#Regina geagmann and wyverndore

[talesofealdancynedom]

A Magma Drake; Did you know I started my online artist presence drawing dragons?

36. The Dormant Forge (chapter 5 - Beloved abode 5/5 ) part 8. Stories of Dreams.

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Regina was fed up. Those stupid coins were the last straw. She yelled while trying to use a knife to get the silver from the crevices of the floor. Then the pacing started; Reggie’s heavy steps creaking the hard-wood. Wyverndor felt cold before her love’s suffering. They had done everything they could; Short of destroying the house that protected them from the inferno. Reggie was emanating enough vitriol towards the universe, she couldn’t give Wyvern a glance. Eventually, Regina lay on the floor panting. Wyverndor gave her a hug, and lay next to her.

“Now I have to fix the floor too! It’s always what you never see coming. I’m developing anxiety, Wyvern. I just wanted a nice little house, in an epic forge, with you by my side. I’ve had it! Wyvern, bring me my axe.” Reggie whimpered.

Reggie gripped the axe, ready to renovate after drinking enough water to slosh. All this for a sizable amount of pocket change. She was desperate, angry, and broke; Even for someone who can turn things to gold. They don’t accept gold at the market or pub, nor West-Silver. Regina was getting the feeling life is just ambivalently resolving minor problems moment to moment.

“What in all wonders was used to make this floor?” Reggie yelled, struggling to pry. She finally heaved so hard, that the axe flew across the room as the floorboard slapped her. Holding her nose, she lent down to gently removes the loosened wood, as Wyvern rolled back the carpet, and gathered the coins like a pidgeon.

“I hope that’s all of them.” Wyvern waved, placing them int the jar. “Now we get to put the floor together again! Like a puzzle! Puzzle time!”

“Are you kidding me?!” Reggie groaned. Wyvern paused: had she gesticulated the wrong thing?

“I know you feel defeated, after all those tribulations getting here and settling in. And also, the constant fear anything could go wrong any second. But in the end, what else are you going to do with your life right now, aside form fill your father’s order?”

“No, Wyvern. It’s not that. Look...” Regina said, pointing into the crawlspace. Wyvern looked over, to see what was making her wife weep. Behold: The center gate diagram, carved into the house’s foundation. Obscured by the rest of the flooring, but a hole big enough for Reggie to sit in, go dark, and open the gate.

“Awesome! Now we need you to really reflect on your anxiety; Catastrophize about loosing your dreams! The village could be calling a wizard to murder you for magery, this very minute. Dare the universe to mock you, Reggie! Let’s get so devastated, that you unite the veils!” Wyvern flailed.

“I can’t Wyvern. I’m so happy.” Reggie sighed. “I finally found it. Something fell into place. Fruit for my labour.”

“Then cry from joy?”

“I’m not quite that happy. This isn’t the best day of my life, it’s just a relief.” Reggie sighed. Wyvern kissed her in a last-ditch attempt; But nothing. Regina had a bout of inner peace, and thus was incapable of getting emotional enough to pull magic through her being.

After giving up and forging her father’s order, Regina went into town. She was too tired to cook, and wanted company; The fey had finally agreed to a curfew. They could relax, having accepted Regina into their abode. As night fell, Regina climbed out of the pit, and changed into her jewel-tone socks, cargos, and boots. She strolled the flats, down the backstreet, and saw the boy being reprimanded by the conductor, his mother. Reggie felt compelled to intervein.

“Want to go to pub with me?” Regina yelled to the conductor. The two looked at her; her fairness was emphasized by the dark clothes, thus making her look like a ghost.

“Master Geagmann, why are the fey quiet and dim? It’s so silent and dark, I’m scared. Can I please go to the gate to see them?” The boy cried.

“You’ve driven him mad! Made him a mage too, I bet!” The conductor snapped.

“Firstly, mages are a percentage of people born in magic house; It’s random. Also, the fey know him, and would’ve told everyone he was a mage. Lastly, your mom is right, you may not go near the forge; You could slip into the fires, hexes, or the Shadow Veil. If the fey are fond of you, they’ll come here peacefully.” Regina explained, crouching to the boy’s level. The boy still looked sad.

“So, you didn’t fix the gate? The fey didn’t all leave to see their families?” He asked. Regina shook her head.

“I need to go dark on the epicenter, which I just found. But I’m unable to emotionally destroyed myself to do it. I’m normally pretty good at controlling my ability to go dark. Some mage, eh? I’m sorry.” Regina confessed. She felt she’d failed the community more then herself. To Reggie’s surprise, conductor and her son gasped.

“Don’t go dark! You’ll die!” They yelped.

“Nah, I’ve already done it several times. I’ll be fine.” Regina said casually. The little family wasn’t breathing, and a man came to the backdoor to see what was happening. The dread in the mother’s emerald eyes was consuming. Regina was taken aback.

“Stay for dinner! Yes. To thank our local magic user for calming the fey, and talking sense into our boy.” She offered, pulling Regina into the house. The boy grabbed her knee; Reggie’s stomach churned. Not only was he cute, but affectionate and near summoning her baby fever. Arousing the memory, she’ll never have one. She sunk, but not enough to thin the veils.

“Don’t go dark; It’s fine if the gate is closed. It’s been closed for generations, and we’re all well. We even live harmoniously with the fey, who have yet to crawl form the furnace. We want you, fire wildlings, and others, around. You’re my friends.” The boy pleaded. “I don’t get along with the other kids. please Master Geagmann! I don’t want it quiet and dark at night; I like the fey watching over us!” he sobbed. Regina looked at the concerned adults around her.

“Shame to have our newest edition kick the bucket for a silly magma pit.” The conductor coaxed, sitting Reggie at the table.

“It’s not some pit; It was someone’s home. It’s my home...” Regina said, pausing. She took a breath, and ruffled the boy’s hair. “Trust me; I’m a professional! I’ve seen great things happen when gates are opened. If you really want, I can tell them it’s ok to stay up late.” She continued. The conductor stuffed potatoes into Reggie’s mouth.

“Only if you promise not to die, then.” The boy bargained.

Regina knew being tiered is the best way to get emotional. Having journaled, Reggie sat by the glowing window in the main room. She saw a white kitsune curl up on some rocks to sleep; It had a little mound it fit perfectly on. Home, she thought. The bellowing earth made Hawkhaven a home to the people. Sure, they complained. But inside they needed it. Even the cabin, was home to someone like them. Someone who loved this place. That’s why it was uncomfortable to live in the cabin; It felt like home the second she entered. But not quite her home. It had a lived-in warmth; Tidy but worn. It radiated familiar comfort, like the whole area. It wasn’t a real volcano, but a mystical vent around a diagram. It was made with thought and love. Something beloved and special, just as she dreamed.

About to doze off, Wyvern ran and grabbed the junk bowl; She could see Regina become homesick and confused. Primed for crumbling. Just a little longer, Wyvern thought, dashing to get the journal box. Regina yawned and unlocked the first one. The first page had a poorly drawn Monafyra crest. Only Helrem could make something so undecipherable.

“…Today I learned to make protection spells, by harnessing the strength of the stone kingdom’s rune; I can’t wait to show everyone!” The first entry said. The spelling was off, and writing poor. Ealden Anglian, as any mage. After reading similar entries, including the songs Helrem’s mother sang to him, Regina grabbed another:

“…Father say’s I’m big enough to work the metal with him. I’m tiered of sewing and carpentry with mother. I’m sad today thought. She say’s the fireproof tunic I made for father, scared her. But in town, father and the other men loved it; They gave me raspberries…”

Most of the entries were about mundane crafting, that Helrem couldn’t help but make magic. Each invention made those around him smile. Reggie had sat in the hole, on top of the gate, and read the books off the intact floorboards.

