The Crystals of Arvandor

Chapter 3

As the radiant spires of Celestia came into view on the horizon, Elara embarked on the next phase of her journey. The city, nestled amidst lush forests and serene rivers, stood as a testament to Arvandor's beauty and sophistication. Its towering spires seemed to reach for the heavens, and the gardens and grand promenades adorning its streets only added to its grandeur. The air was heavy with anticipation as she approached the heart of this mystical realm.

Days passed before Elara's arrival, and she couldn't help but notice the city's vibrant energy. The entire population seemed to be in high spirits, eagerly awaiting a grand event. Joyful crowds thronged the streets, filled with excitement as they anticipated larger-than-life mascots and extravagant spectacles.

It was the Primordials Parade, a celebration of Arvandor's origins, and its citizens reveled in the festivities. Celestial beings, displaying their remarkable powers, paraded through the streets, captivating the onlookers with their dazzling displays. Giant blimps shaped like goddesses and adorned with gemstones floated above, while vendors competed for attention, eager to showcase their wares amid the celebration's chaos.

"One-of-a-kind wares!" one vendor called out, trying to entice Elara with their array of curious items. Her eyes wandered over the assortment of trinkets, and she couldn't help but be intrigued.

"Only a heap of gold for this treasure!" the vendor declared, clearly indulging in the festival's spirit.

Elara's lips curved into a small smile, finding the vendor's enthusiasm infectious. With a playful tone, she responded, "Well, if it's gold you want, I hope your treasure is worth the price." The other festival-goers shared a chuckle at her banter as she examined the various knickknacks on display.

Leaving the vendor behind, Elara strolled further into the heart of the city. The atmosphere was alive with excitement and merriment.

In need of a moment of respite, Elara found herself drawn to a nearby tavern. It was the perfect place to unwind after her days of travel and to observe the celebration from a different perspective. While she knew she had a meeting with the Council of Elders the next day, she decided to immerse herself in the festivities of the present moment, wondering about the nature of her destiny.

"The Whispering Oak," the name of the tavern, cast a veil of mystique that mirrored the intrigue shrouding Elara herself. The patrons, their mugs mid-air and conversations hushed, couldn't tear their gazes from the radiant jewel gracing her forehead. Its ethereal glow captivated their curiosity, promising concealed depths of secrets and profound responsibilities.

With a whimsical smile, she approached the worn wooden bar, her fingers lightly tracing its surface. "Do the oaks here truly whisper?" she mused aloud, her words infused with a hint of playful curiosity.

"Ah, a Moonshaper, aren't you?" the bartender responded with a wink. "You must have a taste for the mystical, but I'm afraid our oaks are a bit tight-lipped."

Elara chuckled softly, appreciating the bartender's humor. "You could say that I do. So, what libation would you recommend, dear bartender?"

The bartender, with a theatrical flourish, gestured toward an impressive array of bottles and barrels. "For someone with a taste for the mystical, how about the 'Whispering Breeze Cider'? A refreshing apple cider with a dash of elderberry, said to carry the whispers of the wind itself." He raised an eyebrow, awaiting her response.

Elara's curiosity was piqued once again. "Whispering Breeze Cider it is, then," she agreed, intrigued by the whimsical name.

The bartender deftly prepared the drink, tossing a jug in the air before catching the refreshment in his mug with practiced skill. "A fine choice, Moonshaper," he declared as he served it to her.