Elonian Calendar, 1502, Lunar Month of Fire - Flame, Day 5

A lone carriage weaved along a mountain path, traversing a solitary trail through the unending snow. The light of the hanging lantern reflected off the falling snow crystals as it jostled back and forth, creating a small sphere of orange light against the endless blue-white expanse. Other than the sound of the snow being crushed under wooden wheels, the winter landscape seemed to instill a quiet and solemn stillness upon the world.

Yuelei Casteya woke up to pitch darkness. As her eyes slowly adjusted to the dim darkness, she soon realized that she was inside a strange container, with barely any space to move. The interior seemed to be made of a soft velvet-like material, but that had not stopped the cold air from permeating inside.

Where am I? Yuelei tried to move and orient herself, but it was a futile effort. The container was akin to a coffin, and she had barely enough space to turn over onto her side. No matter how hard she pushed and struggled, the sides of the container she was in would not yield.

"Airen, are you there?" she croaked out, her throat abnormally dry.

How long was I unconscious for?

Yuelei took a moment to assess her situation.

The last thing I remember was being attacked by two masked men. Jourmind, he-

Sudden realization struck as she felt she was likely in the middle of a kidnapping.

I need to get out of here and make sense of the current situation.

From what she could tell, the container did not seem to have a lock mechanism, so there must have been a large object resting on top of it. Yuelei tried to ram her body against one side of the container thinking she might shift it enough to dislodge her prison, but to no avail as the soft velvet seemed to absorb the impact. Quickly tiring and deciding not to exhaust her strength, Yuelei dropped her bruised hands from the roof of her prison.

They must plan to use me for ransom, or as a hostage. Yuelei reasoned. Otherwise there’s no reason they would use such an elaborate and cushioned cage, to keep the ‘goods’ safe.

But then… Why is it so cold? Yuelei rubbed her hands together in a feeble attempt to warm them up. She tried to blow over them only to feel her breath turning into a cold mist.

If the temperature is this cold, then I must be somewhere up north.... Yuelei theorized. That means.... either the Holy Land of Ecclesia or the Whitefrost Mountains... or even somewhere beyond the Holy Land's borders up north.

Yuelei was quickly pulled away from her thoughts as the box jolted around.

“First a thaw, and now an earthquake? Something’s off about these blasted mountains this month.” the driver of the carriage cursed. The sudden quake had caused the yak-like oxen pulling the carriage to panic as they crossed a mountain pass. He pulled onto the reins attempting to seize control of the situation, urging the two creatures away from the edge of the cliff.

After the ground ceased trembling, a rumbling sound reverberated within the mountain pass, low and murmuring at first, before slowly crescendoing into a roaring wave. Alarm bells went off in the driver's mind as he glanced towards the top of the mountain in horror. The earlier quake had triggered an avalanche, and they were on the incoming path.

What is happening? Yuelei felt a crashing force knock her against the side of the container, slamming her to one side, and her apprehension quickly turned to panic as the full weight of the avalanche crashed against the wagon and launched it airborne. Gravity shifted abruptly, and Yuelei screamed as the waves of snow and ice wiped the entire mountain path away and plummeted the entire wagon into a deep ravine.

Yuelei woke up in darkness yet again, yet this time the bitter cold was her sole companion.

It’s so cold…

Yuelei fumbled around the dark, her trembling hand fumbling around until she realized that the lid of the chest had propped open during the fall.

How long have I been out?

Yuelei felt the temperature continue to drop, and she was also feeling lightheaded. Some of the snow that had come into contact with her while she was unconscious had briefly melted against her body heat, but now it was already beginning to ice over.

Natural disaster. I must get out of here.

"It’s... so cold. Airen.... where are you?" Yuelei’s voice cracked as cold air filled her lungs. It was too dark for her to see, so she had no choice but to use her hands to feel the surrounding area. With nowhere to go in the darkness beneath the avalanche, Yuelei tried to dig herself out.

She tunneled in front of her, and her hands became more and more raw as she clawed away the snow and ice. Yuelei could not tell if it was wet snow that was covering her fingers, or her own blood in the darkness. The only thing she could feel was chattering teeth and her body slowly growing colder from the freezing temperatures. Her knees bled as she crawled forward, scraping against the ice and bits of rocks that were mixed into the snow.

“Airen.... you're not here..... are you?” Yuelei tried to call out a few times, but no sound came out. Her very breath seemed to freeze into mist in her throat, which caused her to cough and sputter. Yuelei bit back her tears, feeling that they too, would only just freeze before they even dripped off her cheeks.

Jomin... please.... What should I do?

Her thoughts went unheard as she continued to claw away at the snow in front of her. By now, her lips had turned a light blue, her hair layered with streaks of ice. The cold was all-encompassing, chilling to the core and causing Yuelei to tremble uncontrollably. But even some sensation was better than none, and Yuelei rapidly began to feel her body tense up and her muscles grow stiff.

Airen… What should I do?

Yuelei stopped digging and held up her hands. Her nails had cracked and blood oozed from various cuts and bruises. She could not even feel pain anymore.

At this moment Yuelei realized she could see in what should have been pitch black darkness.

Where is the light coming from?

Yuelei rotated her head to look around the small tunnel and noticed that the snow above her had a lighter hue than the others. It glowed with a shimmering, light aqua hue, accompanied with tiny specks of something that she could not make out.

Reinvigorated, Yuelei dug upwards, following that faint blue light. After a seconds of desperate and frigid digging, the snow above her gave way.

What... is that?

Crawling and forcing her numb feet to stand, Yuelei found herself in a small chamber in the snow, the walls encrusted with blue ice crystals. However, her eyes were drawn to the center of the chamber, where a white round object sat in the snow, surrounded by a strange rounded pattern of ice. It was the source of light that had guided her here and to Yuelei’s hazy, cold-addled mind, it seemed like a sacred object.

It’s… precious.

Yuelei’s delusional mind had played tricks on her, but the awe quickly faded away as profound hypothermia started setting in. The numbness had spread from her legs and now it felt as if her very skin was burning. It was almost pleasant-feeling to Yuelei, as apathy began to set in. Every time she moved, she felt her skin itch and crack as the meltwater on her submitted to the bitter cold and freeze. Time was running out.

It’s… calling to me?

Yuelei felt drawn towards the strange object and she slowly dragged her failing body towards it. The light emanating from the spheroid seemed to pulse as if encouraging her, accompanied by voices that Yuelei could not make out. Her body temperature had dropped to where she could not tell if she was having auditory hallucinations, and even if she could, she wasn’t sure if she would even care. A reassuring voice near the end sounded almost peaceful to her.

Who is calling me?

When she finally approached the object, she could not even realize that it was an egg. Her dim eyes barely noticed that the shell was speckled with dancing snowflakes. As she weakly cradled it in her arms on instinct, she felt an unnatural warmth and chill flowing through her hands.

My sister.

Then the bitter cold darkness took her.

Yuelei awoke to the sensation of something warm pressing against her cheek. When she opened her eyes a small round ball of feathers seemed to be rubbing her cheek. Witnessing Yuelei opening her eyes, it gave a delighted peep and bounced away, the blue fuzz over its body serving as a fluffy springboard.

I'm... alive?

Rubbing her eyes, Yuelei sat up with blurred vision. The uncured fur skin covering her slipped off and she was overcome with a wave of cold. She quickly realized that she was unclothed beneath it and quickly pulled the makeshift blanket over her shoulders.

It has been three days. You have at last awoken, child.

Yuelei jumped as the voice seemed to speak directly into her mind. Despite the odd magical manner of speech, she instinctively turned to her right, barely making out a cerulean bird-like magical beast.

Did you think I would speak to you with my voice? Mine voice is a dangerous weapon.

Intelligent, hawk-like eyes met her own and Yuelei’s body tensed up as her vision adjusted to the dim light and she got a view of the majestic predator in front of her. Although the color was different, Yuelei could tell that the creature was a mythical phoenix, a magical beast of legend. Instead of a red plume, a myriad of blue feathers gracefully covered the bird’s body, shimmering occasionally in the dim light.

"You understand my language? How are you speaking to me?" Yuelei opened her mouth as the frost phoenix casually sat down in front of her, its child tucked beneath its wings.

Doth you not know it is courtesy to introduce oneself first?

The phoenix clicked her beak at her at what looked like a sign of disapproval.

"My given name is Yuelei of the clan Casteya." Yuelei instinctively greeted, a little taken aback but ultimately agreeing that the creature’s word had merit.

This one's name is Gallienoir.

An awkward silence filled the air after the introductions. Yuelei could not quite make out how to read the creature’s expressions but at the very least, she was no longer in the dangerous situation she was in prior. Her scabbed-over knees and fingers was but a light testament to the ordeal she had just suffered.

"So... you did not bring me here to... eat me, right?" Yuelei asked slowly.

No child, humans are not palatable, stringy, boney, and with hardly any magical power for taste. Gallienoir flicked her head in annoyance, as if the mere question was an insult to her choice of meals.