“I was commissioned to make a blade of shadows for the prince of my homeland. Shadow silver forms the everlasting black-fire. I put wolves on it, and hope he likes it…. Me and father had to cross the mountains, as the chieftain’s hall is inaccessible by ether; As I don’t know where it is, I can’t summon the blade to him…. Today, along the cold passage, I saw a radiant maiden. She was preparing a wood-bison, and had the silkiest hair I’ve ever seen. Her voice was like twilight, and father had to part us. She decided to join our party… On the way home, I asked the darling maiden to merry me. We all stopped, and made a new house. However, my family confessed they were weary of the fire that bubbled up around our home. I really thought making, and opening a gate, would enthuse them; I’ve only ever seen awe on the faces of common men, before unimaginable wonders. I apologized, as it was an experiment gone array. Father forgave me, and said the Vulcanic nymphs were his favourite…”

Reggie was starting to understand Morgan’s obsession; She was getting lost in these little glimpses into her hero’s life of magic. She eagerly turned the pages:

“My wife has given me a son; We named him Murdoc. She heard it from an Anglian merchant once. I want to go back to the forge, but it’s no place for a baby. Not to mention I ache without my darling. Maybe someday, I will bring him there… Murdoc is a mage, and his inexperience with spell-craft is endearing. It makes everyone smile when his enchantments burst into stars. My wife said she wishes she could howl stars from too. It made me wonder if other housed Common-Folk, would also enjoy using magic. When I surveyed the travelers back to the forge, the consensus was yes.” A journal concluded. In the silent night, Reggie felt the pain of missing her cousin and friends; Yearning for home as Helrem did. Regina remembered watering grandpa’s garden; It was also an experiment gone array. She grabbed the next journal, as Wyvern fell asleep on the carpet.

“The forge, though engineered to last forever, is keeping me from my family. Life changes, often unexpectedly, baring gifts and misfortune. We’ve adopted a mage boy named Tiberius, from Anglia, and thus my presence is needed. Hawkhaven also doesn’t have mundane things I need to experiment with, for making wands... I’m sad to leave my forge behind. The desk was a gift from father, and I was born in that bed. All the little enchantments I did to this place, while learning magic, mean a lot to me. Little things I overcame. So many memories. But perhaps the new ones I’ll make with my own family, will be equally important. I hope this place will be here, for any Warlock who wishes to also make it a home. I’ll even leave it ready to move in for them. I bet someone will dream of this place, as me and my brothers do…” Reggie stopped reading. It was getting to her. It was feeling personal; She could see why Murdoc left these journals here.

This beloved geothermic abode was made with love, and tied just for her. Regina was so excited to occupy this legend, with such youthful entitlement. She even traveled a great distance, and done so much to claim this place. Not out of respect or desire for comfort, but duty and sport. A quest to have a magic forest, make cool swords, and so on. She forgot she’d moved from home, and that this place wasn’t just thing, but a treasured place. Abandoned for centuries. Regina suddenly felt honoured to have it; And guilty for focusing on her frustration instead caring for it. She’d ripped the floor boards, and tried to fix what wasn’t broken. Reggie dropped the book, and looked at Wyvern. A soft amber glow was reflecting from her shining surface. Regina had gone dark. She felt and the heat boil her blood. She was in perfect control as she trained, and whipped the tears form her face. Out the window, she saw a thin film ripple inside an Inukshuk. The gate was open. She’d succeeded, and had no clue how to feel about it.

Regina went into town to tell the boy she’d opened the gate. Most of the fey left for a day or two, but came back. The boy hugged her. Their fey friends resumed frolicing in the night; Creating an ambience Regina began to appreciate. She was settling in. She went into town for the company, and felt at home. They complemented the clothes her father knitted for her. Reggie fired up the forge, and sent her father his order. The Radio her mother gave her, played either the Grand West or Central North radio, depending on her mood. She used her own tools, and the ones Helrem left. She imagined him using them. Reggie sent letters to Morgan about it, via the desk. Sleeping next to her love, Regina saw that the clock had broken. She fell asleep, comforted by what is both a small inconvenience, and labor of love. She’d forgotten all worry that plagued her.

TABLE OF CONTENTS--->

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[talesofealdancynedom]

Tales of Ealden Cynedom: 36. The Dormant Forge (2/5)

36. The Dormant Forge (chapter 2 - Fifteen Silver Short 2/5 ) part 8. Stories of Dreams.

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Everything was fine as Regina got he ticket to Hawkhaven. Mr. Topper took her on the daily train from Pepperidge, to The Grand Station; The international hub, historically symbolized peace. It represented The North Central of Francia, giving the world trains they invented, as a part of their peace treaty; According to the signs you could read while waiting for your transfer.  The ticket boys were adorable, and entranced by the black and green behemoth; Aches and brass lamps, eight platforms, and noisier than a firework festival.

When Mr. Topper chugged the train away, Reggie knew there was no turning back. She admired her green ticket; It had shinny pieces, to indicate authenticity, and a bunch of numbers, that must have meaning. Two hours later, a vending machine had eaten ten West-Silver from her pockets, leaving Regina hungry as her ticket was punched.

“Wait ma’am; I need to see a magic license if you’re bringing fey on board.” A ticket boy said. A line was forming behind the red-eye rail. Regina searched all eight pockets of her cargos, and pulled out her summoning note-book; She showed the first page, where she had scrap-booked the license into the cover.

“Have a nice trip ma’am!” The he nodded.

“Ma’am? I’m a magic-user; It’s Master, thanks. Also, how did you know my neckpiece held one of the most difficult fey to find?” Regina growled while boarding.

“Well, Master Geagmann, you have a gorgeous crystalline goblin behind you. She looks like a princess!” The ticked boy chimed. Wyvern hugged Reggie from behind.

“Thanks, I love my wife. Have an awesome day sir.” Reggie said casually, kissing Wyvern. The rest of the midnight trip, people either slept, or uncomfortably watched Reggie and Wyvern check off a list of romantic activities.

Strike midnight, and the train stopped at Holtwine Station; The boarder between The Grand West and Northlands. A station attendant boarded, and woke everyone to check their identities and tickets. He stopped at Regina last.

“All of them. On the table.” He said. Reggie was confused, and felt picked out. She normally felt the Celtician accent was happy, so his tone was off-putting. Reggie pulled out her passport, Grand West ID, and magic license. The attendant’s eyes narrowed as he read her ID.

“Master Geagmann, do you have a birth certificate? We check first-time travelers before giving the stamp of approval.”

“Bullshit.” A passenger yelled.

“Francian people need someone to vouch their character. Your stature and paler gives it away. Your posture even.”

“Sir, I’m slouching, quarter Danian, born Anglian, half Francian, annoyed, and want to talk to your manager.” Reggie growled, summoning her birth-certificate; Clearly stating she as born and raised in the Grand West, and in fact, not from The Central North of Francia. Regina felt like she was going to erupt. She’d accumulated small inconveniences which wore her thin. bubbling her anxiety about the fragility of aspirations. Making her feel unwelcome, at each stage of her quest. Wyvern stood up, and raised her hand. The attendant jumped back, yelling profanity.

“I’m half-human, can I vouch for her?” Wyverndor signed. She was mute, as rocks are, and learning sign language was one of her and Reggie’s bonding activities. The station didn’t have a translator, and Regina was escorted offboard, and give a caught at the station. They said it was for smuggling fey.

When Regina woke, she checked her necklace for Wyverndor, to thank her. At least her True Love was there. Regina briefly wondered, if she should have brought her father. Wyverndor turned human again, and lay next to Reggie.

“Just imagine how wonderful the forge will be, when you arrive! It will feel so deserved after a long journey. Oh look Reggie; They left you bread by the locked door.” Wyvern signed. Reggie groaned when she heard a knock. She clenched her fists for a proper slug, as she stood at the unlatching door. The officer was mishandling the keys. When the door opened, Reggie could see a cold sweat upon the officer’s brow.

“We called the embassy, and we don’t have a North Central department, because they seldom enter. Only postage and trade, I’m afraid. They also said the attendant was racist, and he’s on suspension. Our apologies ma’am. We’ll cover your ticket to your next destination, and help you apply for a work permit.” The officer assured. Reggie wasn’t amused.

“Thanks. It’s Master Geagmann by the way. I’m heading to Hawkhaven, if that’s ok.” Regina sighed. The officer paused, as if Regina was crazy for choosing that destination. Wyverndor climbed back into the necklace, as a ruby this time. The officer walked off for the documents, while Reggie yelled into the linins.

“I have a Happily Ever After; I’m enchanted with good fortune. My dream in nye. That forge is going to be so cool. So cool. So worth it.” She whimpered.

