Grim and Grains

•PHAELIN• THE DAY BEFORE THE DESTINED ENCOUNTER I took small steps as I wandered in the ruins of an ancient temple. The place was familiar. The soothing breeze made me halt. “Phaelin…” A voice once again. I turned my back to see who it was. Then, I saw a stern and unyielding man walking towards me. Lothaire. He was holding his helmet and his onyx-colored cape danced with the wind. The rhythm and weight of his footsteps matches with the beat I feel on my chest. I met his calm gaze. “Why am I here?” I asked. He stopped and stood in front of me. He replied, “You do not have to know.” “Why are we here?” I asked once again, emphasizing the first word. Every graceful blink of his eyelashes makes me want to be drowned in his profound, eerily serene eyes. Always a relentlessly cold combination of azure and ash. He gave me a deep sigh and smiled, “You would not understand and the Weavers would not let me declare it.”

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 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 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

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