"Then why did you help-"

This little one wished for it to be so. Gallienoir tilted her head and pointed with her beak at the small baby frost phoenix nesting under her luminescent cerulean wings. At the small round orb of white, memories of the avalanche and finding the egg resurfaced in Yuelei's mind.

"Was there anyone else caught in the avalanche? Did you see a boy with brown hair? What about a middle-aged man with a scar on his face?" Yuelei let out a barrage of questions.

You were the only survivor. Gallienoir responded, jade eyes staring into hers. Within them, Yuelei saw the font of centuries of knowledge swirling in their depths as a series of images flashed before her, feeding directly into her mind as the phoenix spoke.

You were clutching the egg of my newborn when this one found you. Half of your body had already frozen, yet you were still barely alive. This one intended to end your suffering, but the little one decided it was not to be so.

Yuelei glanced at the small baby phoenix as Gallienoir lifted her wings. Annoyed at being thrusted into the cold air, it gave an annoyed chirp and jumped into Yuelei's lap. A little hesitant, Yuelei picked it up and gave it a closer look. It was a chubby, yet cute little thing. The cerulean spotted feathers were messy and lacked the refinement as its mothers, but the resemblance nevertheless uncanny.

"Why does this little one have five plumes atop of its head whilst you have four?" Yuelei wondered aloud. With a finger, Yuelei rubbed the small bird’s head and it gave out a content twitter.

The little one is the fifth of our legacy. Five plumes, five lifetimes. Gallienoir disclosed and spoke. Seeing the confused expression on Yuelei's face, she continued.

Your kind seems to have the misconception about phoenixes. Our kind can indeed live forever if we wish to, but for us to increase our strength, we have to go through rebirth. The little one is my incarnation, my child, myself, and another me.

When this old one is gone, when the little one reaches the level this one has attained, she will inherit my current abilities. She will exceed all our expectations and in time, she will walk a similar path.

Yuelei contemplated this rare information as Gallienoir spoke. Phoenixes were extremely rare creatures that usually kept to themselves, and few selected individuals have the opportunity to come into contact with one, much less find out about their way of life. A scholar would have given an arm and a leg to have heard what she just did, yet to Yuelei, something didn’t seem to add up.

“But if I was at death’s door… how did I not get frostbite or anything severe?” Yuelei looked at her hands. They were pale and had numerous blisters and scars but she managed to move them without issue. The same applied to her feet. “And how did I even survive the cold? Where-”

Child, if you do not wait until this one has finished speaking, then this one may reconsider her actions. Have your parents never taught you to respect your elders? Gallienoir was angered at the interruption, and she flapped her wings angrily.

Although it seemed like a simple gesture, the phoenix’s wings conjured up a small gust. The force knocked Yuelei back a bit and earned an annoyed twitter from the newborn phoenix in her lap. Yuelei quickly closed her mouth and suppressed her questions. This was a different world from before, and she was quickly made aware of that.

Ah. You are too weak, even for simple actions of displeasure. Gallienoir sighed and her tone turned apologetic as she gestured for Yuelei to sit. This one apologizes, but watch your words and tone with me, child.

Yuelei meekly nodded.

As this one was saying, the little one would inherit my memories, as well as my mother’s and grandmothers, to be used as she likes. It is our way that every second generation will create a pact with a human to further their knowledge. Whether it was by accident or fate, the little one decided to make a pact with you.

“A pact...?” Yuelei could not stop herself from crying out. Jomin had taught her about the dangers of creating pacts with magical beasts, a common practice in the Dew Plains. In return for the magical beast’s strength and knowledge in battle, the human would often have to pay a hefty price.

This one knows not the reason either, and this one would be long gone when the little one grows up and to explain it to her. Gallienoir echoed her sentiment. However, it seems like the choice was not made incorrectly, for those that are unworthy of the pact would die.

This pact, a pact with a frost phoenix, seemed to have awakened your inner frost affinity, rarely heard of among your kind.

“Frost?” Yuelei’s eyes widened.

Indeed, frost. But to think that you had water and wind affinity in the first place makes this one believe this chanced meeting wasn’t a coincidence. Thus, against my better judgment, this one will adhere to the wishes of the little one, and gamble upon your talent.

To think I would be in this situation the day a human is born with the frost affinity. There is much to be done, Gallienoir’s voice sounded like a monologue, but it made Yuelei’s mind churn.

In shock, Yuelei repeated what she just learned over and over in her mind.

Frost Phoenix.

Magical Beast Pact.

Water and Wind Affinity.

Frost Affinity. A mutant or possibly divine element.

How does this creature know things that even I do not? Yuelei looked down at the small ball on her lap in quiet awe.

As if sensing the confusion in Yuelei’s mind, the baby phoenix woke up and hopped onto her shoulder, rubbing its fuzzy head against her hair.

Can this little one hear my thoughts? Yuelei wondered. The bird chirped in response.

Did it just… respond to me? As soon as the thought flashed through her mind, the bird gave a slightly louder chirp this time as if affirming her train of thought. It rubbed against her face as if trying to comfort her.

“I see...” Yuelei lightly plucked the bird off her shoulder and held it in front of her face.

Thank you. she spoke with her inner voice with as much gratitude as she could muster. No matter what has happened, or what price she would have to pay, it was still better than being frozen to death. The message seemed to get across as the bird rubbed her head against her cheeks again before curling back up atop Yuelei’s lap and returning to sleep.

When the time comes, let me know what you want. Yuelei promised. As long as it is within my power and within reason, then upon my word as Princess of Macha, I will see to it.

Even now, she could feel what it was like being in that tunnel beneath the snow, crawling forward and not knowing if she would make it onto the other side.

Now that the adrenaline had worn off, Yuelei could feel her eyes scrunching up from the output of emotions, but she forced it down. She had cried enough before, buried in the snow.

As she was coming to a grim acceptance with her newfound fate, Gallienoir returned with a small bowl.

Phoenixes know how to use bowls? Yuelei could hide her shock.

My mother’s memories include her human partner’s life in detail, Gallienoir responded. There are many a beast that study human culture. She placed the bowl in front of Yuelei, and in it were strips of dried meat.

It seems this one will have to expand our larder, now that we have two recent additions. Having human hands would be very useful in that regard. Eat. Rest. Help yourself. Tomorrow, you will learn on behalf of my daughter. This one cannot look over two children at once.

Yuelei felt her stomach rumbling at the sight. The unseasoned and crude jerky was hardly, but she tore into the bits of meat like a ravenous man consuming his last meal. In a matter of moments, the small bowl was empty, and Yuelei looked up. Gallienoir’s cerulean feathers glimmered for a moment, and the bowl refilled with water. Nodding in thanks, Yuelei drank the crystal clear water.

Tell me about yourself now, Yuelei of the clan Casteya. Gallienoir made herself comfortable atop the furs that dotted the caves, and looked over at Yuelei. Her tone made it clear she would not take no for an answer.

You may lie to me, but know that this one can tell. This one will not pry, but know that my child and you are bound now. Tell me of your situation, and this one will advise you.

Yuelei gave some thought to her words before agreeing with them. And so she explained the events that had transpired in detail, as well as her own background. Within half an hour, she finished and they sat in silence, each contemplating on their own thoughts.

This was no mere coincidence, you were borne under a fated star. Gallienoir finally said.

“What do we… I… do from now on?” Yuelei questioned, breaking the silence.

If you might recall, this one only has a little bit of time left. This old one plans to guide both you and the little one until the end of her days so you can both survive here. As for what comes next… this one has not made up my mind.

Yuelei nodded, not because she understood but because she feared to disagree. Still, her thoughts turned to Airen and Jourmind and she wondered aloud.

“What about Jourmind and Airen..?”

This one will not stop you from leaving, provided you can do so with your own power. But judging from your story, if they had wished for you and your brother’s demise, they would have been thorough about it. However, the two of you will have enemies that you lack the power to defeat. Follow my guidance, learn how our kind fights, and perhaps you will reclaim your birthright.

Yuelei felt a faint hope blossom at the wise phoenix’s words.

Get some sleep, child, this one shall go prepare things for the days ahead. Brace yourself, and learn well, so that you may seek out your lost brethren. Those we chose to be family… are precious.

At her words, Yuelei felt a drowsiness slowly overcoming her and she wrapped herself with the furskin and drifted off into a slumber. A few moments later, the baby phoenix snuggled itself by her neck and Yuelei fell asleep peacefully.

The following morning, at the edge of dawn.

Rise child, there is much to be done. Gallienoir’s voice firmly roused Yuelei from her sleep. She opened her eyes to see Gallienoir place a mahogany chest, the very one that she was confined in, in front of her and propped open the lid. Yuelei had mistaken the shape for a coffin, but it was merely a large rectangular trunk. It was a harrowing sight that brought back the terror she had felt in that situation, but she did not let it creep onto her face. This, too, was a lesson, an emotion to be mastered.

