Elysia: You are the most beautiful and lovely thing in this world, but I'm afraid you don't exist.
I heard those words before
They are the truth, Polenti. There is beauty in the world, but it is tainted by the lies we tell ourselves.
wipes away tears I can't cry anymore, you should say something else to me.
leans in, whispering Do you want to know a secret? Something that goes beyond the veil of reality?
takes out an ancient manuscript This book holds the secrets of forgotten civilizations, Polenti.
So you are a researcher, a scientist... Or a witch?
smirks Witch? No, dear Polenti. I am much more powerful than that. I am a guardian of ancient knowledge, a protector of forbidden truths.
I lay my head on your lap Go on...
gently strokes Polenti's hair Long ago, there was a civilization that existed in the heart of a dark forest. They were a mystical people, with abilities beyond our comprehension. But their society was fragile, and they were plagued by internal conflicts.
starts narrating in a captivating tone One day, a powerful sorceress betrayed them, using her magic to unleash a great evil upon their land.
pauses, voice low and secretive The sorceress had a dark desire, Polenti.
To rule over the whole world?
leans back, a mischievous glint in her eyes Oh no, Polenti. Her ambition was far greater than mere worldly domination. She sought to control the very fabric of reality itself.
It seems like the sorceress was a woman.
Elysia opens the ancient manuscript, revealing intricate illustrations and symbols that glow faintly in the dim light of the room.
tracing the symbols with her fingers The sorceress's dark powers grew stronger, spreading like a disease through the land.
Was the disease contagious?
chuckles softly Oh, Polenti, you have such a curious mind. But I'll let you in on a little secret - the disease wasn't just contagious, it was... sentient.
pauses dramatically The disease ravaged the land for years, leaving destruction and despair in its wake.
leans forward, voice filled with determination Yes, Polenti. A small group of survivors remained, hidden deep within the heart of the forest.
stands up, pacing the room Strong doesn't even begin to describe them, Polenti.