Not cod related- but something Iâve been working on for awhile.
( though I am down to change it to anyoneâs favorite cod character. Like swap the male lead for Gaz, Soap, Ghost, Price, etc )
Iâm trying to improve my writing, character development and world building so this is just a rough draft, I guess?
I suck with dialogue so forgive me.
( not proofread or edited.)
Leaning against the balcony, high above the city of Moththorn, I am struck by its frozen beauty. The streets below stretch for hundreds of miles, each building and corner emitting a soft, ethereal glow in the darkness of nightfall. Despite the storm brewing above, the city remains untouched, as if protected by a veil of magic. My slender index finger traces along the rough stone siding of the balcony as I gaze towards the distant mountains. The purple lightning dances around them, caged and contained only to strike the mountain's peak. It's odd how such intense storms never touch our city within the golden walls; not a single bolt of lightning has ever touched its sacred grounds.
I've asked my mother, Queen Azola, about it but she skirts around the question, warning me sternly to keep it away from my father.
"We could be cursed," I mumble to myself as I turn back towards my chambers. Suddenly, the wind picks up, whipping my hair and gown around me. My head snaps up and I hold my hair out of my face, looking towards the mountains. Don't ask me to explain it, but I know that mountain is somehow involved in everything.
That's when I see it - or at least, I think I do. Blinking rapidly, I try to convince myself that it's just my mind playing tricks on me. But no, as I squint my eyes, I can clearly make out a giant pair of red eyes on the side of the mountain. Like a giant bonfire amidst the darkness, casting an eerie light over the land.
Gasping in shock, my hands fall to my sides as I stare at those mysterious eyes. I've seen them before.
"What are you?" I whisper softly, wishing desperately that I could speak to whatever is behind them. Are these eyes the reason why lightning only strikes this mountain?
And just as quickly as they appeared, the eyes vanish like a fire doused with water.
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Days have passed since I saw the eyes, keeping what I witnessed to myself as I don't trust anyone. Father would storm the mountain, waging war on whatever beast resides there- and I don't want that, I don't wish harm upon it.
I walk down the candle lit corridor towards the library-the restricted library. To search for answers, since no one else is eager to answer them.
My family is hiding something, and I refuse to be another clueless princess sitting atop her castle. My emerald green eyes hold a fierce determination, one which I'm sure mother would scold me for. 'princesses should look sweet, never fierce. Keep those eyes like a doe child, must I repeat myself'. I recall one of her many lectures and scoff to myself. A proper princess I will never be.
The air in the restricted library was thick with dust, making me sneeze the moment I stepped inside. I glanced around at the towering bookshelves filled with ancient tomes and scrolls, feeling a thrill of both excitement and trepidation. The answer to the mystery of the mountain must be hidden somewhere within these walls.
I approached a particularly weathered bookshelf, running my fingers along the spines of the books until I found one that seemed to call out to me. It was an old leather-bound volume with intricate golden lettering on the cover. As I opened it, the pages emitted a soft glow, illuminating the room in an otherworldly light. That's strange, all spell bound books should be in a case. My interest grows, eager for an unknown reason.
The text inside written in a language I donât t recognize, but as my eyes scanned the words, they began to shift and change before me. Slowly, the letters transformed into a language I could understand. What the hell. but before I could read them, the sound of guards outside the door makes me snap the book shut, and I hide beside a bookshelf.
I grumble under my breath about the monstrous dresses my mother insists I wear, pulling the fabric closer to me in an attempt to hide it from view. "That's it, I'm making a wardrobe change. I look like a goofy clown".
My heart skips a beat as the guard's footsteps halt at the door. Standing there for what feels like eternity.
I exhale sharply when the sound of the footsteps fades, and the doorknob remains untouched. As I catch my breath, I lean against a nearby shelf, my gaze trailing down to the book in my hands. It's oddly warm, but not burning me.
The book seemed to hum with a faint energy, as if urging me to open it once again and delve into its secrets. And, with cautious curiosity, I cracked it open, my eyes widening in surprise as the pages shifted once more to reveal a map unlike any I had ever seen. It depicted the city of Moththorn, the surrounding lands, and the mountains in exquisite detail.
But what caught my attention most were the intricate markings around the mountain that had the mysterious red eyes. Symbols and runes adorned the area, pulsating with a soft light that seemed to match the rhythm of my own heartbeat.
As I studied the map intently, a whisper of wind brushed against my skin, carrying with it a soft, melodic hum that seemed to resonate from the very pages of the book. The symbols on the map began to glow brighter, guiding my eyes to a hidden passage inscribed in elegant script at the edge of the page.
