Recalls of Surrender

The Veilwood Forest

Under the quiet cover of the night, a raven settled onto a twisted branch. Its obsidian coat contemplated the pale moonlight as its sharp claws dug into the surface, holding on tightly while a gentle breeze rustled its dark feathers. The creature found solace beneath the night sky, burdened by unspoken desires.

As fate would have it, I stood opposite him at the edge of an open field, just a few feet from the vast terrain, with my gaze fixed in the distance. The garden stretched beyond me in all its beauty, vibrant and glistening under the gentle rain. Its alluring fragrance danced through the edges of hay, carried by the whispers of the wind, igniting a feeling of endless possibilities. Fireflies filled the garden, infusing it with energy, and I couldn't help but smile, believing that everything was possible.

In this haven, I discovered a refuge from the pressures of daily life and felt a deep connection to something far larger than myself.

They confined me in a small, cramped chamber in the remote and secluded areas of Spawn's Glory. The chamber wasn't too big or far away, but it was perfectly proportioned, except for being my penitentiary. I longed to break free and explore the world beyond, but most of my aspirations seemed confined by the sturdy barriers that bound me here. I vividly envisioned escaping into the vast blue sky, stretching endlessly, with birds soaring freely across fields of flowers and dancing in the breeze. It was all I yearned for, but it was just out of reach.

The garden represented my deepest desires: freedom, beauty, and endless possibilities. It was more than just a paradise; it was a part of me. However, the harsh reality of my situation remained. I was merely a prisoner in this oppressive environment, controlled by a powerful reign that suppressed its people and their dreams. It seemed ironic that I experienced my first taste of freedom when the very same individuals who had kept me imprisoned for so long forced me to leave, escorting me out.

Hidden deep within the dangerous outskirts of civilization lies my secret chamber, a fortress of solitude and a shelter for the oppressed. Even though I knew I could never escape The Veilwood alone, I held on to hope. It was the one thing they couldn't take from me—my unwavering faith. This belief kept me grounded and sane, even in the bleakest moments. Sometimes, I would find snippets of joy amidst the darkness, secretly collecting notable items: thought-provoking books and unique trinkets that reminded me of happier times.

But the most precious thing I possess is an exquisitely crafted artifact adorned with intricate designs. Within its delicate shell lies the vivid memories of a past life, once filled with boundless freedom and exhilaration. Though confined within these walls, I constantly yearn for that previous existence. Someday, I will seize the opportunity and soar toward the butterfly garden that has always called out to me. I will run without hesitation, leaving the past behind.

Until that moment, this relic was a reminder of that secret garden adorned with beauty and grace. Every petal and leaf was mirrored in the swirls and patterns etched onto its smooth surface, creating harmony between man and nature.

The locket is a treasured beacon, passed down through generations, and one of the few remaining connections to my previous life before becoming trapped in The Veilwood. As I run my fingers over its delicate surface, a wave of overwhelming emotions washes over me. I close my eyes, allowing the haunting melody to wash over me. Memories of happier times flood my mind, but a deep sorrow also takes hold. Tears brim in my eyes, a bittersweet sensation that feels both unfamiliar and painfully familiar. The memories return, transporting me to a harmonious world of soothing melodies and artistic expression. I can almost feel the warmth of the sun on my skin and hear the gentle hum of a society that values emotions and individuality. But like a sharp slap, reality snaps me back to the present—a world governed by an oppressive government where conformity reigns supreme and suppresses creativity. And yet, amidst this bleakness, there are moments of hope. A simple gesture or brief moment of self-expression offers glimmers of light in the darkness I cling to as I strive to survive.