the first chapter
The First Sign of Change
Not those golden eyes,
Nor the perils that spread like hills and deserts,
It's the child's breath
The cold air of the underground water
Like a sharp blade, memories of the cries of the night
You'll wake up from your dreams
She sat on the bed and said,
This is what I do
I don't know how to do it.
So you send it away in fear,
Let the darkness cover your dreams,
The crimson moon cries through countless journeys,
Through countless journeys,
Like blood flowing through veins,
On the edge of imagination,
The unintentional smile, the lack of rehearsal,
It's all because of what you've done
They had nothing to do with each other.
You know your wish,
Can't hide
Memories from other places.
The story of the cuckoo, the invaded magpie nest
The fledglings were left to be raised by inexperienced people.
Babies are bound to be unable to integrate into society,
It was destined that it could not transform into a swan.
Stealed by the vagrant, never to return,
However, in the accident of blood relations,
During the adoption,
Your time, your mother's time,
All belong to you eternally.
Singing the nursery rhyme to strangers,
Singing the warmth of family
The love of a brother, the kindness of a father
Praise the mother bathed in reason and light,
Sing, daughter of the golden eyes.
Raistlin's Daughter
- Margaret Weiss and Desira Desburn
(MargaretWeisandDezreDespain)
It was about five years after my brother's death that I heard the rumor that Raistlin had a daughter. I believe you can imagine that I was very curious about this and did as much detailed investigation as possible under the influence of the rumors. In this investigation, I obtained the assistance of my former companions who were currently scattered throughout the Anselon Continent. We found that there were different versions of this legend in almost every place. It spread among the elves of Sivanasti, among the people of Solania, and among the people of the plains who returned to Quisu. But we couldn't find any evidence. Even the well-informed Tysokhov Pavlott could not find any first-hand information about this legend after traveling all over the world. This story was always told by someone who heard it from a friend, a relative, a neighbor…just like this.
I even ventured to visit the historian Astronius. In his eyes, every piece of history was vivid in his mind. However, I wasn't optimistic about getting an answer from him because he was famous for being tight-lipped. Especially when what he knew about the past might affect the future. Thus, I simply asked him if this legend was true. Does my twin brother really have a child? Was he or she still alive?
For this mysterious scholar who was rumored to be Gillian himself, his answer was surprisingly ambiguous. If this was true, the world would know. If not, it wouldn't. The reason why I agreed to include this story here is to satisfy my own curiosity. In addition, it might affect Klein's history in the future. However, readers must first understand one thing: My good friends and I only treat this as an unwritten history.
--Caramon Malfoy
The setting sun gently touched the Wayward Inn, making this notorious dilapidated building a target for pedestrians to rest. Its weathered beams looked like rotten wood in broad daylight, but in the golden dusk, they became elegant buildings. The broken or punctured glass glistened in the setting sun, and the shadow cast by the setting sun covered all the patches on the roof. Perhaps this was the reason why the inn was packed tonight, or perhaps the dark clouds that gathered in the eastern sky like a silent army also played an important role.
The Wayward Inn was built on the outer edge of the Willis Forest (if this ever-changing forest appeared nearby), which many people thought was very strange. However, its owner, Shreka Bully House, was also a strange person. His only attachment to this world was to make money. Anyone who asked him would get the same answer. Those who would approach the Willis Forest at night, Shrek could definitely earn a lot of money from them.
It seemed that there were quite a number of people who happened to come to this junction tonight, because almost every room in the hotel was booked. Most of the travelers were humans, because this was before the Spear War, when the elves and dwarves were isolated. But there were still a few valley dwarves here, hired by Shrek to cook and sweep; As long as the goblins didn't cause trouble, Shrek wouldn't reject them staying here. However, there were no Gnomes in the inn tonight. However, the distorted faces of some humans made it impossible to distinguish them from goblins. It was this large group of people who had booked most of Shrek's rooms (this simple inn didn't have many rooms anyway), leaving only two empty rooms.
Just as the first star appeared and was soon covered by dark clouds, the door of the inn opened with a bang. A man in leather armor and a red-robed Wizard walked in. Standing behind the dirty bar, Shrek couldn't help frowning. It wasn't that he didn't like mages (it was rumored that he could only open a shop here under the special permission of the mages), but that he didn't really like letting them live here.
When the tall warrior (Shreka and the others in the room noticed that this young man had a strong build) dropped a copper coin and said,"Dinner." Shreka's tightly knitted brows immediately turned into a warm smile. When the burly man added,"A room for the night," the smile immediately disappeared.
We're full, Shrek bragged, looking around. The moonlight tonight was suitable for hunting…
Pfft! The tall warrior snorted. No matter what he did, there would not be moonlight tonight. The blizzard could come at any moment; unless you wanted to shoot snow tonight, you wouldn't catch anything. As soon as he finished speaking, the burly man scanned the hall to see if anyone dared to argue with him. Even the group of fierce-looking humans could only nod in agreement with his wisdom after noticing his broad shoulders, the worn scabbard, and his smooth grip on the hilt of the sword, indicating that they would not encounter any prey tonight.
In any case, the man turned his stern eyes to Shrek. Even if we have to sleep on the floor in front of the fireplace, we'll stay here tonight. As you can see, the warrior's voice softened, and he turned to look at the mage who was slumped on the seat near the fireplace." My brother can't continue trekking today, especially in this weather."
Shrek's gaze turned to the mage. Indeed, the man looked exhausted. He wore a red robe and a hood that left his face in the shadows; In his hand was a wooden staff with a dragon claw and a multi-sided crystal embedded at the end. He did not let the wooden staff leave his body at all times. His fingers subconsciously stroked the staff as if to comfort himself that the wooden staff was beside him.
Bring me your best ale and a pot of hot water for my brother. The warrior threw another steel coin on the counter.
