“It came like a flash. There was a ward, then there wasn’t. Something had shaken the command post I was in and by the time I came about, the city was already lost. Our interceptors had been sunk or commandeered by the enemy, the city’s harbour had fallen victim to the ‘purple death’. I could barely see anything within that death fog that haunted the lower parts of the city, only when my guards dragged me away did I catch sight of the victims. I beg of you, men and women of the council. If you are considering prolonging this war, don’t. Sue for peace while we have the chance. ”

- Fmr. Admiral Allant, Republican Administration Naval Command, “Testimony at Dismissal Inquiry”

Alodie was a generous host, that much Sophie learned to appreciate as their week in Ostia continued. The next three days went by in a storm of joy filled moments and awe at the sheer peacefulness that was Ostia. Despite being located in the politically turbulent mid section of the Tranoire basin, the city state prospered without much growing pains. This was most evident as Alodie led them around the city. Where guards in Arteria patrolled with a purpose, or how guards in Eichafen remained vigilant against incursions, Ostian guards looked more heavily armed but far less motivated in their tasks. According to Alodie, this was because Zephir guarantees their political independence, whilst two other states called Old Kyne and Tarandium guard their northern borders from monstrous threats. That left Ostia to deal with mostly goblin infestations or the occasional creature that made it past the Evenspire Peaks that loomed over the city.

There was also a less tense atmosphere in general compared to the rest of the continent. Much like Arteria, this economic zone allowed for the coexistence of many peoples, and unlike Melton or even Carrador, the beastfolk here were not indentured servants but actual citizenry. Ironically, the empire of Traxia that inhabited the western banks of the Tranoire and the Lucurian Sultanate to the north offered little opportunities for the beastfolk beyond a career in slavery or warfare. It meant any who wanted to avoid such fates, were generally more than willing to take the extra few weeks of travel to reach more hospitable areas. An interesting tale of peoples, that’s for sure.

While Arteria still held first place as the most unique city that Sophie had ever seen, she couldn’t deny that within Ostia, there was a far more rustic charm at play. Arteria was modernized and efficient, its roads wide and open for all sorts of traders to pass through. Ostia had a mixture of streets and alleyways that all blended into each other. The buildings too, looked immaculate in the winter’s glow but stood proud with a sense of historical pride, more so than those within Arteria, even if they had most certainly there for far longer.

Alodie seemed proud of all this too, eagerly recounting little historical tidbits with such gusto that even the normally stoic Raylani seemed to appreciate. To her surprise, it was her siblings that caused the most amount of anxiety within her. Elaria was relatively jovial, soaking in the human world and all its intricacies. To Sophie, she felt very much that Ela had embraced the role of a bard, almost appearing to seek inspiration from her surroundings. Sophia on the other hand worried her. After their days spent enjoying time in the city, her counterpart seemed increasingly antsy. Could she be worried about something that I don’t know about? Is this related to her talk with Goddess Morea? Damn.

But that was a secondary concern, for Alodie had led the party to their next destination and one of Sophie’s goals within the city. The central library of Ostia, also called the Farien Repository. Though not as grand as Arteria’s multiple libraries or even as majestic as those of Khaz Druzara or Carrador, it still stood proud at the edge of the noble’s quarters and near the Cathedral of Rising Stars. Furthermore, according to Alodie at least, the library contained a plethora of folk tales and records of legends that might shed more light on the Myndiri artifacts as well as the griffin knights of old. She had scarcely remembered about the griffin feather until she had seen that crow yesterday night, worse, she also remembered how one had simply followed her onto the ferry back in Arteria. An ill omen, if anything.

“We’re here.” Alodie beamed at the party as they entered the library.

Marble columns greeted them against the backdrop of a statue of a scholar carrying his materials. Rows of book shelves lined the wall and a large stairwell in the back indicated the presence of multiple floors. Unlike Arteria’s grand library, which ran mostly wide and then tall, Ostia’s was much like the rest of the city, towering upwards with a multitude of floors as large circular towers held whatever it is that they might need.