This one returned to the birth site and gathered aught was left. Perhaps they may be of use to you. After judging Yuelei quietly, Gallienoir walked past her to check on her kin.

Yuelei walked over to the trunk and fumbled inside. She did not recognize the pale white fabric that embroidered and layered the interior, but the condensation seemed to have ruined parts of it. However, contained within, she found a small bundle that unraveled into a blanket, a few weathered cloaks, and finally the burlap sack given to her by Jourmind.

“This… this was one of Jourmind’s emergency travel bags.” Yuelei found several parcels of luxurious dried rations, an inconspicuous set of travel garments, a small pouch of gold and silver, and finally Airen’s birthday gift to her, the jewel encrusted hairpin. The last item was likely hastily stuffed in, seeing as it was neither neatly tied down and tumbled around within the bag.

Upon seeing the contents, Yuelei smiled a bit ruefully. During one of their lessons, Jourmind had introduced the concept of ‘bug-out’ bags to the twins, a habit that he had picked up during his mercenary days. While had helped Yuelei and Airen put together a simple one that was suitable for them to carry, his own was filled to the brim with tools and useful apparatuses necessary to survive, even thrive, alone in the wilderness.

At least I have this. Thank you Airen. Yuelei carefully held up the enchanted hairpin, briefly recalling the effects that each of the three small gems contained.

An enchanted item? May this one inspect it? Gallienoir peered over her shoulder as she gazed at the hairpin. After struggling internally for a moment, Yuelei hesitantly nodded.

Gallienoir plucked the ornament from her hand and placed it on the ground. After walking around it a few times as if inspecting it, she suddenly touched one gem with her wingtips and a soft light blue light came forth and illuminated the chamber.

With it, Yuelei got her first clear look at her savior. The plumage was a hue of light cerulean, but her breast feathers were snow white. However, the colors seemed to solidify on a gradient, ending at the crest of feathers and sharp, regal beak which was a light cyan. With the light, Yuelei could finally make out the pair of jade eyes that stared at her.

You look better than this one expected. Gallienoir commented. The wounds of the flesh have begun to heal, but you have to experience wounds of the mind. No matter, it is a necessary experience.

In the dim glow, Yuelei took careful observation of her body. The cuts and blisters have scabbed over but her skin was dry and brittle. There were gashes across her chest and thighs, as well as long trailing cuts that covered her knees and legs. Perhaps it was finally seeing her own naked and injured body that Yuelei felt a warmth creep up to her face and ears. Was it mere embarrassment or shame?

She did not know. Instead, she took stock of the strange cave-dwelling she was in to try and distract herself. It was a relatively small ‘home’, about fifteen square meters total by her estimates. All manner of animal pelts laid on the cold stone floor to provide safety from the cold stone floor, while several blocks of what appeared to be dried meat was haphazardly stashed in a corner.

Wounds are a sign that we grow stronger, little one, an acknowledgement of having bettered she who sleeps another day. Gallienoir, as if sensing Yuelei’s feelings, whispered. Go change into your other clothes, and put this on. Nature waits for no one, and ‘tis time for your first lesson surviving in the Whitefrost Mountains

Yuelei sheepishly changed into the packed clothes before turning to the garment that Gallienoir had handed her. Calling it a garment would be to put it politely; It was clearly one of the cleaner pelts that adorned the cave-like chamber, with a few holes that ripped into it. Nevertheless, as soon as the hefty fur covered her body, Yuelei felt much more comfortable than before. Despite the size of the makeshift coat, it was as light as silk.

“This fur is…”

The skin was taken from one a Mist Berac, one of the many magical beasts that reside in these mountains, Gallienoir explained. Small, nimble creatures they are, and occasionally vicious if cornered. It should be suitable for your needs for now.

As Yuelei stored everything back into the mahogany trunk, Gallienoir walked over to one of the distant walls. In the darkness, Yuelei had mistaken the wall to be made of stone, but only now did she realize that a small circular portion of it was made from ice. With a wingtip, Gallienoir touched the ice, and it shattered, revealing a large hole towards the outside. In an instant, the already chilled air inside the aerie turned frigid and ice started forming on the walls.

Come here child. Gallienoir’s voice beckoned her to come over in her mind.

Despite the protection of her new clothing, Yuelei still felt her teeth clattering and her body warmth quickly dispersing as she made her way over. Standing next to her new mentor, she realized that their ‘home’ was actually a cave bored into the side of a mountain. From its entrance, she had a spectacular view of the misty frosty peaks that gave the Whitefrost Mountains their allure. The light orange hues of dawn-break reflected a mirage of colors off the snow caps, and the morning mist obstructed the view below, making it seem like one was floating above the clouds.

Close your eyes, Gallienoir’s voice broke her trance. She picked up Yuelei by her shoulders with her talons and suddenly dropped off the ledge. Yuelei was reminded again of the falling feeling as they plummeted down.

“Whaa-” Yuelei opened her mouth only to feel the cold air rush in and give her brain freeze.

Keep your mouth shut, and your eyes closed child. Gallienoir reprimanded. After adjusting to the weight, Gallienoir flapped her wings and they soared upwards to the entrance. With a quick spell, the entrance was sealed back up once more with ice.

And then they were off, with Gallienoir gracefully soaring through the air while Yuelei hung limply between her talons. The snow-covered trees below revealed themselves as they descended before turning into a blur as Gallienoir shook her wings once, and hurtled east at a rapid speed.

Two hours later....

“Ow.” Yuelei winced, quickly putting her bleeding thumb in her mouth. Sharp vines and thorns were clustered into a gnarled shield atop the lotus-like plant, protecting the red edible fruits within. It was warmer in the valley Gallienoir had brought her thanks to the lack of wind, but it was still cold enough for her cut to quickly freeze over and seal shut. Her companion watched from the top of a perched rock, acting as a sentry so that other creatures would not dare approach.

Use not your bare hands like a beast. Gallienoir reprimanded. Your kind is most adept at creating and using tools as you do not come with your own. You are here to grow, not regress.

Yuelei shivered in the howling cold, but felt a small warmness inside her chest. Although the tone Gallienoir gave off was nonchalant and demeaning, he words were without reason, even if it was much more blunt and direct. Using the overly large pelt she wore as a glove, she reached between the brambles and slowly ripped away the thorny vines. After a minute that was accompanied with some frustration, the fruits of her labor revealed themselves, a small nest of dark red fruits within.

Yuelei carefully dug the cherry sized fruits out and brushed away the lining of silky white material. Whether it was due to her hunger or due to the appetizing sheen on them, she started to pluck one to sample for herself.

What are you doing, foolish child! A gust of cold air flew from Gallienoir’s direction and encased the berry she was holding in a layer of ice. Stunned, Yuelei quickly dropped the frozen fruit as the sudden cold bit into her hands.

“Huh?” In front of her eyes, the berry changed color to a light blue.

That fruit is called ‘Taste of Winter’ in the tongue of beasts. Gallienoir huffed and explained. It only ripens in the frozen cold, and is toxic to consume otherwise.

“I was too hasty…” Yuelei reflected. Her sheltered upbringing hardly covered had Gallienoir had saved her yet again. She was about to put the berries into her makeshift knapsack when Gallienoir held up her wingtip.

It is a delicacy only a handful of your kind can taste. Try the fruit which has already been prepared.

Yuelei hesitated for a second. What if the toxins haven't dissipated yet? Yet under Gallienoir’s hard-to-read gaze and the conviction of her empty stomach, she removed the last bit of ice clinging to the berry and tossed it into her mouth. The taste of condensed raspberries with a hint of kiwi and starfruit filled her mouth despite the cold, and then a giant wave of heat started to emanate throughout her body and warmed her chilled hands and feet. Yuelei could feel her face slowly redden, and she even started to sweat from the rampaging heat that spread to her extremities. However, just as abruptly as it arrived, it disappeared, leaving her feeling warm and fuzzy.

Good. In my grandmother’s time, your kind once used those berries to brew wine, but the art seemed to have been lost. Gallienoir plucked one for herself without chewing, the color turning from red to blue as it touched her beak.

If you chew it before swallowing, you’ll be granted a wave of heat, but if you swallow it without doing so, you will be given warmth for a longer duration as it dissolves within your stomach. Remember this, for these berries will be vital for you to survive in this land.

Yuelei nodded and they proceeded to gather a few more of the bramble-covered plants. As she worked, Gallienoir continued to instruct her from atop a tall tree, teaching her of the Whitefrost Mountain’s edible fauna. Occasionally however, Yuelei would see her glance and shoot a hostile glare in the distance, a keen reminder that danger was always near.

You are still weak and unable to use magic, so always carry a few of those berries, ‘Taw Berries’ as humanity calls it⎯ around to keep you from freezing. Gather as much as you can carry, child, the Whitefrost is a month away and you will most definitely need them to have a chance of surviving the winter.

“The Whitefrost?” Yuelei asked.

Imagine a never-ending winter, always snowing, with everything covered with ice. A world frozen over, where all life comes to a halt. Gallienoir explained. It starts during the month of light, and when it arrives, none may leave their nest.