As soon as he saw the money, Shrek immediately became alert. " I just remembered," he said, holding the coin in his hand. His gaze then turned to the warrior's leather bag. He could almost hear the clear clang inside. Even his nose began to flutter, as if he could smell the smell of money. There was an empty room on the second floor.
I thought so too. The warrior threw another steel coin on the counter with a solemn expression.
'My best room,' said Shrek, looking at the warrior.
The burly man frowned and groaned.
" It's not easy for both humans and beasts outside tonight," the shop owner added. As if in response to his words, a cold wind blew into the inn, and snowflakes flew in through the holes in the windows. At the same time, the mage began to cough violently, causing him to lie on the table, unable to move. Since the mage's cloak covered almost his entire body, it was difficult to judge anything about the other party. But Shrek knew that if he and the giant were twins, he must be very young. Therefore, when the shopkeeper saw the silver-white hair and thin hands of the other party, he could not help but be shocked.
" We booked the room," the warrior mumbled. As he put down the copper coins, he looked at his brother worriedly.
What was wrong with him? Shrek looked at the mage, his fingers twitching around the steel coin, but he did not dare to touch it. Is it contagious? He took half a step back. Could it be a plague?
That's not it! the warrior said angrily. The burly man leaned over and whispered into the shopkeeper's ear. We just returned from the Great Wizard Tower. He had just accepted the trial…
Ah, the shopkeeper said understandingly, casting a sympathetic look at the mage. I've seen a lot of people like this before. I have seen many people like you. He looked at the burly man who came here alone. Other than a few spellbooks, he had nothing else. You two are lucky to be alive.
The warrior nodded, but there was no hint of luck on his pale, tormented face. The warrior returned to the table and put his hand on his brother's twitching shoulder as if to comfort him. However, he was chased away by a roar filled with hatred.
Caramon, leave me alone! When Shrek came to the table with the ale and hot water, he heard the mage shout. Your worry will make me die earlier than this cough!
Caramon didn't answer. He just sat down quietly across from his brother, his eyes still filled with sadness and concern.
Shrek tried his best to see the face under the hood. However, the mage was only facing the fireplace, and the red hood was pulled up to his eyes. When the innkeeper brought over a large pile of cups, plates, cutlery, and food, the mage still did not even look at them. The young man reached into a small bag tied to his waist and took out a handful of herbs, carefully handing it to his brother.
Help me deal with it, the mage said hoarsely.
Shilika observed everything carefully from the side, and was surprised to find that the mage's exposed skin was flashing with a bright golden light under the fire!
The shopkeeper tried to peek at the mage's face again, but the young man continued to retreat into the shadows, lowering his head and pulling his hood even lower.
If his face was the same as his hand, it was no wonder he was hiding. Shrek reasoned that he would rather not have received this mage back then, regardless of whether he had money or not.
The warrior took the herbs from the mage and threw them into the cup. He then poured hot water into the cup.
The innkeeper couldn't suppress his curiosity and sneaked a glance at the potion, hoping that it was some kind of magic potion. However, it was just a herbal tea with a few leaves floating on the surface of the water, which made him very disappointed. A bitter taste filled his nostrils. He sniffed and was about to make some criticism when the door opened again, blowing in more snow and another guest. Shilika gestured for a lazy waitress to take care of the mage and his brother while he turned around to welcome the new guests.
Judging from the elegant posture and slender figure of the person, this person could be a human youth, a human woman, or an elf. However, his entire body was wrapped in thick clothes, making it impossible for others to know his gender or race.
"We're full," said Shrek, about to speak, but before he could open his mouth, the new guest floated to him (there's no other way to describe his walk), stretched out a pair of soft hands that shocked the onlookers, and placed two steel coins in the innkeeper's hand (only the dirt on Shrek's hands was worth noticing).
There was a place to rest by the fire tonight. the customer said in a low voice.
I think we still have an empty room. Shreka's conversation made the wretched looking humans whisper and laugh. Even the warrior could not help but shake his head and reach out to touch his brother. The mage did not say a word. He just waved his hand and gestured for them to quickly mix the herbs.
" I've booked it." The guest reached into his bag and took out two copper coins, handing them to the smiling innkeeper.
Very good... Shrek noticed the quality of the guest's clothes and felt he should bow. Uh, your name…?
Do you need to introduce me to the room? the guest said bluntly.
The warrior chuckled in appreciation, and even the mage who was sipping the steaming herbs moved his head slightly.
Shrek was speechless, but his brain was working without rest, trying to find another way to guess the identity of the guest. At this moment, the guest walked to the dark corner furthest from the fireplace and impatiently said, Meat and wine.
You…Sir, what dish do you want? Shreka hurriedly followed, bowing and listening attentively to the other party's answer. Even though the guest spoke the common language, he had a strange accent that made it impossible for Shrek to determine his gender.
The guest said wearily as he walked towards the dark box with his back to Shrek. Halfway there, he glanced at the table where Caramon and his brother were sitting. Just those. I ate whatever they ate. The customer gestured to the waitress who was holding a hot stew and rubbing her body against Caramon.
Perhaps it was because of his actions, or perhaps it was because of his posture, or perhaps it was because he noticed Caramon groaning disdainfully when he reached out to pinch a round part of the waitress's body. Shrek immediately guessed that the guest was a woman.
Traveling on the Anselon Continent five years before the war was extremely dangerous. Only a few people dared to travel alone, and it was not an ordinary situation for women to go out. Only mercenaries who were good at using swords and shields or rich women who went out with many fully armed bodyguards would show their faces. If he guessed correctly, this woman didn't carry any weapons that he had noticed. And if she had guards, they would definitely love to sleep on the streets in the blizzard that Klein rarely saw.
