Mortal Realm
City of Lucien
Phaelin’s House
•PHAELIN•
Their song hummed inside my head. Guests circled around my being as I was about to make a wish. However, there was oddity in everything. My whole existence could sense a thing. I deeply tried to ignore it, but I could not. Slowly, their voices faded in my ears. I can only hear the beat inside my chest and the way I breathe.
“I wish to know my true purpose—to successfully find the answers I am seeking. I wish to know who I truly am,” I uttered inside my head and gently opened my eyes. The indistinct sounds went clear. I looked at everybody.
At that moment, I blew the candle.
A strong wind passed by for a second and it made everyone halt. Its coldness brought shivers to our spine. Some of the glasses fell from the tables. The hanging decorations moved. The silence was quite deafening.
“The weather was fair earlier,” Marquis wondered.
I was still staring at the sky and there were no nimbus clouds. “It was simply a cold wind,” I said out loud and shrugged my shoulders. I tried to assure them and they agreed. They cheered and went dancing like gypsies at ancient festivals.
•⚘⚔⚘ •
Underworld Realm
Lothaire's Demesne
Palace
•LOTHAIRE•
I sat at my black marble throne. The rainbow beam hits the floor from the chandelier on the ceiling. Somehow, it keeps away the gloomy ambiance of the throne room. I feel a mixture of fear and excitement. My betrothed will be arriving tonight. The voices and footsteps of the servants from outside can be heard.
Eikesier—the lynx of the underworld guarding the gates—rushed towards my direction and sat beside my foot. I ran my fingers through his black fur. I often send him to visit Phaelin in the upperworld. His eyes are mellow with a lagoon-blue sheen.
He makes sure that no soul escapes the realm. Back from the past, he also guarded Gulya in anywhere she went. He licked my hands. As I smiled, a memory ran through my mind.
"You cannot just keep me down here!" Gulya said, “I want to see my mother.”
"I am here…” I said selfishly, “I am all you have and all you need.”
I calmly sat at my throne as she stood still in front of me.
“You do not understand!” she argued in return, “I am needed by the mortals. I help my mother in cultivating their land, Lothaire.”
I can feel her rage.
“Am I not enough?” I questioned her out of impulse, “You would rather choose the mortals than staying here with your consort.”
"I have a responsibility, Lothaire,” she replied whilst slowly losing her temper.
I clenched my jaw and spoke, “You also have a responsibility down here. You are bound to serve the underworld. You have an obligation to this dominion.”
Eikesier went to her and he rubbed his head to Gulya’s left hand. She did not notice as she stared intently into my eyes. “Obligation?” she interrogated furiously, “You are expecting my being to be a queen of this realm and I am doing all I am supposed to do. You should not discourse about duties. I am doing my obligations and you are just making an excuse. You are locking indeed locking my entirety in this dungeon.”
I was out of words for her reply. I deeply sighed as she turned her back and headed straight to her chamber. I felt a piercing pain inside my chest.
Being left alone after committing yourself to a being, certainly brings discomfort and agony. One would always want to blame themself on how undeserving they are to be loved. It was truly excruciating not to be chosen in the end.
I gazed back at Eikesier and gave him a weak smile.
A mass of smoke entered the throne room. It settled in the middle and gradually spun. Bit by bit, it formed three timeworn women wearing rugged cloaks—the Weavers. They are the ones who give portions of life. "King of the underworld…" they all greeted and bowed.
I rose upright. "It is about time," Ischales, the Allotter, said. She was the one assigned for the future—holding a thread and a staff.
“You are now honored and permitted to leave and procure your betrothed in the land of the mortals,” Britomaris, the Spinner, declared. She was assigned for the present—holding a spindle and scroll.
“We are aware of what will happen,” Acrasia, the Inflexible, uttered. She was assigned for the past—holding a shear and the Book of Life. She cuts the thread of those who are destined to face death. “We will appear to her before you cross paths with one another. By that time, we already had a word with your fated queen. We will leave the rest to you, King of the Underworld,” she added.
I nodded in concord. The smoke returned and wrapped all of them. It spun once again until they vanished into thin air. I immediately went to the stables of the palace and told Azael to prepare my chariot.
MOMENTS LATER
Upperworld
Land of the Mortals
I successfully arrived in the realm of the living. “Settle down," I commanded my pegasuses. I stood still in an abandoned park.
The Weavers gave a scroll stating, “The moon will be revealed when the cold wind has ceased. At that moment, before her, you ought to appear.”
There was a place indicated at the end of the inscription. I gazed at the night sky with no sign of the moon. The wind blew cold as I waited.