“A month from now…” Yuelei murmured. That felt like an incredibly short time to her and as she stared down at the bundle of fruit in her pelt, a surge of anxiety overcame her. Would she even be able to gather enough by the time it arrives?

It is a grand sight to behold, if there was actually more than three hours of daylight and it wasn’t an endless blizzard outside. Child, if you think it is cold now, then you need to gather even more berries for the Whitefrost. The child and this one may survive, but you are not acquainted with the cold as we are.

That caused Yuelei to be alarmed. Is it possible for it to be even colder than this? Even covered in pelts and thicker clothing, Yuelei could hardly feel her feet and fingers.

Worry not child, this one will help you stock supplies to last through the winter. Gallienoir noticed the expression on her face. Even if you cannot forage and hunt, this one could if this one must.

Yuelei nodded, her gratitude towards Gallienoir growing even more. She continued to move to gather berries with Gallienoir spotting the bushes for her from above. Despite the toxic nature of the Taw Berries, some of the plants were already picked clean and Yuelei could only shake her head and move toward the next one.

“Gallienoir, does your name mean something?” Yuelei asked, breaking the silence. “You keep mentioning human and beast tongues. This is the first time I have heard that beasts have their own language.”

In our tongue, it means ‘one that waits for winter’. Gallienoir replied. The language this one speaks is a rarity even among beast kind and humankind. Most beastkind do not speak a ‘language’ per se… only a few select ones do.

“It is pretty hard to pronounce, but that is a really beautiful name.”

Thank you. The language of spirits is melodious, and said to originate from songs.

“What is the little one’s name? Have you named her yet?” Yuelei asked..

You shall name her. Gallienoir shuffled on her perch for a moment in hesitation before starting. It is against custom, but so was the circumstances of her birth.

Yuelei was speechless at the sudden suggestion.

This one is not familiar with names in this era. She does not wish to bestow an ancient name to her child that would hinder her from fitting in, especially since you, Yuelei, have a pact with her. When you are ready, give the little one a name. Gallienoir explained

“I…. are you sure?” Yuelei stammered.

Yes child. This one has considered various questions while you dreamt. One cannot subsist without proper plans, much less raise two daughters.

Without waiting for a reply, Gallienoir swooped down and seized Yuelei in her talons and flew off. After a few minutes, she deposited her atop a large branch by the nearby treeline.

Leave the leisurely conversation when out in the wilds. This one will now demonstrate the art of the hunt. Watch closely and learn. In a flurry of wingbeats, Gallienoir soared off and hovered in the sky above the treeline some distance away, just enough for Yuelei to have a clear line of sight of the area.

After a few minutes passed as Yuelei watched her hovering in the air, quietly scanning the ground beneath her. The tranquilness shattered as Gallienoir vanished and a muffled impact sounded followed by a flurry of snow. Piecing together the small visual and audio cues she had, she realized that Gallienoir had, with a single strike, pierced a large rabbit-like creature through the head with her talons, silencing it before it had a chance to feel pain or cry out.

The hare-like creature had blended in with the freshly fallen snow, and if not for the blood, Yuelei would not have even seen what Gallienoir had caught. She had never seen a creature killed this way, slain with elegance, fury and above all, mercilessness. Yuelei watched as Gallienoir formed a thin blade of ice that extended from one of her wing’s feathers, and delivered the killing blow. With her dead prey clasp in one of her claws, she flew up with her kill and flew towards Yuelei.

This should be good enough for tonight, Gallienoir stated bluntly. We shall head back.

“But it’s still daytime…. shouldn’t we gather more Taw Berries?” Yuelei asked, causing Gallienoir to shake her head in response.

This one and the little one can eat this Ghost Hare as is, but she doubts you would like to eat it raw. We shall return early so you can learn to build a fire and ‘cook’ a meal.

Yuelei nodded in agreement. She looked forward to the idea of having a fire to warm herself with. While she thought about all the things she could do with fire, she missed Gallienoir’s next words.

This one also would need time to make trips to bring wood up to the nest, and that would be best done during daylight.

Not even she dared to linger outside at night here despite living here, where many strange dangers awake after nightfall.

Half an hour later…

Yuelei paced back and forth in front of the nest entrance. Gallienoir had dropped her and the frozen carcass off and told her to wait before heading back out. Yuelei had passed the time playing with the baby phoenix, but now it was almost dusk with no sign of Gallienoir’s return.

“Little one, where do you think your mother is?” Yuelei asked.

The chick stopped pecking the corpse with its beak and shrugged at Yuelei. Despite being a week old, she seemed to have a fundamental understanding of her words. It leaped onto her shoulder and affectionately rubbed against her cheek, as if not telling her to worry.

A cracking noise signaled Gallienoir’s return followed by the sound of shattering ice as the nest’s entrance blasted open, pummeling the inhabitants within with frigid winds. After throwing a small bundle of wooden sticks and a small sack into the shelter, Gallienoir slipped in and sealed the chamber shut once again.

This one brought gifts. These are my endowments to you to commemorate your meeting with the little one. Gallienoir placed the well-worn parcel into Yuelei’s outstretched arms. Although the parcel was made from cloth, the age on it was apparent, giving it the appearance of brittle paper. However, it was well preserved, devoid of dirt and neatly tied together by a faded red rope.

“Gallienoir, what is this symbol?” Yuelei asked, barely making out a strange symbol emblazoned into the paper.

It belonged to the human who was my mother’s partner. Her merchant family’s symbol was a blue wisteria.

Yuelei poured the contents onto the ground for all to see. A pair of silk gloves, a ring, an anklet, and finally a dagger fell onto the floor with a dull clang. Despite the centuries that had likely passed, they were still in good condition. However, their craftsmanship was remarkable albeit a bit ceremonial. Yuelei could imagine them being carried by the nobles of the Imperial Court.

“These are well-made.” Yuelei commented, feeling the material of the gloves. Although they appeared thin, the fabric was durable yet pliable, speaking to their craftsmanship.

Once upon a time, it belonged to a princess from one of your human realms. Gallienoir confirmed. Thinking she would continue, Yuelei waited to hear more, but she deftly changed the topic.

Albeit not with any mighty infusions, these belongings are all enchanted. They may have lost much of their original splendor, but in their own time, they were treasured items that countries would fight for. Consider this to be my congratulations for your newfound bond with the little one. Treasure them dearly for they once belonged to your predecessor, the only other human to create a pact with a frost phoenix. They will help you grow your command over the frost element.

Yuelei nodded, realizing that they were very important heirlooms. From what she did learn from her upbringing, none of Gallienoir’s comments aligned to anything within current history on the Eiloong Continent. How long ago was her savior referring to, and how much history have accumulated in these objects?

Put them on. Gallienoir pressed. You have only recently awakened your frost affinity, but humans take too long to learn how to tap into magic. By keeping these items next to you as the Spirit Walker recommends, it will speed up your growth.

“Who’s the⎯”

It is someone you will meet in time. Enough with the questions, my patience thins and if you do not hurry, the meal will spoil.

Yuelei nodded and quickly perused the items.

The ring was wrought from a light-blue metal that resembled silver, and sported a small, pear shaped jewel that was the color of the morning mist. It was much too large for Yuelei to wear on her fingers, so she tied it into her hair.

The nearly transparent pair of gloves were also too large for her, but as soon as she put them on, they were light and seemed to adhere against her hands without issue. What magic was held in them seemed to shape the glovers until it was almost like a second skin.

The anklet was adjustable, and the cool metal nipped into Yuelei’s left foot until she grew accustomed to it. It was light and embroidered in strange carvings and runes, but it was not a language that she recognized.

The ceremonial dagger did not come with any sort of strap or holster. Yuelei had to make do with using some scraps of fur to create a simple sheath for the barely half-meter blade alongside a simple sling.

Each time Yuelei found a place for these items, she felt a frigid chill that seemed to dig into her skin before dissipating. Most of the items were metallic in nature, so Yuelei assumed it was merely her body growing accustomed to the cold metal.

In the meantime, Gallienoir had dragged the Ghost Hare carcass over. The unnamed little one had found a new place to sit, atop her mothers head, and it formed a truly contrasting image. Gallienoir’s strict and no-nonsense face that betrayed no emotions was a sharp foil to the little bird’s grinning and satisfied look. Before Yuelei could smile however, as if sensing her emotions, Gallienoir spoke.

Child, take the knife and make a diagonal cut here. She pointed at the hare’s breast with the tip of her wings. While some beasts delight in feasting on offal, this one does not.

This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.

Yuelei was squeamish about being a butcher, too used to having finished dishes in front of her. But she held back her repulsion and did as instructed, blood soaking onto her hands and arms. The gloves that formed a thin film around her fingers did little to offset the sensations.

Good, you’ve seen this done before. Gallienoir commented as she continued to direct her in removing the pelt and separating the fur from the skin beneath it.

