls into the shape of a badger. Faye scoops her and places her delicately on their shoulder.
They quickly slip through the crowd. Ghesh effortlessly avoiding the soldiers, damn, Ghesh is good. BB gets stopped and Faye starts to reach for the pocket dimension where their scythe is waiting. But quickly it is apparent that the soldier believes the mushrooms have had too much effect for BB to be involved in any nefarious plots. Their hand retracts. They were in the clear.
Then the hand fell on their shoulder. “Don’t I know you?” Faye’s eyes rose to meet the helm of the Green Knight's armour. Tapping into the same energy that the Advent taught them, that Lady Silence taught them “No? Have you been to the Spring Court? Perhaps we met there?” The lie leaves there mouth as though they are saying that the sky is blue.
“I have been many places. But no… that’s not it. Were you performing? Have you seen the rest of the band anywhere?”
“Oh yes I couldn’t resist the option to do a little song whilst I was here. Maybe that’s where you know me from?” He relaxes his grip, almost in the clear just need to sell it a little more… “Why do you need the band? Are they in trouble? I’ll look out for them, but did they do something wrong? No wait, you probably can’t tell me this looks really official!” his hand leaves Faye’s shoulder. Damn. I. Am. Good. “Well if I see them, I’ll let you know!” Faye moves for the crystals and they quickly reconvene.
“We need to go now.” They say and the group slip out of the Court with no resistance. Darius’ Vyrm unfortunately was out of the Mountains for too long… Its body remained behind.
*************************************************************************************
They appeared in the same spot as they had left from. No sign of Lady Silence until the polite clearing of a throat.
Faye spun, reached out with the badger in hand, “We have acquired the asset. The plans would have been too much of a risk, the Green Knight was already there and there was already a large portion of the Court surrounding the Duchess Amber’s quarters.”
The Lady of Silence takes the badger with little reaction. She soothingly strokes it. Faye awaits the scolding for failing to get the plans... but they are not met with any. “Your caution was prudent. It is no matter you have earned the Queen’s favour.”
“I have to know, before I request for my Mother’s release. What were her other crimes?” Elias asks hesitantly unsure if they can handle the answer.
The Lady Silence’s voice is cold as the words ring out “She conspired to change things beyond what was possible in the Court. She tried to tear down everything we stand for. Facilitating your escape was the final straw, the one thing she failed to cover up that revealed everything, including that the woman I love betrayed me and my child.” She looks directly at Faye and Faye’s entire body freezes as the jaws of their companions drop.
“Y-you’re my mother?”.
“You better not be lying to my friend.” Merla’s threat rings out from Faye’s side.
Despite Merla’s concerns it all makes sense to Elias now. Why wouldn’t Morinn have killed Faye when they went to the Winter Court unless there was a reason to keep Faye alive? Like being the child of your most trusted General. Why would she have allowed them to speak to the Ladies of Secret? Likely she was hoping Faye, or someone would ask why their mother was imprisoned, rather than how to break them out. Elias’ mind reels with the information as so many pieces click into place. This is why they were in the Advent in the first place, where they get their talent from.
"I-I don;y know what to do..." Faye is paralysed with the decision. Do they release their mother, a potential anarchist that might disrupt the Courts further... Or ask Morinn to support peace and let someone they love stay in a frozen prison.
Lady Silence looks at their child with the most expression Faye has seen from her yet “You do not have to decide now. But your place, in the order of things is open for you.” Faye nods solemnly. There is a chance now that maybe… they can get the peace they’ve been looking for.
*************************************************************************************
After their Mother leaves, Merla approaches Faye. “I think this may be the last thing I can help you with for a while Elias. I am glad you could get what you wanted, but knowing it was Lady Alanaya whom we extracted...” She shakes her head, as though clearing her thoughts. “I have things I must think on, and I’m not sure I can in good conscience help the Winter Court again.”
Merla takes Elais’ hands in hers and holds them tightly, smiling up at them. “I am glad you got your mother back, though it was not the one you may have initially sought.” Faye feels as though she has more to say but she decides otherwise. Then she lays a kiss on Faye’s hand, moves it up to her forehead, kisses the knuckles and then let’s go.
She starts to walk away. But Elias cannot let it end this way. “I know today was difficult. I appreciate you putting me first and I won’t forget it. I would hope it goes without saying that I love you like a sister and I understand if you feel you can’t help anymore.” They pause as though worrying about what to say next.
“Alanaya came as a shock to me too... and I will try to work out what it was that drove her to work with Morinn but... I hope that your decision to not help the Winter Court does not mean that you won’t help my plans to encourage the Courts to work together? I do believe that today, difficult as it has been, was a necessary move to help get the attention and potentially the support of Queen Morinn for a peaceful alternative to this war. Perhaps with this I have her ear enough to have her approach Titania with a peaceful option.”
Their tone changes slightly as though trying to put a positive spin on it “My mother, it feels unusual saying that so fast... Lady Silence, was right though... the Winter Court doesn’t strike first. I don’t think anything bad will happen with whatever they learn from Alanaya...” they hesitate as a grim thought passes their mind “Unless it’s plans for Titania to attack the Winter Court.”
They pause and look down... still shaken from the news they received just minutes before. When they look up the dazzling green eyes, bursting with the life of Spring meet Merla’s “I need you to know Merla my allegiance is with you and the Feywild.”
Merla had been half turned away, but she looks back at Elias as they speak. “You are still arael’ebrath to me, Elias. If you need anything... I will do what I can.” She smiles softly, the glow from the gem in her circlet warming her expression as her ocean blue eyes meet their bright green spring ones. Then she turns away, walking over to Astra who is already kneeling, waiting for mistress. Merla gives one last lingering look to Elias before Astra takes off into the sky.
Worry and anxiety creeps through Elias. Have they just traded a friend for a Mother…
*Vyrm - a giant worm like creature that is used by the Winter Court soldiers.