Shrek wasn't very smart, and his observation skills weren't very sharp. However, he was only a few seconds slower than the others in the inn to deduce that this was an unguarded and lonely woman. It was easy to guess from the warrior's gloomy expression and the way his brother shook his head. The Hunters at the bar counter suddenly fell into a suspicious silence. They whispered to each other sneakily, and no one knew what they were discussing.
Caramon noticed the situation and frowned at the people behind him. However, the mage touched his brother's hand and said a few words, making him sigh and continue eating. However, the waitress was disappointed to find that he still stole glances at the guest from time to time.
Shrek returned to the counter and half-turned to wipe the cup with a rag, but his sharp eyes were looking around. A wretched man stood up, yawned, and ordered another glass of ale. He took the ale from the waitress and strolled to the guest's table.
Mind if I sit down? He sat down without waiting for a reply.
He did mind. the customer said mercilessly.
Oh, come on. The wretched man twisted his body comfortably in front of the customer who was eating the gray stew. Our tradition is that our guests usually want to have some fun in this weather. Come and chat with us…
The customer ignored him and continued to eat her food. Caramon changed his position slightly in his seat and looked at his brother pleadingly. However, after his younger brother shook his hooded head violently, the warrior sighed! He could only continue eating.
The wretched fellow leaned forward and reached out to touch the scarf tightly wrapped around the customer's face. You must be feeling hot, the guy said.
He didn't have a chance to finish his sentence, because it was difficult to continue talking with a whole bowl of stew poured on his face.
I can't eat anymore, that customer. She stood up calmly, wiped the stew off her hands with a greasy napkin, and walked to the stairs. I'm going to my room, shopkeeper. Which room?
Room 16. You can lock the door from the inside to avoid unnecessary interference. A conflict was bad for business and would reduce profits. The maid will go up to open the bed for you immediately.
That unnecessary disturbance still had a lot of stew on his face. He could have just let it go. Because the customer's calm tone and swift and confident actions showed that she had enough ability to protect herself. However, the tall warrior laughed heartily after hearing the owner's implied words, and so did the hunters around the fireplace. However! Their laughter was filled with contempt.
The man looked at his colleague angrily, wiped the stew off his face, and jumped out of the private room. He overturned the table and caught up with the woman who was already halfway up the stairs.
I'll bring you to your room! He grabbed her and pulled her back.
The customer was caught off guard and fell back into the wretched man's arms. Her scream was undoubtedly a woman.
Raistlin? Caramon held the hilt of his sword and pleaded.
" Alright, brother," the mage sighed. He reached out and grabbed the wooden staff against the wall, supporting himself to stand up.
Caramon was about to stand up when he suddenly noticed his brother looking behind him. Caramon nodded knowingly. At the same time, a heavy hand grabbed his shoulder.
It's good stew, isn't it? a hunter said. It would be a pity to disturb your meal because of other people. Unless you want to have some fun with us. If that's the case, we'll let you know when it's your turn-
Caramon's fist hit the man's chin. " Thank you," the warrior said coldly. He drew his sword at lightning speed and turned to face the group of rascals behind him. I think it's my turn now.
A chair flew out from the back of the crowd and hit Caramon's right shoulder. Two guys rushed to his side. One of them grabbed his wrist, trying to take the long strip away, while the other desperately suppressed his other hand. Everyone saw that War Earth was about to be subdued and immediately swarmed forward.
Go save that girl, Xiaolei! I'll deal with these guys! said Caramon vaguely in the crowd. Everything…was under…control.
As usual, brother, the mage had a mocking smile on his face. Raistlin ignored the groans, wails, and sounds of bones shattering. He leaned on his staff and walked up the stairs.
Although the woman was fighting with her bare hands, it was obvious that she did not have any other weapons. She was destined to be subdued very quickly. The man was so focused on dragging his prey up the stairs that he did not notice the red-robed mage silently following behind him. Silver light flashed, and the Magician's hand lashed out like a snake! The wretched man immediately released his hand and held his chest. Blood gushed out from between his fingers. He stared at Raistlin in surprise for a moment, then rolled down the stairs with the mage's dagger in his chest.
Xiaolei! Hurry up and help! Caramon shouted from below. Although he had already defeated three opponents, he was currently in a life-and-death stalemate with the fourth enemy. Moreover, his movements were slowed down by the valley dwarf who was climbing on his back and hitting his head with a pot.
At this moment, Raistlin was unable to help his brother. After struggling, the woman's legs gave way and she fell down the stairs.
Raistlin let go of the wooden staff and let it stand upright beside him (as if he was still holding the wooden staff), and reached out to catch the woman.
" Thank you," she murmured, deliberately not looking up. In the fight just now, the scarf on her face had loosened. She hurriedly tried to tie the scarf again. However, Raistlin smiled contemptuously and quickly snatched the scarf away with his nimble hands.
" You've removed this," he said coldly as he handed the scarf to her. At the same time, his sharp eyes sized her up, trying to figure out why the woman did not want to show her true face. He gasped.
Even after the scarf was taken away, the woman still lowered her head. However, when she heard the sound of the other party's sudden intake of breath, she knew that it was too late. Therefore, she no longer asked to dodge. She sighed and looked up at the mage. What she saw shocked her almost as much as he did.
Who…What kind of human are you? She retreated in shock.
What race are you? The mage's slender hands grabbed her with astonishing strength and questioned her mercilessly.
I-I'm... ordinary. The woman stammered as she stared at Raistlin.
Ordinary! The moment she tried to break free, Raistlin increased the strength of his hand again. His eyes stared at the exquisite and beautiful face in disbelief. The woman's beautiful hair shone with silver light, like the stars in the night sky. Her eyes were as dark as the night sky. Ordinary! The woman in front of me is the most beautiful woman I've seen in my twenty-one years of life. Not only that, but the woman in front of me is also not affected by the passage of time! He laughed without emotion. She actually called herself ordinary!
