"Transcend Mortality and become a Celestial… This was the dream of many within the Celestial Empire. Yet, the masses remained oblivious that this is but the first step on an endless journey into the unknown. Each individual, whether they tread well-worn paths or carve their own, was destined for a perilous fate once they ascended. Even if they die and are reborn, they might become a Celestial with greater potential or revert to mere mortality. Everything is a gamble, Serena. Then again, isn't that the nature of life? After all, no one can predict how things might evolve."

~ Veles' discourse on the state of being a Celestial

----------------------------------------

Fools who cannot recognize their place are plentiful, Serena mused as she neared the heart of the Transcendent Sect and the private quarters of her master and brother. The once peaceful garden of the Sect Leader, Veles Silvertongue, a sanctuary for him and his sole disciple, had become a stage for dissenting mortals. A frail old man, looking as if his fury might end him, glowered at the young man carefully tending to precious alchemical ingredients.

"Lord Veles," he began, his voice shaking, "forgive my impertinence, but I believe this duty is unsuited to one such as her."

Serena closed her eyes, immediately recognizing the cause of the uproar. No matter her efforts, they never seemed enough, forever creating problems for Veles.

Only when she detected a faint shift in the atmosphere did she open her eyes. Her apprehension grew as she caught the chilly tone in Veles' reply. "Elder Achan, there is nothing to pardon."

Because in my eyes, you barely merit a passing glance.

Those words, unsaid yet deeply felt, lingered. Over the years, Serena had learned much from her brother. Direct glimpses into his true self were so infrequent they bordered on legend. She studied his habits and anticipated his thoughts, reinforcing her role as his trusted disciple.

A soft sigh escaped her, carried away by the gentle spring wind and masking the earlier heated exchange.

Her role as his primary disciple was multifaceted. Veles had mentored her in numerous arts, not just combat, cultivating her natural talent to mirror his specialized skills. As the sect's ambassador, she liaised with Celestials, mortals, and even creatures like monsters and beasts, standing in for her master.

Though he might resemble Devils or Demons, his true nature was far less amiable.

"Thank you, Lord Vel—"

"I'm curious," Veles interjected, his voice dripping with honey, "about what you imply by 'one such as her.'" He rose gracefully, turning to face Elder Achan.

From her vantage point, nestled amongst the lush and colorful foliage, Serena observed him, seeking any sign of his mood.

That morning, Veles had pulled his raven-black hair, dark as a moonless sky, into a lofty ponytail. It was fastened with a vivid jade green ribbon, its vibrancy accentuating his fair complexion and ebony locks. He moved effortlessly to a stone bench and sat, one slender leg elegantly draped over the other. As he gazed upon his followers, some said his eyes glittered like the finest emeralds, while others felt they captured the essence of a verdant spring woodland.

Serena had always associated his eye color with shades of envy and jealousy, though she wisely kept such musings to herself. Undeniably, he appealed to certain tastes—especially those not yet jaded by their leader's allure. He moved with a fluid, otherworldly elegance. His features, almost too finely chiseled, were carried with the self-assurance of one who, while acutely conscious of his superior beauty, power, and stature, relished regular affirmations from his admirers.

And this man now addressed the veiled insult aimed at her. How fortunate she was indeed...

Quickly brushing aside that bitter reflection, Serena turned her attention to Elder Achan, who seemed determined to worsen his predicament.

"Perhaps a different representative would be wiser," Elder Achan suggested, his effort at damage control nearly laughable. "Given the uncertainties of what lies ahead, someone with martial prowess might be more fitting."

The faint smile playing on Veles' lips was reminiscent of a thin crescent moon on a frosty evening, evoking a tingling anticipation in Serena. "That might be how things are done in your limited realm, Achan, but in the Celestial Empire, our practices differ. There is no one I trust more than my dear disciple. She alone embodies the understanding and inherent capability to realize my vision for that world."

His gaze grew more intense. "You've sidestepped my query, and I won't repeat myself."

