A/N: Thank you, Heart of the Demons, for the review! This Arc will be focused on Elyon. Since the way she was handled in the show didn't really do her justice, I'm implementing the Hero's Journey into her character arc. At the end of this Arc I will put a diagram on instagram (@jrgmf3) of the Hero's Journey and how it coincides with Elyon's character arc.
Chapter II: Parent's Night
Elyon entered Ye Olde Bookshop with a warm smile on her face. The morning sunlight streamed through the windows, casting a gentle glow on the rows of books and shelves. Cedric, the owner of the bookshop, was already busy arranging some newly arrived volumes.
"Good morning, Cedric," Elyon greeted cheerfully.
Cedric looked up from his task and smiled back at Elyon. "Ah, good morning, Elyon. It's always a pleasure to see your bright face. You're here early today."
"I thought I could lend a hand before school starts," Elyon replied, her eyes scanning the shelves filled with books of various genres and subjects. "You always have so much to do, and I genuinely enjoy helping out."
Cedric chuckled, appreciating Elyon's eagerness. "Well, I won't say no to some extra help. There are a few boxes of books that need unpacking, and I could use a hand organizing them on the shelves. Can you handle that?"
Elyon nodded enthusiastically. "Absolutely! Just point me in the right direction, and I'll get to work."
Cedric directed Elyon to a corner of the shop where several unopened boxes were stacked. Together, they began the task of unpacking and arranging the books, carefully placing each one in its designated spot.
"Nice ring," Elyon complemented.
"Thank you," Cedric replied.
"You know," Elyon began, "I used to love school. Now I like working here and talking to you. I can't talk to my parents. It feels like they don't know me at all." Elyon stopped herself. Why did she say that? She never spoke negatively about her parents to others.
"What makes you think that?" asked Cedric. Elyon looked at Cedric, his jet black eyes filled with concern. She had come to trust Cedric. He was incredibly smart and he always knew what to say. Maybe he could help her understand.
"Well, they tell me to keep my anger in check," Elyon said. "But I don't have anger problems. I've asked several people about this, including my teachers, and they all said the same thing—'you don't have anger problems.' My parents also told me to not run away with men, multiple times. Again, this isn't something I would do. All my life they saw the mistakes that I made as deliberate attacks against them. It has gotten better but it happens from time to time.
They see me as this rebellious, wrathful teenager, when in reality that couldn't be further from the truth. I am a good student, I do my chores, I try to listen to my parents but it seems like no matter what I do it doesn't matter. Sometimes I think about becoming the rebellious, wrathful teenager. What's the point of being good if people want to see you as bad?"
"Elyon," Cedric began, "you shouldn't care what your parents think. Your job is to be a good, caring person. If you do that, and your parents refuse to see it, that's their problem, not yours. No matter what anyone thinks, you shouldn't give up being a good person. Give your parents time. I'm sure they'll come around."
Just then the doors of the bookstore opened, revealing Cornelia. "Hey, Elyon! Wanna walk to school together?"
"I called you last night. Your mom said you were off with the other girls," Elyon said.
"Oh! Um... W... we had to close a... There was this... Will's frog was sick," Cornelia replied.
"Her frog is a stuffed animal," Elyon retorted.
"You know, it wasn't so much an illness as a washing-machine accident," Cornelia explained.
"I... I have some stuff to do here," said Elyon.
"Oh, okay," said Cornelia. "See you later then." And with that she left.
Elyon sighed. "Cornelia's supposed to be my best friend. Sometimes it seems like you're the only one who understands me."
Cedric smiled. "I have something interesting to share with you today."
Elyon returned the smile, intrigued by Cedric's enthusiasm. "What is it?"
Cedric motioned towards the table, where family tree charts were neatly arranged. "In honor of Parent's Night at school, I've prepared these family tree charts for everyone to complete. It's fascinating to trace one's family roots and understand where we come from. I'm particularly curious to see your family tree, Elyon."
Elyon's brows furrowed slightly as she considered Cedric's words. Family roots and heritage were topics she had rarely delved into. Her parents had always seemed distant when it came to discussing their own family history. It was as if their focus was solely on the present, leaving little room for connections to the past.
"I never really thought about my family tree," Elyon admitted, her voice tinged with a hint of curiosity. "My parents never talked much about our ancestors. It's always been about the here and now."
Cedric nodded understandingly. "Sometimes, delving into our family history can offer insights and a sense of belonging. It's a way to understand ourselves better, to see the threads that connect us to our past. Our roots shape us in ways we might not realize."
