The world is in a violent war. The Elves are fighting everyone over the source of magic they hid from the other races for years. With this source of magic, they were the only ones capable of magic. The elves think lowly of the other races, having enslaved them since their creation.
Tod, a royal scientist, was tasked with attempting to grow back limbs for orphans who had lost them due to the war between the Elves and Humans. One day, the experimentation to grow their limbs back had worked, but they had now lost their souls. Though Tod had been an adventurer before, he found that his strength paled in comparison to the three orphans who had been modified. They were now stronger and faster than anything alive, but they were soulless and only followed his orders.
Tod had heard there was a way to cure soullessness among the elves. Therefore, he packed his items and got ready to travel to the Elven Kingdom. As he prepared to leave, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt for his role in creating these soulless beings. But the thought of a cure for their condition and the chance to make things right spurred him onward.
He set off on his journey, traveling through treacherous forests and mountains, facing off against all manner of creatures, and overcoming obstacles in his path. The sunset cast long shadows across his path as he made his way deeper into the forest. The trees towered above him, their branches intertwining to form a dense canopy that blocked out most of the remaining light. The sound of an owl's hoot could be heard in the distance, sending a chill running down Tod's spine as he quickened his pace.
Join us on our adventure through Tod's eyes as you assume the role of Tod. As we travel through this unknown world, there will be murder, dead gods, fallen creatures of the abyss, and more. This world is not a pleasant one. Readers beware.
As he rounded a bend, he came across a small clearing where a group of elves were gathered around a fire.
Whispering to the three orphans, "Hide. Don't let yourselves be seen."
You watch as the three orphans melt into the shadows, their movements fluid and graceful like predators stalking their prey. The elves, engrossed in their own conversation, do not notice the sudden darkness that seems to have befallen this small corner of the clearing.
As you approach, the elves turn to regard you with a mixture of curiosity and disdain.
Nervously, you start talking, "Hello. Do you know the way to the City of Yae? I seek a priest who can handle a peculiar situation."
The elves regard you with a mixture of amusement and contempt, their perfect features twisted into sneers.
"You seek the City of Yae, do you?" one of them says, her voice like a tinkling bell. "And what business could a human scientist have in our hallowed city?”
You swallow hard, trying to keep your voice steady. "I have a... a situation that requires the attention of one of your priests."
The elves exchange knowing looks, their eyes glinting in the firelight. "A situation, you say?" another elf says, his voice dripping with condescension. "And what kind of situation would that be, human?"
You hesitate for a moment, weighing your words carefully. "I have three... creations, for lack of a better term, that have been afflicted with a peculiar condition."
The elves lean in, their expressions now intensely curious. "Go on," the first elf says, her voice barely above a whisper.
You take a deep breath, feeling the weight of your words heavy upon you.
"They were once human orphans, but in my attempts to restore their lost limbs, I inadvertently removed their souls. They are now powerful, soulless beings, and I seek a cure for their condition."
The elves regard you with a mix of fascination and disgust, their perfect faces twisted in revulsion at the thought of soulless beings. "You have created abominations, human," the first elf says, her voice cold and sharp as a blade. "And you seek our help to cure them?"
The other elves murmur in agreement, their voices low and dangerous.
"Well, it wasn't my intention to create abominations. I was just trying to heal them with new methods, and I made a mistake I didn't know I could have made." You reply while nervously scratching the back of your head.
The elf's icy glare remains fixed on you, her expression unchanged.
"Regardless of your intentions, human, you have created monstrosities that walk this earth," she says, her voice filled with disdain. "And now you seek our help to undo your mistake."
The other elves mutter in agreement, their voices growing louder and more menacing.
"Yes.”
The word hangs in the air, heavy with meaning and implication. The elves regard you with a mixture of disgust and curiosity, their perfect faces twisted in contempt.
"Very well, human," the first elf says, her voice cold and distant. "We will consider your request." She turns to the other elves, who nod in agreement. "But first, you must prove your worth to us."
"How?"
The elf regards you with a cold, appraising stare, her eyes narrowing ever so slightly.
"You must complete a task for us, human," she says, her voice dripping with condescension. "It is a task that will prove your worth to us and to your soulless creations."
She gestures to the shadows beyond the firelight, and from the darkness emerges a figure, bound and gagged.
Your heart rings out in pain, thinking the orphans have gotten caught, "Please don't hurt them. I had them hide in case this turned... well, violent."
The elf's smile turns into a smirk, and she waves a dismissive hand. "Fear not, human. We have no intention of hurting your creations. Yet."
She turns back to the figure in the shadows, and you see it's a human struggling against his bonds.
"This man is a traitor to our kind, a thief who has stolen from us," the elf continues. Her voice rings out, sharp as a dagger in the still night air. "He has information that we require, and you will extract it from him."
You stare at the elf in disbelief, your mind racing. This is not the help you had hoped for. "You want me to torture him?" you ask, your voice trembling.
The elf's smirk widens. "If that is what it takes, then yes."
Directing your voice to the man in bonds, "Well, to be honest, I could do worse than torture if you want to extract the answers through pain. I have a potion I made in my pack that can boil his blood for small amounts of time until he answers. It's an unintended side effect of the potion. The potion itself is meant to cool down burnt skin."
The elf's eyes widen in surprise, and she regards you with a newfound respect. "Ah, a scientist who is also knowledgeable in the arts of potion-making," she says, her voice filled with intrigue. "Very well, human. Use your potion to extract the information we need from this traitor."
