“Please rise, friends of Emerald City. You need not bow to us, for we’re grateful for your aid, benevolent gods and goddesses, and your retinue. We are humbled and honored you came to save our city from these dark invaders. We are forever in your debt,” Her Majesty Queen Esmerelda waited for all of us to rise, then kneeled to us, head bowed in honest appreciation. The King followed suit, and all the royal guards did so as well. It’s incredibly humbling when royalty bows to you. Yet, I’d never let it get to my head or my comrades’.
“Please rise as well. It is our honor to be of help to you and your people. We’re not much for formalities and wish only to be seen as friends. My name is Donovan. This is my star-fated husband, Abbadon. To my right is Leilah, Azrael, Leona, and Kendra. To my left are Quicksilver, Spirit, Jetsunma, Swift, and Jeremiah.
“We’ve saved the city, but we still need to save the rest of your realm from the malevolent forces that wish to invade it. While our forces help heal the wounded and assist in any way your citizens need, is there somewhere we can go to discuss how we may help you take back your lands?” I said.
“You are wise, kind, and indeed generous to the plights of our people. We welcome all of you openly into our realm. Follow us, and we can go to the central palace hall and discuss what is best for our realm and strategize with you,” King Emeris said with a warm and genuine smile. He then laced his hands with Queen Esmerelda, and they turned around, and we followed them to probably the largest palace I've ever seen.
Chapter 13
Leona
The palace's large and central chamber of the Emerald Elves is where we were currently standing. It was a large room with impossibly high ceilings that were domed. We had all warded the place for privacy upon entering. Only when we felt the space secured in earnest did we feel at ease to talk freely. Here is what many would consider a war room. It was in pristine condition, and one could observe all the hard work and masters of Elvin artisans craft. I noticed every column, chair, table, even the walls were impeccably designed. The architects used a combination of masonry and finely crushed emerald stones that littered this realm in amounts higher than the grains of sands of the Sahara.
Though I know their realm has been at peace for eons, and this space was probably only recently given more attention. Considering how the Elves had their lands currently being invaded, this room was prepared and probably used ever since the foreign armies of Lilith appeared on their shores. It's fitting that here we all stood working with the nobility of the Emerald Elves and our friends towards a mission of bringing the peace back to these lands.
Many have a false perception that the Fae are tricksters, and the Elves and us Fae were at odds. None of this was accurately true in any way. The people of Silver Leaf City, the Twilight Forest, and the Isle of Mu were not at all at odds with each other. Most of us nature-attuned beings are a civilized society who cared diligently for others.
Silver Leaf City was a diverse refuge for many different beings. Yes, it is mainly the chief seat of the Fae, but we had citizens of every walk and flavor of life. It mattered not if you were Kindred, Fae, Elven, Were, Mage, Witch, Illuminated Ones, or an Angel. Our city and its inhabitants were one of inclusivity and for the betterment of all without mal intent. The Elven were similar. They, too, had diverse subjects, including I noticed, wood Elves from their realm of Madera. I only hope that trouble hasn't similarly found itself in the realm of the Madera. It was a realm not far from this one either. I'd have to send a missive to their kingdom and make them aware of what is currently transpiring here.
The Emerald City and the realm it resided in was the home of the Elven clans and people. They were benevolent people, though, they were challenging to speak with. This much is true. For they were more likely to answer a question with a question than give a concrete answer as most beings did. It bothered the Fae not, for we've learned their ways and understood how to communicate with them productively.
The realm of Elves was also beautiful. It was an expansive and vast land. Nearly the size of a continent. Albeit a small one. The Emerald Realm had topography of rolling hills, impossibly high peaked mountains, large rivers, creeks, and streams. There were plains for mostly agriculture. There were wetlands as well as the multiple endless forests of large conifers of green. This realm also had different climates in its vastness, from the cold southern shores to the year-round mild spring-like temperatures of Emerald City and the hot summer beaches of their northern territory.