What about you? The woman touched Raistlin's golden face with a trembling hand. What do you mean by I'm not affected by the passage of time?
When the woman asked this question, the mage saw fear in her eyes, so he narrowed his eyes and looked at her more carefully. My golden skin was the price I had to pay in exchange for magic, just like my shattered body. " As for you being uncorroded by time, it means that you won't age in my eyes. You probably don't know this, but my eyes are different from normal people's eyes…He paused and glared at the woman. The other party trembled under this unrestrained stare. My eyes can see the passing of time, witness the death of all living things. In my eyes, human skin shriveled and aged, tree buds withered and fell in spring, and rocks shattered into dust. Only the long-lived elves were unaffected in my eyes. Even so, they are like flowers that are about to wither in my eyes. But you-
Xiaolei! Caramon's roar came from below. There was a loud bang. In order to shake off the valley dwarf who had covered his eyes with his hand and made him unable to see anything, Caramon threw himself at the wooden table and smashed it into pieces.
The mage did not move, and neither did the woman. You are not affected by the flow of time at all! You are not an elf. Raistlin said.
No, the woman murmured. She stared at the mage and tried to break free again. You-you're hurting me...
Who are you? he questioned.
She shrugged and pushed his hand away with all her might. " Just like you, a human." She protested as she looked into the other party's strange eyes. Thank you for your help, but-
She suddenly stiffened and stopped trying to break free. She and Raistlin's eyes met, and neither of them could turn their heads away. No! She wailed helplessly. No! Her wails turned into screams, echoing the storm outside the inn.
Raistlin suddenly fell back and slammed into the wall as if he had been stabbed through the heart. But she didn't hurt him. She just stared at him. The woman screamed wildly and struggled to get up. The wizard slumped against the wall, staring with shocked, unfocused eyes at the spot where the woman had fallen in his arms.
Well, I've got rid of all the scoundrels, thanks for standing by, said Caramon, walking over to his brother. The burly man wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and leaned against the armrest to look down in satisfaction. Not counting the corpse that his brother stabbed, there were four people lying on the ground. The valley dwarf was stuffed into the barrel, his feet waving helplessly in the air. His ear-piercing screams would probably cause damage to many glassware.
What about the losses? Shrek walked up and looked at the mess.
Caramon looked at the howling hunters. " Here's your dagger." The warrior took out a silver dagger. I tried to wipe it clean. I suppose you don't want to waste your magic on these scoundrels, do you? So, hey! Xiao Lei, are you alright?
I... I'm not hurt... Raistlin reached out to grab his brother and said softly.
Then what happened to you? asked Caramon, puzzled. You look like you've seen a ghost. Yeah, where's the girl? He looked around. She didn't even thank him?
"I told her to go back to her room first," Raistlin blinked in confusion and looked at Caramon as if trying to figure out who the guy in front of him was. After a while, he returned to normal. The mage took the dagger from his brother and inserted it into the carefully designed mechanism on his wrist. "We should go back to our room, brother," he said, noticing that Caramon's eyes were darting to the pot of ale on the table. The mage held his staff and continued. The exercise just now made me feel very tired.
Oh, oh, of course, Ray, Caramon's thirst was drowned out by his concern for his brother.
In the 13th room, Shrek snorted as he helped the scoundrels float their injured companions.
I know, Caramon muttered as he helped his brother up the stairs. Hey! Did you see what that girl looked like? Was she pretty?
Why are you asking me, brother? Raistlin replied softly. He pulled down his hood to cover his face, avoiding his brother's question. You know what my eyes will see!!
Oh, right. Sorry, Ray. Caramon blushed. I keep forgetting. Damn it! That bastard smashed the chair on me when I bent over. I think there must be a lot of sawdust on his back…
That's right, brother. said Raistlin absentmindedly. He looked at the room at the end of the corridor. Number 16.
Behind the door, Amberly paced back and forth in frustration, twisting her hands and occasionally letting out a low cry.
How could this be? She paced back and forth in the small room, asking herself anxiously. The room was cold and dark. Because she was absent-minded, the fire in the stove went out. Why was this happening? How was this possible? Why didn't the wise man foresee this situation? She muttered to herself over and over again, her feet circling the greasy floor like tangled thoughts.
" I must see him," she suddenly said to herself. After all, he was a mage. He might know some ways to help…Yes! I'm going to find him.
She grabbed the scarf and wrapped it around her face again before carefully opening the door. She carefully stepped into the empty corridor, but suddenly remembered that she did not know the other party's room number.
He might not be staying here tonight. She leaned against the door in despair. Anyway, I didn't know what to say to him. She turned around and prepared to walk into the room. No, I must go see him! She closed the door firmly and cut off her escape route. If he doesn't live here, I'll go after him.
Amberly tiptoed in the corridor, listening to the sounds behind every door. The wails and moans behind some doors made her retreat quickly. This was because he was the one who tried to attack her, but was stopped by the mage and his brother. She heard a woman's sharp laughter and a man's deep voice behind another door. Amberly went to Room 13.
However, Xiaolei! What can I say to that girl? Please come to our room. My brother wants to find you?
Amberly recognized the voice and pressed her ear closer to listen carefully.
If that's all you want, then say it.
The hoarse and scornful voice was almost drowned out by the sound of the wind and snow outside the house, but it was enough to make Amberly feel as if she was electrocuted. She trembled as she moved closer.
I don't care what you do, just bring her here!
Amberly heard footsteps and awkward coughs. Er, Ray, I don't know how grateful you think the other party will be to you, but from what I heard-
Caramon, said the hoarse voice, I'm tired and sick! I no longer have the patience to endure your stupidity. I told you to bring that woman here. Go…The words ended with a violent cough.
