(Ivan)

On the horizon, the setting sun dipped her toes into the Ocean of Tears as evening approached. The central courtyard of the Nature Kingdom fort buzzed with activity. Tables had been covered with fine linen. Sideboards overflowed with delicacies. Servants carried large trays on top of their heads, adroitly navigating through the crowd.

Ivan had taken a seat at one of the outside tables. He was still thinking of Jane Sapphire.

Why is it that the first woman who catches my interest and lingers in my thoughts is a Shadowlander. He winced. And not just any Shadowlander, but the queen’s sister. He shook his head.

He continued to replay his meeting with Jane Sapphire until his brother and his aunt eventually joined him.

The three of them had decided to meet early, so they could catch up on things. Occasionally, Coro Lest could be heard shouting instructions in the distance. Ivan glanced over his shoulder. The musicians had just started to play.

“So, when is the Sprite Queen going to arrive?” William’s legs bounced under the table. “I can’t wait to see Queen Chloe!”

“Oh, her guards are already here,” said Lisa.

“Whaa?” William looked around. “Where are they?”

“The royal Sprites appoint Dendro Kamilians as their elite guards,” Lisa explained. “Their camouflage makes them almost impossible to spot. I haven’t seen any of them yet, but Sapple spied a few of them earlier.”

“Hey, speaking of Sapple, where did Twiggy go? I haven’t seen him all day.”

“He’s around,” Lisa replied. “He’s probably closer than you think.”

William continued to look around and huffed. “Hmph, with so many shrubs, he could be hiding anywhere.”

A young girl wearing a gossamer silk dress skipped happily toward their table and then plopped down onto one of the chairs. She smiled and said nothing, perfectly comfortable with the silence.

Ivan narrowed his eyes and watched her with suspicion. Even his brother had a bewildered expression. The girl had popped out of nowhere and joined their table with no invitation.

Indifferent to their reaction, she twirled strands of her wavy hair and scrutinized them.

Who is this girl? Ivan wondered.

Her bracelet caught his attention. It was made of a reflective liquid metal, which flowed and twisted around her wrist. Periodically, a few gems bobbed to the surface and sparkled brightly. The bracelet was mesmerizing.

That looks like verian jewelry. Nah, it’s probably a replica with an illusion enchant. Still, it looks like a pricy trinket.

“Well, hello William,” the girl spoke in a melodic voice.

Startled, William stammered a response, “Um… um… do I know you?”

“No, you don’t.” She shook her head and her hair bounced around.

“Oh, alright. You know my name, what’s yours?”

She pursed her lips and tilted her head. “Call me Cassie. I think I like Cassie.” There was amusement in her voice. “Hello, Ivan.” She winked at him.

Ivan stiffened. “Hello.” The girl giggled and turned toward his aunt.

“Salutations, Lady Waterlily.”

“Well met young lady. Are your parents nearby?”

Cassie shook her head and giggled. “Oh, no. They seldom leave the roots.”

“Oh, I see.” Ivan noticed the subtle narrowing of his aunt’s eyes.

Cassie leaned toward Ivan and the corners of her mouth quirked up. “You’re in a tight spot young warrior. You’ve got a mystery to solve. Let me help you out.”

“Uuuh, I’m not sure if I follow…”

She lowered her voice and leaned toward him. “You can trust the girl with the scar on her temple. She sees what has yet to be seen.”

A muscle in Ivan’s jaw twitched.

Is she talking about Jane Sapphire?

“Well, if someone proves trustworthy, I’d trust them,” Ivan finally replied. He gave Cassie an inscrutable look as he continued to consider her comment.

Cassie gave Ivan a sly smile. “It’s seldom that easy but you’ll find out for yourself soon enough.” She giggled again.

William crossed his arms. “I’m confused. What’s going on?”

“Dear boy, the unknown is a treasure. It gives you something to discover.” She looked around the table and nodded to herself. “I’ve satisfied my curiosity, while rousing yours. It’s time for me to go.” She stood up and started to leave. “We shall meet again and sooner than you think.”

Cassie reached into the folds of her dress and pulled out a honeycomb sugar cube. She tossed it over her shoulder as she strolled away from the table.