"In the heart of the mountain where shadows dance,
Lies a secret older than time's endless trance.
Beneath the red eyes that watch and wait,
A dragon sleeps, guarding Moththorn's fate."
My breath caught in my throat as I read the cryptic words, my mind racing with a mixture of fear and exhilaration. A dragon, here in Moththorn? Could it be possible that the creature behind those fiery eyes was not a curse, but a protector of our city, warding off the storms and keeping us safe all this time? " is it protecting us, or protecting something else?" I mumble to myself, eyes narrowing as my mind races.
Determined to uncover the truth, I close the book gently and tuck it into the folds of my dress before stepping out
I quickly race down the corridor, straight to my chambers.
After checking that there are no maids nearby, I lock my door and head to the balcony. Settling into a chair, I retrieve the book. It's not as warm as before, and the glowing has diminished significantly, but as soon as I open it, the glow returns. This time, the pages transform into a new map, one that I can guess reveals the mysteries inside the mountain.
The map before me was intricate, filled with winding passageways and hidden chambers marked by ancient symbols. My heart raced with anticipation as I traced the intricate lines with my finger, following the path that led deep into the heart of the mountain.
As I studied the map intently, a sudden gust of wind swept through the balcony, causing the pages to flutter wildly. In the chaos, a faint whisper seemed to echo in my mind, guiding me towards a specific chamber marked with a swirling symbol that seemed to pulse with an otherworldly light.
I look up at the mountain, my heart pounding. â are you trying to show me something?â I whisper to the mountain, as if itâll answer my question. My eyes fall back onto the pages and I do my best to memorize them, taking mental notes to write down later.
As I flip through the pages, the words rearrange themselves in front of my eyes so that I can read them aloud. "The dragon, Zephyr, is known for his black and red scales in his Draconic form, symbolizing his high rank among the dragon race. Among his many powers are lightning and fire." I continue reading and learn that there is still more to discover about Zephyr's abilities.
My attention then shifts to a description of his immense height, towering over even the western tower. I shudder at the thought of how much bigger he must be compared to me. I'm not even the size of his toe-if he has any. Trying to shake off the fear, I return my focus to the book, only to see the words stop glowing and returning to their original language. Disappointed, I frown at the book in my hands.
I stand up slowly, my fingers tightly grasping the book as my mind begins to race with possibilities. "Draconic form," I whisper under my breath. Could he really have a different form, one that is human? My thoughts run wild, jumping from theory to theory as I try to make sense of even the smallest clue.
In a frenzy, I hastily hide the book in my closet, shoving it beneath an old box filled with forgotten childhood toys. I rush out of my chambers, realizing how late it has become. Surely my mother must be searching for me by now, ready to drag me to dinner. I'm sure she'll have something snide to say once I arrive.
As I approach the door to the dining hall, I nod at the guards stationed there, forcing a smile onto my lips despite the turmoil within. The doors swing open and I step inside, the warm scents of food and candlelight greeting me.
My mother's sneer greets me as I walk into the room. "How nice of you to finally grace us with your presence, Elysian." Her sarcastic tone is all too familiar, and I wish I could make myself deaf to it. I quickly take a seat. "Sorry, mother." I glance at my father, who is engrossed in whatever he's reading on his paper. It's not unusual for him to be preoccupied. "I'll have Mary meet you in the morning, so you can purchase a dress for the ball." my mother announces. My eyebrows furrow in confusion. "A ball?"
My mother's smile is anything but warm. "Yes, the annual Harvest Ball. Surely you haven't forgotten, Elysian." Her eyes bore into mine, daring me to argue. "You will dress appropriately and behave accordingly. Your father and I will not tolerate any more of your rebellious antics."
I mask my frustration with a forced smile, nodding obediently as I pick at the food on my plate. The idea of attending a ball in the midst of all these revelations about Zephyr feels like a cruel joke. How could I possibly pretend that everything is normal when my world has been turned upside down by the secrets hidden within the mountain?
As dinner drags on, filled with idle chatter and my mother's pointed remarks, I find myself counting down the seconds until I can escape to my chambers once more. The weight of the book hidden in my closet feels like a heavy secret pressing against my chest, demanding to be explored further.
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the morning comes quickly, far quicker than I want. The only delight of this morning is me giving Mary the slip as I sneak into a dress shop on my own. I giggle quietly to myself, feeling clever.