The next train had knots of sea creatures carved into the beams. Instead of benches along the windows facing each other, there were double seats all facing the same way. The maintained economy car, even had cushioned seats. Every inch was jewel-tones, from wood to carpet. Regina bought some mints, ale, and a sandwich off the trolly; And some crisps for Wyvern. As the train went, it emptied at Hassburry, the capitol, and continued in silence. Reggie walked around the empty car, looking through the windows. The green soft rolling hills had sheep, transformed into old growth forest, then marsh. Each mile under a dimmed sky that was about to rain. Steadily, the marsh turned rocky, and sun red. With a deafening screech, the train stopped at a frail bright orange station. The announcement said ‘End of Line’, and Regina disembarked.

Reggie’s face was slapped with cool air, and heat that radiated up her boots. Like a fever, or she was about to vomit. Finally at the destination, she kissed the blacked platform. The train turned off and cooled with a release of stream. Finally, the conductor jumped out and stretched.

“Wow, you must’ve come a long way to be our tourist! Never seen one kiss the floor though. The rumors are true by the way.” She gleamed. Reggie looked at the unhoused engine.

“Miss, you worried about Big Blitz here? She’ll be fine; Strong enough to survive without a barn. Let me show you to the pub!”

“I’m not a tourist, I’m your mage. A Warlock who can probably just transmute you a nice crate for Blitzen.”

“Oh, no… Mages are maniacal legendary beings! One used a blade of shadow, to cut down the city long ago, and stole a maiden on his way back, after failing to conquer us. Another used to make us toys from the screaming fires, past the glowing ridge. We don’t need one of those! We have families and live modest lives; I’m begging you to go.” She quivered.

“Come on, I just need to go dark on the gate, craft the unimaginable, and care for the fey. Won’t even know I’m there.”

“you want to make the voices stop, make trinkets, and live in the ridge then? So, you’re not dangerous, just mad?”

“Yup. I’m a normal person. Oh, but you should also meet my one-and-only; She’s crown princess of the stone Kingdom!” Reggie smiled. The conductor stepped back slowly. Reggie slouched further, and started staggering to the rumbling volcanic dam, looming over the town.

“Rain check for getting wasted at the pub when I’m done?” Reggie yelled to the conductor, who hid behind the ticket booth.

NEXT--->

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[talesofealdancynedom]

Regina, completely not acting like her crude self, in special stone kingdom robes to match Wyverndors <3

Tale 9: Regina Geagemann & Wyverndor (chapter 6. Forge Sweet Forge 6/6 ) part 2. Stories of Fey

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The magical geothermal flats of Hawk Haven, attract wizards wishing to find rare magical materials to sell to the highest bidder. Reggie had fended someone of the smugglers off; A bluff charge normally did it. Many traders thus settled for synthetic crystals.

“Palladis, are you sure we didn’t just rob that lady?” Regina asked. She held the necklace up; “Please Wyvern, if it’s you come back! I’m sorry I didn’t find you sooner, I love you.” Regina cried closing her eyes, and burying her head in her knees. Then she felt and embrace from someone, not small like Palladis, but familiar and soft. Regina opened her eyes to see Wyverndor, smiling with a big embrace.

She signed “thank you.” Regina gave what must have been the tightest hug she had ever given. It was good thing that rocks didn’t need to breath. Wyverndor and Regina loosened again, smiling at each other.

“Don’t go off with strangers as valuables again, ok?” Regina sniffed. Wyvern nodded, and went in to give Regina a good kiss while they embraced. The spell that they procrastinated took form, as anklets appeared, and Wyvern changed. In golden dust, her crystal dress gained more embroidery, her hair and train longer, and Wyvern refracted infinite colours. When they stood back, Regina felt even more enchanted and light gazing upon Wyvern.

“I love you too. let’s go home.” Wyvern signed. She gave one last snuggle to morph back into a lovely topaz set inside the protective necklace, back against Regina’s beating heart.

“That sounds nice, Wyvern. Also, sparkle a thanks to Palladis here; She helped me. Actually, a lot of people helped me along the way. Even if I was trying to do it alone as I promised.” Reggie admitted. But Palladis had flown off; Likely to share the gossip. The finally weds, once again went home together.

There is a special feeling when returning home, after any period of time. It’s stale, yet familiar; Providing a sigh of relief. A domain, never feeling the same as it was left, while being just as remembered. Regina sighed as she closed the door behind her. All the tools and projects lay where she left them. The bed still made, everything a bit sooty and dusty. Reggie began to disrobe to put on her home clothes. She had almost forgot what it was like to wear cotton. Wyverndor jumped out of the necklace to look around, and starred at the summer sword out the window. Maybe a nice shinny thing like that would show Palladis we’re thankful? Wyvern thought. Then she got a wave of impending doom; Wyverndor could not exclaim it being mute. She had no doubt Palladis had spoken of her misplacement to her mother queen Io. Or added that Wyverndor had just become a crown heir with an official True Love. Even Io’s own children admitted her exuberant romantic fluttering was like a razor blade. Out of the corner of her ey,e Wyvern noticed they were not alone. she jumped back falling onto Reggie and the bed.

“Ooh it’s like that now.” Reggie giggled.

Wyvern flailed “No!”, and pointed to the couch across the room. Hara sat by the kitchen drinking tea.

“I knew you’d find her Reggie. Kettle is still hot by the way.” He chimed.

“Professor! How long have you been there?! How did you get in?” Reggie screamed.

“I wasn’t looking by the way. I’m a Queen in waiting too, remember? The whole dragon princess debacle back in school. Anyhow, I’m here to check on you. You looked like rubble when I last heard from you last; And I needed an excuse to survey the fey here. Though, I realized Magma drakes and volcanic nymphs might be on the list of fey I’d rather read about then meet. But, I trust you have documented all your friends, and can share?” Hara smiled. His predictable rambling soothed Reggie. She gave him a shrug.

“I assigned a fire wildling to your cabin hearth by the way; Cute and covenant. Also don’t worry about the stone King and Queen. Palladis told them everything; Including not to visit until Io calms down. Everyone is very happy for you, including Morgan and your parents. But I should add they are dissatisfied having not attended the ceremony.” Hara teased. Reggie walked over, and poured herself some tea out of habit. Why tea? She though, it’s a literal inferno here. Wyvern then sat on Reggie’s lap, like she was the chair.

Wyvern signed “Hello, I’m so happy to be home and see you again!” Almost too fast for Regina to translate.

“That’s very sweet Wyvern. I hope you don’t mind if I stay a little longer to record your findings? I’m technically here for work. And Reggie, that’s a nice sword. Summer steel is quite rare. Please tell me it ignites into fire, when one true of heart and noble of quest, wields it.” Hara taunted.

“You better believe it.” Regina smiled hugging Wyvern from behind and giving a thumbs up. That was a lie. The sword lit up regardless of wielder, which is why it was in the rock.

 “Wyverndor, based on me and Rah, I bet you’re a crowned royal fey now; and heir to the Stone Kingdom of fey? To think, you could be a Queen Reggie! Being a potential Dragon Queen myself, the implications are most uncomfortable to ponder.” Hara continued. Regina and Wyvern simultaneously grimaced at the prospect of the demise of beloved family. Oh damn, that mountain super bowl dad, and crystalline ditzy mother, are now my in-laws. Its really happening. Reggie reflected.

“Are you two good? You both look even paler than normal.” Hara asked. They nodded yes slowly.

“You know, Professor Hara, how about on your way back to the academy through Tiberius Gate, you take that summer sword? Leave it in the Shadow Veil somewhere, to aid someone on a quest?” Regina asked.

“I can’t stay longer?” Hara asked, putting down his cup. With a moan, he stood up and looked at the sword out the window; reflecting the orange light of the encompassing fire.

“I suppose I can come back later with a proper research party then. Also, On behalf of your parents: Behave yourselves, fulfill each other.” He said on his way out. Wyvern gave a silent laugh. Her cheerful giddy personality was one of Regina’s favourite things about her. Reggie pulled Wyvern in for a kiss on the check and snuggle.

“Breaking into my house, and telling me to behave? He must have gone crazy from all the forges fire. Who does he think I am? A changed person?” Reggie laughed, sarcastically.

TABLE OF CONTENTS--->

<---PREVIOUS

[talesofealdancynedom]

Wyvern, in fey/rock form; garnet trillion cut is her favourite. A pretty necklace, for a pretty lady?

Tale 9: Regina Geagemann & Wyverndor (chapter 5. For the Aid of a Raven 5/6 ) part 2. Stories of Fey

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Regina had bought a train ticket to The Capitol, back in The Grand West. On her journey, she seemed to keep being placed in the same booth and inns as a Common-Folk family.