You hesitate for a moment, your conscience gnawing at you.
Speaking to the supposed traitor, you say, "You heard what potion I have. I will do anything for these children. You have the option of telling the truth."
The human's eyes widened with terror as he nodded frantically, his struggles against his bonds growing more desperate. The elves watched with interest, their expressions a mix of curiosity and contempt.
You carefully remove the gag from the man's mouth, his lips cracked and dry from the rough fabric that bound them. He gasps for air, coughing and spluttering as he tries to catch his breath.
"Now, tell us what we want to know," the elf says, her voice low and menacing. "And remember, human scientist, your fate and that of your soulless creations hang in the balance based on how he answers."
The man's eyes dart between you and the elves, his face pale with fear. He begins to speak, his voice shaking as he recounts the information that the elves seek. You listen intently, your mind working to process the details as the man speaks.
He recounts his dealings with a rival elf clan. He speaks of stolen artifacts and secret plans, his eyes darting between you and the elves as he reveals the information. You listen intently, your mind working to process the details as he speaks.
When he finishes, the elves regard him with a mixture of disgust and satisfaction.
"What stolen plans?" You curiously ask.
The man turns to you, his eyes gleaming with fear.
"Plans for a weapon, human," he says. "A weapon that could tip the balance of power in the world and leave the elves vulnerable to their enemies."
Your heart races as you realize the gravity of the situation.
"Well, that can't be good. What are you going to do with him now?"
"That is not your concern, human," she says, her voice filled with an icy chill. "Your task was to extract the information from him, and you have completed it."
The human, still bound and trembling, looks at you with pleading eyes. He mouths the words "help me" silently, his lips quivering with fear.
You feel a pang of guilt in your heart, but you push it aside. You remind yourself that you did what you had to do to protect your soulless children. You turn to the elves, your expression resolute.
"Hey, traitor, do you perhaps know the way to the City of Yae?"
The human's eyes widen with surprise, and he nods eagerly, grateful for any reprieve from his impending fate. "Y-yes, I do," he stammers, his voice shaking with fear. I can take you there if you promise to spare my life."
The elves regard the human with a mixture of disgust and amusement, their expressions cold and unyielding.
"Ha! Pleading until the end. I guess you should have thought of that before trying to be free, bug." The elves sneered in disgust and contempt at the man who was pleading for his life.
"Orphans. Kill the elves."
The word hangs in the air, heavy with menace and finality. The elves' eyes widen in shock, and they take a step back, their hands instinctively reaching for the weapons at their hips. However, it is too late.
With a roar, the orphans surge forward, their eyes burning with a fierce, primal rage. They are no longer the broken, damaged creatures you once knew. They have been transformed into something else entirely, something monstrous and terrifying.
The elves, caught off guard by the sudden attack, struggle to defend themselves. Their finely-honed combat skills are no match for the mindless ferocity of the orphans. They fall, one by one, their piercing screams echoing through the forest.
You watch in horror as the scene unfolds before you. Blood splatters on your face, which is enough to bring you back to your senses.
As you untie the bonds holding the traitor, you inform him, "The children are very protective. Be mindful not to betray me on our way to the city."
The words leave your mouth like a dagger, cold and sharp. The human's eyes widen with fear, but he nods eagerly, his hands trembling as you undo his bonds.
"Thank you," he whispers, his voice barely audible above the sound of the orphans' frenzied attack.
You turn to leave, but something stops you. A sudden realization washes over you. You have just unleashed a horde of monstrous creatures upon the world. These orphans, once innocent and helpless, are now a deadly force to be reckoned with. What's even more haunting is you had no problem, not a single iota of a qualm with it.
As you turn back to the human, you see the fear in his eyes, and you know that he is thinking the same thing. You have created a monster, and now you must deal with the consequences.
"Come." You say, "We both do not want these monstrosities in this world. The Elves would have easily killed us both, so I figured I would trust a fellow human more."
The human looks at you, his eyes filled with a mix of fear and gratitude. He nods slowly, understanding your words.
"I will follow you," he says, his voice low and tense.
Together, you and the human make your way through the forest, the sounds of the orphans' rampage fading into the distance. You can't help but feel a sense of unease settle over you.
"Orphans. It is time to go; finish up quickly and follow."
The orphans, now a frenzied horde of monstrous creatures, tear through the forest with a savage intensity that is both awe-inspiring and terrifying. You watch as they leave a trail of destruction in their wake, their eyes burning with a fierce, primal rage that you know all too well.
The human hurries to keep up with you, his eyes darting nervously between the orphans and the path ahead. You can sense his fear, but you push it aside. There is no time for fear now. Only survival.
As you move deeper into the forest, the sound of rushing water grows louder in your ears. Soon, you come upon a raging river, its waters frothing and churning as they flow relentlessly towards the sea. The orphans' rage has calmed down, and they are uniformly marching behind me. You pat the head of one of the orphans, who has no reaction. The traitor is silently guiding us through the forest. The river, a torrent of icy water, roars before you like a wild beast, its spray stinging your face and leaving a metallic tang on your tongue. The current is treacherous, and you know that crossing it would be no easy feat. But you have no choice. You must press on.
"What do I call you, Mr. Traitor?"
The man hesitates for a moment, his eyes flicking towards the orphans behind you before settling on your face.
"You can call me James," he says.