•⚘⚔⚘ •
•PHAELIN•
Clouds fill the night sky as I sit in front of our porch. There was no moon but only stars. I cannot stand the noise from the surrounding. Hence, I left for a while to have air. I was staring straight ahead when I noticed an elderly woman attempting to cross the street. She gave a gaze and I gave her a smile as she hardly tried to take a step. She returned the crinkle in her eyes.
I was ready to rise up and assist her when a speeding automobile approached. It trampled on her. I stood stunned and covered my mouth as I watched the vehicle flee without even looking to see who he trod on.
When I regained my senses, I dashed to her. She was helplessly laying on the ground, unable to even speak. I went on my knees and took her hand in mine and I could see she was in a lot of agony. I was enraged at the driver and weak for the woman. When I checked her pulse, she was still hanging on. I attempted to raise her but was unable to do so. My eyes welled up with tears. “Help! " I screamed, but no one could hear me. Not a single one of my neighbors stepped outside. It was strange.
I yelled again to call any of my guests but I was also aware that the deafening noise was preventing them to hear. “I beg you to help!” I shouted. No one came. “Grandmother, hold on,” I said in between sobs, “I will seek for aid.” I wiped the tears from my cheek and tried to stand up.
She grabbed my wrist and said in a breaking voice, “Stay here with me, my child.”
“Grandmother, you—”
“Please…” she painfully pleaded.
“Alright,” I replied in a weak tone, “I will not leave.” The strong wind passed by once again. I did not mind because I was still sobbing and could not believe what was in front of me.
“I have a favor,” she said in a breaking tone.
“Anything,” I replied.
“Can you look directly into my eyes?” she said. I nodded and wiped my tears. “Do not cry, my child. Do not cry,” she added and placed her palms on my cheek. I held it with my hand as I stared into her eyes.
The oddity returned.
I felt a sudden jolt as I was brought into a huge golden tapestry. I looked everywhere and I was firm. I have seen the place before. “You are looking at the grand tapestry of life…” someone spoke and I turned my back. There were three women wearing white glistening cloaks—each one of them holding two objects. One with a thread and staff. The second with a spindle and scroll. And the other with a shear and a book. I tried to take a glimpse of the inscription on the material and it read, “Book of Life.” My eyes widened. “I guess you already found out who we are,” the one in the middle spoke.
They introduced themselves and I was still on the floor staring at the weavers of destiny. I cannot believe what was in front of my eyes.
“I can see that you are staggered,” Britomaris said. I chuckled bitterly.
“This is untrue. I am dreaming,” I answered, “This is how Lothaire visit.”
“Lothaire?” Acrasia asked.
“Yes,” I answered.
“I see,” Ischales stated, making the two women look at each other.
“You are not dreaming…” Britomaris added.
Confusion filled my thoughts. “Where is the old lady?” I questioned as I remembered what happened earlier. “I was with her,” I added and stood up.
“Fated one…” Acrasia spoke, “She was us.”
My mouth hung open. Britomaris uttered, “You are here because it is about time for you to fulfill your purpose.” I ran out of words to say.
“According to the prophesy, you have the mind of a goddess and the soul of a queen. We have proved that earlier and we have also watched you from the fountain of life. It may be hard to believe, but you are destined to rule a demesne,” Ischales declared.
“What demesne?” I managed to ask, “I know you do not make mistakes for you are the Weavers but I am no queen and goddess. I am only a mortal with no royal blood. My parents are solely—”
What I was about to say made me halt. Realization hit my entirety. “It is true that you have no royal blood,” Acrasia said whilst smiling, “You are born mortal.”
I tried to ask again, “But you—”
“My child, your questions are left to answer by someone you already knew. We believe that he will bring clarity to your thoughts. We are now honoring your destiny and may the forces be with you.”
I opened my eyes and I found myself still sitting on our porch—at the position before I saw the lady. “Phaelin…” A voice called and I quickly stood up.
It was Harrison. I looked at him. “Have some,” he said, and handed a drink.
“Harrison, are you alright?” I asked, “Is there anything you need?”
“You should simply try it,” he said, referring to what I am holding in my hand.
I tittered before I took a sip. “In celebration to my coming of age,” I said as our glasses clinked.
“Since you are here, I want to show you a thing. It is simply five blocks away from this point,” he pointed at the other side of the street and there were several vehicles parked.
I blinked and tried to reply, “You should not drive—“
“Please...” he begged and held my wrist.
“Alright…” I muttered, “However, no one driving.” I was still recalling the occurrence earlier.
“Walk,” he stated and nodded, “I will walk.”
