Aeliana

Chapter 1

High above in one of the tallest oak trees on the mountain, a jet black raven perched, tilting its long, skinny head downward, observing the teenagers gathered below. Its blood-red eyes scanned the scene with swift precision until it found its intended target. Satisfied, the raven spread its enormous wings and took flight against the backdrop of a starry sky. Its silhouette appeared larger than that of an ordinary raven, its glossy feathers reflecting the light of the brilliant stars as it soared through the heavens with remarkable speed.

The raven embarked on a journey that spanned countless miles, traversing cities and oceans until it reached the snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas. It entered a dark tunnel that shimmered with faint traces of light within Mount Everest, emerging on the other side to a realm where the skies were adorned with billowing white clouds. It was the break of day, and the rising sun cast hues of blue-green and deep orange across the horizon. Nestled beyond the mountains lay a sprawling city, characterized by modern white stone houses with chimneys and warm lights emanating from within. Wide streets paved with cobblestones were lined with short, brown street lamps, creating a charming ambience.

Dominating the landscape stood a colossal castle, reaching heights comparable to the surrounding mountains. Its decagonal shape was defined by weathered grey stone walls, punctuated by eight slender towers adorned with brown cone roofs, standing in pairs on opposite sides. A high corridor atop the wall connected each tower, offering a vantage point for guards stationed at the large windows. The entrance boasted two towering silver steel gates, adorned with a semi-circle of five small gold oblong stars surrounding one majestic central star. These formidable walls were fortified with powerful enchantments, rendering the castle impenetrable.

Within the castle walls stretched a vast expanse of impeccably manicured green lawns. A stone pavement separated two symmetrical rose gardens, one adorned with red roses and the other with white. The pathway continued to wind around an angelic fountain, ultimately leading to the colossal castle doors. Comprised of four interconnected rectangular buildings, the castle's structure formed an enclosed box shape, crowned by four broad towers. The windows were arranged symmetrically around the buildings, and each side featured three balconies. Atop the first building, irregularly shaped tiny triangular roofs mingled with a grand central roof, accentuated by petite towers that extended the building's overall height.

The raven alighted upon the second of three open balconies, transforming into a tall figure with crinkled pale skin, long slick black hair, and piercing silver-grey eyes. His face and nose were long and narrow, framed by a flowing jet-black coat that enveloped his entire form. With grace and poise, he made his way through the building, arriving at the grand entrance adorned with white doors, each embellished with golden stars and hanging gold rings.

Knocking twice on the door, the man entered one of the royal bedroom suites. The room was painted in deep cream, with white accents along the edges. Two smaller white doors stood opposite each other—one leading to a luxurious bathroom, the other to a spacious walk-in closet. Thick brown curtains adorned the windows, enveloping the space in an air of elegance. A striking portrait adorned the wall behind the king-sized bed, layered with cream sheets and a neutral-toned comforter that had been gently disheveled.

A man with well-trimmed silver hair sat on the bed, his back turned to the approaching figure. "Sire," the man by the door called out.

"It's too early in the morning to wake me up, Frederick," the man on the bed responded, his voice laced with irritation.

"I apologize, sir," Frederick said, his tone filled with remorse. "But I bring news from the human world."

"And what might that be?" the man inquired.

"Well, sir, after years of searching as you commanded, I have found her—the girl from the prophecy."

The man rose from the bed, facing Frederick with a curious glimmer in his rigid eyes. "Humans?" he asked.

"Yes, sir," Frederick confirmed. "And she seamlessly blends in among them."

A spark of intrigue ignited within the man. "Let me see," he commanded.

Frederick extended his hand from within his coat, and the man eagerly approached, biting into Frederick's flesh and drinking his blood. In an instant, the memories of Frederick's mountain journey flooded the man's mind. He withdrew, his lips stained with blood, and a wicked smile crossed his face. "This is marvelous. She possesses her father's gift. We must prepare for her arrival."

"If I may ask, sir," Frederick interjected cautiously, "how do you know she will come here?"

"I know, Frederick. I always know," the man declared with certainty. "Ensure that everything is prepared for a queen and that she is welcomed accordingly."

Frederick hastily covered himself and swiftly exited the room. The man walked to the end of the bed, gazing at the portrait with a triumphant smile. "I always get what I want," he whispered, relishing in the prospect of fulfilling his desires.