“Are you fey?” the parents asked timidly, being scared of such things. Reggie was silent.

“Are you ok miss?” The children pestered. “You look out the window; dropping.” They continued. Reggie shrugged, minding her own business and wishing she had made it of invisibility textiles. She admitted she looked a little like a wreath.

Regina sat silent, hoping help awaited at her destination. There were so many wizards and magical resources in The Capitol; there just had to be someone, or something, that could help her find Wyvern. Maybe someone she knew was in the city of her homeland. Listlessly, Reggie watched the landscapes change; Hoping for reunion. Dreaming of a happy ending while embracing Wyvern again. The world was dead to her now.

Finally, the parents flagged down a wizard to help Regina, suspecting she was indeed fey; But the Sorcerer was perplexed.

“Maybe I can contact a fey specialist? There is a network.” The Wizard suggested. Summoning a large laptop, he opened the application and was redirected to Professor Hara Fyrstan. Regina remembered him well. He was there the day she met Wyverndor. Needless to say, if anyone knew fey, it was Hara. However, he recognized the bronze crown immediately.

“Reggie!” Hara exclaimed on speakerphone, “are you well? You ambience alone explains why they took your for fey. Actually, I agree the more I look at you. You never wear dresses.” Hara said with concern. Regina didn’t respond, and instead held up one of her bulletin posters; Indicating Wyvern was missing. Hara remembered Wyverndor and Regina well. Wyvern had even been a part of his first publication. Regina was the real personality though; She always wore the necklace she made, and Wyverndor was always in it. Hara had never seen them apart. Last he hear, they had just moved to Hawk Haven forge together that year; Hara was shocked to see the two seperated.

“you two are so close; I’m surprised you haven’t shared a True Loves Kiss. I’m so sorry to hear this, Reggie. However, Acrean Gimm are impossible to detect to humans; As you know. Indistinguishable from rocks, and unable to ask for help. Do you think Wyvern may have been too scared of people to turn into her human form? I showed some pretty graphic material in class regarding her siblings. Maybe a gem collector near your forge, found her when she hid? It would be easy for someone to assume Wyvern was just another valuable crystal. She likes to be a sizable sparkly stone after all,” Hara rambled. “She’s probably alright.” This was encouraging; Regina felt a small smile on her face, but still a deep coldness in her bones.

“At the next stop you need to get out of those rags, in a bath, and back in your fairy robes! I’m sure Wyverndor would want you to be in good health.” Hara added before ending the call. The father of the family picked up the pamphlet, and read the quest. As did the Sorcerer, who had come to investigate. Concluding it was merely a magic user missing a one and only, they left promptly.

The family now felt for Regina’s cause. They had been placed with her on and off, and met again and again in the same booth. It was a five-day trip from Hawk Haven in the furthest Northlands, to the island Capitol. The family had become fond of Reggie, As she began to make humorous small talk. They felt that awkward attachment one feels toward a person they don’t know, but feel kind towards because they consistently see them in the same place every day.

“Why haven’t you contacted your own family for help?” one of the children eventually asked.

“Because I just moved out, and it will mean more if I find her myself. I regret not taking better care of her as was my oath. I want to tell her how much I love her; Like I should have years ago. Or maybe I’ve been enticed to be young and stupid, by bedtime stories,” Regina sighed. The child started laughing.

“You’re in love with a shiny rock princess! That’s funny You’re a girl, and fey aren’t people. How can you fall in love with something that can’t know real love?” the child nagged.

“Does knowing fey have personalities and desires change your opinions? Or my love being a real princess, and half-human? What if I told you, she was the prettiest, kindest, rock in existence? Would you think it possible?” Regina chuckled. She had to admit, this part of the adventure made her feel a bit better. The parents however were tensed by the tactless personal questions their child asked.

The next day in the train booth, the family saw Regina was in her fairy robes; False advertising. Her frilly legendary attire, made her look like a sympathetic proper lady, not like the powerful mage she was. Reggie’s necklace stood out; it had a finding for a large trillion gem, but was empty.

“You look nice today; As radiant as ladies of the Central North. But if I may ask, your necklace seems to be missing something.” The mother asked. Regina stared at the mother blankley. It should have been obvious by now what was supposed to fill it. When they were near the Capitol station, Reggie began tearing up. She had a sudden wave of loneliness come over her again.

“I’m heading to the Capitol, because the main square is actually the Raven Gate. Where there’s a gate, there’s a magic forest; Thus fey who can actually find an Acrean Gimm like Wyvern; The fey at my forge were little help. If that fails, then I can go to administration, or call my family.” Regina explained. The untrained commoners tilted there heads.

“What if these unfamiliar fey, spread word to your in-laws? You said you promised to keep her safe? You made it sound like magic itself would hunt you.” The father asked.

“I guess I was so focused on recusing my damsel, I forgot. I don’t have the fries to fend off the Stone King; My future father-in-law is a literal mountain! This keeps getting worse.” Reggie wept. The statement was quite absurd to the family. Sure, stone kingdom fey loved a good tater, but the Capitol of the Grand West being a magic forest? Surely someone would’ve noticed a gate letting in fey. It was hidden there by the last king, who was a secret mage. Morgan said that was to stop commoners from slipping into the Shadow Veil, and wizards destroying it. The Raven Gate was intentionally forgotten. Nowadays, everyone in a city is too busy about their daily lives to notice anything odd; Not even a higher than usual concentration of mystical poultry, in a particularly unremarkable town square. Knowing haunted the family.

“Can we come along? We are tourists after all; Just until you find ‘thy fair maiden’?” the father asked out of curiosity. Regina’s tales had kindled a sense of investment and wonder. But she didn’t want commoners interfering with magery, and hoped the attractions of the city might make them part ways.

“Are you sure?” Reggie checked.

Arriving at the square, the family noticed that Regina may have been right about the presence of a magic forest in the Capitol.  The ledges of all the brick buildings, around the square, had ominous bird fey: perched silent glances of three-legged crow, and albino phoenix.

“Are you still sure you want anything to do with this quest?” Reggie laughed, calling back to the family. The family was now distracted by the birds; a golden gryphon in particular.

“Maybe not.” The mother wheezed, holding back her children. Reggie chuckled, and waved goodbye. She now had to pick a guide fey carefully. Raven children were very good at spotting shinny things. Especially magic shinny things. But Avian fey were also very easily distracted, so one with good concentration was a must. Able to fly and spot things far away, a raven child would be a perfect aid. But Regina didn’t get to choose her helper, for one of them recognized her from Tiberius Gate.

“Hey Reggie.” A girls voiced cawed from above. Turning to the statue next to her, Reggie saw an opalescent four-winged raven. A Richen Raven; princesses of the raven kingdom.  Regina racked her brain to remember the raven’s name; The best way to entice fey. She new that voice. However, bribery is also a good option.

“Uh, Pal, Palladis? What are you doing here?” Regina said. She twitched while trying to seem innocent.

“Only a year, and you almost forgot my name? I’m here to check on my little siblings. Why are you here?” Palladis cackled. She then turned into a short maiden of white, with golden eyes, feather ruff, and embroidered coat.

“Got any candy?” Palladis chirped. “Give me candy, and I’ll help you off the record. I see you lost something: You wouldn’t happen to leave your dream job to find it, would you?” Palladis prodded, seeing the empty necklace. Regina alchemized some suckers and handed them to Palladis.

“Yes, I need to-”

“Find Wyverndor?” Palladis interjected, eating the candy like an animal. Including the wrapper.

“Yeah… I, I can’t-” Regina said pointing to her empty necklace and with a warble in her voice.

“Awe. You do love each other. Wait a minute; You were told by the Stone King to protect her. Why aren’t you two wed yet? Talk about a true love kiss too late, you coward.” Palladis snickered. Regina twitched. The truth of the later part really stung.

“You know The Stone King only said that because Wyvern got instantly infatuated, and only the best is good enough for daddy’s little princess,” Palladis mocked, biting into another candy. “Oh-ho, look at your face! You had no clue her parents were in on it!” Reggie let Palladis cackled for a few moments, while she felt the tingle of embracement run down her body.

“Are you done yet? The point is that Wyvern is my bride; I love her back, and I’m not leaving until I find her; and kiss like she’s the only one in the world! Sharing endless ‘I love yous’. That said Palladis, first I have to find her; and my human butt can’t do that. So, what shinny trinket do I have to bribe you with, to get your help?” Reggie said, beginning to cry. A familiar old friend, even a risky one, is better than a useless stranger.