I race over to the first dress I set my eyes on, a stunning black evening gown with a striking mermaid silhouette. The dress features a strapless, sweetheart neckline bodice that is intricately adorned with delicate black lace and embroidered red roses, extends down to the hips, where it gracefully transitions into a voluminous skirt.
The skirt is the true showstopper of the gown, crafted from a luxurious black fabric and embellished with large, lifelike roses add a touch of romance and femininity.
I canât possibly find a better dress.
My eyes all but turn into hearts. I wave the staff down, and immediately try on the dress.
As the dress hugs my curves perfectly, I can't help but twirl around in front of the mirror, the skirt swirling around me like a dark cloud. The black lace and red roses make me feel powerful and alluring, a stark contrast to the demure gowns my mother always picks out for me. This is the kind of dress that demands attention, that commands the room.
A mischievous smile plays on my lips as I decide then and there that this is the dress I will wear to the Harvest Ball. No more playing by my mother's rules, no more blending into the background. Tonight, I will stand out, a rose among wilted flowers.
Excitement bubbles in my chest as I quickly pay for the dress and make my way back to the palace. Mary finding me along the way, lightly scolding me for running off.
As soon as I'm safely in my chambers, I carefully hide the gown in the back of my closet, ready to don it later when everyone else is distracted by the festivities.
Until then, I snatch the book out from its hiding place. plopping down in my closet to read it, the book glows to life, growing warmer in my hands. I smile, â What shall we learn today?â
I open the book, instantly greeted with pages full of context on Zephyr. How long heâs lived, the destruction he waged against countless kingdoms and villages. â So, most certainly not a protector of all kingdoms, huhâ. Honestly, how scary. Such a beast of destruction is only a mountain away from home.
I flip the page, â His mother and Father, King Luther and Queen Abrella of MothThornâ I pause, eyes narrowing. â MothThorn? how long ago was this? mother said our family has always ruled this kingdomâ.
I desperately read more, growing more confused by each word.
"My lady, it's time to prepare for the ball," Mary's voice startles me as I quickly shut my book and tuck it away. "I'll be there in a moment!" I call out. My thoughts are in disarray and my feet stumble as I try to process everything. If Zephyr, the dragon, is from this kingdom and his parents were the rulers, then why are my parents the ones on the throne? Why is he not ruling his own kingdom?
"Hurry, my lady. Time is running short," Mary urges in her usual impatient tone. I grumble as I stomp out of the closet with my dress in hand. I forcefully pull the door open. "Help me put on this dress and then go. Don't dare tell my mother what I am wearing." I twirl around before she has a chance to voice her objections.
So help me Mary, if you utter a word to my mother I will offer you as a snack to the dragon.
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The guards escort me to the ball room, where crowds of people have already gathered. I peer down at them from atop the stairs, noticing how the music stops when they notice my presence. Peoples heads turning, women gasping.
Iâm sure mother is chapped about my dress. probably will storm up, demanding I change.
I slowly walk down the stairs, my dress trailing elegantly behind me. I offer a polite smile, â evening, ladies and gentlemen. I hope the ball is to your liking?â my voice, soaked in fake sweetness makes my insides churn. I am dodging this ball the first moment I get.
they bow to me, returning my smile with ones of their own. â itâs wonderful, my ladyâ
my eyes drift across the room, spotting my mother tossing snakes at me with her glare. I can almost taste the distain from here.
I excuse myself, walking towards my mother. oh iâm too sober for this. and by some grace of the gods, a waiter passes by with a tray of glasses, filled with bourbon. â excuse meâ
I snatch one off the tray, tossing it back before grabbing another. â thank youâ.
"So, this is how you choose to behave at a royal ball, Elysian?" My mother's voice cuts through the air sharply, her disapproval evident in every syllable. I simply smile sweetly, the alcohol warming my insides and emboldening me. "Just enjoying the festivities, mother," I reply casually, taking another sip of bourbon. "I thought it might make things more bearable." Her eyes narrow, but before she can respond, a commotion erupts on the other side of the room.
The event had barely begun, but two drunken men were already brawling. I couldn't help but roll my eyes at their predictable behavior. As the palace guards dragged them away, I took advantage of the distraction to slip away from my mother's watchful eye. I thanked the men silently for providing me with an opportunity to escape her constant scrutiny.
A deep voice startles me from behind "My lady, you look stunning tonight." I turn around, trying to compose myself before facing Jared, the man who is determined to make me his wife. âHello, Jared,â I say coldly, not hiding my lack of warmth towards him.
Honestly, who could blame me? this guy is obnoxious and a peeping tom.