We took a walk along Beaufort Avenue. Several streetlights were flickering. It was now dusk, and the chill in the air made my being tremble. There were no passing vehicles or people outside, so the stillness was indeed overwhelming. It was simply both of us. As we came to a halt on the sidewalk, he handed up his jacket. He mentioned that he observed the unusual weather tonight as well. As he continued to speak, I couldn't help but think about what the Weavers stated earlier.
I still cannot believe that I that I helped an old lady embodying all of them. However, I am convinced I was not dreaming. A thing inside my entirety is clear about what transpired.
"Can you hear what I am saying?" " Harrison inquired as he waved his hand in front of my face. "It appears that you have thoughts within your head," he continued.
I went back to my senses. I looked at him and smiled. “Nothing,” I simply replied.
We kept on strolling. When I was certain we were indeed five blocks away from my house, I asked him what he intended to show me. "Keep on," he said. Edginess filled my system. The feeling was uneasy.
The moment we reached the intersection of Wert Avenue, I felt light-headed. Everything was spinning in my eyes and I felt wobbly and dizzy. I told him that I wanted to take a seat for a while. He led me to the waiting shed near where the buses stop. The surroundings were a bit eerie for there were no street lights above us and the ones near were malfunctioning. Harrison sat as I closed my eyes. Out of nowhere he spoke, “I apologize. I really do.”
I whispered, “What for?”
It took him a few sighs. “I placed a thing in your drink,” he replied. I did not speak. No words escaped my mouth. The wind, faulty street light, and his voice are the only ones I can hear. “I want to express how much I admire you. I want to be with you for a day but I do not know how,” he said.
I tried to stand but he grabbed my wrist. “I beg you to stay,” he said, “Give me a chance, Phaelin. You know how much I want you.”
My eyes were half-open as I pulled my arm. “I do not love you, Harrison,” I replied, “nor I ever want you.”
I was able to stand and walk shakily. However, he drew my body slightly through his jacket, causing myself to lose balance. He leaned against the wall, trapping my entirety in front of him. "If I cannot make you love me, I will make you cry my name," he said, clutching my shoulders.
“You need to calm down,” I answered in a frail tone. He was staring blankly. I tried to take his hands off my shoulders. I tried to glance if there are people I could call for help. I checked my pocket to see if I have my mobile phone and I left it unfortunately. The headache was adding up and making things difficult.
“I can make you happy,” he weirdly stated.
“You are clearly drunk, Harrison,” I said in response.
“Drunk or not, I still want to do this,” he whispered and tried to steal a kiss. I slapped him before he could even reach my lips. He took off his hands.
“You are certainly a bastard!” I exclaimed and slapped him again on the other side of his cheek.
I ran as fast as I could even though my knees were shaking.
“You cannot run away!” he yelled as he tried to catch up on me.
“Help!” I screamed. Things are getting blurry in my sight. I was panting at every step—breathing heavily.
“No one can hear you!” he yelled back. My adrenaline rushed on what he said. I felt panic.
I ran with all my strength but I could feel I was about to faint. When my knees felt numb and I was about to lose balance, someone appeared from nowhere and caught my being in his embrace. I was not able to utter a word. Everything turned pitch-black. I closed my eyes as he wrapped his dark cloak around me.
“I am getting you out of here,” he said in a familiar voice.
Underworld realmLothaire’s DemesnePalace •PHAELIN• The scent of Earth and sweet-smelling fruits lingered on my nose. As I slowly regained consciousness in the arms of a being wearing a recognizable helmet, I could hear a symphony of distinct voices. I gently opened my eyes and tried to focus on what was occurring. As he took large steps, he took big breaths. He grasps me in his embrace like a bride being carried by her groom. I carefully observed where we were heading, keenly not making movements. The voices were still singing like an orchestra, bringing pleasure to my ears. He took steps on the stairs before finally stopping in front of a massive entrance. It was filled with ornate patterns of metals and gems. The doors opened by themselves. A group of people stood before us and greeted in unison, “Welcome to the Palace!” they exclaimed. All of them bowed in harmony. I tried to be steady as confusion filled my thoughts. I failed to remember a single thing about a palace nor pl
Underworld RealmLothaire's DemesneThrone Room•LOTHAIRE• In the realm of the living, it was already dawn. Phaelin remained dormant in her chamber. I sat on my throne, smiling, recalling the events of the previous night. The supper we had seemed like a reunion for both of us. Her presence made me feel at ease. The dinner was a lengthy discussion and explanation. However, I would take some time and wait patiently. I understand she is still perplexed by the events. Mortals are delicate beings, and I cannot predict her since she is one. Everything should be taken slowly and carefully. I cannot afford to lose a thing too precious. I recalled our exchange of words as I escorted her back to her chamber to rest. “Thank you…” she mouthed as I opened the door for her. The dinn