Elyon took a chart, her interest growing as she listened to Cedric's words. She had always yearned for a deeper connection with her family, a sense of identity that went beyond the surface level. Perhaps exploring her family roots could provide her with the answers she sought.
"Well, it's almost time," Cedric said, looking at his wrist watch.
"But I don't wanna go," Elyon protested. "Do I have to?"
"School's important," Cedric replied. "For now."
Elyon stepped out of Ye Olde Bookshop and took a deep breath. The morning air felt crisp against her skin, but her heart felt heavy with conflicting emotions. As she made her way towards school, she couldn't shake off the lingering thoughts that Cedric's words had stirred within her.
Her mind was a whirlwind of doubts and insecurities. She couldn't help but replay the conversations she had with her parents over and over again. Their words echoed in her mind, constantly questioning her character and assuming the worst of her intentions. It hurt her deeply that they couldn't see the person she truly was.
Walking down the familiar streets, Elyon observed the bustling city around her. The laughter of children playing in the park, the sound of cars passing by, and the chattering of pedestrians seemed to blend into a distant symphony. She felt disconnected from it all, lost in her own thoughts and frustrations.
"Why do I even try?" Elyon muttered to herself, her voice barely audible. "No matter what I do, it's never enough. They always find a reason to doubt me."
She couldn't help but question her own worth. Was she truly the rebellious teenager her parents saw her as? Or was she just a misunderstood girl desperately trying to be heard? It was a constant battle within her, the desire to please her parents conflicting with the longing to stay true to herself.
Elyon walked through the hallways of the school, her heart heavy with a sense of loneliness. Lately, she had been feeling left out, as if she didn't quite fit in with the W.I.T.C.H. girls anymore. They had been spending so much time together, that Elyon couldn't help but feel like an outsider.
As she navigated the bustling corridors, Elyon spotted Will, Irma, Taranee, and Cornelia gathered together near their lockers, engaged in animated conversation. Their laughter and shared moments only served to intensify Elyon's feelings of exclusion. She longed to be a part of their tight-knit group again, but a part of her wondered if she still belonged.
Determined to avoid any potential awkwardness, Elyon quickened her pace, hoping to slip by unnoticed. She ducked into a nearby classroom, pretending to be engrossed in her own thoughts, while secretly keeping an eye on the girls. She couldn't bring herself to approach them or strike up a conversation. It felt like the distance between them had grown too vast to bridge.
As the day progressed, Elyon found herself skillfully evading any potential encounters with the girls. She changed her route between classes, found solace in the library during lunch break, and even lingered in the empty classrooms to avoid running into them. It was a self-imposed isolation, a shield she used to protect herself from the pain of feeling left out.
Finally, the school day came to an end, and Elyon gathered her belongings, her footsteps echoing in the empty hallway. She couldn't shake off the melancholy that had settled over her, the weight of missed opportunities and unspoken words. It pained her to feel so disconnected from the very people who had once been her closest friends.
With a heavy sigh, Elyon walked out of the school and headed home, her shoulders slumped and her thoughts consumed by a sense of longing. She yearned for the warmth of their friendship, the laughter, and the shared moments that seemed to have slipped away from her grasp.
As she entered her home, Elyon closed the door behind her, leaning against it for a moment as she tried to hold back the tears that threatened to spill. She knew that her feelings of isolation were partially self-imposed, but it didn't make them any less real. In that moment, all she wanted was to be seen, understood, and embraced for who she truly was.
Elyon took out the family tree chart from her bag and she put it on the coffee table in front of her. The anticipation bubbled within her as she awaited her parents' arrival. She was going to ask them for photos of their relatives, hoping to gather more pieces of her family history to complete the chart. The sound of footsteps approached, and her parents—Thomas and Eleanor Brown—entered the room, carrying a small stack of photos.
"Mom, Dad," Elyon began, her voice filled with a mix of excitement and apprehension. "I was wondering if you could help me with something. I'm working on a family tree chart for school, and I thought it would be great to have photos of our relatives to include."
Her parents exchanged a quick glance before her mother spoke up. "Of course, Elyon. Just give us a few minutes."
Elyon sat patiently in her room, eagerly anticipating her parents' return with the family tree chart. She had spent the entire day at school, her mind buzzing with excitement and curiosity about her family history. The conversation with Cedric had ignited a fire within her, urging her to delve deeper into her roots and uncover the stories that lay hidden.
Finally, the door to her room creaked open, and her parents entered, holding a rolled-up piece of paper—the family tree chart. Unrolling it carefully, she spread it out on her bed, her gaze eagerly scanning the blank spaces waiting to be filled.