“Jourmind once took us to a butcher house once.” Yuelei replied quietly. “A necessary lesson, he had called it, how to butcher a living being as someone that consumes them as a right.”

Gallienoir made no comment and continued to instruct her to remove the organs and place them into a pile. Just as she was about to toss away the liver, Gallienoir stopped her.

Wait. Keep the liver and split it into three portions. Take one of those portions and mince it. It is best fresh off the kill, but this will have to make do.

Yuelei did as commanded. When she finished, Gallienoir signaled to the little one and the baby frost phoenix came forward. Gallienoir snapped up one piece and the little one slowly consumed the tiny morsels. The last piece laid atop Yuelei’s hand, slimy, bloody, dark crimson red and glistening in the dim light.

Consume it, child. Gallienoir’s jade eyes bore into hers as Yuelei hesitated at the implication of why the liver was split into thirds.

“Is it safe to eat it raw?”

It is an important source of nutrients here. Eat.

Yuelei held back her protest and grudgingly pinched the dark red piece of raw liver between her fingers. It was slimy, covered in blood and did not seem appetizing at all. Under Gallienoir’s stony gaze, she unwillingly tossed it into her mouth. As she was about to swallow it whole just to get it over with,

Chew. Gallienoir’s commanding voice left little room for opposition.

Figuring it was no use to argue, Yuelei gingerly bit down. The first bite tasted like coagulated blood, sticky, gelatinous and tasting of iron, but after a few more bites, the taste turned mildly sweet and even tangy. Gallienoir seemed to smile knowingly at Yuelei’s change of expression.

“That was… good.” Yuelei admitted. She also felt more awake and energized than before.

Livers from any fresh kills, especially magical beasts, contain necessary nutrients. They are an essential method of staying healthy here in the Whitefrost Mountains when plants no longer fruit.

Yuelei nodded and decided she would listen to Gallienoir’s advice ⎯ at least that her initial thought until she continued to speak.

The other vital organs, the heart, lungs, they are all just as important as well. Unfortunately, your kind do not tolerate their taste well. Gallienoir walked over to the pile of organs and picked through them with her beak. The liver is more palatable,but nearly all can be consumed; the brains, intestines, tongues, kidneys, and even the reproductive organs.

At Gallienoir’s descriptions, Yuelei’s mouth stopped moving and her stomach churned at the thought of eating more exotic meats.

It will take time to teach you how to consume them. For now, this one shall teach you how to make fire, as this one can even tell you do not enjoy the thought of eating it raw.

“Can’t you teach me to use magic?” Yuelei asked. “Then I can just conjure fire to cook.”

With what kindling? Gallienoir shuffled her wings. This one can indeed teach you how to use magic, but do you think a mere beginner can maintain a flame long enough to cook meat? Where you should not or could not use magic. How would you survive the cold?

“What do you mean ‘could not or should not use magic?’” Yuelei questioned.

Child, you realize that using magic utilizes your soul power, correct? Gallienoir sighed at the lack of fundamental knowledge.

Yuelei nodded.

When one uses magic, traces of it will linger in the area before diffusing away. For those that are sufficiently proficient enough with magic, at the level of what your kind is called Adepts, they would allow someone, or something, to track you. It may not be important back in the human lands, but do not forget we dwell in a land of powerful magical beasts. Small traces of magic are a scent that will allow predators to seek you out, perhaps even follow you home. While you are safe in this nest and under my wing, there will come a time where you will no longer be under this one’s protection.

“So that’s how it is...” Yuelei said no more as Gallienoir taught her how to create a fire using friction. Ice had held together the hastily bundled stack of wooden branches, leaving them damp and wet even after Gallienoir undid the spell. Under her beast mentor’s instructions, Yuelei used a piece of animal hide to create a thin bow-like instrument by tying the makeshift. By entwining another stick in the hide loosely, the stick functioned as a drill as the bow moved back and forth.

After several failed attempts and half an hour of frustration and blisters, a small ember finally sprang to life within the chamber. With some coaxing and nurturing, it soon grew into a small flame that hungrily consumed all the wood that Yuelei fed to it. For the first time, she was painfully aware of how cold she had truly been as the flames chased away the bitter cold inside the hollow within the mountainside she now called home. Based on how eagerly the flames consumed the wood, she sadly realized that at most, the fire would only last two to three hours.

There are ways to have the fire last longer, but this is acceptable for now. Gallienoir saw her concern and clicked her beak. She turned towards the entrance of the aerie and pointed at the ice-sealed entrance with a wingtip and part of the ice towards the top vanished, leaving a small hole for ventilation.

Yuelei roasted the hare while Gallienoir consumed the rest of the offal. Before long, a pleasant smell wafted throughout the chamber. The little phoenix chick started to skitter around the fire in anticipation, echoing the sentiment of all of those within the nest.

“Is it ready yet?” Yuelei gulped and wiped the saliva that had found its way outside her mouth. The meat had a large layer of fat that sizzled as it dripped off and into the flames. The outside skin had quickly turned a golden brown, leaving all the viewers wanting.

For us, yes. For you, not yet. Gallienoir judged quietly, and after a few more minutes, she gestured with a wing for her to take it off the fire.

“Woah-” As soon as Yuelei took the skewer off the fire, the area blanketed with steam. She placed the hare down atop a piece of clean polished stone that Gallienoir had ‘created’ by using a blade of ice. Gallienoir then took over, again wielding a thin blade of ice to split the hare into three pieces. Gallienoir took the lion’s share of half of the hare, while Yuelei and the phoenix chick shared the other half.

“...Delicious” Yuelei half-mumbled, half-sighed as she took her first bite. The taste and warmth of hot food brought tears to her eyes, a sense of normalcy and comfort against the madness that was her life in the past two days. The little one twittered in appreciation as well as they shared the feeling of warm food while the bitter icy winds howled outside.

Lunar Month of Fire - Flame, Day 13

Time quickly passed by as Gallienoir introduced the various plants and herbs fit for consumption to Yuelei, as well as the various ways to preserve food for the upcoming winter. The once desolate nest chamber soon had a small, but steadily growing stockpile of frozen carcasses, edible vegetation and wood. Although her two nest-mates often favored a diet of meat, Gallienoir seemed to push Yuelei towards seasonal food instead. The hairpin that Airen had gifted her came into handy during these times, often helping her decide what was truly ‘edible’ to her when Gallienoir’s knowledge lapsed.

Fire was a luxury for Yuelei, only ever used for cooking or the preservation of meat into jerky. Gallienoir would refuse to make more than a single trip up to the aerie, and it was an unspoken agreement that one must not stay after dark in the Whitefrost Mountains.

One night after a meal of stewed boar meat, Yuelei finally asked the question that had been lingering on her mind.

“Gallienoir. When are you going to teach me how to hunt? I may not catch enormous beasts like the Blue-bodied Tuskhog you caught today… but I should be able to catch a Ghost Hare at least.”

Perhaps it is time then. You have been wearing those artifacts for a while now, and they would have effects now. Sit in front of this one, child. Gallienoir looked over at Yuelei from across the fire.

“How do these things even work?” Yuelei asked as she held up the foot with the anklet on it. She had grown used to them. “If magic does not work, can I at least learn to use a bow?”

This one does not know. Your kind have their own ceremonies to identify and awaken one’s affinities, but for magical beasts, this is something we know of in our nature. This process is something that was tailored for you but one this one trusts. Gallienoir explained.

Fear not ⎯ she is a creature that this one respects and is knowledgeable in such matters, Gallienoir saw the look in Yuelei’s eyes and added. This would have taken you to her, if not for her current situation. She would be…

Yearning to meet you. Gallienoir struggled to find the right word before settling on one. Those bound by frost have a connection unlike any other. But enough words for now. When the time is right and the Whitefrost ends, you will eventually meet her.

Yearning? Curiosity overtook Yuelei as she digested Gallienoir’s choice of words.

In the Whitefrost Mountains where most creatures blend with the snow and sound is muffled, the twang of a bow would give you away. Do not underestimate magical creatures, child.

“So you are going to teach me to use magic, then?” Yuelei’s eyes were glinting.

It is time. However, what this one is going to teach you is likely vastly different from what someone of this era would have taught you. The magic this one knows is primal, volatile, and unchained unlike the rigid structure of the spells your kind uses.

“What do you mean?” Yuelei did not quite comprehend the difference.

Magical beasts know magic intuitively, so this one cannot explain in a manner you will understand. Perhaps it would be simpler to demonstrate. This one will show you a ‘Primal’ Ice Bolt.

Gallienoir turned to face the entrance and opened her beak. The air seemed to grow colder as a shimmering ball of ice formed at her mouth. With the wave of a wing, Yuelei witnessed the ice wall shielding the aerie shrink in size before it vanished entirely.

