The Withering

Kindling Embers

As you approached Nilmer's Highland, the familiar surroundings of Jorvik gave way to an extraordinary sight. 

You were seeing the Circus of Dreams for the first time since it had been recently set up. Its vibrant presence contrasted starkly with the tranquil highlands, immediately capturing your attention. The central tent, with its striking pink and purple stripes and fluttering flags, was a beacon of magic and wonder. The air was filled with a faint, mysterious energy, and a soft breeze carried the scent of something sweet.

Rolling green hills stretched out in all directions, dotted with wildflowers that swayed gently in the breeze. In the distance, the majestic Silverglade Castle stood proudly atop, its ancient stone walls bathed in the golden light of the noon sun.

As you took in the mesmerizing surroundings, a familiar voice broke through your thoughts. 

"Enjoying the view?" Ydris asked, his tone playful and warm. You turned to see him standing nearby, adjusting his clothes with his characteristic flair.

"Trying to," You replied with a smile, "It's quite a place you have here. How do you keep it all together?"

Ydris laughed softly, his eyes sparkling with amusement, "Oh, it's a delicate balance of magic, charm, and sheer stubbornness. Much like dealing with you, I imagine,"

"Dealing with me?" You chuckled, feeling a slight flush rise to your cheeks, "I bet you say that to all the visitors,"

"Only the ones who manage to amuse me," He said, taking a step closer, "And you, my dear, never fail to do just that,"

The air between you seemed to shimmer with the tension of unspoken words and shared glances. 

"So, the circus is new, isn't it?" You asked, trying to shift the conversation, "How's the opening been going?"

Ydris sighed, a mix of pride and exhaustion in his eyes. 

"Ah, the circus has been nothing short of a spectacle," He said, "It's been quite the show, and the crowds have been delightful, but it hasn't been easy. There are so many details to manage, and each performance needs to be perfect. It is difficult to charm so many people at once,"

"Charm?" You teased, "I thought you thrived on that,"

"I do," He admitted with a grin, "But even I need a break from the constant every now and then,"

You nodded, "I can imagine. But it looks amazing, Ydris. You've really created something special here,"

"Thank you," He said, his voice softening, "It means a lot to hear that. But enough about the circus. Tell me, what brings you here today? Surely not just to see me?"

You chuckled, "Well, wouldn't you want that?"

Ydris playfully scoffed, "And here I thought you were just here to dazzle me with your company,"

"Well, that's part of it," You replied with a grin, "But there's more. Remember how we talked about powers and secrets before? I need to explain something important,"

His eyes narrowed slightly, a mix of interest and caution in his expression, "I'm listening."

You took a step closer, lowering your voice. 

"I'm a Soul Rider, part of a group called the Keepers of Aideen. We have special abilities and a mission to protect Jorvik from dark forces, there's too much to unpack there,"

Ydris's face momentarily lost its playful edge. 

He crossed his arms, his demeanor growing serious, "The Keepers of Aideen? I've heard whispers about them, but I didn't realize you were involved,"