Her heart sank as she realized that the chart was mostly empty, save for a few names and photographs. To her surprise and disappointment, the pictures were limited to herself and her parents. There were no images of grandparents, great-grandparents, or any other branches of the family tree.
"There's no photos here except ours," Elyon said. "Where are the pictures of Roger, and Claudia, and Great Aunt Millicent?" She paused. "And how come none of these people have ever visited us?"
"It's a small family," Thomas explained. "Your mother and I were both only children."
"There was a fire, I think, 50 years ago," Eleanor said. "Your Great Aunt Sylvia, she lost a lot of documents."
"And her car, and her phone?" Elyon inquired. "Cedric has taught me so much about family histories and how important it is to know your roots," said Elyon. "He especially wanted to see my family tree chart." Her parents both looked at her, the concern visible in their eyes.
"Why is he so interested in our family? Where does he live? What do you know about him?" her father asked, his voice laced with a hint of skepticism.
Elyon hesitated, her mind racing for an answer. "He... he lives nearby, not too far from here. I... I don't know much about his personal life, but he's the owner of Ye Olde Bookshop, and he's been helping me with all kinds of stuff," she replied, her voice faltering slightly.
Her mother's eyebrows furrowed. "Elyon, we don't even know this person. How can we trust him? You've barely known him for a few weeks, and now you're getting him involved in our personal matters?"
"I know it might seem sudden, but Cedric has been helping me understand our family history," Elyon explained, her voice tinged with frustration. "He's been there for me when I needed someone to talk to. He's... he's different, and I feel like I can trust him."
Her parents exchanged a concerned glance before her father spoke again, his tone firm. "Elyon, we understand that you're curious about your roots, but you need to be cautious. We can't allow you to spend so much time with someone we know nothing about."
Elyon's anger flared, her frustration bubbling over. She felt angry at the fact the they didn't like Cedric. She never felt like this with anyone. It was as if every disapproving word they said towards Cedric was somehow directed at her as well. "You don't even want to get to know him! You're judging him without giving him a chance! Cedric is kind, intelligent, and he genuinely cares about me. Isn't that enough for you?"
Her mother's face hardened, her voice stern. "This isn't about Cedric. It's about your safety and the decisions you're making without considering the consequences. We're your parents, Elyon, and we have a responsibility to protect you."
"Well, maybe I don't need your protection," Elyon retorted. "I'm not a child anymore. I can make my own choices!"
Her father's eyes narrowed, his voice sharp. "You may think you're mature, Elyon, but you're still our daughter, and we won't stand by while you put yourself at risk."
Elyon's anger dissipated, replaced by a sense of sadness. "You just don't understand," she whispered, her voice filled with disappointment. "You never listen to me. You never try to understand me."
Her mother's expression softened, a glimmer of remorse in her eyes. "Elyon, we love you. We only want what's best for you. But this situation is complicated, and we can't support your involvement with someone we don't know."
Elyon stood up abruptly, tears welling in her eyes. "I am tired of constantly having to prove myself to you. If I am a wrathful, rebellious teenager then so be it. You don't get to decide who I can and cannot be friends with! I won't stop working for Cedric, and I won't let you control my life! I'm done listening to you!"
Her parents rose to their feet, their faces a mix of anger and concern. "Elyon, you will obey us. This is not up for negotiation," her father stated firmly. "You're grounded! For a month! You want to be rebellious? These are the consequences."
Elyon stormed out of the room, her heart heavy with disappointment and frustration. She couldn't bear the thought of giving up her newfound connection with Cedric and the sense of understanding he had brought to her life. It felt like he was a part of her. Determined, she knew she would find a way to continue her friendship with Cedric, even if it meant defying her parents' wishes.
As the door to her room closed behind her, Elyon took a deep breath, her resolve strengthening. She would follow her own path, even if it meant facing the consequences.
The school dance hall was buzzing with activity as Parent's Night was in full swing. The hall was adorned with colorful decorations, and the sound of laughter and conversation filled the air. Elyon stood in the midst of the crowd, her parents by her side, their expressions a mix of anticipation and apprehension.
Hundreds of kids, accompanied by their parents, milled about the hall. Elyon's eyes were drawn to the notice boards scattered around the room, each filled with intricate family tree charts. She couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment as she looked at her own family's chart. It was noticeably bare, lacking the depth and history that she had hoped for.
"I think our family chart looks very nice," her mother said, her voice filled with enthusiasm.
"Absolutely. Less is more," her father said.