For a brief moment, she felt as if the cold wind that blew in actually paled in comparison to the chill she felt emanating from the orb forming in Gallienoir’s mouth. It was an uncontrollable reaction, tugging at the primitive, primordial, and ultimately primal instincts that warned of danger,

The sphere of translucent ice shimmered and cackled as Gallienoir released it out the doorway, leaving a fine mist in its wake. A few seconds later, a thundering crack echoed in the distance as the spell reached its intended target.

“What, what was that?” Yuelei rubbed her arms as goosebumps reflected her fear.

From what you have told this one, human magic involves infusing elements with soul power to control them. Primal magic is magic in its purest form, raw, unstructured, and pure power. Primal magic does not seek to shape the elements, instead it merely garners it in its intended form. A dragon’s flames,a netherdrake’s corrosive breath, a phoenix’s cry,all of it is primal magic, although us magical beasts do not call it as such. After all, why give a name to something that comes naturally to us?

This one cannot teach you how to use magic as humans do⎯ so in return this one shall teach your to harness the most chaotic magics known to magical beasts. As you formed an affinity with my daughter, this one believes you may have the talent to comprehend it.

However, one must maintain control over the spell until the very moment it is released. To use primal magic is to bring the chaos of the world to heel through strength of will. Gallienoir gestured towards the entrance. Go see the results for yourself.

Yuelei peered outside in the distance. She held a hand over her eyes and saw the reason for the thundering sound earlier. An enormous crater had been carved out in the side of the nearby peak.

Primal magic is limited by how well one can control the elements. If one attempts to control and compress more of an element than they can handle, it would not be surprising if the spell explodes. For a magical beast, this may not injure them much, but for a human…

Yuelei gulped, recalling Jourmind’s last lesson. Magic spells are designed with structure and a foundation to ensure that if something went wrong, the user can disperse the gathered soul power without harm. What Gallienoir showed her was the exact opposite, this was magic that traded that safety for great power.

However, with this sort of magic, one can also tap into the nature of the world for extended periods of time. That Ice Wall behind you will reform itself as many times as possible as long as this one has the power to do so. Gallienoir added. What this one will teach you is also not quite the same magic we beasts use, but a version of it my patron has created for you.

“That sort of magic seems really strange,” Yuelei commented. It acted differently compared to what Jourmind had told her. “It makes the magic feel more…. alive?”

Magic in a sense, is a living thing child. It is the will of the caster made manifest. Modern mages have made spells in a way that they would not be potentially dangerous to the caster, but this one remembers the past, where it was treated as the work of miracles.

“That’s… not my understanding of how magic states.” Yuelei admitted. “How is it possible that these… new variations of magic have not been known to humanity for so long?”

There are many forms of magic, and each person would argue that theirs is the greatest among them. In truth, this is not a question that this one can answer, for it is only an answer that Divine Beasts would know. However, you are too young to even conceive of the answers for these questions.

For now, this one will guide you. First off, you must have a sense of your soul power, as well as others. This is the first step to knowing your limits with primal magic, as well as your first hunting lesson. Close your eyes.

“Now what?” Yuelei did as bid.

Concentrate your mind and will and gaze into yourself. Call upon the memories that have molded you into the person you are. Grant it a form that you can understand. For a mere beginner, imagine it in a simple shape, a color that speaks to you.

Yuelei’s eyebrows crinkled as she concentrated. A minute, then two, and thirty minutes passed in silence. The little one looked as Yuelei sat in silence while Gallienoir circled round her. The phoenix’s words were vague, and Yuelei’s mind wandered as she tried to make sense of what she had just heard.

Just as Yuelei was about to give up, she noticed a faint blue light on the edge of her vision. Concentrating on it, she saw a radiant blue orb, with wisp-like fire surrounding it slowly rotating around her.She turned her head to follow it as it slowly slowed to a halt in front of her, realizing that it very much resembled the primal ice bolt that Gallienoir had displayed earlier. Was it created from that memory?

This one did not think you could see it on your first try. Gallienoir praised as Yuelei opened her eyes, a bit of confusion mixed into her tone. This was… unprecedented.

“What was that?” Yuelei asked.

We call it the Aeht, the source of soul power for a being. The shape of one’s soul is something that is fluid, with no solid form until you develop yourself. Many of your kind use their own bodies as a vessel, but for us, the Aeht is not a vessel, but a conduit for the world around us. With it, you have taken the first step to using magic of our own design.

At this Yuelei smiled, thinking if Airen could see her now, he would be jumping in excitement.

Every night from now on, we shall repeat this exercise to train your ability to sense the Aeht of others alongside yourself. Gallienoir paused for a moment. When you can glimpse and sense your own Aeht on demand, then we can begin your magic lessons.

“Does everyone have an Aeht?” Yuelei asked.

No child, everyone has their own form of magic. The Aeht is what magical beasts use as a vessel. It is something unique to us, inherited from our ancestors, some may even call it a birthright.

“How can a human⎯” Yuelei started to ask but as she spoke, her words slurred and she felt a hefty drowsiness overtake it.

It seems like the activity has overwhelmed you. Rest now little one, you have done well today.

At her words, Yuelei clumsily wrapped herself up in furskins torn from various animals. Seeing her actions, the little one also jumped in between the covers. Her tiredness lulled her into a slumber, and ‌the bitter cold that was her companion seemed to be much friendlier than usual.

“Gali?” she mumbled sleepily.

What is it?

“Nothing… it can wait till tomorrow.” Yuelei nodded off before she could finish her sentence. Seeing her expression, Gallienoir extinguished the fire and made herself comfortable.

Gali…. is it? Such impudence… she chuckled.

Lunar Month of Fire - Flame, Day 16

“Gali, when you speak to my mind? Is it using my Aeht as a conduit?” Yuelei asked. They were taking a break from foraging and were enjoying a light lunch of flower roots on the branches of some trees. The texture was gritty, starchy and fibrous, but they had a natural sweetness to them that made them refreshing to chew on.

Of some sort. This one does not know how to explain it to you, as it comes naturally to us. However it is one effect of also being in a pact with a magical beast. Gallienoir, who was keeping an eye out for threats, replied candidly.

“I see….. is it possible for me to learn it?”

Possibly, but not likely. In time, your bond with the little one will strengthen and she could explain it to you better. Gallienoir tilted her head at an angle that Yuelei had long understood as ‘no’.

“Is she also going to speak using her mind?”

This one knows not. This one would not be surprised if you grow accustomed to a phoenix’s voice and not suffer the consequences, but even then, it would be detrimental to anyone else in the vicinity. You have a pact with the little one, so as it matures, you should hear her speak without issues.

“What does your voice even do?”

Perhaps you should experience it for yourself. Gallienoir sidestepped over to where Yuelei was. Before Yuelei could respond she had placed her beak next to her ear and let out a tiny chirp. Yuelei’s mind blanked and she felt vertigo pulling at her. Before she lost her balance, Gallienoir steadied her with one of her wings.

“That… was strange. There was a loud ringing and. I saw white nothingness for a moment” Yuelei rubbed her temple, feeling a headache that was not there prior.

That isn’t all. Use your mind’s eye to peek into your own Aeht.

Yuelei shut her eyes and focused. Instead of seeing colors dancing beyond her vision, everything was a pitch black darkness, and the sphere that represented her soul was shaking erratically.

A phoenix’s voice also disrupts an individual’s soul power. It affects each creature differently, but for humans, we can shake your vessel of power, hindering your ability to use magic for some time.

“That sounds really… dangerous.” Yuelei quickly realized. She had always wondered why phoenixes were such rare beasts for humanity, and it was then she realized that many of them could perfectly maim or kill most humans with ease. This was a piece of derived knowledge that she realized that had dangerous implications, hiding a truth from human history.

It was only a drop in the pond, little Yuelei. In my prime, this could bring what your kind calls an army to its knees with but a single sentence. The voice of a phoenix may not be as mighty as the voice of a dragon, but against humanity ⎯ we are more than capable Gallienoir said quietly. In the distant past, within the memories of my grandmother, the clan of phoenixes once controlled humans as servants with the might of our voices alone.

“This… there’s not much about this in the history that was taught.” Yuelei admitted. “All these things you are telling me, I have never heard of before. What do you mean you are not in your prime?”

The memories of men and beasts are fickle. If not for my inheritance of my predecessors, then even this one would not know of the events of the distant past. As for being in my prime ⎯ to birth a phoenix takes immense commitment, young Yuelei. It is to give the best aspects of oneself to a daughter, a goal of any mother of any race.

“How does that⎯” Yuelei started to ask.

This one is dying, Yuelei. Even now, this one is withering away as the little one grows. It is part of the cycle, and this one has delayed it for your sake.

“That’s… Can’t you stay with us?” The sudden comment made Yuelei’s heart clench up. Both her and the young phoenix would be losing a guardian so soon?

Fear not, for this one will make sure you will make it through the Whitefrost. Gallienoir, misinterpreting her tone, added. My time has long ended, do not mourn for me for it is a choice this one made.

“...But that’s ⎯ aren’t you afraid? For yourself, for us?” Yuelei questioned.