"No charge. I’m bored. Follow me while a do a few rounds at some magic shops and the streets. There are so many crystals and jewelry stores arounds here, you’d swear the Grand West was as obsessed with sparkles as my father! One Acrean Gimm coming right up! Hopefully." Palladis crunched the last candy, and turning back into a raven.

Regina lacked fitness, and found herself panting while dashing around corners, alleys, and crowds to keep up. She felt optimism serge with her adrenaline. Reggie had hope Palladis could actually help, but that blunt ache of doubt was still weighing her down, as minutes became hours. The wizard markets were massive. It would take forever. They finally pulled over on a corner.

“Do you see anything? please tell me you saw something” Regina panted, now in tears. If a Royal Raven fey couldn’t find an Acrean Gimm, nothing could.

“Sorry Reggie. Shame too; Queen Io loves romance, and any gossips about infatuation would have cheered her being. She’d die if you crowned Wyverndor; one of her babies, has a one true love at last. The thought is terrifying.” Palladis cawed. She perched on Regina, who was bent over in tears and sweat.

“I believe you mean endeared to the point of vomiting rainbows Palladis” Reggie said trying to laugh off her fear.

“No, I meant scared. The pitch of Io’s coos and swoons, resonating through her crystal body, could shatter mountains. Metaphorically of course. Only my dad’s song can do stuff like that.” Palladis said. It turned out they were right outside a jewellery pawn shop. Thy must have missed this one. Often these shops sold goods that were stolen from a foreign land. Regina had failed to notice this through her sobbing, and was too disheartened to notice what was around her. I’m out of ideas and Wyvern might actually be gone! she spiraled. Palladis however, was enticed by the glittering display of the shop windows. Then the bedazzled breast of the lady exiting the shop.

“Hey. Hey, Reggie” Palladis chirped, hopping on Reggie’s back like a tropical bird’s mating dance.

 “Don’t try to make a dumb joke. I’m done. I can’t quest, I lost the most important person to me, and should of never of left home to become a failure.” Regina broaden.

“Don’t know where all that gibberish came from, but that fancy lady who is walking this way, has a nice familiar garnet atop her bosom.” Palladis whistled. She then flew down into the woman’s face like a giant down pillow.

“You girl! You’re a wizard! Get this blasted corvid out of my face!” the woman yelled at Regina.

“Give me your necklace.” Regina said in such a dry voice, it took the lady aback.

“What?! No. Help me!” the woman flailed. Palladis managed to peck off the clasp and the necklace, which fell on the cobble stone. Regina lunged forward to catch it, and ran off down the ally with Palladis overhead. The woman was dazed by a face ful of bird, and failed to see where Reggie and Palladis went. Blocks away, Regina rested holding the necklace out for a closer examination. It looked like a completely normal garnet. She slouched into the wall. Still empty.

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[talesofealdancynedom]

Tale 9: Regina Geagemann & Wyverndor 3/6

(chapter 2. What’s in a One True Love 2/6 ) part 2. Stories of Fey

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One True Gem

The Beast Queens insisted on wedding Morgen and Emilia early. This was because to the undesirable outcome of Tiberius Blacstorm; The previous King Mage His love refused to give him more than one child, and ran from shortly after their daughter arrived. She left out of fear of the new magical forest. Times had not changed in that regard. Magic of the mages were intimidating, and the Beast Kings and Queens where worried Morgan might lose a chance to seal One True Love’s spell. Not to mention fey have no concept of age; Emilia and Morgan being but teens never crossed their minds.

Sixteen is incredibly young, True Love or arrangement. But this was not a legal or legitimate union; but a powerful ceremony that casts everlasting, unbreakable, love. To avoid feelings of unease by the adults, everyone decided not to take it too seriously. The Beast Queens were also very persuasive, powerful, and prophetic. They too were mages bound to their Kings by such curses. The occasion dissolved into a cute party, For appeasing fey. Nothing Morgan and the others hadn’t done before. Completely performative and sentimental; Thus, assumed to be harmless.

Emilia and Morgan did deeply love each other, and the Queens instated that the ceremony was to be completed promptly. As per any tradition of old, this union would be completed with a kiss of true love; Something that was seen as so strong in mages and fey, that they would never love another thereafter. An unreversible enchantment. People change, but magic of the heart stays with you forever.

So, the chosen day, Emilia and Morgan’s families, and close mage friends, assembled in the great hall of the Tower. Morgan and Emilia wearing plain gowns, no shoes, and then crowned each other with thin bands, engraved with runes of good fortune. The Beast Queens came, each holding a candle. Together, Emilia and Morgan blew out the candles, like making a wish. The silent event had begun to take on a playful nature as it went along. Each queen also gave a word of blessing before moving on to the next one. After blowing out all candles, Emilia and Morgan shared a true love kiss; Thus, cementing the spell. They each gained a unremovable anklet to commemorate their loving bond. The aura of the moment blinded their guests with warmth; They had forgotten any concern they had about the whole event.

In truth, Emilia and Morgan probably would have done this eventually; the spell wouldn’t have worked otherwise. Love seemed to work differently in the lands of Ealden Cynedom. It was sudden, fast, and strong enough to mage magic from the human heart alone. All forms of love in fact. After sharing a three-year journey together, while separated from their parents, Morgan and Emilia had bonded through their hardships. But their ‘mythical marriage’ became a bit of a joke and forgotten.  Though the spell encouraged everyone to hope they could experience such charms, no one thought this would include Reggie.

Reggie may have seemed casual about it, but on the inside, she wanted to feel like a princess too. The way Emilia and Morgan embraced made her feel a particular longing. Reggie didn’t want anyone to think she was too soft, and moved by idealized heteronormative romance. Instead, she shared these feelings only with Wyvern, and realized, she didn’t have to long for anything. Wyvern was love at arm’s reach each day. She shared the sentiments and dreams. Wyverndor adored romantic stories and happily ever after’s as fanatically as her mother.

If Io ever found out Wyvern and Reggie were a good match, mountains would literally move to make it happen. Both Regina and Wyverndor were correct to have such grand impressions of the ceremony. In the world of mages and fey, kisses were contract. The magic of all forms of love, bravery, and heart, made the strongest, rarest and most impactful spells. Many unnamed. If one’s love was next to their heart, before such things, it is enviable to imagine it happening for themselves.

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[talesofealdancynedom]

Bonus Illustration

Heofanhafok North Land Forge: featuring it’s local fire fey.

Mixed media: traditional drawn, then digitally rendered

Warlock Reggie needs a variety of that sweet fey flame to make sweet magic loot.

Top left to bottom right: Giant crimson phoenix, magma ridged drake, igneous stone troll, fire wildling, flamed vanara, Volcano nymph. 

Story 9: Regina Geagmann & Wyverndor--->

[talesofealdancynedom]

Regina in a mourning gown; all grown up at her dream forge.

Tale 9: Regina Geagemann & Wyverndor (chapter 4. Heofenhafok Forge 4/6 ) part 2. Stories of Fey

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Regina finished her schooling, and leaft to have a forge all her own. It had been a few years, and Reggie and Wayverndor had still always been together. The people around them had moved on to their next stages in life, and they were ready too. Reggie may not have made many fiery weapons, but she did make many wonderful tools for fey, such as the neckpiece for wyvern; Something no other Warlock had focused on. But good craft requires a good forge.

In school, Morgan had mentioned one in the Northlands, inhabited by fire fey living in the geothermal vents. It belonged to Helrem Monafyra, the invertor of wands and wizardry. had been abandoned for centuries; but the fey still protected the forge outside its nearby village. Awaiting another mage to come to live with them.

Hawk Haven was a cold, isolated, rocky, highland village. Few plants grew, and it was mostly gravel. There was cold air, yet the ground was hot, making the temperature steady year-round. The isolated village was rough around the edges, and mostly supported researchers. The population was small, as their wasn’t much food; and one could hear the howls, gargles, laughter, and screeches of the volcanic fey at night. They created an ominous warm glow, over the crest of a rocky slope an hour walks from the village.  Only those born in Hawk Haven stayed, as they were used to the forges presence.