Ivan followed the cube as it soared over the table. He caught a glimpse of an outstretched wooden limb snatch the cube from the air, before disappearing.

That’s got to be Sapple. The little guy is never far from Aunt Lisa.

“Who was that girl?” William looked at Ivan. “What’s that mystery that she was talking about? What did she mean about the girl with the scar? How did she know Sapple was there?”

“I’m not sure.”

“Me either,” said Aunt Lisa.

Ivan looked around, but Cassie was already gone. She had vanished just as quickly as she had appeared.

The only girl that Ivan knew with a scar on her temple was Jane Sapphire, and he had just met her today.

I haven’t told anyone about meeting her. He looked down at the table. Why did she tell me to trust Jane Sapphire? He tapped a finger on the table. What did she mean by – ‘She sees what has yet to be seen.’

Ivan considered what Cassie had said and thought about it while William barraged Aunt Lisa with questions.

Could Jane see into the future? He considered the possibility. She certainly acted shocked when she saw me as though she had recognized me. For Tor’Sal sake, she even blushed as she was leaving the Dome of Antiquities. What was that all about?

“Hey, are you alright?” His aunt gently tapped his shoulder, interrupting his contemplation.

“Oh, I’m fine. I was just thinking.”

“Did either one of you notice her bracelet?” asked Lisa.

“What bracelet?” William looked surprised. “Honestly, I don’t even remember what she was wearing. She sat over there, stared at us, said a bunch of strange stuff, and then she left.”

“I noticed the bracelet,” Ivan replied. “It looked like it was made from verian and spirit gems.”

“What’s verian?” asked William. “What are spirit gems?”

“Well, there are a number of stories about verian jewelry,” Lisa explained. “Historians believe that there are only seven pieces. Verian is believed to be eternal and indestructible.”

“Woah, really?” William leaned forward.

“Yes, each item is rumored to have a uniquely powerful ability. The bracelet that she wore looked like a sketch that I saw in the Curio Almanac. Though I didn’t see as many spirit gems on her bracelet.”

“That’s right!” Ivan snapped his fingers. “That’s where I’ve seen the drawing. The verian bracelet in the almanac had seven spirit stones and hers only had three.”

This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.

Lisa looked over Ivan’s shoulder. “Oh, Rob and Greg just arrived.” She stood up. “I need to talk to them. I’ll be back later, and we can continue chatting. I’ll try to find more information about that girl.”

Ivan watched his aunt walk away. He thought about the day’s events. So much had happened. Things were getting convoluted. He did not want to think about Jane Sapphire, but Cassie had given him another reason to think about her.

I’m overanalyzing things. I’ll probably never speak to the Shadow Princess again and I’ll never put myself in a position to trust a Shadowlander.

A while later, Mary, John, Toby, and Claire joined Ivan and William. Aunt Lisa was still chatting with Rob and Greg nearby. Baza sat with her father at the next table. Ivan noticed that periodically, Baza glanced at William and smiled. His brother was oblivious, as always. It looked like the girl had a crush on William.

Lin was seated at the central table, right next to Coro Lest, Lord Harvin, Lady Loftin, and other nobles from Scar and Pike.

Poor Lin. She has to mediate between all of those highborn.

Coro was in high form tonight. His voice traveled much further than his own table. He talked a lot, saying nothing of consequence. When he was not talking, Lady Loftin was bragging about her children. Still, Lin’s facial expression remained calm and pleasant. Though her body language told a different story. She sat stiffly on her chair. Coro and Lady Loftin just kept prattling on.

“May I have everyone’s attention,” Taran’s voice boomed in the courtyard. “I know that we’ve gone over this before, but I’m here to emphasize the importance of remaining completely quiet while Queen Chloe is selecting the champions. There will be no talking, no whispering, no questions, and absolutely no interruptions!”

Ivan had heard stories about the consequences of interrupting the Sprite Queen. His father had told him that one of the warriors that had not been chosen as a champion had voiced his outrage. The offender had been gagged, wrapped in vines, and suspended upside down over the cliff until the Sprite Queen had finished the selection process.

