The Original Realm

Luke barely had time to process the weight of Sylveria's declaration when Aldric grumbled beside him, his fur bristling with impatience. "Alright, boy, time to get moving. Can't have you loafing around here while the world burns."

Before Luke could ask what Aldric meant, the ball of fluff launched himself at Luke's chest, sending him tumbling backward—through the shattered opening of the grand hall.

"Wait! What are you doing—"

Luke's protests were cut short as he plummeted.

The streets of Sylvera rushed up to meet him, but before he could hit the ground, a firm hand caught him by the collar, halting his fall with an almost casual strength. He blinked in confusion, coming face-to-face with Sylveria.

"You're lucky I'm in the habit of cleaning up Aldric's messes," she said coolly, releasing him to stand on his feet.

Luke stumbled but regained his balance, looking around in astonishment. It wasn't just Sylveria standing before him—there were more Sylverias. Clones of her patrolled the streets, some dressed as guards with gleaming silver armor, others tending to administrative tasks with quills and scrolls. Each one moved with purpose, a seamless part of the city's rhythm.

"What... What is this?" Luke asked, staring wide-eyed.

Sylveria smirked. "Simply my ability. It's efficient, isn't it?"

Before he could reply, she handed him a small pouch. He shook it, hearing the satisfying jingle of coins.

"What's this for?"

"You're going to need it," she said, adjusting her cloak. "Think of it as your allowance while you explore the kingdom. Don't squander it."

Luke pondered. "Won't people recognize me as human?"

Sylveria's expression turned amused. "Recognize you as what? To the people of Athereon, humans are gone. You're no more remarkable than an elf dressing as a knight for a festival. To everyone here, you'll look like someone playing a game of make-believe."

Luke wasn't sure whether to feel relieved or insulted, but before he could decide, Sylveria waved him off. "Go. Take in the sights. But don't cause trouble—or draw too much attention. Aldric will find you when it's time."

With a curt gesture, one of her clones pointed toward the bustling streets, ushering him along.

The elven kingdom of Sylvera was a marvel. As Luke wandered, he couldn't help but marvel at its beauty and intricacy. Elevated pathways and spiraling bridges connected homes and businesses built into towering trees. The sound of chatter, laughter, and trade filled the air, blending harmoniously with the gentle rustling of leaves.

He saw dwarves bartering with elves over gemstones and mechanical trinkets, abnormals showcasing exotic goods from distant lands, and skilled artisans crafting delicate jewelry or weaving enchanted fabrics. Despite his initial nervousness, Luke found that most people paid him little mind, save for a few curious glances.

"Humans are gone, huh?" he muttered to himself. The thought was strangely freeing.

As he wandered, Luke spotted a cozy-looking shop nestled between two towering oak structures. The faint scent of baked goods wafted from its open window, and he made his way toward it, his stomach rumbling.

Before he could step inside, a blur of motion caught his attention.

"Hey, watch out—"

An elf girl with golden hair barreled into him, sending them both tumbling to the ground.

Luke groaned, rubbing the back of his head. "You alright?"

The girl scrambled to her feet, brushing dirt off her simple yet elegant tunic. "I'm so sorry! I wasn't looking where I was going." Her voice was light and hurried, her brown eyes darting nervously. "I have to go!"

Before Luke could respond, she darted away, disappearing into the crowd.

Shaking his head, he stood and dusted himself off, reaching for the coin pouch Sylveria had given him.

It was gone.

Realization dawned.

"That little—"

Luke broke into a sprint, weaving through the bustling streets after the girl. His eyes scanned the crowd, spotting flashes of her golden hair as she ducked and darted through alleys and market stalls.

"Hey! Get back here!"

The girl glanced back at him, a faint smirk playing on her lips as she quickened her pace.

Luke clenched his fists. "Great. First Aldric throws me out of a building, and now I'm getting robbed."