When Regina arrived, they were thrilled to have anyone trained in magic to manage the flaming wasteland over the ledge. Reggie was so excited hearing and witnessing it all, she became even more eager to open the forge once more. Regina and Wyvern quickly gained the favour and fondness of the fey, and restored its inner gate. With a safe workplace, Regina could finally forge many mystical wonders. Growing on the townsfolk, as she negotiated between the fey and villagers. Wyverndor also had no worries; She went unnoticed, white sitting as a jewel about Regina’s neck. No matter the place, if Regina was happy, Wyvern was too.

No one from back home visited Regina; Though, they did exchange letters. Wyverndor was the closest thing Regina had as family. They kept each other company, and lived in the cottage in the middle of the mystical magmatic plateau. Regina had access to every type of fire the fey willingly offered; Each welcoming a mage. They became a part of Wyvern and Regina’s family. After so many years together, always in contact and listening and comforting one another, Regina concluded, with confidence, that though they weren’t wed, they may as well be. From Wyvern’s perspective, she was still unapologetically infatuated. Though they both knew they loved each other, they agreed that they were too nervous to kiss; knowing what power it had. Morgan’s ceremony had made quite an impact on them. Both deeply desiring, yet still uncertain. If Wyvern and Reggie were to officiate their eternal bond, Wyverndor would become crown heir to the stone kingdom, and Regina stone queen in waiting. This meant if anything happened to the Stone King, Wyverndor would be the new king, and Regina the new queen. Which was both sad and terrifying to contemplate. The stakes were higher then the anger of unsatisfied ethereal waifs.

While it was romantic to see her cousin go through an ancient love ceremony, with a true loves kiss, Regina wanted to be careful. She was so flustered; She simply couldn’t find the perfect moment to actually show how much she had loved Wyvern back. Regina soon felt regret for procrastinating this discussion. Shortly after making a home, and starting her career with her literally one and only, Regina found Wyverndor missing; no matter the wait, she never came back.

Wyvern had gone to collect rich ores from the slopes. Earlier that day, and never returned. None of the other fey could find her. Fear and dread bubbled inside Regina like a hot tar: What if Wyverndor was dead, or lost, and I never had the chance to cement my love? If she shatters her parents will breack! Will they blame me? What is this dream without her? There was no hope of finding Wyvern here; She was an elusive and mute Acrean Gimm. She could be anywhere in the world if not within the forge. Regina gave up after a week, and began to grieve. She shriveled without the presence of her princess’s cheer. A special emptiness, between loss and hope. A cut deep and undescribable.

 Regina began wandering into town like a ghost. She wore a pitch-black gown over her velvet protective robes; with black gloves and a long veil under her bronze thronged crown. Regina tried to craft her magical innovations, but couldn’t. the last thing she made was a bronze blade of summer steel. Regina called it the summer sword. It had no security spells to keep it from fowl hands, and would glow and light fire. Wyvern was so happy for Regina, even if it wasn’t as cool as her kid self imagined. There are many swords of greater power, or even similar design, making Reggie’s uninspiring; However, the prop was still too unwieldy for just any wizard or common folk to wield. It now stood in a rock, infront of the central cabin of the forge, mocking Regina personally.

Looking at the lovingly polished creations of her arsenal, Regina began to wonder if after so many months, Wyvendor was indeed gone from her life. Regina decided she couldn’t take it; the sadness and uncertainty awoke a kind of fire that leads many men of magic on quests. Regina had to find her lost love. She could not eat, drink or bathe. Regina cared not of life nor death, unless she united with Wyverndor again. Even then, Regina never removed the necklace she had made; That had an empty setting at her heart, where Wyvern used to be. Regina grabbed some coin, and summoning chalk and decided to leave the forge to find Wyvern. When Reggie went into town, her opaque black garbs made her look like the shadow of death to the villagers. Regina started by putting postings in the tavern, Inn, and train station. The Locals knew Reggie as a lively spirit; The beloved community clown even. It made this new look more unsettling. No one was going to get in Regina’s way while she exuded an aura of misery, that weighed down the area like a wet wool blanket.

Then Regina realized these posts would be useless; Acrean Gimm are undetectable to humans, and the hardest to find fey in all of magic. People got prizes for finding them. How were commoners supposed to help? Reggie remembered professor Hara saying how one hadn’t been seen for over a hundred years. She only met Wyvern because the Stone King revealed her.

Many tales of magic are understood by the common folk. However, any magic user, or more a mage, would know the truth that sowed the seeds myths and legends. Regina’s favourite tales were those of knights and royalty. A hero, driven by love, goes on a journey; perhaps wielding trusty a weapon only he is worthy to carry. Even in a world were magic was real, and knights and kings a thing of the past, Regina could enjoy the outrageous artificial splendor of olden days. Some days she wished she was a knight, and not just a magic smithy on the side of a greater tale. Stepping back, it is hard to tell who is more important in these legends; the hero who goes to battle, or the very people he meets in his journey.

Regina decided she wouldn’t be needing a cool sword, or phone for familial support, on this call to adventure. Wyverndor may be a princess in need, but there were no knights or combat these days. Like her sword, a heroic quest was not as spectacular as it seemed. It was frankly depressing and disappointing. Regina would have to venture into the great wide not here; and the train was ten minutes late.

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[talesofealdancynedom]

Wyverndor in her human form, with just robes in crystal instead of whole body; sapphire edition. She can be seen mot days as a trillion cut: topaz, qurtz, kunzite, garnet and sapphire.

Tale 9: Regina Geagemann & Wyverndor (chapter 2. Meeting Wyvern 2/6 ) part 2. Stories of Fey

*reference to story 12, as this tale is chronologically in the future. also story 5.

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Mages are the old ways of magic, and drawn to all things mystical and fey. They are born with an affinity, adoration, comfort, and love of these things, which is unstoppable; An innate connection. Mages are so in tune to nature and magic, that they feel no difference between the Veil’s of Shadow and Day. It comes as easily as breathing. Destined to balance the kingdoms of men and fey.

Regina was slow to catch onto her being a mage like Morgan; The denial ran deep. From talking to tree children in her grandfather’s garden, to the lust for mythical creation as a Warlock. As Reggie’s circle of friends grew, and they learned the magics of old, she gradually embraced the forbidden title. Reggie even adorned her inherited her mother’s Fairy Robes; They were of the Tat Kingdom, and authentic. Like a 1600’s knee dress, made of ivory silk, pearls, and taupe velvet. Small heeled shoes to jump high, and a bronze crown of thorns that matched her eyes. She finally had shoes that wouldn’t get torn on her travels.

One day, Morgan took a party consisting of Regina, Emilia, fey proffesor Hara Fyrstan, and well as other local mages, to the Shadow Veil for visitations. One mage had his brother become The Fairy Queen; who now lived in the ether. But Hara came to gush over the fey. As a newly recognized Mage, and prodigy fey expert, Hara was researching rare royal fey, and wanted to take advantage of Tiberius Gate. He kept requesting Morgan show him where the heirs to each fey kingdom were; Morgan insisted many already roamed Tiberius Gate. Reggie also found this expedition charming; It was here first time in the Shadow Veil. Reggie had been living with Morgan for almost a year, but she hadn’t gotten an opportunity to visit before. Cetus, Jupiter. and had given up on policing their mage children’s quests months ago. The avid lot of students could use the humility and mistakes, now that everyone was sure they’d be fine. Besides, Hara was a trusted adult; And probably better qualified to aid this quest.

“So far, I’ve only seen: Terralith Tree’s, Cyendom Dragons, Richen Ravens, and pictures of Dominion Deer; But the prized jewel of royal fey, no pun intended, is the Acrean Gimm. They are experts of camouflage! They are undistinguishable from any crystal, or rock, by humans. Thus, one has not been found in generations. It would be both aid my fey research, and give you a decorated scholarship if you find one for me.” Hara suggested. Morgan sighed, and faced towards a mountain south-west of their location.

“That mountain over there is the Stone King,” Morgan pointed. “Acrean Gimm are his and Stone Queen Io’s children. But I haven’t seen one in all the time’s I’ve come here. When I met The Sone King and Io, they said they prefer their children to stay in the ether; Humans kept killing them out of fear,” Morgan wen on.  “Not even his heirs are allowed in the Day Veil very often.”

“Maybe we can ask him if we can simply meet his princes or princesses here?” Hara jittered.

“Well, the Stone King does see me as family, now that I’m King Mage. He might compromise.” Morgan shrugged. Hara gasped in excitement. Reggie rolled her eyes. She didn’t care about any lore, rareness, or the kingdom of goblins and trolls; She was sold by the word princess.