"Alright, James, we both know this river is deadly. The orphans act on orders. They won't make it across. Do you have any suggestions? Also, before you go suggesting that we can be done with this by drowning them in the river, don't forget that they're technically already dead."
James looks thoughtful for a moment, his eyes scanning the river and the surrounding landscape.
"There might be a way," he says slowly. "Over there, on the other side of the river, there's a narrow gorge. If we can make it across, we might be able to climb up and out of the river's path."
He hesitates and then adds, "But getting across will be difficult."
"The orphans can take us."
You look back at the horde of orphans, their dead eyes staring back at you. The thought of using them as a means to cross the river is both chilling and desperate. But you also know that you have no other choice.
"Alright," you say, your voice heavy with resignation. "We'll do it your way, James."
James nods, his face pale with fear.
You turn to the orphans and command them to carry you across the narrow gorge. Like brides at a weird wedding, James and you are lifted by two of the three orphans and carried expertly across the narrow gorge.
As you and James are carried across the narrow gorge, you can't help but feel a sense of unease. These orphans, once innocent and helpless, are now a deadly force to be reckoned with. Their cold, dead eyes stare at nothing in particular, yet they move with a coordinated grace that is almost unsettling.
Once you reach the other side of the gorge, you thank the orphans before setting off again. The forest around you is thick and dark, the trees towering above you like ancient sentinels. The air is heavy with the scent of damp earth and decaying leaves. As you and James make your way through the undergrowth, you can't shake the feeling that you're being watched.
Suddenly, you hear a twig snap behind you. One of the orphans steps in front of you to shield you with their body in case anything happens. You whirl around, your heart pounding in your chest. But there's nothing there, just the dense foliage of the forest and the shadowy forms of the trees.
James looks just as startled as you are, his eyes wide with fear. "What was that?" he whispers, his voice barely audible.
You shake your head, straining your ears for any sound that might indicate the presence of danger. But there's nothing, just the rustling of leaves and the distant call of a bird. You let out a sigh of relief, your heart rate slowly returning to normal.
"It was probably just an animal," you say, trying to reassure both James and yourself.
But even as you speak the words, you can't shake the feeling that something is off. The forest seems too quiet, too still.
Calling out to the environment, "If there's anyone there, we're just trying to get to the City of Yae to seek help from a priest."
Your voice rings out, clear and steady, as you try to defuse the tension that has settled over the group like a shroud. You scan the surrounding forest, your eyes piercing the shadows, looking for any sign of movement. The forest remains stubbornly silent as if holding its breath.
James nods, his face pale but determined.
"Yes, that's right," he says, his voice stronger now. "We're just passing through on our way to the City of Yae. We mean no harm to anyone."
You continue onwards, the tension in the air slowly dissipating as the forest seems to accept your presence. The undergrowth thickens, the trees become more densely packed together, and you find yourself having to push through a wall of green as you make your way deeper into the forest. The sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the forest floor. You can hear the distant hoot of an owl and the rustle of leaves as small creatures scurry about their business. The air is cooling, the scent of damp earth and pine needles growing stronger.
After what feels like hours of walking, you finally see a break in the trees up ahead. As you approach the clearing, you realize that it's not just any break in the trees. It's a road, wide and well-maintained, stretching off into the distance. You can see the faint glow of lanterns in the distance, and you know that civilization is not far off.
The sight of the road fills you with a sense of relief and hope. You can feel the weight of the forest lifting off your shoulders as you step onto the worn cobblestones. The orphans seem to sense the change in your mood and become more subdued, their dead eyes losing some of their intensity.
James looks around, his eyes wide with wonder.
"We made it," he says, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.
However, even as you feel the stirrings of joy and triumph, you can't shake the feeling that something is still watching you. The forest seems to loom behind you, a dark and menacing presence that threatens to swallow you up at any moment. You shake your head, trying to dispel the dark thoughts. The road ahead is your salvation, your escape from the horrors of the forest.
You whisper to one of the orphans, "If you know what that thing that's been following us is and you think you can capture, take your siblings and go get it."
The orphan you whisper to tilts its head as if considering your words. Then, with a sudden burst of speed, it breaks away from the group and disappears into the undergrowth, its siblings hot on its heels. James looks at you, his eyes wide with surprise.
"What are they doing?" he asks.
You turn to him, your face grim. "I'm not going to lie. They're doing the thing we hope they never do to us."
A chilling silence falls between you and James, the weight of your words hanging heavy in the air. You can see the understanding dawning in James's eyes, and he takes a step back, his face pale.
"You mean... they're going to... eat it?" he asks, his voice trembling.
You are visibly taken aback as you had not thought of that, and then you try to tell him what they’re actually doing while the thought of them munching on you is very much still in your head.
"I mean, that's another thing I hope they never do. I just asked them to go get it. On second thought, they might also eat it. However, I want to see who's been following us."
As you stand there on the edge of the forest, waiting for the orphans to return, you can't help but feel a sense of unease. The forest seems to have closed in around you, the trees pressing in from all sides, their branches reaching out like bony fingers.
But even as you wait, you can't shake the feeling that something is still watching you. The forest around you seems to hold its breath, the silence broken only by the distant hoot of an owl and the rustle of leaves. Suddenly, you hear a twig snap, and one of the orphans emerges from the undergrowth, dragging something behind it.