Achan prostrated himself, his forehead nearly grazing the ground. "I meant no disrespect!"

"Any affront to my disciple is an affront to me. However, I am not without compassion. In your view, what is her shortcoming?"

"She is but a mortal," Achan said, his voice subdued, yet his contempt for such a condition was palpable.

"Even Celestials can fall," Veles replied, evidently amused by the elder's antipathy toward Serena. "All beings have their mortality. Given that my protegee was born a Celestial, unlike what you disdainfully dub as 'mortal', she stands above you—a rank you can't attain in your current existence."

"She's untrained in combat, inexperienced."

She had‌ withstood years of harassment, enduring what often seemed like cruel tests from her fellow sect members. Perhaps that had fortified her endurance?

Veles seemed to ponder this. "Her combat skills might lean more toward supportive roles, but this can be remedied. We can assign her a guardian. In time, she'll gain the means to defend herself."

"There's an unsettling aura about her, and more perplexingly, the bond she shares with you."

Veles' previous amusement had evaporated. "Achan, how many years have you lived?"

"I stand at 2,245 years."

"I trust you'll exercise more discernment if you're fortunate to reach such an age once more."

With immense effort, Achan raised his head, plunged his hand into his chest, and removed his own heart, presenting it to Veles. Moments later, he collapsed, life draining from him, overpowered by the magical influence that had seized his faculties.

Serena approached her master, who gracefully stood from the bench. She gave only a fleeting look to the body at her feet, though a brief pang of pity arose for the sect member who'd be tasked with its disposal.

"You called for me, brother?" Serena inquired, her tone as light and cheerful as the warm smile she offered him.

"Yes. There's a mission only you can undertake." Veles prodded Achan's heart with his dark shoe, making Serena wonder if he planned to obliterate it as well.

"I gather it's connected to whatever agitated Elder Achan."

Veles brushed off her comment with an airy gesture. "Don’t dwell on such trivialities. He's but fodder for the worms now."

Her smile took on a mischievous edge, taking pleasure in her master's unpredictable temperament, grateful to be favored by him. "I've put it out of my mind. Should we converse in your study?"

"An excellent proposal. We've much to address, and a more relaxed environment would be ideal."

Without a second thought, Veles ground the heart beneath his heel as he turned, setting the course for their discussion.

Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author's consent. Report any sightings.

Silently, Serena spared a thought for the fallen cultivator, hoping his passage through the Sea of Souls would be swift and untroubled. After this brief acknowledgment, she hurried after Veles, keen to remain by his side and not at the mercy of his unpredictable whims.

----------------------------------------

Veles's personal study reflected his distinctive character. Amidst the dim glow of candles, the room was filled with an assortment of curiosities and ancient volumes. He took his place behind a grand desk, motioning for Serena to sit opposite him. Complying, she sat gracefully, her posture elegant with legs crossed and hands clasped in her lap, awaiting his words. Her gaze, however, was drawn to the peculiar items around the room. Their allure was undeniable, yet she knew better than to handle any without his express approval.

"Serena, we've been monitoring specific realms for a while," Veles initiated, his fingers interlocked beneath his chin. He shifted his gaze from a manuscript, beckoning her nearer. "Yet, cries for assistance have arisen from an entirely new and unknown realm. I've struck a deal with Lavera's queen, who is in search of a lasting benefactor to salvage her nation. Given my reluctance to intervene directly and deeming this realm to be of minimal threat, I've chosen you to be her benefactor."

"To be dispatched to another realm?" Serena murmured, a mix of shock and excitement evident in her widening eyes. The thought of earning the privilege to venture beyond the Imperial City and the sect, exploring her own world, had always been enticing. But the chance to traverse an entirely unfamiliar realm was nothing short of thrilling.

"Exactly," Veles affirmed, his emerald eyes glinting. "I sometimes wonder if my overbearing nature has inadvertently limited your growth here. This mission could serve as an invaluable measure of your true prowess."