The children of the stone kingdom were ones only their parents could love. They were that of goblins, giants, gnomes and dwarves. Dull of mind, skilled in game, and pleased by root-vegetables; Also, incredibly violent when startled. Most of them were not the loveliest to gaze upon; But the Acrean gimm were a dazzle to witness just as their mother. Perfectly formed crystals.

Acraen Gimm, or gem goblins, are shy and mute. In beast form, they can turn into any rock, and blend into surroundings; cut, eroded, tumbled, or raw. They even mimic the physical properties of their chosen jewel. Since they are silent, they never respond when called. As all royal fey, being half-human, they could understand any language and take a humanoid form; Slender, and of any crystal combination they desired. Adorned in glistening royal robes, that match their parents, and long silky hair, pointed canines and ears, with both a radiant and terrifying gleam. They are indeed a treasure worth the hunt.

Upon arriving before the Stone King’s throne, Io said she had recently had new heirs, and the king wished one of his older royal children to live on Tiberius Gate. The Stone King, like all the other Beast Kings, saw Morgan as a brother trustworthy enough to befriend his precious heirs.

This is what Hara was thus a flutter when they arrived in the Stone Kingdom. Then the ground began to rumble, and the mountain move, halve, and disappear into golden dust; Which settled into the form of a tall noble Grand East man. He was like a living marble statue. He gave a welcoming smile and then he handed Regina an egg sized trillion-cut garnet. It was a sparkling brilliant dark cherry red; But only things of magic have colour in the Shadow Veil. It would appear, Acrean Gimm are easier to find in the ether, if anyone thought to look. Or dared to try. Puzzled, Hara and Morgan looked at each other in the presence of the Stone King. No questing or bargaining occurred; The Stone King simply handed them an heir.

 “Uh, thanks?” Reggie said.

“Take good care of her; She is my youngest heir. As she can’t speak, I will give you her name Regina Geagmann. It is Regina, right? Morgan has spoken of you. Based on his tales, I think you will get along well with my little princess! Her name is Wyverndor in full; She likes to be called Wyvern. Please keep her safe, and help her look after her little siblings on Tiberius gate. Morgan has a lot to do already, but I think you can handle her. Wyvern’s very loving and sweet.” The Stone King boasted. He had a soft tenderness to him, fatherly yet friendly, trusting and calm. This made Regina gleefully accept. The rest of the day she held Wayven in her palms, staring at her in awe all the way home.

“Woah. That’s a big rock. Like how many karats?” Cetus said, wondering why his daughter was obsessed with crystals all the sudden. Regina just nodded. In bed that night, Reggie placed Wayvern right next to her on her pillow. Reggie, realizing that Wyvern was a sentient fey, and not a rock, began to talk to her.

“I’m a Warlock by the way. Sorry for not introducing myself properly. You know, I think I need to make something to keep you safe with me, like your dad asked,” Regina mused. “And you’re a real princess. I bet your even more radiant in your human form.” Regina smiled up at the ceiling. Then reaching over to grab Wyvern to look at her again, Regina didn’t feel a crystal, but a soft warm arm. Regina looked over, and her heart skipped a beat; Both fear and wonder overcame her. Wyverndor was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen. Her skin of alabaster and eyes, robes and hair of shimmering sapphire.

Like Hara, Regina’s royal friend followed her relentlessly, and was in fact, infatuated with her. Wyvern caved to her overpowering obsession. Royal fey can only be infatuated with mages; And her mother Io, obsessed with romance, always made love sound beautiful. Regina was the ideal feminine form to Wyverndor. From each curl in her hair, to the way she walked. Wyvern was in a constant swoon. Regina was understandably creeped out by her new admirer’s whimsy and blissful affectionate gestures; Yet also flattered. Reggie began to teach Wyvern sign language, so they could talk to each other. Regina thought it would be a good way for Wyvern to communicate with others. They didn’t need it much after a while, as Wyvern and Regina were always together and were now able to read each other’s non-verbals perfectly.

Reggie had gotten so attached, that she couldn’t imagine what it would be like without Wyvern. Regina was ecstatic to finally wear the neckpiece she designed to protect Wyverndor; Bronze thorns, worn about the clavicle, with a large finding to fit a trillion-cut gem. Trillion-cut was wyvern’s favourite shape to be. Reggie had placed a protection spell in the necklace, that was powered the flow of magic through her. With a hug, wyvern turned into a rock held perfectly in the center, by Regina’s heart; Protecting each other. Regina never took it off. It was like it had always been there. Emilia, had said Wyvern looked like the most radiant garnets, kyanites, spodumene and citrines; But nothing beat the way Wyvern wore corundum’s. Reggie would say everyday, that Wyverndor look beautiful no matter what she was.

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[talesofealdancynedom]

Regina, original fairy robe concept; Wyverndor is the topaz in her snazzy necklace.

Tale 9: Regina Geagemann & Wyverndor (chapter 1. Cousin Reggie 1/6 ) part 2. Stories of Fey

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Regina Geagman was Morgan’s cousin, on his mother’s side. This meant they shared one important thing; Their grandfather Patrick Daigendun died a year before they were born, by the hand of magic. Thus, Regina and Morgan’s parents feared magic. Icthya, Morgan’s mother, would cry at the thought of Morgan practicing or associating with magic, as she was unable to have any more children. But Regina’s father, Cetus, was more mailable.

Cetus had already gone dark, and grieved his father’s passing; He realized his daughter was impossible to keep away from the world wonders. Maybe his father, who also liked magic, would be proud. Cetus wanted little more for his only little girl, then for her to succeed in her passions. When Regina decided she wanted to make legendary tools, like bracelets of illusions and enchanted blades, Cetus tentatively let her go to the magic academy in his hometown. When he adopted his equally talented nephew, off he went as well.

Icthya and Cetus never talked about how their father’s death effected their parenting and children. When Regina and Morgan were younger, they were raised together like siblings when the family met frequently. But soon, Morgan would only visit on holidays. Thus, Reggie, her father Cetus, and mother Jupiter, stayed to look after her grandmother; And everyone, regardless of their opinions on fey, took care of and dearly beloved enchanted garden grandpa Patrick kept. Regina had fond memories of talking to them with Morgan. Fey are good company; particularly the local garden gnomes she’d bribe with crisps.

 Regina, grew exceedingly silly and rambunctious over the years. She had curly brown hair, a short and endowed structure, hazel eyes, and freckles to like her dad. She wore graphic tops, pants with too many pockets, and her shoes were always beat from running around the village. Regina had changed a lot since she last saw Morgan and her aunt. Since they parted, Regina was spending her spare time reading about legendary magic tools, in the books Morgan left with grandma. She learned how to silently cast spells; Nervous the parents she loved, might be unsettled. Reggie always felt the room tense whenever magic was brought up. The air thickened, like it was sunken underwater.

“Magic can be very dangerous, but it doesn’t have to be. You’re free to love. Some part of me still does too.” Cetus was assure, seeing his daughter wilt.

But then Cetus got a call back about Morgan. Grandma has seen things, of which he unluckily confirmed. Morgan had been missing, and Cetus was worried sick. Reggie was the same. But after the call, her parents sat despondently before cooling mugs. Regina wished her grandmother was still around to help cheer them, as she sat around the corner by the phone cord.

“Reggie, you can come here? I know you’re there.” Jupiter said

“What’s up?” Reggie asked, trying to act normal.

“It’s your cousin Morgan. He’s coming to live with us; We just got custody. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you Reggie. It was stressful getting everything figured out.” Cetus sighed. “Icthya never said anything, but your uncle Oddie was being a bit aggressive in trying to keep Morgan ‘safe’ from magic. Since he appears to have a knack for it, Morgan will be attending the magic academy. I hear they do good with kids like him.”

“Is Icthya so worried about magic because of grandpa? I feel like I was never properly talked about him, because of lingering trauma. Not even grandma said anything. All I got was photos. It is was so bad, maybe uncle Odysseus let his emotions of it foil him?”

“Maybe. But either way, he was my friend and I’m shocked and hurt. But Morgan is my nephew, and needs me. Icthya is also depending on me. Apparently, Morgan is a mess, and doing magery and what not?” Cetus continued. Jupitar recoiled at the word mage. She wasn’t opposed to magic, nor would seek it; But she was opposed to the idea of breaking the law. They were mere common-folk.

