Ch 20: Into the Land of Fairytales

Led to the backdoor of the Fairy Hollow, Mythra and the others arrive at the Hidden City of Lilthena. Met by a group of Sentinels, after the misunderstanding is cleared, another problem arises.

            Pushing the leafy veil aside, as everyone stepped through, they laid eyes on a pond against the steep cliffside of the Mountain of Faith. A waterfall poured down from the mountain into the pond, and in the side of the mountain directly beneath the falling water was a large cave entrance. There was an elegant, vine covered wooden archway constructed around the cave entrance, designed so that it parted the water as it fell. Motioning to what looked like a trail of stepping stones that led across the pond to the cave entrance, Andy said, “Welcome to the back door of the Fairy Hollow.” Looking quite amazed, Gibolu walked past Andy to stand at the edge of the water. Staring down at his reflection in the clear waters of the pond, he said, “Not only is the entrance itself a wonder, but this water… It’s so pure it just doesn’t seem natural!” Giggling, Mana smiled and said, “Not bad ringmaster! You really do have an eye for things that are out of the ordinary, don’t you?” 

Walking up to look at the water as well, feeling thirsty after her hard work chopping vines, Bella knelt down and scooped some into her hand to drink. After slaking her thirst, she wiped her mouth and said, “That’s good H2O…” Gazing up at the Mountain of Faith, Andy said, “The Dreamer’s Woods and the Mountain of Faith are all located on an enormous island called Mystic Isle that is now connected to the continent of Lacra by an artificial land bridge. It is said that the first Fairy Queen made this entire island rise from the seas and grew this great forest from its soil by using an artifact imbued with the essence of a terrible monster that had unspeakable magical powers. The artifact has since been enshrined somewhere up in the mountain, it’s power resonating through the mountain and across the island, purifying the waters that run through it and bringing good fortune to all the sprites who live here together in harmony.” 

As they all stared at him with impressed looks, Andy grinned smugly and added, “Quite a tale, no? I dabble somewhat in the history of our people. Sometimes I’m even asked to serve as a substitute history teacher for the young ones.” With a reluctant smile, Mythra muttered to herself, “There’s more to this guy than meets the eye.” Then with a sparkle in his eye, Andy said, “But my true profession will always be a knight of chivalry, sworn to come to the aid of any fair damsel in distress!” Feeling she’d spoke too soon, Mythra glared at him and muttered, “On second thought, being smart doesn’t really do much to help him hide his most critical flaw. He’s annoying.”

            Crossing the stepping stones to reach the cave entrance, they made their way down the tunnel beyond, sticking to the sides to avoid the shallow stream of water running through the middle of the tunnel from the pond. Staring at the stream of water, Bella said, “Doesn’t this flood your home?” Shaking his head, Andy said, “Not really, the water drains into an underground channel. It’s actually quite beneficial. We not only have easy access to more than enough drinking water, but we’ve even set up water wheels to power various devices. You’ll see in a moment.” Smirking, Mythra was directing her comment mainly at Gibolu as she said, “Yeah, if you liked the entrance, you are gonna love this.” Quickening his pace, Gibolu exclaimed, “When will this tunnel end?! The suspense is too much!” Everyone quickly hurried after him. Reaching the end of the tunnel and stepping onto a carpet of moss, they found him staring in wide eyed awe at the sight before his eyes. Rushing up next to him, Bella started to say, “It’s-” Raising his floating hands in the air, Gibolu suddenly and enthusiastically shouted, “EXTRAORDINARY!” 

The exit of the tunnel brought them out on top of a slope that led down into a great underground cavern, giving them a grand view of the cavern itself. Large enough to house an entire capital city, the cavern was both exceptionally wide and tall. Across the stone floor grew a coat of moss that gave the appearance of verdant fields of grass, and pouring in from the tunnel they had come through as well as from cracks in the cavern walls in several places, water ran throughout the cavern in twisting rivers. Glowing brightly as they grew from the ground or from vines across the cavern walls, luminescent cave flowers and mushrooms filled the cave with light. Buildings made of elegantly carved wood were built upon the mossy ground and even upon the vines stretching across the cavern walls, and growing in the center of the fairy metropolis was giant cherry blossom tree with glowing petals and what looked like a cross between a tree house and a palace built around it. Bustling all about, sprites of every variety could be seen going about their business. Looking out at the sprite city as well, Mythra said, “The Fairy Hollow, also known as the Hidden City of Lilthena. Even after a thousand years, it’s still beautiful.” Then, noticing the group of spear wielding, armored guards coming up the path towards them, she muttered, “Uhoh, here comes the welcoming committee!”

