The Commute
In the magical kingdom of Elderglade, every morning, Wizard Elowen embarks on a daily commute like no other. Here’s a glimpse into her enchanting journey:
Elowen begins in her cozy hilltop cottage, nestled between towering pines, their needles glistening with morning dew that sparkles faintly with lingering enchantments from the night before. The sun barely peeks over the horizon as she steps onto her porch, wrapping herself in her deep blue cloak, embroidered with protective sigils and pockets that shimmer with enchanted items.
With a flick of her wrist, she summons her trusty broomstick, Starfeather, which has an elegant form and slight golden glow from decades of loyal service. She mutters an incantation, and Starfeather hovers obediently as she settles onto it, clutching her oak staff, a symbol of her rank and a conduit for her spells.
The first leg of her journey takes her through the Mistwood Grove, a mystical forest where trees whisper old secrets and wild creatures often observe her silently. As she glides between trees, she’s careful not to disturb the nesting phoenixes or to startle the shy sprites who tend the forest’s heart. Her cloak helps her blend in, shimmering like morning fog to keep her passage peaceful. Occasionally, she’ll spot a friendly dryad and exchange a brief nod or smile in greeting.
Emerging from the forest, Elowen follows the course of the River Lumin, which winds like a silver ribbon through the countryside. The river’s waters shimmer with latent magic, and it’s said that the goddess of the river grants safe passage to those who respect its flow. Elowen often sees river spirits frolicking, their laughter mingling with the sound of rushing water. She dips her staff respectfully as she passes over the river’s shimmering surface, honoring the goddess’s domain.
The next landmark is the Floating Peaks, a chain of suspended mountains held aloft by ancient enchantments. These mountains float at varying altitudes, some as high as clouds and others low enough to cast shadows over the nearby fields. Skilled wizards and witches use these peaks as shortcuts, and Elowen is no exception. She guides Starfeather through the air currents, skillfully weaving between the peaks while keeping an eye out for stray drakes or wayward sprites. Occasionally, she’ll stop at one of the floating platforms to gather rare herbs or enjoy the view of Elderglade’s vast landscapes below.
As Elowen descends past the Floating Peaks, she enters the bustling city of Astra’s Reach, the kingdom’s heart and home to the Arcane Conclave, where she works. Astra’s Reach is a city brimming with magic: cobblestone streets hum with enchantments that keep them clean, and enchanted lanterns float overhead, casting a warm glow in the early morning haze. The citizens, a lively mix of humans, elves, dwarves, and other magical beings, nod respectfully as Elowen sweeps by on her broomstick. Shopkeepers in the magical district prepare their wares, displaying enchanted crystals, rare spell ingredients, and glistening potions for sale.
Finally, she arrives at the Arcane Conclave, a grand spire that seems to pierce the sky, radiating light and arcane energy. Elowen touches down at the entrance, greeted by two imposing stone golems who guard the Conclave’s gates. They bow slightly as she passes, recognizing her as a senior wizard. She steps into the grand hall, ready to begin her work for the day—whether it be teaching young apprentices, consulting the ancient tomes of the library, or researching new spells for the kingdom’s protection.
As she begins her day, she can’t help but look forward to her return journey, knowing the world of Elderglade will again greet her with all its wonders and mysteries.