"What would you have me do, brother?" Serena inquired, her voice unwavering even as her heart raced, threatening to beat out of her chest. She attempted to keep her composure.

"Your task is to immerse yourself in this world called Aiva, ensuring we have a firm presence there. I must confess, my understanding of it is presently quite limited, which is a rarity and somewhat unsettling for me. While I will consistently relay resources and directives, the strategies to realize them lie in your hands. I anticipate periodic reports on novel findings, peculiar occurrences, or any particular requisites you might encounter. It's crucial for you to maintain a harmonious relationship with Lavera's queen and honor our agreement."

His overview was thorough, yet Serena noted he was somewhat evasive regarding the specifics of their agreement. "What exactly does this queen require of me? Is she of human origin?"

"Yes, she is. Lavera seems to be predominantly inhabited by humans and is presently contending with certain challenges."

Serena acknowledged his words, her mind actively gearing up for the impending responsibility. "What's expected of me in navigating these challenges?"

"There are four primary sources of unrest that the queen seeks to address. First, Lavera has seen abnormal shifts in its climate. Traditionally cooler than the surrounding territories, its weather patterns have recently become more erratic over the past few years. These variations have severely disrupted both internal travel and international trade. The unforeseen weather anomalies have led to crop failures, bringing about widespread famine and malnutrition.”

Serena's brow furrowed, empathy surging for Lavera's inhabitants. "And the other destabilizing factors?"

"Second, a rogue faction named the 'Divine Children' has become a thorn in the government's side. They've staged assaults on government representatives and the wealthy elite, driven, it seems, by an ambition to overthrow the queen and establish their own dominion."

"And the third?" Serena inquired.

Leaning in, Veles' expression grew grave. "They have reported strange events from Lavera's heartland. Some residents speak of menacing entities in the forest, terrorizing travelers and locals alike. Others recount witnessing inexplicable glows and hearing haunting melodies from the depths of the woods."

Intrigued, Serena pursued, "What nature of entities are we discussing?"

"That's what I hope you'll determine. My intuition tells me these aren't mere wildlife disturbances. As the last concern, a baffling ailment has plagued the land. Its manifestations are erratic, suggesting possible manipulation. In extreme cases, those affected have mutated into grotesque forms, irrespective of their mental equilibrium."

"And the risks that await me in this foreign realm?"

Veles' lips curled into a playful smirk. "Isn't unpredictability part of the allure? I would never task you with this if I didn't wholly believe in your adeptness."

Her heart swelling with pride and exhilaration, Serena responded, her voice unwavering, "It will be accomplished, brother."

His nod signaled his satisfaction. "Very well. I'll orchestrate the essentials for your journey. Departure is in three hours. Be ready."

Rising to his feet, indicating the close of their discussion, Veles added, "This mission is a golden opportunity. Make the most of it."

Matching his stance, Serena offered a respectful bow. "You have my word, brother."

As she neared the exit, Veles beckoned her back. "I almost overlooked this. You should have it before I forget again."

Reapproaching, Serena watched as Veles presented a tome upon the table.

The tome was encased in a material reminiscent of dark leather, secured by elegant silver fastenings. Its aged scent—reminiscent of timeworn parchment hidden in shadowy caves and solemn tombs—wafted up. The front bore esoteric symbols that glowed, radiating an ethereal luminescence unlike anything Serena had seen before.

Veles's gaze settled on the book. "This is a part of your legacy. When you were left on the steps of my sect as a babe, this grimoire was with you. Depending on the wielder's intent, it has the potential to be a force of either redemption or ruin. Over the years, I've come to believe this. I've kept it from you until I was convinced of your readiness. Harness its potential and glean as much wisdom as you can."

Serena gingerly opened the tome, a reverence settling over her as she took in the mysterious symbols and chants etched onto its pages. She realized this book could very well be the key to understanding the unfamiliar realm she was poised to traverse. "Thank you, brother. I vow to employ it judiciously."