Elyon's frustration welled up inside her. "Yeah, it's not crowded up with a bunch of family members."
Her father intervened, his voice stern. "Elyon, we are your parents. And as long as you live under our roof you will respect us!"
Elyon's face reddened, and she clenched her fists in frustration. She wanted her parents to understand her longing for a sense of belonging, for a connection to her past. But she knew that arguing further would only escalate the tension.
Elyon was surprised by herself. What was she doing? She had never once in her life fought with her parents like this. The more she thought about it, the more stupid she felt. Her parents were right—she really didn't know anything about Cedric. Why was she suddenly so attached to him? He was essentially a stranger. A smart, kind-hearted stranger, but, nevertheless, a stranger.
"You're right, dad. I'm sorry," Elyon said, her voice strained. "You were right about Mr Hoffman. I... I don't know what happened to me. I don't know why I was defending him. Look, I'll quit working at Ye Olde Bookshop. I... please forgive me."
"Elyon," her mother began, a gentle tone in her voice, "everyone makes mistakes. The important thing is that you realised it. Now you can work to fix it."
Elyon breathed a sigh of relief. She was certain that her parents wouldn't be so forgiving. She knew that she was still grounded but at least she made amends with them.
Her mind wondered to Cornelia and the W.I.T.C.H. girls. There was no point in being passive aggressive with them. That won't solve anything. She will find Cornelia and give her a chance to explain herself.
"I'm gonna go search for Cornelia," said Elyon to her parents. "We have to talk."
"Okay," said her father. "But make it quick."
"You got it," Elyon replied with a nod. Determined to find Cornelia amidst the bustling crowd of students and parents, she skillfully maneuvered her way through the sea of people. The school dance hall was filled with an air of excitement and anticipation, making it a challenge to spot any familiar faces.
Elyon's keen eyes scanned the room, searching for a glimpse of Cornelia's distinct blonde hair and radiant smile. She weaved through the throng of students, catching glimpses of familiar faces along the way. Alchemy was engaged in an animated conversation with her parents, Uriah was getting scolded by his mother, Martin was passionately discussing his latest photography project with his father, and Matt was energetically chatting with his family. But Cornelia was nowhere in sight.
Lost in her quest, Elyon unintentionally bumped into Cedric, who happened to be navigating the crowd as well. Startled, she quickly regained her composure and offered him an apologetic smile. "Mr Hoffman! What are you doing here?" she asked.
"I came to see how my idea came into fruition," Mr Hoffman replied.
"Listen," Elyon began, "I have something to tell you."
"What is it?" asked Cedric.
"I... I can't work at the store anymore," Elyon blurred out. "I just... have so much to do and I don't think I can manage it. I hope you understand." Cedric's face took Elyon by surprise. She expected him to be a little disappointed but what she saw was raw anger. Elyon tensed. "Mr Hoffman, I... please don't yell at me."
Cedric's face changed to a concerned look. "Oh, Elyon, I would never. It's just that... come with me and I'll show you." Reluctantly Elyon followed him outside the dance hall. "Those people have been lying to you," Cedric said.
"Those people?" asked Elyon confused. "What are you talking about?"
"I did some research," Cedric replied. "City records. Every girl born in Heatherfield in 1991. I believe that was the year you were born."
Elyon took the papers and looked through them. "I'm not on here! But I know I was born here."
"You weren't." Cedric replied. "Your parents lied about who you are. And they lied about what they are." Cedric's words took Elyon aback.
"Wow, wow, let's not get ahead of ourselves," she replied. "Just because I'm not on some paper that doesn't mean my parents are bad people." Just then the doors of the dance hall opened. Thomas and Eleanor Brown, Elyon's parents came through.
"Elyon," Thomas said, visibly angry, "you told us you were going to talk to Cornelia!"
"I was," Elyon explained. "But Mr Hoffman pulled me over to show me something." Thomas' face now showed fear as he took a closer look at Mr Hoffman.
"Cedric, what have you showed her?!" he demanded.
"Dad, calm down," Elyon said. "He just showed me birth records from 1991, the year I was born. He seems to think that because I'm not there you guys are somehow bad people."
"Don't listen to him!" her mother exclaimed. "You have no idea what he is! What he's done! He's hurt so many people." Again, Elyon felt as if the words were somehow directed at her, as if she was the one being accused. This time however she pushed the feeling away.
"Cedric, what are they talking about?" Elyon asked, her voice betraying a hint of fear.
"They're liars! And I'll prove it," Cedric exclaimed, his voice filled with anger. With swift and deliberate movements, he reached into the inner pocket of his coat and pulled out an amulet.