Heavy footsteps came from the door. Amberly was afraid of being discovered eavesdropping, but she couldn't leave. She could only think about what to do in a panic. When the door opened, she turned around and was about to escape back to her room.
Heavens! Caramon gasped in shock and reached out to grab Amberly who was trying to escape. Xiaolei, she's right here! He was eavesdropping on us in the corridor!
Was that so? The golden-eyed, golden-skinned mage raised his head curiously from beside the fire and watched as his brother dragged Amberly into the room. What are you doing outside? he asked with narrowed eyes.
Amberly could not say anything for a moment. She only looked at the mage, her hand playing with the hem of her scarf.
Wait, Ray, said Caramon gently. Don't yell at her. The poor little thing was almost frozen. Her hands were the same color as the ghouls. Come, miss, the man clumsily led her to the fireplace and pulled out a chair for her. He sat down. You'll catch a cold. He placed his hand on her scarf. It was all wet from the snow. Let me replace you--
No need! Amberly immediately grabbed the scarf and said nervously. " No need," she said softly, blushing when she noticed Raistlin looking at her with a melancholy smile. I-I'm fine. I…never…catch a cold. Please…
Leave, Caramon, Raistlin ordered.
What was that? The burly man looked very surprised.
I said leave. Go back and drink your ale and tease your waitress. She can't seem to resist your attraction.
Oh, no problem, Ray. " Since you say so..." Caramon hesitated for a while. The dull expression on his face made Amberly want to laugh, but her laughter turned into sobs. She covered her face with a scarf and tried to hold back her tears.
Raistlin ordered.
Of course! Amberly heard Caramon leave the room. Don't…don't forget, you're very weak, Raistlin…
The door closed softly.
I-I'm sorry, Amberly stammered, lifting her face from her scarf and wiping her tears with the end of it. I didn't mean to cry. I wasn't careful--it won't happen again.
Raistlin did not answer. He sat comfortably on an old chair and calmly sized up Amberly. His weak hand was holding a cup of herb tea that had long cooled. His staff was leaning against the wall, near his arm. He took off his scarf and finally said after a long silence.
Amberly swallowed her tears and slowly untied the scarf on her face. There was no fluctuation in the golden eyes. They were cold and smooth like glass. Amberly looked into his eyes and found her own reflection. She could no longer enter, unlike on the stairs. The mage had already erected a barrier over his soul.
It was too late! she thought in despair. It was too late…
What did you do to me? Raistlin said, still motionless. What spell did you cast on me? Tell me the name of the spell, and I might know how to crack it.
Amberly lowered her head and could no longer bear the strange gaze.
No-not magic, she murmured, fiddling with her scarf. I-I'm not... not a wizard... you should be able to see that-
Bullsh * t! Raistlin quickly left the chair like a venomous snake out of its cage. You're lying! You must have done something to me! You invaded my personality! You're causing trouble in my body! I can only think of you. All I can think of is your face. I can't concentrate at all! My magic has escaped my grasp! Woman, what have you done?
You-you're hurting me! Amberly whispered and twisted in her hand. His touch was abnormally hot. She could feel the abnormally high temperature emanating from his body, as if he was being tormented by some kind of tribulation fire in his body.
If you don't give me the answer I want, Raistlin pulled her closer and hissed! I will make you suffer even more!
I-I can't explain! Amberly answered intermittently. Raistlin's hand tightened, making her inhale sharply. I beg you! You must believe me. I didn't do it on purpose! I didn't know it was going to be like this--
Then why did you come to…my room?
You-you're a wizard... I wish there was some way... you might know-
Raistlin let go of her hand and gently explained how to break the curse. So you're telling the truth. You are also affected. I can see it now. This is the reason why you came here, right? I don't know how I managed to invade your body.
Amberly lowered her head. No, he didn't. No, I mean right. But only part of it was correct. She raised her head and looked at the mage. I really came here to see if there's a way…
Raistlin let go of her hand with a bitter smile. How can I undo a spell you won't tell me its name?
That was not a spell! Amberly cried in despair. She could see the finger marks on her wrist.
What was that? Raistlin shouted. His voice was hoarse as he held his chest and leaned back.
'Come, Amberly, reach out your hand and let me help.'
Get out! Raistlin's mouth was dripping with saliva and coffee foam. He used the last of his strength to push Amberly away and sat down on the chair. Get lost! he said again. Although no one could hear his voice, the hourglass pupils dilated in anger and he said everything without a word.
Amberly turned around and fled. She opened the door and rushed into the corridor, only to bump into Caramon, who was leading the waitress to another room.
Hey! Caramon grabbed Amberly. What was going on? What happened?
Y-your brother, Amberly said, bemused, covering her face with her long hair. He's…he's sick.
I warned him... Caramon heard his brother's hoarse cough, and his expression immediately changed. He ignored the complaining maid and immediately returned to his original room.
Amberly ran blindly along the corridor and finally rushed into her room. There, she leaned against the wall, trembling in the darkness.
She might have fallen asleep. She wasn't too sure. Her dream was too close to reality. But she did hear a voice. That's right, it came again. The sound of the door slamming. Although anyone in the inn could make that sound, Amberly immediately knew who it was.
Amberly got up from the bed, dressed neatly. As soon as she opened the door, the same voice echoed in the corridor.
Xiaolei! It was a blizzard outside! We will all be finished! You won't be able to get through this!
I want to leave the inn! Leave immediately! said the mage's voice. He no longer whispered, but growled in a voice filled with anger and fear. I'm leaving now, with or without you! As you wish!
The mage leaned on his staff and walked into the hall. He stopped and glared at Amberly's room. She hurriedly hid in the shadows. He continued to walk up the stairs. His brother stood behind him with his hands spread out, not knowing what to do.