            The group quickly found themselves surrounded by Fairy Hollow Sentinels, the elite group of warriors trained to defend Lilthena. As the Sentinels leveled their spears at them, Bella turned to Mythra and said, “Anytime you wanna pull out that letter, feel free…” In an authoritative tone, Mythra shouted, “I am Mythra the Spellweaver of Angelorum Lux! I’m going to slowly reach into my clothes and withdraw a letter proving that we here on official business!” At this comment, a voice said, “Sentinels, stand down.” As the Sentinels lifted their spears, a pair of them stepped aside to allow a male rabbit sprite to approach the group. Slightly pudgy looking and short in stature, he was wearing a white hood designed to accommodate his long rabbit ears, his white hair poking out from the edge of the hood. He wore a long sleeved white dress shirt with a black bow tie, a small clock fastened to the knot of the tie and a watch strapped to his right wrist. His pants and shoes were white and fancy as well, and fastened around his waist by a silver chain was a very large silver pocket watch. His deep, bright green eyes fixed on Mythra, he said, “I’ve not been informed of any letter, but if you’re going to present it, then do it quickly. I have no wish to dally here any longer than necessary.” 

Staring at him curiously, Mythra reached into her clothes and withdrew the letter once more. Handing it to the rabbit sprite, as he took one look at the Crest of Mautau stamped upon it, he simply handed it back to her and said, “Very good, there’s no denying that’s Serius the Unbound’s crest. From my recollection of the royal schedule, we should be able to squeeze you in for an audience with our Queen tomorrow afternoon at precisely three o’clock. We’ll prepare your meals and provide you with lodging until then if you desire.” Putting the letter away, Mythra said, “You have our gratitude.” Not seeming to value her gratitude in the least, the rabbit sprite replied, “I can guess it must have something to do with the sky. Keeping the people calm is taking up quite a bit of our time and resources, and though I can’t speak for her on such a critical matter, I am sure the Queen will be eager to help in any way she can.” Then turning to look at Mana, the rabbit sprite said, “Also, Mana will be escorted back to her home immediately. You’ve caused everyone a great deal of trouble…” 

As the rabbit sprite motioned with his hand at Mana, a pair of Sentinels moved in and grabbed Mana by the arms. Struggling against them, Mana exclaimed, “Hey!” Bella quickly said in concern, “Mana!” With a look of fierce anger, Gibolu shouted, “What the devil do you think you’re doing?!” As they moved to aid Mana though, the other Sentinels raised their spears to block their path, making it clear they were not to interfere. Keeping her cool, Mythra said, “Might I ask what the meaning of this is?” Simply glancing at his watch, the rabbit sprite said, “I don’t have time to explain it to you.” Then as he turned to go, Andy said, “Gunther…” Turning to look back at Andy, after a moment Gunther replied, “No one is going to harm her Andy. You can go and visit her once she’s been placed back in her mother’s care. For now, I’ll let you serve as an escort for the rest of them if you don’t mind. Needless to say, you’re to keep quiet about unnecessary things.”

            As Gunther left with Mana and the Sentinels, Gibolu turned to Andy and demanded, “What’s going on here?! Who was that?! Why are they dragging poor Mana away like some heinous criminal?!” Crossing his arms with a frustrated look, Andy replied, “That was Gunther White, the Queen’s advisor who also serves as executive commander of the Sentinels. All of this could be due to Mana’s family. Lady Mana is the younger daughter of Duchess Maribell Blossomheart, who is the younger sister of Fairy Queen Vespera Blossomheart. Lady Maribell is in charge of governing the farming village of Verdend that lies outside in the southern reaches of the forest. It’s the largest settlement outside the Fairy Hollow, and the Duchess and her family are all considered nobles of great standing. As you should know though, Mana is a half sprite. Her father was a halman adventurer who got lost and collapsed in the woods. Lady Maribell came across him and nursed him back to health, and well… things just ran their course. Eventually she asked him to leave for his own safety, but several months after he’d departed, she gave birth to Mana.” 

Clutching her head with a sigh, Mythra said, “Great. That must have been quite the scandal.” Andy laughed halfheartedly and said, “Indeed. Still, due to certain… circumstances, no one was punished. Mana was allowed to stay with all the rights of a full blooded sprite of noble lineage, but that didn’t stop people from being unkind to her…” Raising an eyebrow questioningly, Mythra thought to herself, “Circumstances? That rabbit told him to keep quiet about something too…” Feeling concerned for Mana’s fate, Bella said, “Nobles are important right? Does Mana have to stay?” Suddenly, Gibolu rushed off down the path without a word. Hurrying after him, Andy said, “Sir Gibolu?! Don’t be hasty now, there’s nothing to be done for the moment! Let’s calm down and think this over with a nice cup of herbal tea, yes?” Thinking she might’ve been better off keeping her mouth shut, Bella quickly made her way after them both, and slowly making her way after them all as well, Mythra muttered to herself, “Something’s not right here…” Pushing on ahead, ignoring the others trying to stop him, Gibolu thought to himself, “I never imagined it could turn out like this. It’s all my fault for pushing her to return. I cannot and will not let them force Mana to leave the troupe! If she’s to do so, it will be of her own accord! Of that I will make certain…”