Elyon's eyes widened in recognition and disbelief. It was the very same jewel that she had unintentionally stolen from his shop—an emerald green, 7-pointed star. The gem exuded a mesmerizing glow, casting an ethereal green light that danced in the air, filling the room with an otherworldly ambiance.
Elyon watched in awe and terror as her parents' forms began to shift and contort, their once-familiar features warping and transforming before her very eyes. Their skin darkened to a deep shade of green. Long, pointed ears emerged from their heads, twitching in an eerie synchrony. Their eyes, once filled with love and warmth, now resembled a snake's. Elyon's heart raced, her breath catching in her throat as she struggled to process the horrible sight unfolding before her.
She stood frozen, her voice paralyzed by shock and disbelief. Every instinct within her screamed to scream, to run, to escape this nightmarish reality. But her body refused to respond, trapped in a state of awe and terror. Cedric put the star back into his pocket. Immediately, the Browns returned back their normal appearance.
"Elyon, we brought you here to save your life!" Eleanor desperately exclaimed.
"You must understand," Thomas began. "You needed protection from your brother! Honey, you know we love you." They started moving towards Elyon. She instinctively backed up, still in shock.
"You mustn't listen to Cedric," Eleanor said. "He only wants to hurt you." Elyon hit her back to the exit door. There was nowhere left to go. The Browns got closer. Elyon instinctively raised her hands.
"Stay away from me!" she yelled. At that moment, Elyon felt a warm sensation, travelling from her chest to her hand. The air around her palm rippled and the Browns were thrown back to the other end of the hallway.
As her parents slowly regained consciousness, Elyon's fight-or-flight instinct kicked into high gear. Panic surged through her veins, urging her to escape the suffocating reality that had just unfolded before her.
With trembling hands, Elyon fumbled for the door handle, her fingers slipping against the cold metal. The rain poured relentlessly outside, adding to the chaotic scene that played out in her mind. Each droplet felt like a reminder of the tears she couldn't hold back any longer.
As Elyon burst through the exit door, the rain immediately drenched her from head to toe. Her clothes clung to her body, heavy with the weight of her fear and confusion. The once familiar schoolyard now appeared distorted through the lens of her shattered reality. She kept running, fearing that the Browns might catch up to her.
Feeling the cold rain against her skin, Elyon's emotions reached a breaking point. She collapsed to her knees, her sobs merging with the rhythm of the falling raindrops. The weight of what she had witnessed, the betrayal of her own parents, overwhelmed her fragile psyche. It was as if the world around her had crumbled, leaving her isolated in a tempestuous storm of uncertainty.
In that moment, Elyon's mind spun with a whirlwind of conflicting thoughts. Doubts crept in, whispering that what she had witnessed couldn't possibly be real. Maybe it was all a delusion, a product of her imagination running wild.
With each shallow breath, Elyon tried to gather her shattered composure. She wiped away her tears, allowing the rain to mingle with the remnants of her despair. Determined to regain control over her spiraling thoughts, she forced herself to accept the illusion of normalcy, to bury the truth deep within the recesses of her mind.
"It is all in my mind," she said to herself. "In my mind. In my mind. In my mind."
"I'm sorry, Elyon." Cedric's voice broke her trance. "I know it's hard. But it's the truth." Elyon looked at him and immediately felt better. It was as if a lost part of her had returned.
"It isn't true. It just not, it can't be."
"Don't you see how this explains everything?" Cedric inquired. "You were born in Meridian, a wonderful kingdom far from here."
Elyon couldn't believe it. "No, no, no, it's not possible."
"I would never lie to you," said Cedric. "What's more, I cannot lie to Meridian's rightful princess."
Elyon was flabbergasted. "What? This morning I was a teenager with no friends. Now I'm a princess?"
"In Meridian you'll have real friends," Cedric continued. "Family. A history. You have a brother who misses you very much. It's time you went home."
"You're not going anywhere with her!" Cedric and Elyon turned and saw Caleb standing in the rain, his face showing raw anger. "I saw what you did to the Browns, I saw the papers on the floor. Why don't you tell her the full story? Tell her what you did to my father!"
"Cedric, what is he talking about?" asked Elyon.
"He's just a rebel," Cedric explained. "The throne has many enemies. Some more delusional than—" Caleb punched Cedric straight in the stomach. He grabbed him by the shirt and threw him to the side. Cedric got up and went for a punch. Unfortunately for him Caleb caught his hand and broke it. He tried hitting Caleb with his other arm only for it to suffer the same fate.