Elves were taller than the Fae. They had longer ears with a sharper point that was pressed close to their heads, near their crowns. They had all forms of trade and were master artisans. Especially with gemstones and nature preserving technologies. They were gentle people and always did their best to be self-reliant. They had good infrastructure and most families grew their food. Even in Emerald City, every home spire, the palace had balcony gardens no matter how small, large, or height. The elves believed in working with nature, and their affinity for magicks was, therefore, of nature.
This place will be an excellent healing balm for Kendra and increase her connection to its power. We'd need her powerful nature magicks to help repel the invaders from this precious realm. As it would take all of us to liberate, cleanse, and tame each domain before their convergence with Terra. Her awakened powers as a goddess will most definitely be of use in the scarred lands of Lunaria. For once we reach that realm, it will need to be restored to provide a repaired kingdom for the Unicorns to return to their once lush and green homeland.
Queen Esmerelda and King Emeris were kind, fair, and benevolent rulers of their realm. There was no hidden agenda in their words or actions. They were also diplomatic, attentive listeners, gracious hosts and didn't answer direct questions with another, which was a long habit of their people. They simply wished for the benefit and wellbeing of all their subjects and people of the Emerald Forest realm.
It was a great kindness and much-needed action for Donovan to lead us here to secure Silver Leaf's allies' home realm. We did not want to have another realm fall victim to the hands of Lilith and her army of tethered slaves. Though our vows to go find the Key of Fates seemed to be our priority during Leilah's previously tethered form to the Aramaic gods, we were no longer in those circumstances. We were honor-bound to restore Lunaria or the Shadowrealm to its former glory. However, it was a task that was dynamic and had detours plenty to achieve that result. I'm only glad that our Unicorn brethren were willing to be patient and help other paranormal beings along the way to their goals.
The palace's central atrium that our group of friends entered was massive. The Elves, being taller than us and more attuned to Nature magicks, used their powers to construct a city that rivaled even the most massive human Terran cities. I felt humbled and honored to be amongst the few and closest comrades I had in its royal and large chambers. The ceilings were impossibly high. So tall that one could barely see where the columns that held its domed ceiling ended. The room was lit by light-stone lamps in intricately designed sconces. In this particular chamber, the floor was a map of all the realms with particular emphasis on the realm of the Emerald Elves. The city proper was in the middle of the floor map and surrounded outside its walls with the expansive realm that was the Emerald Forest, including their neighboring oceans, lakes, hills sides, farmlands, rivers, and mountains. There was a dark indigo color representing what I assume were the invaders' current position in the realm. They were a stark shade of shadows and indigos too close to all the edges of the realm to find any real peace or comfort with their invading presence. We took notice many of those invaders were currently surrounding the Emerald City metropolis.
"Your Majesties. I can observe and take notice of the center part of this map that represents the city we fortified. However, your lands in the Emerald Forests are expansive. The dark marks on it are what I assume is Lilith’s army of enthralled servants invading your realm. Is this accurate?" Donovan asked sincerely and inquisitively, bringing my attention back
to him.
"They are, in fact, accurate to the minute. Those shadowed areas are in our realm that has been occupied by the dark beings of the Shadowrealm. It is in our best interest to cleanse this land of their occupancy and regain control of the territories of the Emerald Forests,” pointed out King Emeris.
"The dark army has been coming in droves. It appears, my dear Emeris, when they were centered on our main city, it was different. They numbered in the thousands. If this map is to be believed, then the strengthening of the City shields has indeed saved our citizens but not deterred their invasion. If anything, it appears they're amassing in twice as many numbers and trying to occupy our villages, farms, and highlands. They've not left from outside our capital's walls either. Our city is well stocked and can last for a century without the need for our residents to go out for food, but eventually, that time will come. We need to take back our lands and swiftly," Queen Esmerelda pointed out gravely.