As it gets closer, you see that it's holding a small, struggling creature in its arms. The creature is unlike anything you've ever seen before. It has the body of a man but the head of a stag, its antlers twisted and gnarled like the branches of a tree. Its eyes are wide with terror, and it pants heavily, trying to break free from the orphan's grasp.
This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.
"What is that thing?" James whispers, his voice trembling with fear.
You stare at the creature, your mind racing with questions. "Can you speak? I've told them to capture you, but I don't have any intention to harm you. I just want to know why you're following us."
The creature's eyes widen in shock as it hears your voice, and it stops struggling against the orphan's grip. It takes a deep breath, its chest heaving with exertion, before speaking in a soft, melodic voice.
"I have been following you because I have been sent to do so," it says, its words tinged with a sadness that seems to seep into the very air around you.
"Yeah, but why?" You reactively ask.
The creature hesitates for a moment as if debating whether or not to reveal its true purpose. Finally, it speaks again.
"I have been sent to watch over you to ensure that you reach the City of Yae safely," it says, its eyes downcast. But I am forbidden to interfere or to help you in any way."
"Oh, I'm so sorry. I didn't realize you were watching over us. Child, let him... it go."
The orphan hesitates for a moment, their grip on the creature tightening before they finally release it. The creature stumbles backward, its legs unsteady as it regains its balance. It looks at you with a mixture of gratitude and sadness, as if it wants to say more but is unable to do so.
"Thank you," it says finally. "But I must go now."
"Hold up. I already injured you; come here. I have a potion I can apply to the spots that the child injured."
The creature hesitates, looking at you with a mixture of suspicion and gratitude. After a moment, it nods, taking a few cautious steps towards you. You can see the wounds on its body, raw and oozing, evidence of the orphans' rough treatment.
You carefully open your pack, pulling out a small vial of shimmering liquid. You offer the potion to the creature, your eyes meeting its gaze as you gently tip the vial, allowing a few drops to spill out onto its wounds. The liquid sizzles and hisses as it touches the raw flesh, and the creature hisses in pain before relaxing as the potion begins to work its magic. The wounds close and knit themselves back together, the flesh healing before your very eyes.
"Thank you." The creature says.
"It's my way of apologizing. Do tell whoever asked you to watch over us that we don't mean any harm. I'm trying to help these children. They're my children and I messed up as a caretaker."
The creature nods, its eyes filled with understanding. "I will convey your message," it says, its voice soft and reassuring. "But I must go now. My task is not yet complete."
It turns to leave, its body melting into the shadows as it disappears into the undergrowth. You watch it go, a sense of relief washing over you as the weight of its presence lifts from your shoulders.
"We should keep moving." You say, quickly changing the subject, confident the creature is no longer watching. "So, James, I know you're a traitor to the elves, but did you really get something that can make the elves vulnerable?"
James looks at you, his eyes wide with surprise and fear. He hesitates for a moment as if debating whether or not to tell you the truth.
"Yes, I did," he says, his words tinged with a sadness that seems to seep into the very air around you. "I have a vial of ichor from a creature that was once a friend to the elves."
"Ichor? What's that?"
James takes a deep breath, his chest heaving with emotion as he speaks.
"Ichor is the blood of the gods," he says. "It is said to have the power to grant immense strength and vitality to those who drink it. But it is also said to be highly unstable, prone to explosive reactions when exposed to air or when mixed with other substances."
"Do you have said Ichor on you?"
James nods, his face grave.
"Yes, I do," he says. "I insist that it is highly dangerous. If we are not careful, it could destroy us all."
You can see the fear in James's eyes, the uncertainty, and the doubt.
"I'm a royal scientist. I answer to the King, so if you hand it to me, I'm fairly certain I can get it to them. Plus, the only ones who know you're a traitor to the elves are the elves who are now dead in the forest, right?"
James nods, his eyes filled with relief.
"Yes, you're right," he says. "I trust you, and I have no doubt that you will get the ichor to the King safely. I just hope that it will be enough to turn the tide of the war."
You take the vial from James, your fingers trembling with anticipation. You take the vial of Ichor and put it in your bag. As a scientist, no one would argue with yet another vial being in your backpack. This would make it so that the guards would not suspect us of anything should we be searched. The weight of the vial in your bag feels heavy, not just with its physical presence but with the responsibility it carries. The fate of the war and possibly the kingdom rests on the contents of this small container.
"Let's get to the city. Once we're there, you can head back to the human kingdom if you want. Ya know, I never did ask what it is you do for the elves, James."
James hesitates, his eyes flicking away from yours for a moment before meeting your gaze once more. There's a sadness in his eyes, a deep-rooted pain that speaks volumes.
"I was a researcher for the elves," he says. "But I grew disillusioned with their ways, their disregard for life, their obsession with power."
You stare at James incredulously, and you ask, "The elves are obsessed with power? I thought they thought everyone was beneath them. I need to hear more about this."
James nods, taking a deep breath before continuing. "The elves are obsessed with power, yes, but it goes deeper than that. They see themselves as superior to all other races, and they believe that it is their right to rule over them. While they can cast magic and are the only ones who can, their thirst for power doesn't stop there. They seek to control everything, from the natural world to the very fabric of reality itself. They will stop at nothing to achieve their goals."
You tentatively ask, "Alright, but they're not anywhere near control of said fabric of reality, right?"
James hesitates, his eyes filling with a haunted look that chills you to your very core.