Caleb gave Cedric another punch to the stomach and grabbed him in a chokehold. "Make a choice, pest," Caleb said. "You give up or you remain loyal to your pointless cause. Either way, you're finished. Sound familiar? That was what you said to my father at the Battle of Gray Woods. I think you know what happens next."
Elyon froze as she realized what Caleb was about to do. "No!!!" she screamed at the top of her lungs. "Let him go!" What happened next Elyon couldn't believe. Caleb released Cedric from the chokehold, who fell to the ground with a thud. Elyon immediately went to his side. "Are you okay?" she asked.
"Don't worry about me," Cedric said. Elyon helped Cedric up. She looked at Caleb who was looking back at her. His eyes where devoid of life.
"What was that?" asked Elyon, frightened. "Cedric, what did I do?"
"You charmspeaked him," Cedric replied.
"I what?"
"You made him do your bidding," Cedric explained. "Now follow me before he snaps out of it!"
Elyon's heart pounded in her chest as she ran alongside Cedric, the rain pouring down on them. Each raindrop felt like a reminder of the tumultuous events that had unfolded before her eyes. Her mind was a whirlwind of emotions and questions, but there was one burning inquiry that she couldn't ignore.
"Where are we going?" Elyon shouted over the sound of the rain, her voice filled with a mix of anticipation and anxiety.
"To my bookshop," Cedric called back, his voice carrying determination and urgency. Elyon focused on his figure ahead, leading the way through the dark, rain-soaked streets. With each step, her thoughts raced, replaying the startling revelations and the hidden truths that had been unveiled.
As they ran, Elyon couldn't help but reflect on the events that had brought her to this moment. The encounter with her transformed parents, her shocking display of magic, and Cedric's revelations about her true heritage as the princess of Meridian. It was all so overwhelming, yet there was a strange sense of familiarity and belonging that stirred within her.
Finally, their sprint through the rain-soaked streets came to an end as they arrived at Ye Olde Bookshop. Elyon paused for a moment, catching her breath and taking in the sight of the familiar storefront, now shrouded in the evening mist and rain.
Cedric pushed open the door, and Elyon followed him into the cozy, dimly lit interior of the bookshop. The scent of old books mingled with the musty air, creating an atmosphere of quiet mystery.
Cedric took her to the shelves in the back. "Here." He pointed to a book called The Kingdom of Meridian. "This is your last chance. After this there is no turning back. You touch that book and you'll cross to Meridian. You'll see your brother and the kingdom that you inherited. Or you leave the bookshop and remain here among the earthlings. Remember, all I am offering is the truth. Nothing more."
Elyon stood at the crossroads of destiny, unsure of what to do. If it would have been just her parents she would have said yes in an instant. But her friends also mattered to her. She didn't have a chance to hear them out. Even though Elyon doubted it, there was always the possibility that she misunderstood her friends' behavior. What if she was wrong? What if she ended up throwing her friendship with the girls away, all because of a misunderstanding.
Just then the doors of the bookshop opened, revealing Will, Irma, Taranee, Cornelia and Hay Lin. "Ah, Elyon!" Cornelia exclaimed. "There you are. We were worried about you." Elyon watched as all of her friends' expressions turned serious after seeing Cedric.
"It's the book seller!" Taranee exclaimed.
"He's the beast?" asked Cornelia, disappointed. "He was so cute!" Elyon's uncertainty immediately faded as she realized that her so-called friends were also involved. As a result she wasn't surprised when the girls transformed into fairies.
"Why didn't you tell me?" asked Elyon, anger evident in her voice.
"We only wanted to protect you," Will replied.
"That's a bunch of bull," Elyon said. "You were protecting yourselves. Everyone keeps treating me like I'm evil, when in reality you are the ones who are evil."
"Elyon, please, you don't know what you're saying," Cornelia pleaded.
Elyon felt the same warmth in her chest that she felt when her parents where closing in on her. "You're wrong," she said. "For the first time, I really know what I'm doing." She channeled the warmth into her right hand. Immediately, the girls were knocked back into the large windows, shattering them.
Elyon turned around and touched the special book. She immediately felt a surge of electricity going through her body. The shelves seemed to grow in length and size. The girls disappeared, along with the shattered glass, all replaced by more bookshelves.
"Follow me," Cedric called.
As Elyon followed Cedric through the labyrinth of bookshelves, she couldn't help but be amazed by the vastness of the place. The shelves stretched as far as the eye could see, filled with an endless array of books of different sizes, colors, and titles. Each book seemed to hold a secret waiting to be discovered.