A smile touched Veles's lips, pride clear in his emerald eyes. "I have faith in you, sister. Expect regular communication from me, along with rewards for your findings and achievements."

Serena, her heart aflutter with excitement for the impending journey, made her exit. She acknowledged the path ahead would be riddled with perils and tests, but she felt armed to face any obstacle. With the grimoire as her guide, she was confident in her ability to influence Aiva's fate and excel in her role as the royal patron.

----------------------------------------

In the subsequent three hours, Serena was engrossed in a flurry of preparations for her impending journey. She loaded her spatial accessories with currency, trade goods, and crafting materials. Yet, she was selective with her other equipment, emphasizing essentials to facilitate agile travel. After checking her tools, ensuring the grimoire was within easy reach, and confirming their pristine condition, she donned her martial robe. She felt ready for any scenario.

Approaching the predetermined rendezvous—the Sect Leader's courtyard—a twinge of anxiety tugged at her. The enormity and hazards of her mission weighed heavily. Yet, she dismissed these apprehensions, focusing on the task at hand.

Veles was already there when she arrived. He surveyed her intently, then inquired, "Ready for this?"

With unwavering determination, Serena responded, "Absolutely. I won't let you down."

A rare, sincere smile graced Veles’s lips—a gesture he often reserved for their private interactions. "I have every faith you won't. The grimoire is a formidable tool in your hands. Wield it wisely."

Taking a steadying breath, Serena acknowledged, "I promise, I will."

Veles nodded in approval and retreated. Alone in the courtyard, Serena watched as a portal, crafted of palpable shadows, took form. She drew a deep breath, rallying her nerves. Her expedition was commencing.

She confidently crossed the portal's threshold, reveling in a moment of serenity that lasted all but five seconds.

Almost immediately, an aetheric surge engulfed her, diverting her intended path. Despite her efforts to stabilize, the power of the aether was indomitable. Serena was hurtled through a vast void, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of fleeting colors and shapes. The feeling of endless falling left her disoriented.

As the rush of the aether ebbed, Serena's rapid descent slowed. Preparing for a possible collision, it took aback her when she instead remained suspended amidst the air.

A dense fog enveloped her, limiting her visibility to a mere few feet. The initial wave of panic threatened to overcome her, but she kept it at bay. She recognized the importance of keeping a clear head and strategic thinking. Proceeding with caution, every sense heightened, she knew she couldn't afford to be caught off-guard in this unfamiliar, potentially antagonistic realm.

The mist gradually lifted, revealing a vast, imposing forest. The trees soared, their forms twisted and branches contorting into unsettling patterns. This forest emanated a foreboding aura, as if cautioning Serena of the dangers within. However, Serena's determination remained unwavering. She was committed to finding her destination, regardless of the risks.

She alighted onto the forest floor, her eyes darting about for any signs of danger. For the moment, it seemed she was alone.

As she delved deeper into the woods, an ensemble of faint sounds greeted her ears. Whispers, soft but distinct enough to unsettle her. While she couldn't decipher their content, she could sense their origin wasn't far.

A surge of curiosity rose within her, prompting the realization that her unexpected detour to this enigmatic realm—or perhaps a pocket dimension—wasn't mere happenstance. It seemed wise to seek the source of these disturbances, address them, and then realign with her original path.

Ignoring her instincts, she let the whispers lead her further into the forest's depths. Fortunately, she had the foresight to document this peculiar event in her grimoire. A brief pause overtook her as she recognized her penchant for diving deep into research, often to the point of neglecting her immediate surroundings. This habit had been a source of playful ridicule among her sect peers.

Yet, how could they expect any different? Her essence was that of a scholar and craftsman, not a warrior or adventurer.

Rubbing her temples, Serena felt the inklings of a headache, a byproduct of the challenges awaiting her.

Oh, Veles, she mused, always convincing me to tackle these outlandish assignments. I must master the art of saying 'no,' or at least negotiate better terms in advance.