"You would be surprised," he says. "The elves have been conducting secret research for centuries, experiments that delve into the very nature of reality itself. From what I have seen, they are getting closer to their goal with each passing day."
He looks at you, his eyes filled with a pleading look that speaks volumes.
Now somewhat scared, you turn to James, "This wouldn't happen to be related to where you got the Ichor from, would it?"
James hesitates, his eyes flicking away from yours once again. When he speaks, his voice struggles to leave his body.
"Yes, it is," he admits. The creature from which the ichor came was the result of one of the elves' experiments. They were trying to create the perfect soldier, a being that was both powerful and obedient."
Holding a hand out as if to physically stop the confusing claim, "Wait, wait. Hold on. You said the Ichor was the blood of a God. How does creating a soldier produce the blood of a God?"
James hesitates, his eyes filled with a mixture of fear and sadness. "I wish I knew," he says. "The elves are not forthcoming with their research, and what little I do know is based on rumors and hearsay."
He takes a deep breath, gathering his thoughts before continuing. You stop walking to think about this. If you had not come out here to cure the children, you would have never known about this, and James would have never made it to the king to tell him about it. Would he have even gotten an audience? Also, what was that creature? Was that one of their experiments? Why does it feel like it was trying to take care of you?
"Alright, me. One thing at a time. I need to focus on finding a cure for the children first. If the elves can't help, then I'll have to head back."
You turn to James and ask him, "When we get to the City of Yae, do you want to head back to the human kingdom or wait for me so you can get escorted back?"
James looks at you, his eyes filled with boundless joy and relief. "I would be grateful for your escort back to the human kingdom," he says. "I don't trust myself to make it there on my own, not after what I've seen and done."
You nod, understanding his fear and apprehension.
As you crest a hill, the city comes into view, its walls made of gleaming white stone and its towers reaching high into the sky. The city glows in the twilight, a beacon of hope amidst the surrounding wilderness. Its streets are bustling with activity, elves moving to and fro in a seemingly choreographed dance of purposeful motion. You can see merchants hawking their wares, nobles parading through the streets in their finery, and scholars poring over ancient tomes in the city's many libraries. The City of Yae is a sight to behold, its walls gleaming in the fading light like a pearl amidst the darkening forest. As you approach the city, you can hear the distant sound of laughter and music, the sounds of elven life carried on the breeze. The gate to the city is guarded by two elven soldiers, their faces stern and unyielding as they regard you with a critical eye.
"Why is there so much shiny? It's so bright it kind of hurts the eyes."
The Elven guards raise an eyebrow at your question, their expressions unreadable behind their helmets. One of them, a tall and slender figure with piercing blue eyes, speaks up.
"The City of Yae is built with materials mined from the heart of the mountains, including white quartz and silver ore. The result is a city that shines like a jewel in the sun."
"Well, I would congratulate them on achieving the sun part. I would look you in the eyes, but I'd be squinting and not seeing anything. Anywho, I'm a scientist trying to find whoever in this city can cure soullessness. Do you know anybody like that?"
The Elven guard regards you with a skeptical eye, his gaze lingering on the vial in your bag.
"Soullessness, you say?" he repeats, his voice laced with disbelief. "There is no cure for soullessness, not in the City of Yae or anywhere else in the world."
You feel a pang of disappointment, but you refuse to give up.
"There must be someone who can help me."
The elf guard hesitates, his eyes flicking towards his companion before returning to you. "There is one who may be able to help you," he says, “An ancient seer who lives in the heart of the city, in the Tower of Echoes. But be warned, the path to the tower is treacherous, and the seer's wisdom comes at a steep price."
"What price? I hope it's something I have on me as I didn't know I would need to pay. A bit naive, I suppose, but what payment would I have brought if I didn't know what to bring, am I right?"
The Elven guard regards you with a cryptic smile; his eyes filled with a knowing look that sends a shiver down your spine. "The seer's price is not something that can be measured in gold or silver," he says. "It is something far more precious, something that only the truly desperate would be willing to part with."
You feel a knot of fear twist in your stomach, but you push it aside.
You smile nervously at the guard and ask a question to hopefully get a clearer answer, "Why are seer's always like that? Like I don't want any gold. But hey, your soul or close relative, they be looking fine. It's creepy."
The Elven guard's smile widens as their companion snickers and nods in agreement. "Seers are strange beings, indeed. They see the world in a way that few others can, and their wisdom comes at a cost. If you are truly committed to finding a cure for soullessness, then you must be willing to pay any price."
You nod, your resolve strengthened as you prepare yourself for the challenges ahead. The guards nod back, stepping aside to allow you and James entry into the city. As you pass through the gates, you can't help but feel a sense of awe at the sight before you. The City of Yae is unlike anything you've ever seen before, a shining beacon of elven civilization amidst the darkening wilderness.
You make your way through the crowded streets, your eyes scanning the faces of those around you. You notice that the elves regard you with a mixture of curiosity and disdain, their gazes lingering on your strange clothing and unfamiliar accent. Despite this, you press on, determined to find the Tower of Echoes and the seer who may hold the key to curing the children.
After what seems like hours of searching, you finally come upon the tower, its tall spire reaching towards the heavens like a finger of stone. The Tower of Echoes looms over you, its dark silhouette casting a long shadow over the surrounding buildings. The entrance is guarded by two stone statues, their faces frozen in eternal vigilance. As you approach, you can't help but feel a sense of unease, as if the very air around you is charged with a hidden danger.