Cedric led Elyon deeper into the maze, his steps confident and purposeful. Occasionally, he would glance back to ensure that Elyon was keeping up. Elyon, in turn, tried to memorize every turn they took, every unique pattern of the bookshelves, in case she ever found herself back in this intriguing place.
"This place is a convergence of two worlds," Cedric explained. "The labyrinth acts as a gateway, connecting various locations on both Earth and Meridian. Each book represents an exit point to a specific place."
Elyon's eyes widened with fascination. "So, by choosing the right book, we can travel to different places?"
Cedric nodded. "Exactly. It takes some trial and error to navigate through the inversion point. But I have spent years exploring and mapping out the paths, so we should be able to find our way to the royal Castle in Meridian."
Elyon's heart skipped a beat at the mention of the royal Castle. She had always dreamed of uncovering her true identity and discovering her roots. The thought of stepping foot in the grandeur of the Castle filled her with a mix of excitement and trepidation.
The duo continued their journey, turning corners and weaving through the labyrinthine aisles. The soft glow of the bookshelves cast dancing shadows along the walls, creating an ethereal ambiance. Elyon couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building within her with each step they took.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity of winding through the maze, Elyon and Cedric stood before a particular book. It had an ornate cover, adorned with intricate golden designs. Elyon's heart skipped a beat as she realized that this was the book that would lead her to the royal Castle.
"Are you ready, Elyon?" he asked, looking at her with a mixture of concern and encouragement.
Elyon stood before the ancient book, her heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. She had come so far on this extraordinary journey, and now, with a deep breath, she was ready to take the next step. Her eyes, filled with determination, met Cedric's gaze as she declared, "Yes."
With a surge of confidence, Elyon reached out and placed her hand on the book's cover. As her fingers made contact with the book, a tingling sensation coursed through her, resonating with a powerful energy.
The world around Elyon transformed before her eyes. As the scene shifted, the familiar surroundings of the labyrinthine bookshop gave way to a grand corridor adorned with marble pillars, intricate tapestries, and exquisite chandeliers. The magnificence of the castle's architecture took her breath away.
"This is Meridian," Cedric said.
Elyon stepped forward, her footsteps echoing through the regal corridor. Her eyes darted across the intricate details of the walls, taking in the carved motifs and historical tapestries that lined the passageway. The air carried a hint of ancient history and a touch of magic, making her heart swell with a sense of awe and reverence.
As she ventured deeper into the castle, Elyon marveled at the grandeur that surrounded her. She passed by ornate doorways, their surfaces etched with symbols and sigils, whispering tales of forgotten legends. The castle seemed alive with echoes of its glorious past, each step she took immersing her further into a realm she had never imagined she would enter.
Elyon's gaze was drawn to the high ceilings adorned with intricately painted frescoes, depicting scenes of mythical creatures and epic battles. The soft glow of candlelight danced upon the walls, casting enchanting shadows that seemed to come alive with every flicker. The atmosphere was tinged with an air of mystery, as if the castle held secrets waiting to be unraveled.
"It can't be," a voice said. Elyon turned and saw a tall man standing alongside Cedric. He was wearing a long black robe with reddish brown accents on his sleeves and shoulders. He had bleached blonde hair which was kept in two extremely long braids. On his head he was wearing a narrow black crown which covered a small part of his forehead. He had red markings resembling arrows converging from the jewel that resided on the end of the crown.
"Elyon," Cedric began, "this is Prince Phobos. Your brother."
"I've waited so long," Phobos said, overjoyed. He got closer and hugged her. Elyon began to cry of joy.
"My brother," she said. "You're really my brother."
"Oh, there, there. Welcome to your kingdom," Phobos said. "You're finally home. This is your family." He gestured towards the portraits on the wall.
"All of them?" asked Elyon, amazed. "I can't believe it."
Phobos pointed towards one of the paintings. "Here is your Aunt Primrose."
"She looks really sweet," Elyon said.
"And this, this is your Uncle Reginald, your cousin Vivian."
"Wow," said Elyon. "Who are them?" she asked, pointing to a family portrait depicting a kid and his parents.
Phobos looked a little sad. "Those are our parents," he explained. "Queen Weira and Consort Zanden. They're both dead."
"Oh," said Elyon. "And the little kid is you?"
"Yes," Phobos said. "Come with me. I want to show you something."