“Ahh, pleasure seeing you so soon after the new year, Lady Elteria. Welcome to the Farien Repository once again.” An elder looking librarian dressed in an immaculate dark green blue uniform greeted their host, “I take it this rough looking bunch is… part of your entourage.” The man gestured at the party.

Hearing her family name, Alodie’s face turned crimson as the girl’s excitable spirit immediately grew meeker though she did nod to answer his question.

“I take it you understand that the repository is not technically reopened to the public yet, given this ‘week’ of celebration?” The librarian added, his accent almost reminiscent of Alodie’s.

“Y-yes, of course. But this is important! I promise.” Alodie hurriedly bobbed her head, “Ah, ehum, where are my matters.” She straightened herself, “This is Meister Graham de Halsvil and the deputy head of the Farien Repository.” Alodie bowed before then introducing the party, “These are my friends and companions, uhh… Aryana the herbalist, Sophia, Sophie, and Elaria who are siblings and travellers, and finally Raylani who is… an… entertainer?”

As everyone politely dipped their heads, they could see the librarian’s eyes widen as he finally took stock of the crowd. Like most people they’ve met so far, within the eclectic group, his eyes paused on Raylani.

"My…” The librarian unwittingly stammered, “Is that… ahh, was that your costume for Saints Day?”

Without missing a beat and with what Sophie could describe as the tiniest smirk Raylani shook her head, “No, this is who I am. Your kind might have forgotten us, but we are known as the twilight kindred, or amongst our… elven… brethren, the dark elves.” She practically sneered.

“A dark…” He turned to Alodie, his eyes wide with amazement, “You…”

“Sorry to spring this on you so suddenly Meister Halsvil, but like I said, this could potentially be important. And given that there isn’t anyone else allowed access, we wondered if we could, with of course, the express intent to trade knowledge for knowledge.” Alodie spoke with a newfound sense of certainty.

Sophie and Aryana both shared a look. Alodie was like a completely different person, far more poised and composed when trying to negotiate.

“Knowledge for knowledge…” The librarian scratched his chin, “... by that, you mean…” He nodded at the dark elf.

“Just so.” Alodie confirmed, “Only basic information, since we… well let’s say there are many secrets to keep. In return, we’ll access the sections on Myndiri artifacts, folk records and any potential notes of griffin sightings.”

“Artifacts, folk records and griffin sightings? An odd pairing to be sure but then again, today is… well it certainly isn’t getting any more normal.” The librarian hummed, “Are you certain though? If what you’re saying is true and you’re allowing me to… to… interview your companion… this could be, quite frankly, world changing, for people to learn about a fourth sub species of elf.”

Alodie nodded resolutely, the determination etched within her features.

“Well… well, well. Then, I suppose I’ll let you, this one time. Don’t think you can so easily sway me again.”

“Of course not, meister.”

“Hmpf, as it should be. But ah, Myndiri and folk records should both be on the third floor, left most annex, if I recall correctly. As for griffin sightings? Bestiaries and monster notes should be on the fourth floor, second last room on the right side. Though I warn you, I doubt there’s much about griffins here.”

“Thank you very much, meister.”

He snorted but made no move to complain.

“If you’ll pardon me interrupting.” Elaria spoke up, “I’ll remain here with Raylani for your interview with her. Consider me a… minder of sorts.”

There was something menacing in her tone that seemed to make the librarian wilt a little, though the old man replied with only the briefest of nods.

“Splendid, then do show us the way.” Elaria ordered.

Just like that, the party split up. With Elaria and Raylani following the librarian to a side room as he eagerly retrieved note books and writing utensils. The other tasks brought Sophie great grief, for she was separated from Ary and paired with Alodie. The two of them would search for notes on Myndiri artifacts whilst Ary and Sophia looked up any potential connections with the griffins. All because Sophia worried that Sophie and Ary would spend their quiet moments embracing each other instead of searching. She’s wrong, but the idea did cross my mind, Sophie grumbled.