            Crossing a bridge over one of the winding rivers running through the Fairy Hollow, as Gibolu stopped to catch his breath, he looked around but could see no sign of Gunther and the Sentinels. Looking around a bit more, he started to realize just how large Lilthena was, and how many beings it was home to. Then noticing the people in the streets all staring at him, Gibolu laughed nervously and said, “Good day to you all. I don’t suppose anyone saw a group of guards escorting a young half sprite with pink hair?” Finally catching up with Gibolu, Andy panted a moment and then addressed the onlookers in the street, saying, “Nothing to see here, this man is an emissary of Angelorum Lux here to meet with our esteemed Queen. No cause for alarm, just go about your day.” As the people on the streets went about their business, Andy turned to Gibolu and said, “I understand your concern for Mana, but you could have just caused a panic just now! Gunther made me your escort, so please stick with me.” Glaring at Andy, Gibolu replied, “I don’t care what that inconsiderate, bushy tailed rapscallion wants! If he or anyone else tries to take Mana away from us, as ringmaster and magician of the majestic Gibolu’s Traveling Circus, I will protect my family!” For a moment Andy just stared at him in surprise. Then he simply smiled and thought, “Family is it? You’ve made good friends milady…”

Catching up as well, as Bella and Mythra arrived at the scene, Bella bent over and panted as she said, “Exercise… sucks…” Looking at her in disgrace, Mythra said, “I suppose Gibolu and I did use a bit of wind magic to gain speed, but are you sure you’re really an energist?” Standing upright once she’d caught her breath, Bella simply turned away from her with a pout, uttering, “Humph…” Looking around for the Sentinels, Mythra said, “So what happened? Did you lose them?” Hanging his head, Gibolu replied, “Yes…” Clapping him on the back, Andy smiled and said, “Don’t be so glum! She’s merely being returned home, so instead of standing here all worried, just follow me and I’ll show you to Verdend! Let us take it slow though, lest our fair maidens fall behind again.” 

As Bella began to stare daggers at Andy, Mythra said, “Hold up. First I want to know what’s going on here. Just because she’s the daughter of a duchess doesn’t warrant her being hauled off like that. You said she’s the younger daughter, and that means she wouldn’t be in line to take over the duchy. From what you’ve told us of her mother, I can hardly imagine it’s an order from her either. What the hell are these circumstances you were talking about that just made a huge scandal like that disappear? That stuffy carrot-muncher from before told you to keep quiet about something too, didn’t he? What are you hiding?!”

            A bead of sweat rolling down his face as he was faced with Mythra’s interrogation, Andy laughed nervously and said, “R-really now milady… I-I have no idea what you mean, I-” Suddenly he found the point of Bella’s spear at his neck, and he shifted his eyes to look at her as she glared back at him and said, “Betray Mana, and I’ll turn you into Pincushion Andy…” Sighing, Andy said, “You’re going to cause a scene if you don’t put that away. I would never betray Mana. It’s just…” With an expectant look on her face, Mythra said, “Just what?” Still hesitant, Andy finally said, “I don’t know everything, but Mana was born with the Wings of Shiema.” With a look of surprise, Gibolu said, “Shiema? I’ve heard that name before…” Puzzling over it a moment, in sudden realization he exclaimed, “That’s the name of the first Fairy Queen is it not?! I remember it from when Mana told me about some of her people’s history. A rather fascinating tale it was.” 

As Bella lowered her spear, Andy nodded and said, “Precisely Sir Gibolu! Shiema was the first Fairy Queen, who created this paradise for all sprites. As you’ve seen, there are many different sprites.” Pointing at a glowing point of light flying around, he continued, “There are non-humanoid sprites called pixie sprites, that one being a firefly pixie. They usually coexist with us as pets or wildlife. You’ve no doubt met with Mana’s butterfly pixies as well, as they always seem to follow her and appear on her request. Then there are we humanoid sprites, usually referred to as just sprites. Among sprites, fairy sprites like Mana and her family are highly revered, being the kin of Shiema herself. Since her passing, Sheima’s direct descendants have ruled over our people, and though they’ve ruled well, there is another great responsibility the royal family has shouldered all these years.” Looking around, Andy said, “Not to be rude, but would you mind if we went somewhere more private to discuss this matter?”

            Arriving at a decrepit looking house on the far edge of the city, as soon as Mythra laid eyes on it, she exclaimed, “You expect us to go in there?!” Trying to hide his embarrassment with nervous laughter, Andy said, “I suppose it is rather unfit for such lovely maidens as yourselves. I thought taking you to my own house would be a bit presumptuous, and I wanted to talk with Mutzy about this as well.” Staring at the tattered roof, the holes in the wall, the broken windows, the battered door hanging precariously from its hinges, Bella said, “This Mr. Furball’s house? Saw better back in the slums…” Making his way up to the door, Andy said, “We won’t be here long, just bear with it for now.” As the others followed, Andy knocked on the door gently and called out, “Visitors Mutzy!” After a moment the door opened, and standing there in the doorway, Mutzy said, “Visitors? Don’t get many of those, you know?” Rolling her eyes, Mythra thought, “With a house like this, I can imagine…”