You push open the heavy wooden door, your footsteps echoing through the empty corridor beyond. The air inside the tower is cold and damp, and you can hear the distant sound of dripping water. You make your way down the dimly lit hallway, your footsteps muffled by the thick rug beneath your feet. The walls are lined with ancient tapestries, their colors faded and worn. They depict scenes of elven history, their stories told in intricate detail.
"These things are beautiful." You say in pure amazement.
As you run your fingers over the intricate weave of the tapestries, you can't help but feel a sense of awe at the skill and craftsmanship that went into creating them. The images depicted are both beautiful and haunting, a glimpse into a world that is at once familiar and foreign. You see elven warriors locked in battle with mysterious creatures, their faces contorted with rage and fear.
"What are these creatures? I've never seen them in any books and they look like the ones the orphans had captured."
The creatures depicted in the tapestries are tall and gangly, with elongated limbs and sharp, angular features. Their skin is a sickly shade of green, and their eyes glow with an unnatural light. They are dressed in tattered rags, their bodies thin and frail. Despite their weak appearance, there is a sinister air about them, a hint of a power that is both ancient and malevolent. You shudder at the sight of them, a cold sweat breaking out on your forehead. These creatures, whatever they are, seem to be a source of great fear and loathing for the elves. You make a mental note to avoid them at all costs, should you ever encounter them in your travels.
As you continue your journey through the tower, the air grows colder and the shadows deeper. The corridor twists and turns, leading you deeper into the heart of the tower. You can hear the distant sound of chanting, the words barely discernible through the thick stone walls. The air is heavy with the scent of incense and burning candles, and you can feel a strange energy building around you.
Finally, you come upon a door, its surface etched with intricate runes and symbols.
"Stuff I can't read and a foreboding presence. The home of a seer if I've ever seen one."
The door creaks open, revealing a dimly lit chamber beyond. The air is thick with the scent of incense, and you can hear the sound of chanting, the words barely discernible through the gloom. The walls of the chamber are lined with shelves, each one overflowing with ancient tomes and scrolls. A large, ornate throne sits at the far end of the room, its surface worn and cracked with age.
"Hello?"
A figure sits upon the throne, its face obscured by a hooded robe. The figure does not move, but you can feel its eyes upon you, studying you intently. The chanting grows louder, the words swirling around you like a dark cloud. You can feel the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end, and a cold shiver runs down your spine. The figure on the throne stirs, its hooded head tilting to one side as it regards you with a critical eye.
"You have come seeking knowledge, human," it intones, its voice deep and sonorous. "But at what cost?"
The chanting grows louder still, the words washing over you like a wave of dark energy.
"I mean, take your pick. I can give you a sneeze if you want, but I'm not giving you any souls to munch on if that's your kink." You blurt out in an attempt to de-escalate the tension.
The figure on the throne regards you with a mixture of amusement and curiosity, its hooded head tilting to one side.
"Your soul is not what I seek, human," it says, its voice tinged with a hint of disappointment. "But your knowledge... that is a different matter entirely."
The chanting grows louder still, the words echoing through the chamber like a dark thunder.
You look at the thing on the thrown with curiosity, "Your knowledge for my knowledge; interesting. What is it you seek from me?"
The figure on the throne regards you with a piercing gaze, its eyes glowing with an otherworldly light. "I seek knowledge of the world beyond our own," it says. "There are forces at work in the universe that even I cannot comprehend, and I believe that you, human, may hold the key to unlocking their secrets."
You look at them with a puzzled look. "I think you may have confused me with someone else. I came here because I made a mistake, not because I had primordial secrets that I was just dying to tell someone."
The figure on the throne narrows its eyes, studying you with a critical gaze. "A mistake, you say?" it repeats, its voice laced with skepticism. "And yet, you carry with you an artifact of great power and importance. The blood of a god, or so I have been told."
The chanting reaches a fever pitch, the words swirling around you like a dark storm. A sudden chill of terror rolls down my back as I hear her words. After all, there's really no good reason for me to have the Ichor. I just figured I could get past the guards and protect James. Taking a deep breath, I calm myself down.
"The blood of a god? What god might that be?"
The figure on the throne hesitates, its eyes narrowing as it considers your question. "The God of Teal, they call it," it says, its voice barely above a whisper. "A being of immense power and wisdom, revered by the elves in times long past."
The chanting reaches a crescendo, the words echoing through the chamber like a dark thunder.
"But why do you care about it?" You ask, "I'm not really torn either way. I found this vial when pilfering through some dead elf bodies. Something fierce ripped them apart, and all there was were their items. Finder's keepers, as they say."
The figure on the throne bursts out in a kackle. "You found it on the bodies of elves?" it repeats, its voice tinged with disbelief. "How is it possible that you, a mere human, were able to best the elves in combat and claim such a prize?"
The chanting continues to echo through the chamber, building to a fever pitch. The air grows thick with tension as the figure awaits your response.
"Woah woah, who said I fought them? I very much doubt I rip limbs off and bite off throats. It was something else that did it to them. I'm just a scientist."
The figure on the throne seems to consider your words for a moment, its eyes narrowing as it studies you with a critical gaze. "A scientist, you say?" it repeats, its voice tinged with skepticism. "And yet, you possess an artifact of immense power and importance. How does a child playing with fire have such a thing? How do I know that you are not lying to me, hiding your true intentions behind a mask of false innocence?" I motion for one of the orphans to come forward to show the seer. Patting the orphan on the head, I gesture towards them with my head.