Regardless, as they split off to their respective sections, Sophie found herself alone with Alodie. The girl took one look around, seeing no one else, and immediately released a titanic sigh, her entire form almost curling up.

“Alodie?” Sophie asked.

“How do you do it?” Alodie squeaked.

“How do I do what?”

“How do you guys all talk to people so easily? That was… that felt so nerve wracking.” Alodie shuddered.

Seeing the girl like this, Sophie almost laughed out loud, her mind clicking as she understood what Alodie just went through. It’s like when I was Eva’s maid, hah. Those were the days. Sophie smiled and patted Alodie’s head, much to the girl’s surprise.

“Let me tell you about when I worked as a maid. Because trust me, I know exactly what you’re going through. If anything this will kill some time at least.”

Whatever concerns Alodie had vanished as the girl turned to her with unbridled enthusiasm, eager to absorb every little story. Heh, almost reminds me of Ary and myself. At least she doesn’t seem tired or nervous anymore.

Alodie was more receptive to her story than she originally thought. Sophie was left feeling almost protective of new friend, one who shared much of the struggle she’d had in her previous life. Goddess, it’s only been a year since I was Eva’s maid. How quickly things spiral out of control.

“So how did you handle talking to a prince? Was that also super intimidating?” Alodie chirped.

“Hahah, normally I’d say yes. But truthfully?” Sophie snickered, “Stars above, the first time I met a prince talking to Eva? I was a brat. Oh Goddess, I remember that moment vividly now that we’re talking about it.” Sophie buried her face into a book.

Alodie giggled and vibrated from a mixture of excitement and horror. “But that’s a princeling? Wouldn’t you get in trouble?”

“Of course! Normally, that is. But thank the stars that Fredd-Prince Frederick is pretty… chill, I guess would be the way to say it.” Sophie answered before leaning forward and dropping to a whisper, “He’s dating Eva now.”

Alodie let out a gasp, her expression caught between awe and disbelief. Although her expression gave Sophie much joy, it also elicited an equal amount of melancholy. She felt sad, in a sense. Sad that she actually enjoyed this moment, enjoyed chatting with friends and gossiping. There was a certain mischievous catharsis to it all and she felt as if she had missed a part of childhood that most others would’ve experienced. I did talk with Eva, but there was always that sense we were closer than just… this. Heh. I’m losing my mind.

“But that means… that means she could be royalty.” Alodie let out an impressed whisper.

“Not yet.” Sophie tapped her nose, “Now let’s get back on track, shall we?”

Alodie wore her emotions on her sleeve, looking physically disappointed and pouting before acquiescing. “Fineee…”

“Look, if we don’t find anything in an hour, let’s look for the others and get lunch?”

“Yes? I mean, yes! Of course! Why did it feel like I’m the one being led on tour all of a sudden?”

“Searching for artifacts and researching strange things feels more and more like my job.” Sophie chuckled.

“Just as long as you leave the rest of this vacation to me.”

“Of course, of course. Wouldn’t dare.”

With a shared grin, the two returned to work, skimming through a plethora of folk records and speculative works about the Myndiri. A few proved somewhat useful, including a thick leather bound anthropological studies tome that briefly touched on the Myndiri artifacts. One other volume that proved of interest so far were ‘Tales of the Fallen Seers’ an anthology of old stories dating back to the early Dark era and even second age.

Beyond that, after two hours of intense combing through the Farien Repository, there was little else the two found that proved to be useful. Sophie only hoped that Ary and Sophia had discovered something more pertinent to her investigations.

For her current efforts, Sophie took solace in the fact that she had gotten to know Alodie a bit better. The two having bonded over their professions both needing them to have a ‘work’ and normal persona that they both could switch on or off. Alodie also proved to be a studious individual, her attention easily smitten by the task at hand and also explaining why the elf Miraevie saw so much potential in being her friend, alongside the cheery personality.