Aunt Lisa’s eyes bored into William. “This is serious. No shenanigans once Queen Chloe arrives… I mean it.”

“Sure… sure, I’ll keep quiet,” William said earnestly and put his hand on top of his heart. “I promise.”

As the shroud of night embraced the island, the music changed. A mesmerizing melody wove throughout the courtyard.

Ivan looked at the musicians and they appeared to be in a trance. Their eyes were closed, and their bodies moved in rhythm with the music.

Everyone stilled. The ethereal harmony had subdued the boisterous crowd. The melody whispered to Ivan, and he sat spellbound.

The cherryberry trees around them gently swayed. The buds on their overhanging branches swelled and bloomed. Brilliantly colored blossoms, ranging from deep crimson to pale pink, exploded like confetti. Aromatic petals swirled around, falling from above. Long vines sprouted throughout the surrounding grounds. Countless fireflies appeared in the night sky. The courtyard was transformed into a wild forest garden.

Surrounded by a halo of shimmering light the Sprite Queen appeared. Although diminutive in size, her presence was imposing. Her long gossamer wings were iridescent. Her almond-shaped eyes were a deep topaz. She had a pert nose, pointy ears, and long feathery antennae. Her pale silvery hair flowed down to her ankles. The sandals on her feet were made of intertwined flowers.

Ivan was riveted.

Queen Chloe smiled, and the music stopped. Her sweet lilting voice filled the courtyard as she spoke.

“With the start of spring and fall,

the Chooser of Champions graces thy hall.

Promises made for an ancient debt,

sacred words to never forget.

The chosen few will stand alone,

the victors be forever known.

The champion selection will now commence,

I’ll start with Mind, that’s common sense.

The first is known as an exceptional caster,

but heed my words, her mind is faster.

I choose Lisa Waterlily.

The second is fierce, she likes to protect,

But it is her cleverness that many respect.

I choose Kala.

The champion selection will switch to might,

The warriors I choose will give a good fight.

The first pick you will recognize,

a decade ago, he took the prize.

I choose Rob Stone.

The second one is an avid reader,

In the midst of battle, he became a leader.

I choose Ivan Snow.

Skillful archers enjoy the hunt,

Their arrows are lethal and never blunt.

The first archer comes as no surprise,

with deadly accuracy, his arrow flies.

I choose Hark Bolt.

The second pick is a lethal foe,

a mighty bloodstalker with her bow.

I choose Ivvy.

The magic force has very few masters.

Now is the time to choose the casters.

The first is adept at might and magic,

the fate of her foes is frequently tragic.

I choose Rose Summerbreeze.

The second pick is shrouded in mystery,

casters like him are bound to make history.

I choose William Snow.

The champion selection has come to an end,

Wishes for victory, I now extend!”

Queen Chloe smiled and vanished without another word.

A series of explosions shook the ground and whistling fireballs shot up into the sky. They whirled into spirals and burst into cascades of colored light.

The gathered cheered loudly as they watched the spectacle. Some sparks froze in midair, like a constellation of twinkling stars. One by one, they fell from the sky, leaving long trails of light. The crowd oohed and aahed.

“William… Ivan!” Mary gasped. “You were both picked as champions. I can’t believe it!” She jumped on top of her seat and pumped her fists.

“Wohooo,” Toby whooped. “Way to go! I can’t wait to see both of you in the arena.” Toby’s eyes glazed and a sly grin spread across his face. “I’m going to make a killing with the dicers.” He rubbed his palms and chuckled to himself.

The whole group cheered, and others came over to their table to hail the new champions. The boys were mobbed by well wishes.

Ivan’s mind whirled. He had not expected to be picked. He watched in a daze as people came over to their table to congratulate him and his brother.

The champion selection was followed by music, dancing, and overflowing tankards of berry beer. Everyone talked about the selected champions, the elegance of Queen Chloe, and the blazing light spectacle.

People clamored around William when they learned about his unique magical abilities.

“Can you cast Body Glow one more time,” Lady Loftin’s daughter asked.

“Sure.” William smiled.

The discussion and debate about William’s magic became heated. Some people worried that he might be disqualified.