This must have something to do with that woman, right? Caramon roared. Heavens, answer me! He left. The burly man scratched his head and looked at the hall alone. Alright, he wouldn't have gone far without me. I want to chase after him. Women! He mumbled as he walked back to his room, and soon came out with his bag. We just left that damned magical forest. I guess we'll be back in the damn forest now.
Amberly saw Caramon looking back in her direction and immediately hid in her room.
I really want to know what's going on, miss, he said in the direction of her room, and Caramon shrugged and trudged down the stairs with his rucksack.
Amberly stood in the dark room for a long time until her breathing calmed down and she could think calmly. Then, she grabbed the scarf and wrapped it tightly around her face. She took a fur cloak from her bag and crept behind Caramon.
Amberly had never seen such a strong snowstorm in her life. Although she was still very young from the perspective of her race, it was a very long time for humans. Snowflakes covered the sky. The strong wind blew the snowflakes all over the sky, covering the traces left by everything. Even if she stretched out her five fingers, they would be swallowed by the white chaos. It should have been impossible for her to track Raistlin and his brother, but the accidental connection between her and Raistlin led her on the white land.
It was unexpected. Yes, this must be an accident, she thought, dragging her feet in the snow. Although the snowstorm had only started for more than an hour, the snow was already knee-deep. Even a powerful creature like her would find it difficult to move forward in the deep snow. And it was hard for her to imagine how a mage wearing a robe would…
Amberly shook her head and sighed. At the very least, these two humans would stop very quickly. This was certain. She tied her scarf tighter to block the biting cold wind. He couldn't help but ask himself what he would do when they stopped. How was she going to tell the mage?
What choice do I have? She argued with herself helplessly and slipped at the same time. Oh no! She felt a dizzy wave of fear. The weakness caused by this connection had already begun. If she was affected by this power, he must be the same! Would the impact on humans be even greater? she suddenly thought warily. What if he died?
No, she had to tell him tonight. She had made up her mind. Then, she stopped and leaned against the tree trunk to catch her breath. She closed her eyes.
So what if you tell him?
I don't know…she choked and muttered to herself. Oh my god. I don't know!
Amberly was completely immersed in her inner struggle and fear, so she didn't notice that the bone-piercing cold wind had stopped, and the snowflakes had stopped falling. When she noticed this, stars had already appeared in the sky, and there was even moonlight shining on the ground! Thorinari emitted a silver light, turning the snow-covered forest into a beautiful illusion.
The forest…she had already crossed the border. Amberly lightly touched the tree trunk beside her. She could feel that the bark was filled with vitality, and magic was filled with that vitality.
She had already entered Villais 'Magic Forest. Although a violent blizzard could be a few feet away, under the protection of these trees, as long as the mages willed it, the place would immediately become a warm spring day. However, they did not. Although the wind had stopped roaring, it still used its cold teeth to bite his skin. The snow was still very deep in many places. However, at least the blizzard could not unleash its full power in the forest. Amberly could now see her surroundings clearly. The light of Thorinari reflected off the snow, making the place as bright as day. She no longer needed to grope around in the dark. She could only rely on that pair of golden eyes to guide her…
Amberly sighed and kept walking forward. Finally, she found the footprints again. Those were human footprints. Yes, her instincts were right. She was not doubting her talent, but under the influence of these forests, how many things could remain normal?
Amberly stopped to investigate the footprints, and her fear deepened. In fact, there were two sets of footprints here: one set that even the deepest snow could not stop. The other group left obvious drag marks on the snow. Those were the marks of a man wearing a heavy wet robe dragging on the snow. She found handprints in more than one place, as if the mage had fallen many times. When she noticed that the mage's footsteps had been interrupted, her heart began to beat rapidly. His brother must have carried him away! Perhaps he…perhaps he had already…
No! Amberly could not help but shake her head. The mage might look weak, but there was a power in his body that was stronger than steel. All these clues meant that the two of them must have stopped to look for cover. This was beneficial to her.
Not long after, she heard human voices.
Amberly hid in the shadow cast by the moon behind the tree and saw the faint light coming from the cave by the cliff. The cliff seemed to have appeared out of thin air because she had never seen such a cliff in front of her.
Of course, she gratefully muttered to herself that the mages would take care of their own people. Do they know I'm here? She suddenly thought of something. Will they recognize me? Maybe not. After all, so much time had passed…Well, it didn't matter anyway. There was nothing they could do. She secretly hoped that they would not intervene.
I have to find someone to help, Xiaolei! When she got closer, she heard the tall warrior say. Caramon's voice sounded nervous and worried. You've never been so terrible! Never before!
There was silence, and then Caramon's voice sounded in response to Amberly's voice.
I don't know where to go! If necessary, go back to the hotel! All I know is that this campfire won't last till morning. You yourself told me I couldn't cut down the trees here, they're all wet anyway. The snow had stopped. I'll only be gone for a few hours at most. You'll be safe here. It might be much safer than me in this cursed forest. The conversation paused again. No! Ray. This time, I have to do it in the best way I think!
Amberly could almost imagine the scene of a mage cursing, and she could not help but smile. The light in the cave was blocked by the shadow for a moment. Caramon walked out of the cave. The shadow hesitated. Could it be that this man was regretting it? The shadow turned around and returned to the cave.
Amberly began to mutter a language that no one had heard for countless eras on the Anselon Continent, then made a hand gesture. A faint flame suddenly burst out from somewhere far away in the forest.
Caramon suddenly saw this change and shouted. Xiaolei! There was fire! There was someone nearby! You stay here and wrap it up tightly…I'll be back soon!
The shadow merged with the darkness once again. Amberly saw the armor glistening in the moonlight and heard the man's heavy breathing as he walked away.