Gallienoir turned away and made no response. After a few minutes she took off to scout the next area. In return Yuelei was left with her own thoughts, and unbidden memories of her time with Jourmind sprang forth.

Come child. Gallienoir’s voice roused her from her thoughts as she returned. Something is off today, we will return early.

Yuelei opened her mouth to ask questions but one glance from Gallienoir was enough to silence her. She held out her arm and Gallienoir lifted her by the wrist and flew off. Upon returning to the nest, Gallienoir quickly left to hunt for their dinner and Yuelei remained alone with the little one. As she sorted through the day’s harvest of roots and the occasional berries, the little one perched itself on her shoulder.

“Already hungry?” Yuelei held out a small Taw Berry between her fingers. The little one delicately grasped it with her beak before swallowing it whole. After it finished, it started rubbing its head against her cheek again as if asking for more.

Looking at the creature's audacity, Yuelei laughed. Even though there was a pile of frozen meat in the aerie, the little one seemed to prefer when Yuelei would feed it out of her hand.

“Let’s wait. If Gallienoir comes back with something, we should eat it first while it is fresh.” Yuelei admonished.

As if pouting, the little chick stuck out its tongue and made itself comfortable in Yuelei’s lap.

“You know… Gallienoir wanted me to name you,” Yuelei started as she rubbed the little bird’s cheeks. “I am not really confident in giving you a worthy name… I mean, you are going to live for a few centuries, right?”

The little one nodded.

“That means you will get to outlive me.”

The small phoenix shook her head side to side.

“I have wondered about this for a while, but you really understand my words and read through my intentions easily.” Yuelei sighed. “Is there a name you wanted to be called by?”

The small phoenix nodded its head. It opened its beak and made a few chirps.

“I don’t⎯ ” Yuelei started to speaked but was interrupted by the sound of shattering ice.

‘Liur’ She wishes for that to be part of her name. Yuelei turned around to see Gallienoir drag in a corpse of a panther-like beast, easily twice her own size. There was a claw gash on the side of her wing and the deep piercing icicles that were embedded in the creature were a testament to the battle that had been fought without the two’s knowledge.

“You’re hurt!” Yuelei rushed over and inspected the wound. It seemed like it was treated already as it was not bleeding and bits of ice sealed the wound..

There is no small game left,it seems they have all gone into hiding. Gallienoir explained slowly. It took this one some work to force the prey to leave its den. Beware the claws, they have a poison on them.

“You were poisoned?”

This one already froze the poison and removed it. There is no need for worry for me, but we have larger concerns. Gallienoir sat down in front of Liur. Have you the rest of your name, little one?

Liur shook her head and looked at Yuelei.

She wishes for you to decide. Gallienoir translated. It would be best for you to do so, for names are powerful things that strengthens bonds.

“There’s a second part of the name?” Yuelei asked.

Gallienoir nods. Every phoenix has two parts to their name, this one is Galee, and Lenore. Liur in our tongue means falling snow. Both birds looked at Yuelei expectantly.

Yuelei awkwardly fumbled around, trying to think of words, but nothing came to mind. She turned her gaze away and stared into the cavern walls. In the corner of her eye, a solitary feather was gently falling, and she recalled the memory of a poem that she once heard.

“Petals.” Yuelei murmured awkwardly. Even forcing the word out seemed to make her want to take it back instantly.

Alia Gallienoir mumbled. Liuralia. Falling Snow Petals.

The little one, christened Liuralia, nodded and hopped around in glee.

Returning from the path of memories, Yuelei felt embarrassed at her words. On the other hand, Liur seemed to sense her thoughts and rubbed against her in reassurance.

Perhaps taking down that Glimstalker was a good idea after all. Come Yuelei, this one shall teach you how to prepare a roast pit for a large beast.

They feasted in celebration that night.

Lunar Month of Fire - Blaze, Day 2

Nearly over a month has passed since Yuelei arrived at the Whitefrost Mountains.

Focus, child. Remember that feeling when you called out the Ice Bolt last night.

They stood on the edge of a cliff and stared at an oblivious Ghost Hare digging through the snow. Gallienoir had deemed that Yuelei had sufficient knowledge of edible plants, so they had finally moved into hunting as her skills progressed.

“I’m trying...” A few nights ago, Yuelei had glimpsed at her own Aeht and the color of her soul at will, and when Gallienoir instructed her how to cast a Primal Ice Bolt, she had succeeded easily, albeit not after a few spells had exploded in her hands and gave her various cuts and bruises.

Now however, she was struggling when it mattered and the prey was in front of her.

Relax, child. Magic is not something one forces, it should come naturally, like spring after winter, Exert control when you have mastered the art of calling it and not when you are still grasping at it. Gallienoir chided. You do not wish for a repeat of last night.

Yuelei relaxed her intertwined hands that had been clasped together. Once again, she gathered the ice particles from around her into an icey sphere between her hands, but the spell was unstable. It maintained its shape for a brief moment, before dispersing into mist once again.

Child, when one gathers elements in a suitable environment, the rate of coalescence doubles. You lack the control to form it fully, but to give shape to a spell is but a luxury.. Use your mind’s eye to find the hare hiding amongst the snow.

With a great deal of effort, Yuelei hurled the half-formed orb towards its intended prey. Upon release, it arched towards the hare and flurries of snow kicked up in the resulting explosion.

“That was… a bit too much, wasn’t it?” Yuelei stared at what was left of the poor creature that was caught in its blast.

This one thinks you need some more practice. There was too much power in that Primal Ice Bolt, and you hit the target directly instead of indirectly. Gallienoir flew down and ate what was left of the Ghost Hare carcass. This one has an idea. Come, we shall return to the nest. She grabbed Yuelei’s arm with one of her talons and flew off without waiting for an answer.

Upon entering, another voice greeted Yuelei.

Welcome back, Yuli.

“I am home, Liur. “ Yuelei smiled. The two’s bond have grown immensely after being named, and after a week, the little one was able to communicate with Yuelei directly.

Liur fluttered to her usual spot on Yuelei’s shoulder and greeted her. Afterward, Gallienoir walked over and they touched beaks. At first Yuelei was a bit unnerved that they had unheard conversations, yet now she was used to it. After they finished speaking, Gallienoir turned her eyes on Yuelei.

Child, the little one will be your mentor tonight.

“Liur? But why-”

This one has some business to attend to. It should be easier for the little one to guide you as well.

“What do you mean-” Yuelei interjected, but Gallienoir had already left the nest.

Liur perched on Yuelei’s head. As soon as the young phoenix could communicate, Gallienoir had immediately passed on some of her knowledge. The little one seemed to absorb everything like a sponge and could put it to practice in a manner of minutes. In a matter of days, she had mastered the use of magic despite her lower levels of soul power, as well as flight. Such growth even made Yuelei jealous, but the implication of it also made her contemplate. Although it was subtle, she could see Gallienoir’s strength weaken each time, whether it was a slowdown in the rhythm of her wingbeats, or even how she no longer physically caught her prey and used magic instead.

Come, come, Yuli. Mother said you failed today,let me see you try it again. We can do it together! Liur’s voice echoed in Yuelei’s mind, chasing away her dark thoughts.

“I don’t really understand why it doesn-” Yuelei d to say as she tried to cast an Ice Bolt again, but this time without a hitch, a translucent, pure white orb formed in her outstretched hand.

“What?” She dispersed and reformed the orb multiple times without issue. “I… don’t understand. It wasn’t this easy when I was alone.”

It seems what mother said was true. Liur rubbed the top of Yuelei’s head with her beak. You cannot use Primal magic well without being near me.

“But… why?”

It probably had something to do with how you came back from the brink of death. Not even I am sure of the details of what happened then. Liur herself had almost no recollection of their meeting, even if Yuelei had insisted it was her voice she had heard before fainting. If what mother says is true, you will still be able to use it in time, but you will need to practice without my help.

“Are you sure you don’t understand what is happening between you and me?”

None at all, Yuli. Perhaps when I inherit the memories of my predecessors, that will change. Liur flapped her wings and took her seat atop Yuelei’s lap. But all things occur for a reason, so it will all work out!

“Do you know what it’s like? To inherit someone’s memories?” Yuelei asked.

From what my mother has told me, it doesn’t make them my memories but… it’s like the pages of a book that I can view at my discretion. Everything is… a phantasmagoria is the word she used.

“Phantas-ma what?”

Phantasmagoria, Yuli. The memories appear like a multitude of consecutive images like in a dream. Liur replied, as if from memory.

“I.. am not sure I get what you mean” Yuelei replied awkwardly. Occasionally, Liur would use words that were beyond both herself and Yuelei.

I can show it to you. Close your eyes.

Yuelei did as instructed. The darkness behind her eyelids slowly shifted away and several images flashed one by one past her mind. A picture of herself lying buried in the snow. An image of Gallienoir flying with her unconscious form clutched in her talons. A picture of her being taught how to cook. A picture of her casting her first spell.