"Agreed. Now it is best if you know a bit more about our current missions. As well as the circumstances that are driving these forces to what I sense is not only your land but other realms as well. For knowing your enemies and their agenda will be of benefit to all beings," Donovan started. He then imparted the knowledge to the Queen, King, and Emerald guards of Lilith, her actions in Lunaria, her plans for all the Terran realms, the freeing of Angels, the veil's dissolution, the Key of Fates, and everything of the critical importance of our quest. The Queen, King, and their guard advisors listened intently. With each circumstance of news, a palpable air of anxiety filled the room.
"OM MANI PADME HUM, OM MANI PADME HUM, OM MANI PADME HUM," Donovan chanted, which eased everyone's inner turmoil with healing peace.
"Be at ease. It is a lot to hear in one sitting, but it's always best to be armed with the truth and the entire scope of affairs the realms are in danger of. My chant was to soothe and bless your minds with some relief and peace. Fear not. We've been victorious thus far at any circumstance thrown our direction. Though our quest is of great importance to all realms, we will work on first purging your lands of these heinous dark beings.
“Afterward, it is your choice should any of your retinue wish to join us on our mission to join us in restoring Lunaria. For now, the Emerald City's shield is impenetrable. I humbly request with your blessings, your majesties, for humble food and lodgings for our friends so that we may rest. We've discussed a great deal for several hours. With a well-rested mind, we can better discuss strategies on where and how to engage the enemy of your lands efficiently," Donovan stated with a voice ladled with exhaustion. Or hunger, most likely.
"This is wise. The Silver Leaf army, with your permission, your graces, would benefit from being allowed to set up their tents and pavilions on the streets of your capital so they may eat and rest as well," I added.
Clearly, Donovan wasn't tired in an energetic sense of the word. Still, more from the accounting of all that's transpired since before leaving Sacred Sun. From the journey to the Isle of Mu, Silver Leaf City, and now to here. He spoke about everything in great detail, leaving nothing of importance unsaid before to the rapt attention of the Queen and King of Emerald City.
I feel Donovan did well in his account of things. He didn't go into any philosophies or beliefs that he was the light-wielder. Or that he was seen as the blessed one. Not that it would have mattered as his light would be perceptible to even the mundane at this point. Even Abaddon's light was hard to ignore. When in the company of God-ascendants and us young gods, it only added to the already well-illuminated room. Donovan chose mindfully to only express his commitment to the causes and wishes for everyone in this realm and the next. He was a humble friend and a true leader for many.
"Of course, we are in your debt. We've had chambers prepared for you all in the west spire of the palace. They're ready for all of you present. Our barracks have ample accommodations for all of the Silver Leaf's noble guards to reside in with no need for tents. All lodging accommodations in our city that are available are also to serve without monetary cost, lodging, food, and drink to those in need. Food will be available for all of you in the common area of the western spire. My husband, King Emeris, and I will be retiring shortly as well; otherwise, we'd share our meals with your company. It's been a taxing fortnight, and this may be the biggest opportunity for rest for all of us. A royal guard will show you the way to your accommodations. We are eternally grateful for all of your blessed presence. We bid you a peaceful rest and goodnight with pleasant dreams. Farewell for now. Let us reconvene here in nine hours," Queen Esmerelda concluded to our reprieve.
"Thank you for your hospitality. We appreciate your friendship and kindness, your majesties. May rest be found easily, and peace finds a home in you and your citizens' hearts. Goodnight and farewell," Donovan said with a bow.
Then the monarchs of the Emerald Elves, King Emeris, and Queen Esmerelda left to their own chambers, and we were directed to ours in the western spire.
Chapter 14
Kendra
Well, my life certainly isn’t lacking in adventure. The energies of this realm are incredible. I can feel how connected to nature the Emerald Elves are. Even as we made our way, which may I add is a long walk to the western spire, I could sense the gardens all around the city. This was a perk of my newly found nature goddess powers.