Later that evening, Baza boldly approached their table and dragged William to the dancing area. Ivan had never seen his brother with such a terrified expression.

Just before midnight, Ivan decided to retire for the evening. He hugged his aunt, bid farewell to his friends, and headed toward his room.

(William)

With a big smile splitting his face, William headed toward his chamber. He had danced with a whole bunch of girls after Baza had finally released him.

Thank Tor’Sal, I didn’t make a complete fool of myself. I picked up the steps after the first dance. Baza is a really good teacher.

He swung open the door and twirled around while humming a melody. He walked toward the bed and fell face down into the soft mattress. He flopped over and kicked off his shoes.

I’m going to compete in the Spirit Competition. That’s terrifying and thrilling at the same time.

He was startled by a knock at the door. He groaned and lumbered out of bed. He swung open the door, expecting to see his brother, but was surprised to see Baza and Taran standing there.

“Hey, William,” Baza said cheerfully. “My dad has something to give you, and I asked him if I could tag along.”

“Oh, sure, come on in.” William opened the door wider and stepped aside to let them in.

“We won’t be here for long,” Taran said. “I’ve got something that you might find useful in the upcoming competition.”

Taran held out an intricately carved ivory staff. “I received this staff as a gift from Victor Restic after our duel in the Spirit Competition forty years ago. I don’t think he was aware that it had a hidden compartment.” Taran twisted the top section of the staff and removed it to reveal a secret compartment. He gently pulled out a piece of rolled up vellum and handed it to William. “This scroll has information on eight Light magic spells. I strongly advise you to abstain from using any of the summoning spells. Naturally, I’ve already spoken with your aunt about this. She had no objections if I gave you the scroll tonight. She’ll talk to you about it tomorrow.” He handed the vellum to William.

“Wow, thank you.” William carefully unrolled the scroll.

“William, you’ve got to take a look at that third spell.” Baza pointed to a section on the scroll. “It’s the Light Shield. It’s the most formidable defensive spell. Read this carefully. It says that the Light Shield spell starts with the Body Glow, and you can already cast Body Glow.”

“Oh, I’ve never even considered that there is a connection between the two. This is an amazing gift. Thank you.”

“Glad you like it.” Taran smiled. “I hope that it will give you an edge in the Spirit Competition. Well, it is quite late. It is time for us to retire. We will let you get your rest.”

“I’ll definitely come by tomorrow to check on your progress,” Baza said enthusiastically.

William thanked Taran again and assured him that he would make good use of the gift. He bid them goodnight, closed the door, and headed to his bedchamber. He sat on the bed, shoved a pillow behind his back, and looked at the scroll.

“’With the Light Shield around you, no harm will find you,’” he read aloud. “’Start with the Body Glow and extend the flow of energy. Repeat casting to add layers.’” William read the rest of the page and examined the drawings on the vellum. The idea that the Body Glow spell was the platform for Light Shield somehow felt familiar. It was as though he had known it all along.

William jumped out of the bed and ran to the mirror. First, he cast Body Glow. Then, he focused on expanding it, pushing it outwards.

The spell collapsed.

“Hmph!”

He was not discouraged. He knew that he was on the right track. For the next few hours, he reread the scroll multiple times and kept on practicing. He was exhausted but determined. He could see a subtle change in the Body Glow. Layering the spell was at the core of Light Shield.

Finally, it happened! He was surrounded by a luminous bubble that formed a perfect sphere around his body. He yelped in excitement as he examined the translucent shield. It was a beautiful spell.

(Ivan)

Ivan was having a hard time falling asleep. He tossed and turned in bed for some time before finally getting up. He had so much on his mind. His thoughts jumped between Jane, the Giant Steel blade, the mysterious girl, and the Champion Selection.

He had told the Lord Commander about the sword of Alaras. The emissaries that Rob Stone had sent to acquire the weapon had returned emptyhanded. They had learned that the sword had been sold to an envoy from the Shadow Lands.

Ivan recalled the intense look on Jane’s face when she had examined the sword of Alaras. She had looked at it with zealous fervor.

The Shadow Princess was completely captivated by that sword. I bet she took it.