“Did she just refer to me as a child? Why do they all act differently suddenly when I mention scientists?”
"I was trying to heal the children who got injured in your war. I managed to heal them, but at a cost I didn't foresee. These children have lost their souls, and I was told you might be able to restore them. If I was truly trying to harm anyone, I would not have ventured here and put myself at risk to fix my mistake."
The figure on the throne regards the orphan with a mixture of curiosity and surprise. "A noble cause, to be sure," it says, its voice tinged with a hint of admiration. "But why go to such great lengths to restore the souls of these children? What do you stand to gain from such a selfless act?"
The chanting begins to subside, the words fading away into the gloom.
You think about it for a good moment before answering. "Honestly, I don't stand to gain anything. If their souls can be returned, then they can lead normal lives as children. If not, then they’ll be my bodyguards and soldiers forever. Many would think it beneficial to keep them this way, but I don't. Children should be happy."
The figure on the throne regards you with a thoughtful expression, its eyes never leaving your face. "A noble sentiment, indeed; you children deserve to be happy," it says. "Are you certain that this is the only reason you seek to restore the souls of these children? Are you not driven by a desire for power or perhaps a need to right the wrongs of the past?"
Squinting your eyes, you can definitely see what she’s hinting at. "I mean, I suppose you could say their state is my wrong, and I'm seeking help to fix it. However, I simply do not desire power. I wanted to heal the kids, not turn them into super soldiers."
The figure on the throne regards you with a penetrating gaze as if trying to see into the very depths of your soul. "Worry not, my ignorant child," it says. "I will help you restore the souls of these children, but at a price."
"What price?"
The figure on the throne regards you with a serious expression, its eyes filled with a sense of gravity.
"The price is knowledge, child. I swear, children always have things in their ears," it says, its voice heavy with importance. "I will restore the souls of these children, but in return, you must share with me the secrets of the world beyond our own. You must tell me of the forces that lurk in the shadows, the beings that wield power beyond our comprehension."
The figure's voice echoes through the chamber, and you can feel the weight of its words pressing down upon you. You take a deep breath, considering the offer. On one hand, the seer's knowledge could be invaluable in your quest to understand the world and its mysteries. On the other hand, you can't help but feel a sense of unease at the thought of sharing your own knowledge with this mysterious figure. The seer's gaze seems to bore into your very soul, and you feel a shiver run down your spine. You know that you must tread carefully here, for the price of the seer's knowledge may be more than you bargained for.
Motioning with your hands to suggest taking something big and making it smaller, you ask, "Can you narrow that down a bit?"
The figure on the throne was quick to throw on a cryptic smile, its eyes filled with a knowing look. "Very well," it says, “I will restore the souls of these children, but in return, I require knowledge of the world beyond our own. Specifically, I seek information about the nature of the Ichor you possess, its origins, its properties, and its potential uses."
Finding such a task easy, you practically trip over your words, trying to give her what she wants. "Oh, okay. Well, it's the blood of a God. Therefore, it's very likely it holds the secret to immortality itself. It's a black, oozing substance. I'm not too sure about its origins as I did found, not produced it. It's also entirely plausible that it could be used against the Demons."
"I have heard whispers of such a substance, but never before have I encountered it in the flesh." The figure leans forward, its eyes glowing with a fierce intensity. "Tell me more about this, Ichor."
You shrug in response. "Sorry, that's all I have. I just found it. I have not brought it back to my lab."
The figure on the throne seems to consider your words for a moment, its eyes narrowing as it studies you with a critical gaze. With a hint of disappointment, it replies. "I will accept your answer for now, but know this - the knowledge you possess is valuable, and I will not hesitate to claim it if the opportunity arises."
Motioning with a hand toward the orphans, "So, about the children?"
The figure on the throne nods, acknowledging your question. "Yes, the children," it says, its voice heavy with a sense of resolve. "I will restore their souls, but the process will not be easy. It will require great power."
The chamber around you seems to grow darker, the shadows deepening and twisting around the walls. The figure on the throne raises its hands, and a surge of energy flows from its fingertips, filling the room with a pulsing light. You feel a strange sensation wash over you as if the very fabric of reality is shifting around you. The chanting grows louder still, the words swirling around you like a dark storm. Suddenly, the children around you begin to convulse, their bodies shaking as if in the throes of a terrible seizure. The seer's hand suddenly bursts into flames, and a booming voice resonates throughout the chamber.
"Do not touch my vessels!" a voice yelled in anger. The voice was so loud that you felt your heart vibrate.
With its voice, cracks were left on the walls of the room, and the seer desperately tried to put out the fire on their hand. The seer darted their eyes towards you. At first, they were full of anger and then changed to full of sadness. The seer seemed to know something that you don't and felt immense sadness for you and the children. The seer's hands are now engulfed in a ball of flame, but they do not seem to be in pain. Instead, they seem to be using the flames to channel a powerful energy. The air around you crackles with electricity, and you can feel the hairs on your arms stand on end.
Suddenly, a burst of energy shoots from the seer's hands, striking the children and enveloping them in a blinding light. The light fades, and you see the children lying on the ground, their bodies still and unmoving. The seer lowers their hands, the flames extinguishing with a sigh. You hold your breath, waiting for some sign that the children are alright.