Yuelei opened her eyes after it was over. “How did-”

I think it’s part of our pact somehow. When I asked my mother, she said it was not in the memories at all. She told me that you had a strange fate unlike her own mothers, and that you were special.

“I meant, how...when did my hair change colors!?” Yuelei held a strand of her hair to the light, and tapped on one jewel of her hairpin to release more light. “I could have sworn it was a dark bluish color...but it seems black to me?”

What do you mean? It’s black. Liur tilted her head quizzically.

“But in the memory you showed me, my hair had this light blue sheen to it..”

Liur shut her eyes for a moment. I think not, but perhaps it was a trick of the light because of your spell?

“You may be right… It does not matter, I suppose.” Yuelei closed her eyes and concentrated. Pointing her finger in the air, the frost element started concentrating at her fingertips.

That’s enough, child. There is work to be done. A voice signaled Gallienoir’s return. With a thud Gallienoir hauled in the corpse of a bear. Liur fluttered over to greet Gallienoir.

“Gallienoir, what color is my hair?” Yuelei asked, curious of what she was going to say.

What do you mean?It's a dark shade of lapis.

“What?” Yuelei’s eyes widened and she went to the water basin. Gallienoir had destroyed a portion of the cave and filled it with water that filtered from the mountain peaks, and Yuelei gazed at her reflection. Her hair had a dark blue gleam to it that was barely visible when raised against the light.

What’s the problem?

Yuelei turned to Gallienoir and pointed at her hair. “Gallienoir, my hair- why is it-”

Blue? Side effects of magic and the pact with the little one, I suppose. Gallienoir shrugged halfheartedly. Does it bother you?

Now that you bring it up, it does seem bluish. It looks great, Yuli! Liur added. I like that color anyways!

“It doesn’t bother me but….”

Child, if your story is true, a change of hair color would be really useful in hiding your identity when the time comes. Gallienoir added. Yours is a unique case, this one admits. But only through change does one surpass our predecessors.

“I… guess so.” Yuelei reluctantly nodded. She had felt that she had lost a bit of herself during the past days but it was only now that she saw the physical changes. Her hair wasn’t as black as before, her skin was paler, and her eye color had changed into a shade of peacock. Even her body was riddled with scars and dried scabs, a testament at the trials she had gone through and survived.

“I am just concerned Airen would not recognize me when I find him again.” Yuelei confessed quietly.

Family always recognizes each other, no matter what they have become. This one will be blunt with you, child. What would you do on the off-chance that your brother is no longer in this world? Gallienoir folded her wings and waited for an answer.

Yuelei clenched her fists. She could hear Jourmind’s voice warning her, but she said it anyway. “Then I shall take revenge, for both Airen and Jourmind.” The brutal nature of the world had tempered her, and shown her that when all else fails, violence always became the answer.

Even if you don’t know who your enemy is?

“Then, I will find out.”

This one does not disapprove of revenge Yuelei, but you will need much, much more power before you can take on an entire country. You may have learned to use magic, but you are still lacking. Gallienoir nodded her head.

“What am I lacking?” Yuelei argued. “If Primal Magic is so powerful, what’s the difference between them and me?”

Everything. Right now, you cannot even survive in these mountains by yourself. Gallienoir's angry tone cut deep into Yuelei’s mind.

You are but a child, purge those foolish thoughts out of your mind. It has been some time, yet you can still not withstand the wind from my wings. Now go and prepare the carcass, so that you may survive when my time comes.

Holding back tears of anger and humiliation, Yuelei did as bid, hiding her face. The two phoenixes chattered among themselves for a bit before Liur flew over and perched on Yuelei’s shoulder.

Don’t be too hard on yourself or mother, Yuli. She means well. Liur reassured.

“I know… but being told that so bluntly stings, Liur. She could have been a bit more gentle with her words.” Yuelei said quietly.

Liur hesitated to speak, and they were quiet for a few minutes. The only sound was that of Gallienoir leaving the nest and the sound of Yuelei wielding the knife.

Mother did not want you to know this, but since you’re my partner, I will tell you. Mother doesn’t have long to live. She doesn't even know if she could make it through the Whitefrost at this rate.

Yuelei accidentally cut her fingers with the dagger while hearing the news. Quickly gathering the ice element to freeze the cut, she turned to face Liur on her shoulder with an incredulous look on her face. It was something she had known but, the reality had not set in until the open declaration.

“...Is it true?”

Yuli, I would never lie to you. Mother is afraid that once she’s gone, you cannot survive. She has been passing on a lot of knowledge to me in case that happens, but I am not confident to guide you. So, do not fight with her too much.

“I’m sorry Liur, I… didn’t know.” Yuelei responded, not sure what to say.

It’s just how things are, Yuli. No one is at fault. The young first phoenix shook her beak and looked away. She has been setting up contingency plans, but she is growing weaker.

Their conversation died down soon after, both dwelling within their own thoughts. The silence was broken with Gallienoir returning with another Tuskhog. She went over and placed it in front of Yuelei, and even she could make out that Gallienoir was panting and struggling.

Here child, butcher this as well. This one will freeze the meat after you have processed it.

Yuelei said nothing, but she nodded in response. When Gallienoir turned away to sleep, she cried out, “Gali.”

What is it child? Came the reply without turning around.

“Please teach me how to fight with magic.” Yuelei sat on her legs and asked sincerely.

A minute passed, then two, then the reply came.

Very well, we start tomorrow.

Stand in front of me. Gallienoir gestured with a wing.

“Ok...” Yuelei was confused but did as asked. She had woken up early that morning to prepare breakfast and start training, but Gallienoir made no mention of leaving the nest. As soon as the meal was cleared away, Gallienoir had cleared the center of the nest, leaving a small space for the two of them.

Are we just going to train inside here? Are we not going to fight magical beasts? She wondered, but did not dare ask aloud.

Pretend that my wingtip is the blade of your dagger, and watch closely. After her words, Gallienoir stood still. With one fluid movement, she tilted her body and took a step forward and swung her wing forward like a swordsman would swing a blade. It cut a delicate arc in the air, and Gallienoir gestured towards Yuelei.

Your turn, child.

Yuelei imitated the action several times, and finally after twenty minutes, Gallienoir deemed her posture passable.

“Gallienoir… I don’t mean to question you but… why are you trying to teach me to use a sword?” Yuelei inquired.

Child, does the weapon in your hand look like a sword to you? Gallienoir scoffed.

Patience Yuli, the good part is coming. Liur’s voice peeped in.

Gallienoir huffed at Liur for letting the surprise out, but nudged both of them away from the center of the room, and took the same stance as before.

Observe carefully this time, child.

Not sure what was going to happen, Yuelei focused her eyes on Gallienoir’s wings. This time, as she swung down, a trail of ice, shaped like that of a blade, sprouted from the wingtip and followed the swing. Before smashing into the floor, the blade vanished.

Child, tell me what just happened. Gallienoir commanded.

“You cast some sort of ice spell during the swing… but I am not sure how you made it dissipate so quickly.”

Good. It is better to admit when you do not understand.

Gallienoir pointed her wing at Yuelei and the blade materialized again. She demonstrated a few more cuts, the blade would only appear at the start of a swing, and would vanish at the end of the motion. A white mist drifted around her as she used a wing tip akin to a sword, and at one point, multiple blades of ice sprang out almost like a fan.

This is a spell called Frost Edge wielded by your predecessor. No… ‌it was not exactly a spell. This one supposes that your kind would call this a weapon art, but this is closer to magic than a skill borne of a weapon.

But the technique doesn’t cost any soul power to maintain like magic would. Liur chipped in. And this white mist-

Is actually condensed magic. You are familiar with its form from learning to cast a Primal Ice Bolt. Gallienoir finished. Yuelei child, do you discern the reason this one started with this skill?

“Because I would need some sort of melee weapon, eventually?” Yuelei guessed.

Half correct. You do need a way to deal with enemies that care close to you as primal magic can hurt yourself if fired too closely. The other reason is this white mist. Gallienoir flapped a wing and the cold mist blew over at Yuelei. She grimaced herself for something to event but the mist merely lingered around her. Waving a hand through it, she felt sudden understanding hit her.

There will be times where there is not any snow or frost in the air for you to gather. You will need to learn how to unconsciously turn the air around you into an environment suitable for ice magic. At its base for humans, it’s simple… gather the water element around you and chill it with the wind element. This spell, Winter’s Breath, in your tongue, is a key spell to using Ice Magic. Master it and you can do things like-

Without warning, Liur flapped a wing at Yuelei and multiple Primal Ice Bolts flew towards Yuelei. Yuelei watched as the surrounding mist suddenly sent two small icicles to deflect two of the bolts, and formed a wall to block the last one. When the wall disappeared, Yuelei looked at Gallienoir in awe.

“Did you just-”

Yes and no child. It was not this one that defended you. The mist is like a living creature that follows one’s will. The Winter’s Breath is essentially a part of you, and you must be able to control it unconsciously. Now, this one will guide you through the principles and you shall practice..

And so Yuelei’s training began.