“Reggie, how would you like to go to magic school with Morgan? I kept procrastinating, and know you want to go. Maybe Morgan’s little book habit will help you with flaming sword.” Cetus shrugged. Regina began to jump around, talked a hug on her father, then noticed her parent’s expressions. She stepped back.

“Uh, yeah! Dad I would totally love to magic and help Morgan.” Regina cheered. She ran to her room, and was unable to sleep. Then she wondered; what is Morgan like now? What is magic school like? What if I end up on a deadly quest where I get eaten by fey?

 In the morning, Cetus and Jupiter were informed they had to move to Tiberius Gate. The ancient black tower above the little town, that Morgan had opened. He was boarding at the school until paperwork was filed. Cetus nearly crumbled hearing the word ‘King Mage’, and ‘Seer of Pepperidges wonderous woods’. Apparently, Morgan was so bonded to the gate, that any attempt to dorm him resulted in him sleep walking back. Morgan had briefly mentioned it could take a year before he could sleep in town; Once the magic forest of the entire valley awoke. If Cetus was to care for Morgan, it would have to be in that ominous tower.

 When Reggie and her parents arrived, they found Morgan in a pile of ancient books. He was quiet and awkward at first. Didn’t sya much, shrugged, and stayed in his stacks. But then Reggie followed him like they’d never parted.

“I heard you’re into magic! Me too! We’re going to go to the academy together, and you can teach me all the cool stuff in these journals! Perhaps you can teach me about how to make some cool mystical nouns?” Regina smiled.

“Oh, Reggie. Um, sure, I guess? You want to be a Warlock? They’re mages that make legendary tools. But you’d need to be a mage first; And that’s not really acceptable in the wizardry community. They think we’re dangerous, when were really just hermits.” Morgan stuttered. The second anyone talked about magic, Morgan lit up, and so did Regina. Though Morgan always seemed guilty about it. But the boy warmed, and Cetus soon found them studying mages. They had school friends, and baked his mother’s cookies like when they were little. Regina felt so blessed to have Morgan as a cousin, and her father’s support. She had an even happier family; it was like she had gotten a brand-new brother. Someone to join her on becoming the coolest possible something. Finding out she was a mage? No problem! Her new crew and tower bedroom were truly a whimsical upgrade.

On the other hand, Cetus and Jupitar had an inkling Morgan was special needs; And about to make everything around him so legendary, it would cause them trouble. As if Regina and Morgan being teens wasn’t enough. Cetus was in a state of chaos from the sudden lifestyle change. Even if it did give him nostalgia.

“Reggie seems happy.” Jupitar said, as they lay in bed. Cetus and Jupiter were sleeping in what was a technically restored castle. It felt like when someone knows something existed, but they never thought it would happen to them, or that they would see it in person.

“I like that Morgan is settling, but the report said he had safety concerns; Am I supportive enough? And Emilia is his True Love, and is living here too? I need to stop thinking about it before bed.” Cetus said. Attempting to defuse the stress.

“It was sweet of you to adopt him; I have to admit I like having another kid around, even if it’s ten years too late. I think after what Morgan’s been through, we’re giving the best we can.” Jupitar said turning over.

“There mages Jupe. I’m not qualified to reason with magic of that caliber.” Cetus whispered, blowing the candle.

Cetus had a point about one thing; Curious was the presence of Emilia at the tower. Morgan actually had a girlfriend that was the definition of ‘my fair maiden.’ They were so cute and perfect. Though her parents initially sceptical, Emilia was a needed support to their children. However, when they asked where Emilia’s parents were, or who she was, Emilia just said she was a magician who left home early to follow her dreams; Which now included Morgan. Sometimes she’d use magic to do tame spells, like create spotlights, or pull things out of mirrors without summon diagrams. Enthusiastically. To the amusement of Regina every time. Loafing after dinner, Reggie approached Morgan directly about Emilia:

“How did you get such a hot girlfriend?!” Regina said, inches away from Morgan’s ear.

“Wait, what?!” Morgan flinched. Emilia chuckled a bit. Regina was serious, though.

“Morgan’s self-esteem is already fragile; Don’t make him feel like it’s a miracle he’s dating. He’s as adorable as my sister, it was a matter of time.” Cetus snorted over a newspaper.

“No. Like, tell me your secrets.” Regina persisted. “I want a girlfriend too! Some chick to be cute with. To rest my head on her chest, while we fall asleep. Aw man, I’m so jealous.” She continued.

“I Didn’t know you liked girls Reggie.” Morgan questioned.

“It didn’t seem important until I saw everyone holding hands. I want in. what if I want a bride who I can hold, like I’m a knight in shining armor?” Reggie said. Morgan smiled, then wished Reggie the best luck in finding her own One True Love. That spell was real, and claimed most people. Tiered and unsettled, Morgan promptly snuck upstairs to bed. He loved romance, but Reggie was a bit much.

 “Dear did you know are daughter is gay?” Jupitar asked Cetus. They were reading, and spooning, now that the kids were gone.

“I mean like, I guess I subconsciously figured it out. Why?” He smiled.

“I’m her mother; I can’t believe I missed it.”

NEXT--->

[talesofealdancynedom]

Table of  Contents

PROJECT COMPLETE!!!

I am so sad it’s over, but it’s cool to think I wrote three books; That will never be published.

This collection helped me fight existential dread; And at it’s core, these stories are about radical acceptance and compassion. I hope this body of work will make smiles, and help people process their trauma. Fundamentally, Tales of Ealden Cynedom is what I wish was on modern shelves. No grit, realism, or rage; Just short capsules of serenity.

So, if your in the mood for some fluffy fantasy, inspired by folklore, pick a title and click! I also still accept Beta Readers and feedback.

Tilda (~) indicates a story has been 5th draft beta read and edited.

I recommend starting with stories 1 & 2, and then reading order shouldn’t matter.

Additionally, you can navigate by clicking the NEXT and PREVIOUS links at the bottom of posts. you are also welcome to use the archive, or search tags.

Click Here, for story Synopsis.

For: notes, glossary, maps and more; Click Appendix on the left hand side.

Part 1. Stories of Beginnings

1.       Prologue: Tiberius gate ~

2.       Mage king Morgan Cyendom ~

3.       Rhodochrosite: Magi Emilia Locket

Book 2. Stories of Fey

4.       Woodwick and Wondael of Fountain ~

5.       Hara Fyrstan the dragon princess ~

6.       Odyseus Cyendom and Helrundel~

7.       Rah Wintersleep and Brocid~

8.       Cetus, Jupitar, and Makaschthis ~

9.       Regina Geagmann and Wyverndor~

10.       Death at the Wolf Gate

Part 3. Tales of True Love

12.   Orpheus hawkwing and Cerberus moonflare~

13.   Mattias Hwithas and Augestine Musham ~

14.   Stealing Kent ~

15.   Poullux Erolcyning and Castor Radcyning ~

16.   Aurum Bridlebell and the stage gate ~

Part 4. Tales of Seasons

10.   Epilogue Spring: Cadence Bucflowen and Lasarline

11.   Epilogue Fall: Airtimes Craweleoth and the Griminthrope  

17.   Epilogue Summer: Calliope Cwenfyr and Amadeus rosethorn

18.   Epilogue Winter: Patrick Monabellen and the paladins

Part 5. Stories of Old

19.    Prologue: Merium Craweleoth Queen of The Grand West

Part 6. Tales of Wizards

20. What the Wagon Was For

21. More Then After Happily Ever After

22.  Delphie Torchblood & The Silent Lord

23. Gemini Wintersleep &The Door Boy

24. Melida Daigandun & the Chase

25.  Hilda Greenewood’s nymphs

26. Ragnar Goldenscale & Saianne Healpenbroc

Part 7. Tales of Magic Forests

26. Fall ye’ House White Stead

27. Trees with Ties

28. Multifaceted

29. The Hunting Acre

30. Finding Fama Fauxbit

31. If We Lost The Sea Wives

Part 8. Tales of Dreams

32. The Lost Journals

33. The Stage

34. The Green Letters

35. The Great Garden

36. The Tide Pool

37. The Dormant Forge

38. The Second Chance

39. The Queen’s Cave

40. The Fire Weed

41. The Dancing Sorcerer

42. The Fading Night

43. The Small Apothecary