Underworld Realm Lothaire's Palace Library •LOTHAIRE• Waiting feels like an eternity. I could not hold my fire. She did not open her door, nor did she want anything from the servants. Hence, I left a scroll containing the message that if she ever wishes to hear enlightenment on what she saw, I will be anticipating her in the palace’s library. The possibility for her not to appear pricks every vein I have in my body. However, what I need is optimism. I stared at the shelf full of books. I knew the hard bounds will enthrall her so I brought her here. I patiently sat and gazed at the surroundings. After a few minutes of ever and a day, I heard slow footsteps from the hallway and it brought a tremor to my core. She might be furious or she might be utter her desire to leave. I am afraid of where our discourse will lead both of us, above all. Within a second, the door opened, revealing a breathtaking beauty. Phaelin walked towards my direction—every step rhythmic
Underworld RealmLothaire’s DemesnePalace Grounds•PHAELIN• “Where are we heading?” I asked Lothaire. Eikesier led our path—walking in front of us. The underworld lynx held the resemblance of a lion. Its fur, however, appeared dark as the night. Eikesier, Lothaire implied, was the feline visiting in the upper world. He appears little to lessen the suspicion of the mortals. “We are going to the stables,” Lothaire spoke as we arrived at the stalls, “I am going to get a chariot.” The animals' majesty rendered my being speechless. I never knew there were horses here in the underworld—soul horses. Lothaire stated that when horses die in the land of the living, their spirits go down here in their realm. They will have wi
Underworld RealmLothaire's DemesneBaharan Meadows•PHAELIN• Cold wind touched the side of my cheek and the tip of my nose froze as we reached the steel gates of Baharan. I shivered as we stepped out of the chariot. The walls were immense, dark, and made of humus. "Wear this, my lady," Lothaire uttered, handing his cape. He settled the pegasus at the side. "How about you?" I asked in return, concerned due to his gesture. "I will be fine,” he answered, “I am used to it.” The silence was deafening. He waved his hand and the gates opened in his command. Darkness surrounds us but the path was still visible. We walked inside an
Land of the LivingCity of LucienDelphine Park•LOTHAIRE• I wore the helm of invisibility as I strolled around to find my betrothed. Azael and the servants greeted my being with a horrified expression stating Phaelin was nowhere to be found when I left. The gods of the underworld did not even notice her disappearance. Thanatos, guarding the gates with Eikesier, gave a word that the entrance on the Cape Matapan which redirects to the Village of Vathia was opened when they looked. It must have been where she exited. As much as my entirety wanted to set everything ablaze to what was occurring, I set it aside to find her first. It is not a pleasant time for her to be here—above our dominion—in the eyes of the enemies.“Scatter,” I uttered as the warriors of the underworld shifted as shadows and traveled. There is a certain place where she might go—their home—the last place she set foot in before she was taken.I went straight to it, cautious not to be noticed, while m
Underworld Realm Lothaire's Demesne Palace •LOTHAIRE• Fear. It embodied my entirety as we entered the gates of the palace. It felt as if I was falling apart. The servants were in hysterical endeavors upon seeing my bride. I gripped her tightly in my arms—her body becoming stiff and cold with every minute that passes. If she was a goddess, pulling the arrow from her chest would save her. Unfortunately, she is not. The rhythm of my footsteps, as I walk briskly, matches the way she breathes. Helplessly panting. Gasping for air. As we entered my chamber, I immediately laid her down. I held her hand saying, “Hold on.” Denali—also the god of healing and protection of the young—ordered the servants to get herbs and remedies. I believe that Solum already heard about what happened as Naeitha swiftly entered my room. She rushed beside my betrothed. It did not take a while before the Weavers of Destiny came. “We need to pull the arrow
Underworld Realm Lothaire's Demesne Palace •PHAELIN• I contemplated in my chamber. However, my thoughts were blank—a strange occurrence. Most of the time, they would suffocate my mind with meandering and turning whispers. I was planning to head to the library. However, a knock on my door came. I opened the access of my room and it revealed a light auburn-haired woman. "Your majesty," she greeted and bowed, “I am one of Bryndis' seamstresses—appointed to design your wedding gown.” She had green eyes and a pleasing smile. I let her in. Albeit I was against this sudden marriage, I tried to keep my composure. She placed her sewing gear on top of my bed and took out her measuring tape. The needlewoman started determining the dimensions of my body. "What is your name?” I plainly asked. “Ayila, your highness,” she answered, “Would you like to put forward any specification on the gown?” “Specification?” I repeated as I tried to confirm. “We already drawn from the tap. However, w