If I expanded my awareness, I could probably sense the entire lands of the Emerald Elves with no problem. Though I know this would be a good idea to do, I’m hesitant at the moment because I know what lies outside the Emerald City shields. It’s taken a lot of courage to do the things we’ve so far successfully set out to do. Yet trouble seems to follow us like a shadow. Yes, we’ve been able to conquer every challenge met, but I can’t help the anxiety I feel. We’re missing something. I don’t know what it is yet, but I feel it in my bones.
Thus far, we’ve been able to fortify and master our shield-craft. This has come in handy. Protecting now the main city centers of two realms and their citizens. Maybe we should preemptively do the same for other realms, rather than wait for the last minute to arise. I’ll have to bring this up to Leona and the gang. I’m kind of getting tired of situations arising when shit is already hitting the fan.
My thoughts fled me when we got to our western spire, and we all halted. The royal guard took position to the left of an incredibly wide stairwell that led up into what I guessed would be our accommodations. Well, I hope it's not a long climb, I sighed. We expressed our gratitude to the guard and started walking up the emerald plated stairs. Every five feet, light-stones in intricately carved crevices of the wall lit the way. I was relieved when after only one flight of stairs, the room opened up into a common area of sorts.
There was seating tastefully arranged for conversation in the form of several sofas, coffee tables, end tables, and wing-back chairs. There was also to probably Donovan’s delight, an incredibly long table with wooden chairs and benches currently being filled with food that palace servers were carting in.
“How many of us want to guess where Donovan is going to sit first? Sofa? Or dining table?” I asked with an all-knowing smile, to which everyone, including Donovan, laughed.
“I’m hitting the dining table. I’m hungry, my proud default setting plus the food looks and has a scent so delightful I must try these Elven dishes. Anyone else hungry? We kind of skipped breakfast,” Donovan asked while taking a seat in front of the table. We all expressed our hunger, and you know he was right. The food being carted in on covered platters and plates did smell delightful. Plus, I’ve always been an adventurous eater. Even sushi is in my top ten. My curiosity for Elven dishes combined with my hunger had me sitting to the left of him. Leona sat next to me, and across from me was Abbadon, next to Donovan, of course. Then across Leona was Leilah, Azrael, Jetsunma, and to the right of us sat Spirit, Swift, Jeremiah, and Quicksilver.
I feel guilty, sometimes. It’s awkward having Jeremiah with us now that his memory is basically just made up of things he exper
ienced since being untethered to Leilah. Yet he was such a close friend of ours, I’m hoping with time, he will start interacting more and return to seeing us as close friends as well. I’m reasonably sure everyone is feeling it too. Maybe I should make everything a little better.
“Jeremiah, your help today with helping the Elves in this realm was invaluable. I know you’re just starting to get to know us all over again, but I hope you understand we appreciate you immensely. It couldn’t be easy following us around and getting to know us. At the same time, all these challenging circumstances have arisen so quickly. Are you doing alright?” I asked him with a smile as the plates were unveiled by our servers.
“Honestly, it has been fascinating, and there isn’t a dull moment in everyone here’s company. I wish there was a way to remember you all the way I must have before, but getting to know each one of you anew has been excellent. You’re all inherently good, and your motivations are altruistic. I’m also able to use my arcane gifts naturally, like a reflex. I know what to do. This has been very helpful in aiding our frightened Elven allies while we were here. It’s also been a great pleasure getting to know Pahaliah. He’s been very endearing and kind to me,” Jeremiah confessed.
“Pahaliah? Really?” Abbadon asked.
“Yes, that is correct. Pahaliah is one of the Angels you liberated in Silver Leaf City. There is something about him that makes my heart warm. He’s attentive to me. Seems to understand whenever I needed an encouraging word, or guidance when we were in between helping heal some Elven farmers,” Jeremiah confirmed while absentmindedly rubbing his heart center.
Well, we all know what that means. Jeremiah may have possibly found their star-coursed one! I can’t help how excited I get. Call me a Hallmark girl, but romance is just so beautiful.
Sacred Moon: Book 2 Page 16