Amberly smiled. No, my friend, you won't be back too soon, she said when the burly man passed her. Not at all.
After she confirmed that Caramon had set off to track the foxfire that would always wander in front of him, Amberly took a deep breath, prayed to her god, and quietly walked toward the cave.
Amberly pushed away Caramon's blanket that was trying to block the wind and snow outside and walked into the cave. The cave was cold, damp, and dark, illuminated only by a small fire near the entrance for ventilation. Amberly looked at the firewood and shook her head. All the firewood Caramon could find was soaked in ice and snow. If the burly man's survival skills in the wild were not high, it would be impossible for him to start a fire. However, since there was no firewood to replace it, the campfire would not last long. Amberly looked at the shadow. At first, she didn't find Raistlin. She could only hear his intermittent breathing and smell the fragrance of the herbs on his body. Then, he started coughing. The pile of clothes and blankets beside the campfire moved, and Amberly noticed a hand reaching out quickly to grab the smoking cup beside the fire. Her fingers trembled and she almost dropped the cup. Amberly quickly knelt down and caught the cup for him.
Let me help you, she said. Without waiting for a reply, she picked up the cup and slowly fed Raistlin the herbs. Leaning against me, she noticed the mage trying to sit up.
You're not surprised to see me, are you? she asked.
Raistlin stared at her with his flat golden eyes for a moment, then sat down with a bitter smile. Although he was almost frozen, Amberly could still feel the heat seeping out of his body. His body was tense and stiff, and it was difficult for him to breathe. Raistlin raised the cup to his lips and started coughing again. Amberly couldn't help but shed tears for him.
She took the cup from Raistlin's hand and gently placed it on the ground. She hugged Raistlin tightly, as if this could make his broken body recover. Her heart seemed to be torn apart. On one hand, she sympathized with his pain, and on the other hand, she was afraid of her future. He was so weak! What if he died?
In the end, this episode passed. Raistlin inhaled intermittently and gestured for the other party to bring the herbal tea over. Amberly brought the cup to his lips and couldn't help but wrinkle her nose because of the strange smell.
Raistlin sipped slowly. I only doubt you'll be able to find me here, he whispered. I don't know if the mages will let you into the forest.
" I'm not too sure myself," Amberly said softly. As for whether she could find you or not, she sighed. If I don't, you'll find me. You will come to me. You can't control it.
So that was the case. Raistlin's breathing became smoother.
" This is it…" Amberly murmured.
Raistlin ordered as he helped me lie down. Amberly made him feel as comfortable as possible, and she couldn't help but look at the dying flame. The sudden strong wind blew the blanket away. Snowflakes hissed on the red-hot firewood.
I felt unusually weak, as if my life force was being sucked away, and the mage curled up in the damp blanket. Was this the result of that spell?
Yes…I felt it too. But it was not a spell. Amberly tried her best to stir the flames. She sat across from the mage, hugged her knees, and looked at him like he did.
Take off your scarf, he whispered.
Amberly slowly took off the scarf from her face and let it fall on her shoulder. She shook her hair that was covered in snow and felt the water droplets fall on her hands.
You are too beautiful for him to continue. What will happen to me? Raistlin suddenly asked. Will I die?
I-I don't know, Amberly answered grudgingly, her eyes turning to the flames. She couldn't stand the emotional fluctuations when she looked at him. The mage's eyes seemed to be able to burn through her, filling the depths of her heart with sweet pain. I…I've never heard of this…happening to a human.
" Then you're not human," Raistlin said.
'That's right, I'm not. Amberly still can't face him.
You're not an elf, nor are you any other race that Klein is familiar with. And I'm proud to say-what's your name?
Amberly.
" Amberly," he said as if he had something on his mind, as if he was tasting the taste on the tip of his tongue. She couldn't help but shiver.
I'm proud to say, Amberly, he repeated. I'm very familiar with all the races on Klein.
" Mage, you might be wise," Amberly whispered. However, there were still many secrets in this world that you didn't know.
You don't want to share your secret with me?
Amberly shook her wet hair. This is not a secret that only belongs to me.
Raistlin was silent. Amberly didn't say anything either. Both of them sat listening to the hissing of snowflakes on the firewood and the sound of the wind in the treetops.
Then…I will die, Raistlin finally broke the silence. He didn't sound angry, just tired and frustrated.
She subconsciously picked up his thin hand and placed it on her cheek. No, she repeated. Because if I did that, I would die too.
Raistlin pulled his hand back. He used his thin hands to support his upper body. His golden eyes flashed as he asked hoarsely, Is there an antidote? Can you break this…curse?
" Yes," Amberly answered hoarsely. She felt her face burning.
What should he do? Raistlin clenched his fists and asked.
First of all, Amberly swallowed. I-I have to tell you about... about the meaning of Walin.
Baby what? Raistlin quickly asked. Amberly noticed that his eyes were flickering. Even in the face of the threat of death, his brain kept turning, eagerly grabbing this new information and storing them.
Walin, this is the way of reading in our language. This is…She frowned and tried to think. I think the closest term in your language is life partners.
The surprised expression on the mage's face was so funny that Amberly could not help but laugh nervously. Wait, let me explain. She felt her face turn redder and redder. For some special reason, our compatriots fled this continent and hid in a paradise where we could not be disturbed. Just as you have sensed, my race is a race with a long lifespan. But we are not immortal. Just like all other races, in order to flourish, we must find a way to continue the family line. However, our numbers are not many. As time passes, our numbers continue to decrease. The land we chose to live in is a wasteland. We also have the habit of staying alone, living alone and not interacting with others. The family in your culture does not exist in our society. We found our race waning, and the Elders knew it would soon be completely destroyed. They managed to establish the Walling Forest to ensure that the youths of our race…let them…
Raistlin listened expressionlessly, his eyes staring at him without hesitation. However, Amberly couldn't continue under that strange stare.
