Wintercrest

Chapter 1

Valeria was once a world of idyllic beauty, where humans and elves coexisted in perfect harmony. The air was thick with the scent of blooming flowers and the melody of birdsong. Lush green forests stretched for miles, their canopies providing shade for peaceful villages and bustling towns. At the heart of it all stood the grand capital city, a symbol of unity and prosperity. But this peace was shattered when war broke out between the races. The once vibrant lands now lay scarred and from centuries of fighting. And as the conflict raged on, both sides suffered heavy losses as they fought fiercely for control over territory and resources.

Eldric's village, nestled on the outskirts of the human kingdom of Caldoria, had not escaped the turmoil that had befallen their land. The once peaceful streets were now filled with the sounds of fear and uncertainty. The lord who ruled over them had called for a draft, conscripting able-bodied men to join the ongoing war against the elves. As a result, most of the strong fighters had left, leaving behind only the elderly, women, and children to struggle and fend for themselves.

In his late teens, Eldric knew it was only a matter of time before he, too, would be called upon to fight. But for now, his focus was on providing for his starving friends and neighbors. He braved through the desolate streets, searching for any scraps of food or resources that could help sustain their dwindling community. Hunger gnawed at his stomach, but he pushed through it, driven by determination and a fierce sense of responsibility towards those he cared about. Every day brought new challenges and obstacles, but Eldric refused to give up hope for a better future.

The villagers had worked tirelessly to harvest their crops, knowing that it would provide them with food during the harsh winter months. However, all their efforts were destroyed by a raging fire that left behind only charred remains of what was once lush fields. Suspicion hung heavy in the air as many believed it was Lord Ratford's men who set the fire as a display of power. The desolate fields now served as a constant reminder of their dire circumstances, worsened by the lord's soldiers taking most of the remaining supplies for themselves. Eldric, known for his good looks and kind heart, could not bear to see the villagers suffer any longer. He planned to se off on a quest to find provisions and bring them back, determined to alleviate their hunger and fear. The sound of children crying from starvation echoed in his mind, pushing him forward.

As Eldric prepared to leave, he stood in the modest stone and thatch house he shared with his beloved sister, Liana. The crackling fireplace emitted a comforting warmth, casting dancing shadows across the worn wooden floors. The walls were adorned with faded portraits of their parents, a heartbreaking reminder of their loss. Liana, with her gentle smile and wrinkled hands, had raised him after their parents' untimely death during his youth. Their home, though small and humble, was filled with cherished memories of better times. As Eldric gathered his belongings, he could feel Liana's proud gaze upon him, mixed with a touch of concern for his safety. He knew she would worry until he returned safely from his journey.

Liana's voice was laced with worry as she questioned Eldric's decision. "Are you really going to go through with this, Eldric? The forest is not the safe. And the elves are always on watch there."

Eldric's features hardened into a determined expression, his jaw clenched and eyes narrowed with unwavering resolve. "I have no other choice, Liana," he stated firmly. "Our village is on the brink of starvation. We simply won't survive the harsh winter without more provisions." He reassured her, "I'll be cautious, I promise. And remember, other teams are also venturing out into the wilderness, each taking a different area. It will only be for a few days. en y can go back to nagging at me to find a wife." But even as he spoke, a seed of doubt began to grow in his mind about the looming dangers that awaited him.

Liana let out a soft, resigned sigh, knowing that no matter what she said, she couldn't change her brother's mind. With trembling hands, she reached out and placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, the warmth of her touch radiating through the fabric of his shirt. Her eyes were filled with a mix of love and fear, the depths of her emotions mirrored in their bright hazel color.