The two redoubled their efforts for the last hour, skimming through even more tomes as they pushed onto lunchtime. Alodie had found one last book that might prove useful, ‘Solana and the Onyx Curses’ which detailed a historian called Solana’s journey in dispelling old Myndiri curses. At least, that was how the tale was told. How much truth there was? Sophie did not know, only that there might’ve been information that could shed more light on her objectives.

With that final volume, the duo put all the other materials that they had read before away and concentrated on the last three tomes. Flipping through them, Sophie found one common thread that linked them all. Curses were linked to artifacts, which were then linked to the origins of some of the folk stories. It meant that these places of powers, while not inherently ‘cursed’ in a bad sense, were just places of highly dense magicks that warped the arcane reality somewhat. This information wasn’t anything groundbreaking, but it did lead her to two useful conclusions. Mainly that there was a way to locate other Myndiri artifacts and ruins. But more importantly, that all the strange crystals were part of a magical network, that there was likely something greater connecting them. Something connected to the stolen dawn, I’ll bet.

Exhausted, she leaned back to rest and found Alodie yawning as well, the poor girl looking determined but out of her depth researching the Myndiri. Giving the girl a reassuring pat, Sophie gestured at a nearby clock and Alodie perked up at once.

“Lunch?” The girl quirked her head, “But there’s still thirty minutes?”

“Hah, yeah. But I doubt there’s too much more to learn from these. We’ve done our part.” Sophie smiled.

“Oh? Oh! So we’re going to visit the others?”

“Yup, yup. Let’s go check up on them. Shake off some of this numbness too.”

As the duo stood up, they both groaned, the hours of sitting down taking its toll. Sophie cracked her stiff joints and Alodie followed suit, the girl’s bounciness quickly returning as their assignment drew to an end. They then made their way up to the fourth floor, heading to the room where the bestiary was.

Pushing open the door, they were met with a rather mediocre sized room that stood in stark contrast with the wide open room they were just in. Inside however, they found not just two, but all four of their other companions currently gathered around the table. Upon spotting the newly arrived duo, Ary leapt out of her seat to wrap Sophie in a hug, making the previously somewhat cocky half elf carry an embarrassed but pleased blush.

“Sophie! Also hello Alodie!” Ary chirped as she rubbed her cheeks against Sophie’s.

“Hey, hey. Looks like we made it before you.” Elaria smirked.

“Hello, everyone!” Alodie bobbed her head excitedly.

“You guys find anything interesting?” Sophie asked, Ary still enthusiastically rubbing her cheeks.

Sophia faced Ary but the redhead shook her head, wanting to bask in Sophie’s presence some more. Sighing, Sophia pointed at a book on the table.

“A few things but mostly asinine information on their habitats and life cycle. Nothing actionable or too useful. The only things really worth mentioning are that they are common around the Evenspire Peaks and Karak Mourn; that some faction called the Guardians of Dawn use them extensively; a wealthy knight orders continue to have griffin hatcheries and train them; and perhaps the least delightful fact of all, that the Traxian’s have one of the oldest knight orders still using them. No prizes for guessing who might have the most detailed historical records.” Sophia scoffed.

“Well, damn.” Sophie grumbled, giving Ary a quick peck as the redhead finally separated.

“We also think that the academy might have some more information.” Ary added.

“That’s it then?”

“Yeah, that really is all that we could find. How about you two?”

“Myndiri artifacts are magical. Those crystals are magical. So just confirming what we already knew.”

“Boo, that’s no fun.” Ary complained.

“Yeah. It was a long shot anyway.” Sophie affirmed.

“But, now that that’s all done. That should be the last part of the business we need to do here, right?” Sophia asked, “Just regular old relaxing from here on?”

Sophie nodded and her counterpart let out a happy sigh.

“What’s the matter, bored?” Elaria teased.

“Yeah, among other things. I may have memories of doing these things. But stars, doing this research in person is a bit…” Sophia scowled.

Everyone else shared a polite laugh at her expense before Elaria posed the most pressing question.

“What now?”

With sheer delight, Alodie shot up from her seat like a spring, “Lunch!” she declared triumphantly.