Elyon followed Phobos to a room that was mostly empty except for a huge map. "This is your kindom," Phobos said. "There are three primary continents: "Azaro." He pointed to the west continent. "Valtorin." He pointed to the northeast continent. "And Thalassar." He pointed to the southeast continent. "We are here." He pointed to a southern point on Valtorin.
Elyon was amazed. "And it's all mine?"
"Yes," Phobos replied.
"I still can't believe my so-called friends kept all of this a secret," Elyon said.
"The Earth dwellers can be evil," Phobos said. "After our mother died giving birth to you and father disappeared, I had to claim the throne. However, that upset some of the people.
They've formed a Rebellion, convincing themselves that I was the problem. They tried to get to Earth, planning to convince the people of their cause. I raised the Veil to protect us from them. I have been maintaining it for over 13 years and it has grown old. Holes have begun opening in it.
The rebels stole you from me, hoping to sway you to their cause. Fortunately, Cedric found you before they did. The Rebels, however, got to your friends. They manipulated them into being their pawns. But you've been through enough for one day. Cedric, take her to her bedroom!"
Cedric led Elyon through the grand corridors of the castle, their footsteps echoing against the ornate walls. The air was filled with a sense of anticipation and wonder, mingled with a touch of melancholy. Elyon couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the revelations and emotions that had surged through her since stepping into Meridian.
They arrived at a pair of towering double doors adorned with intricate carvings. Cedric pushed them open, revealing a room fit for a princess. The chamber was spacious, with elegant tapestries hanging from the walls, depicting scenes of mythical creatures and ancient legends. The soft glow of candles cast a warm ambiance, illuminating the room with a gentle flickering light.
Elyon's eyes widened as she took in the lavish furnishings. A four-poster bed with rich velvet drapes stood against one wall, adorned with golden accents. The mattress looked incredibly inviting, promising a peaceful night's sleep. Nearby, a vanity table was adorned with delicate silver brushes and a golden-framed mirror. The room exuded an air of regality, reminding Elyon of the responsibilities that now rested upon her shoulders.
As she stepped further into the room, Elyon's gaze fell upon a large painting hanging above the fireplace. It depicted a majestic scene of Meridian, with its sparkling towers and vibrant landscapes. In the center stood Elyon's parents, their faces filled with love and warmth. It was a bittersweet sight, knowing that they were no longer alive to share this moment with her.
Cedric approached her. "This is your bedroom, Elyon. It was prepared for your return, even though we didn't know when that would be. It's a place where you can rest and gather strength, surrounded by the history of your kingdom."
Elyon nodded, her thoughts swirling with conflicting emotions. She felt grateful for Cedric's guidance and protection, but at the same time, she couldn't shake off the sense of betrayal from her friends back on Earth. How could they keep such a monumental secret from her? Did they not trust her with the truth?
As if sensing her inner turmoil, Cedric spoke softly. "I understand that you may be feeling a mix of emotions right now, Elyon. It's natural to feel hurt and betrayed, but remember that your friends were trying to protect you. They were misguided by the Rebellion, led to believe that they were doing what was best for you."
Elyon sighed, sinking onto the edge of the plush bed. "I know, Cedric. It's just hard to accept that everything I thought I knew was a lie. That the people I considered my friends, my parents, all were secretly involved in a rebellion against my own family."
Cedric approached her and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "It's a heavy burden to bear, but you are not alone, Elyon. Your brother, Prince Phobos, and I will stand by your side. Together, we will navigate the challenges ahead and reclaim the rightful throne of Meridian."
Elyon looked up at Cedric, her eyes filled with determination. "I won't let them succeed in their rebellion. I will bring justice and restore harmony to Meridian."
Cedric smiled warmly, proud of Elyon's newfound resolve. "I believe in you, Elyon. Rest now, for tomorrow is a new day filled with opportunities. We will face whatever comes our way, united as a family."
With a mixture of exhaustion and determination, Elyon climbed into the comfortable bed. She pulled the covers up to her chin, closing her eyes. It felt good being able to finally rest.
This was long one. And so begins Elyon's journey. Like I said, I have big plans for her. The show tried to portray a strained parent-child relationship with Elyon, but it ended up making Elyon seem stupid. She had more faith in a good looking stranger than in her own parents who were pretty decent. And her reaction to her parents' true form was a lot more mellow that a regular reaction to finding out that your parents were literal monsters all along.
So, I changed all of that. Elyon's parents are now hard on her, not because they're bad people, but because they are afraid she will turn out like Phobos if they don't make sure she behaves. Elyon is a lot more willing to trust them and only listens to Cedric after she saw her parents' true form.
Next is Chapter III: The Mudslugs