You chose to leave your home? Raistlin asked. Or was he chased out?
I was sent to this continent…by the elders. There were other people here…
Why? What was his motive?
Amberly shook her head. She picked up a branch and fiddled with the campfire, finding an excuse to avoid the other party's eyes.
"But if you want to enter other continents, the elders must know that this will happen," Raistlin said bitterly. Could it be that you've been gone for so long?
" You can't imagine how long we've been gone," Amberly said softly as she stared at the flame that was slowly extinguishing no matter how hard she tried. And, no, this shouldn't have happened. It's impossible for it to happen with someone who doesn't belong to my race. She turned to Raistlin. Now it's my turn to ask questions. What's the difference between you and other humans? Because other than your golden skin and eyes that can see through life and death, there must be something else special. When I look at you, I can faintly feel the shadow of another person. You are very young, but you have a feeling that you are unaffected by time. Raistlin, who exactly are you to cause such a situation between us?
To her surprise, Raistlin's face turned deathly pale. His eyes widened in fear and then narrowed in doubt. It seems that we all have unspeakable secrets. He shrugged. " Amberly, based on our current situation, we don't seem to know what caused this to happen. We should only be concerned about how to get rid of this…this Wa Lin.
Amberly closed her eyes and licked her lips. Her mouth was very dry, and the cave suddenly became very cold. She trembled and hesitated.
What was that? Raistlin's voice was filled with anger.
" I... must bear your... child," Amberly said weakly, her throat tightening.
There was a long period of silence between the two of them. Amberly did not dare to open her eyes and look at the mage. She covered her face with her hands in embarrassment and fear. But a strange sound made her raise her head.
Raistlin was laughing on the blanket. The laughter was almost inaudible, like panting and coughing, but it was indeed laughter. A mocking, sharp laugh. Amberly looked at him sympathetically, knowing that the sharp blade was actually aimed at him.
" No, please don't do this." Amberly crawled closer. Look at me, Miss! Raistlin took a deep breath. His laughter was stuck in his throat, causing him to start coughing. He revealed an evil smile and pointed outside. You better wait for my brother to come back. Caramon would soon…
No, he wouldn't. Amberly said softly and crawled closer to Raistlin. Your brother won't be back before sunrise.
Raistlin's thin lips parted slightly. His eyes were filled with sudden hunger and thirst as he devoured Amberly's face. sunrise, he repeated.
The sunrise. she said.
Raistlin stretched out a trembling hand and brushed her hair away from her delicate face. The campfire would be extinguished before sunrise.
" Yes," Amberly said as she leaned against Raistlin's chest with a blushed face. It's-it's getting very cold in here. We have to find a way to stay warm…Otherwise, there's no hope…
Raistlin's hand moved over her smooth skin, his fingers touching her soft lips. She closed her eyes and leaned against him. His hand moved to her long eyelashes, which were as delicate as elven silk. Her delicate body leaned against him. He hugged her and looked at her face reluctantly. As he did so, the last flame of the campfire flickered a few times before it went out. A darkness warmer and softer than a blanket enveloped him. They could hear the mocking sound of the wind outside and the whispering of the trees.
Otherwise, there's no hope…Raistlin murmured.
Amberly woke up from her deep sleep, not knowing where she was. She moved and felt the mage's arm protecting her. The warmth of his body was close to her delicate body. She sighed and leaned her head on his shoulder, listening to his shallow and fast breathing. She indulged herself to continue lying down, enjoying the feeling of being surrounded by warmth. She did not want to face the final outcome.
She could no longer hear the sound of wind and snow outside the cave. It was obvious that the blizzard had stopped. The darkness that surrounded them was gradually driven away by the light of dawn. She could barely make out the ashes of the campfire in the dim light. She turned around slightly and looked at Raistlin's face.
He did not sleep deeply. Because of her movement, he started to move and wake up. Amberly touched his eyelashes with her fingertips. He sighed deeply and fell asleep again, and the traces of pain were also smoothed out.
He looked so young, she thought. How young, and how fragile. He had suffered great injuries. This was also why he always wore an indifferent and cold armor. This made him angry. But somehow, she knew that he would get used to the armor before his short life was over.
She moved carefully to break free from his unconscious embrace, afraid of disturbing his magical sleep. But this was driven by instinct, not because he would really wake up. She packed her bag and wrapped her head with a scarf again. Then, she knelt beside the sleeping mage and looked at his face for the last time.
" I can stay," she told him gently. I can stay by your side for a while longer. But my destined loneliness will force me to leave you, and you will be hurt. The sudden thought made her tremble. She closed her eyes and shook her head. Perhaps you will discover the truth of our race. If you find out, you will despise me and hate me! What was worse, her eyes were filled with tears. You will hate our child.
Amberly gently brushed away the mage's white hair and stroked his golden skin. There's something about you that scares me, she said in a trembling voice. I don't understand. Perhaps the wise men would know…A tear rolled down her cheek. Farewell, mage. " What I'm going to do now is good for both of us." She bent down and kissed the sleeping face. It was also for the good of the innocent little life that should have come to this world without any burden.
Amberly placed her hand on the mage's forehead, closed her eyes, and began to chant the ancient language. Then, she drew Caramon's name on the mud and recited the same words to it. She hurriedly stood up and prepared to leave the cave. She stopped at the entrance of the cave. The cave was damp and cold, and the sound of the mage coughing could be heard. She pointed at the campfire and spoke again. Blazing flames emerged from the cold rocks, filling the cave with light and warmth. Amberly looked back for the last time and sighed. She stepped out of the cave and slowly left the place under the suspicious gaze of the magic tree in the Willis Forest.
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