'Through the gales and the rain – I have loved all I can.'
Alina had come from humble origins – she grew up in a frugal household. She had an affinity for the arcane arts, which led her to become a prominent figure in the temple's priesthood. However, after she had struck a deal with the princess – her ambitions grew beyond her assigned role. Furthermore, behind her facade of piety and devotion, Alina calculated her moves within the royal courts, carefully weaving intricate webs of connections, gaining further influence and control over the religious and political spheres.
Her path to power had begun subtly, where she had slowly but surely, started exploiting the fears and desires of those around her. Alina had an innate talent for identifying weaknesses in others and using them as leverage to further her ambitions. Additionally, Alina exploited the insecurities of the princess and her worry over her lineage – offering comforting words and promises of salvation to those more vulnerable and desperate, accompanied by gentle touches.
It worked. Alina's manipulation worked so well she had also become one of the most desirable women in the kingdom – people up and down the continent knew of her; men wished to be with her, and women envied her.
Over the years, her hunger for more grew with her age – and extended beyond the temple walls. Alina forged stronger alliances with more influential figures in the Eldoria, in the south of the continent, using her previous connections as priestess to gain their trust and serve her purposes. Alina was a good talker, possessing a silver tongue and a charismatic presence that allowed her to take hold of even the most sceptical of minds, using half-truths and prophetic falsehoods that aligned with her desires.
Alina maintained control, eliminating anyone who posed a threat to her ascension. Alina was ruthless, utilising her network of devoted followers to carry out her bidding. Orchestrating scandals, framing the opposition, and sowed discord among her opponents. Alina ensured that her grip on authority tightened with time.
Therefore, when [Name] appeared in that forest, she felt a burst of power from him and his protection magic, although dark, was not demonic, which caused her panic. Now, he ran amock through the ranks of nobility and broke Darnados out of the stupor she and his sister had him under. She knew he was not human, even though he claimed to be – and by all accounts, he was telling the truth. But, her gift of detecting magical presence was not for nothing, and she knew he was hiding something.
Alina could already feel her grasp of power slipping from her hands. She had never felt so threatened.
••••
[Name] ran through the forest with Darnados.
The raindrops create a delightful symphony as they cascade upon the canopy of leaves above you. The pitter-patter of the rain resonates in your ears, blending harmoniously with the gentle rustling of the trees and the occasional chirping of birds seeking shelter.
With each inhalation, [Name] breathed in the earthy aroma of wet soil and the fragrant scents from the forest. The rain intensified these scents, amplifying their richness and creating a tapestry of smells that envelops you. The dampness in the air carries hints of moss, ferns, and decaying leaves, reminding one of the cycles of life within this verdant oasis.
[Name]'s skin tingles with the sensation of raindrops touching his face, arms, and legs. The cool water invigorates his senses, awakening every nerve ending. The droplets create a delicate dance as they trace pathways down his skin, leaving a trail of moisture that brings relief and a heightened awareness of his physical presence in this mystical realm.
As [Name] and Darnados navigated through the forest, he occasionally brushed against the leaves and branches that reached out to greet them. The touch of the vegetation is soft and lush, a testament to the vitality of the forest. The moisture clings to the foliage, transferring onto his fingertips as you graze the vibrant greenery along your path.
The grey overcast sky casts a dim, diffused light throughout the forest, creating an otherworldly ambience. The muted colours of the surroundings take on an ethereal quality, the forest painted with mystery. Shadows dance amidst the trunks adding a sense of enchantment to the landscape.
They continued running. The high feeling of freedom was palpable. [Name]'s heart beats with an exhilarating rhythm, pumping adrenaline through your veins. His muscles, warmed by the movement and invigorated by the rain, respond with each stride, propelling him forward with a surge of energy. At this moment, he was not just a mere observer but an active participant, fully immersed in the symphony of sights, sounds, smells, and sensations. The forest and its elements become an extension of his being, interwoven with the fabric of his experience.
Together with Darnados, [Name] revelled in this ethereal connection, cherishing every sensory detail that deepened their appreciation for the beauty surrounding them. It is a moment of pure bliss, where the freedom of the forest and the companionship, this memory becomes a euphoric tapestry that leaves an indelible imprint on his soul.
'Maybe, it wouldn't be so bad to let my soul rest here.'