After what seems like an eternity, one of the children stirs, their eyes fluttering open. They look around, confusion and fear etched on their faces. The child's gaze falls upon you, and recognition dawns in their eyes. They sit up, rubbing their head, and glance around at the other children. One by one, they begin to stir, their bodies shaking off the effects of the seer's magic.
The seer watches the scene unfold, their expression inscrutable. The air in the chamber grows tense as the seer regards you with a mixture of sadness and resignation.
"The souls of the children have been restored," they say, their voice heavy with a sense of finality.
You glance at the children, your heart swelling with relief and joy as they begin to stir and awaken. They seem to be no worse for wear, their bodies and minds intact and unbroken. You cry tears of joy as you hug the children. You didn't think they would be healed that easily, but they seem to have life in their eyes once again
"Thankfully, you are alright." You say.
You hear a voice in an almost monotone voice that seems devoid of life. "Master wants us to follow you. The seer didn't give us our souls back. The Master allowed them to return, but only if we follow you," one of the orphans said.
You look at the orphan, completely puzzled by the words you just heard. Looking back at the seer, you can see they're exhausted but trying to put on a tough face.
"Master?" You ask the seer in confusion.
The seer nods slowly, their eyes heavy with exhaustion.
"Yes, the Master," they say. "I am but a servant of a greater power, one that watches over this world and all its inhabitants." The seer's gaze falls upon the children, and a sad smile crosses their face. "The Master saw fit to restore the souls of these children, but they still must serve you, their savior."
"I'm not a savior. Who is this Master? Why are they like this?"
The figure on the throne regards you with a weary smile.
"The Master is a being of immense power and wisdom, one that has watched over this world for eons," it says, its voice barely above a whisper. "As for why they require the children to serve you, I cannot say for certain. The ways of the Master are mysterious and often inscrutable."
The seer's voice echoes through the chamber, and you can't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the power and wisdom of this mysterious being. You glance at the children, who are now standing up and stretching, their eyes bright and alert. They seem to be different now, somehow older and wiser, and you can't help but wonder what this service to you will entail.
"Well, uh, this is awkward. I'm going to be honest: I'm not so sure what to do now. I suppose I'll go back to the kingdom and research the Ichor. How do you plan on collecting the information?"
"I will send my emissaries to you, spirits of the air and the earth, to gather the information I require. They will watch over you and guide you in your research, ensuring that you uncover the secrets of the Ichor to the best of your ability." The figure on the throne raises a hand, and a gust of wind sweeps through the chamber, extinguishing the flames that still flicker in the darkness. As the wind dies down, you hear a faint whisper, a voice that seems to come from everywhere and nowhere all at once. "We will be watching," it says, the voice tinged with a sense of urgency and importance. "Until we meet again."
As you turn to leave the chamber, you can't help but feel a sense of unease. You make your way out of the chamber, the heavy stone doors closing behind you with a resounding thud. The corridor outside is dimly lit, the flickering torchlight casting eerie shadows on the walls. The children follow you silently, their faces solemn and thoughtful.
As you walk, you can't help but wonder about the true nature of the seer and the mysterious Master they serve. The figure on the throne had spoken of spirits of the air and the earth, emissaries that would watch over you and guide you in your research. You wonder what form these spirits would take and what kind of knowledge they would impart.
The weight of the seer's words hangs heavy on your shoulders, and you can't shake the feeling that there is more to this arrangement than meets the eye.
"You've been awfully quiet, James. What do you make of all this?"
James looks up at you with a dazed expression as if he's still trying to process everything that's happened. "I-I don't know," he stammers. "It's all so much to take in. The seer, the Master, the Ichor...it's all so confusing."
He pauses for a moment, collecting his thoughts.
"But I do know one thing." James's voice grows more determined as he continues. "I know that we have a responsibility to use this power for good. We can't let it corrupt us or lead us down a dark path. We have to be careful, and we have to work together to figure out what the Ichor really is and what it can do."
He looks at you with a steady gaze, his eyes filled with a sense of purpose.
"Yeah, I suppose you're right about that. However, how do you fit into this? You're a decent guy, but besides stabbing the elves in the back with your research, do you plan on becoming a royal researcher?"
James considers your question for a moment, his eyes downcast as he thinks. "I don't know what my role will be yet," he admits. "But I do know that I want to help you in any way that I can. You've given me a second chance at life, and I want to repay that debt in some way."
He pauses for a moment and continues, "I may not have the same skills or knowledge as you, but I can still be of use. I can help you with the research, gather information, or even provide a fresh perspective on things. Whatever you need, I'm here to help."
"Alright then, let's head back home."
As you and James make your way back to the kingdom, you can't help but feel a sense of unease. The revelation of the Master's existence has left you with more questions than answers. You find yourself glancing around, half expecting to see spirits of the air and earth watching over you, even though you know that they are probably still far away.
"So, are we going to walk back the same way, or is there a faster mode of transportation in the City of Yae?"
"I'm not sure," James admits. "I've never been to this part of the city before." He glances around, taking in the flickering torchlight and the eerie shadows that dance on the walls. "But I do know that there are often transportation circles hidden throughout the city. If we can find one, it might take us back to the kingdom much faster than walking."
You nod, and the two of you set off down the corridor, keeping a careful eye out for any signs of a transportation circle. You can hear the distant sound of chanting echoing through the halls as you attempt to leave this place.