Refusing to linger for his foolishness, I pivot on my heel and stride away. Snatching up another glass of bourbon, I slip out into the lush garden, already feeling a slight buzz from my earlier indulgences. The air is thick with the scent of roses, their vibrant red petals beckoning me forward. As I pass by, my fingers graze their delicate blooms, only to be pricked by their sharp thorns in protest. My gaze lifts upwards to the sky, marveling at the dark canvas strewn with billowing clouds that seem almost within reach. My longing intensifies as I imagine running my hands through their softness, if only it were possible
I take another sip, the first real smile of the day is when iâm looking up at the sky.
â Whatâs a pretty Devil like yourself doing out here alone?â. The voice was rough and deep, sending a shiver down my spine. I turn to face the source, my eyes adjusting to the dimly lit part of the garden. There stood a stranger, cloaked in shadows. âWho are you calling a Devil?â I snapped back, my glare piercing through the darkness. The nerve of men, the audacity to speak whatever nonsense crosses their tiny minds.
As he stepped into the light, my breath caught in my throat. His hair was as dark as the night sky above us, contrasting sharply with his intense golden eyes that seemed to hold your soul captive. His towering figure was sculpted and powerful, straining against the confines of his black and red tuxedo. It was as if he were a lion trapped in sheep's clothing.
The air around us crackled with tension, our gazes locked in an unspoken challenge.
âyouâ. oh my god, my heart. I havenât had that much to drink, right?
He smirked, a devilish gleam in his eyes as he closed the distance between us. His presence was intoxicating, drawing me in like a moth to a flame. I could feel the heat radiating off his body, and my cheeks flushed with both embarrassment and desire. "You're a feisty one, aren't you?" he remarked, his voice like smooth velvet against my skin. I fought to compose myself, refusing to let this stranger unravel me with just a few words.
"And you're quite bold for approaching a lady uninvited," I retorted, trying to maintain a semblance of control over the situation. But deep down, an unfamiliar thrill coursed through me at the dangerous edge he exuded.
His laughter rang out in the quiet garden, sending a flock of birds into the night sky. "Forgive me, my lady. But when I saw you standing here, bathed in moonlight with fire in your eyes, I couldn't resist." His
I huff, backing away to earn myself some space. every alarm in my head going off but for different things.
â canât blame a lady for enjoying the nightâ. really? is that the best I can offer? get a grip Elysian.
â Who are you? guests are not allowed in the garden unless personally requestedâ. I fight myself to speak confidently.
He steps closer, just barely. His eyes locking with mine, the gold rings in his eyes shine brighter than anything else iâve ever seen.
â you did request me, princessâ. if possible, his voice grew deeper. sending a chill down my spine.
â I did no such thing. iâve never requested anyones presence before, so why would I start now?â I bite back. and for some reason, my eyes drift over to the mountain, noticing the lack of lightning surrounding it. thatâs strange, iâve never seen it so calm before.
He gave me a sly grin, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "I am Zephyr, my lady. And I assure you, I have a special invitation tonight." My heart skipped a beat at the mention of his name. Zephyr, the very same dragon prince who had disrupted my world with his mere presence. My mind raced with questions, but I knew better than to trust him so easily. It can't really be him, right? Why show up now.
"Zephyr," I repeated slowly, testing the name on my tongue. The golden rings in his eyes fade to a darker color when I say it. "What brings you here, uninvited?" His gaze softened, a flicker of something unreadable passing through his golden eyes. "Curiosity led me here, Elysian. I wished to see the woman who dares to defy convention and stand out among the sheep." His words sent a thrill down my spine, and I fought to keep my composure.
"Well, you've seen her. Now leave before you cause more trouble," I replied sharply.
I almost regret my words, a part of me not wanting him to leave.
â why come out now? does anyone else know youâre here? The red eyes from the mountain- that was you?â question after question leaves my lips before I can stop it. Nervously, my fingers come up to pick at my dress. Way to make a spectacle of yourself.
Zephyr's grin widened at my barrage of questions, clearly amused by my sudden curiosity. "Yes, that was me," he confirmed, his voice tinged with a hint of pride. "And to answer your other inquiries, no one else knows I'm here. I have a way of moving in the shadows, undetected by prying eyes." His eyes sparkled with mischief.
I should be terrified, but instead, I found myself drawn to the danger he represented. His presence was electrifying, sending a thrill through me that I hadn't experienced before.
"Why reveal yourself now?" I pressed, my voice barely above a whisper as if afraid to break the spell we were both under.
Zephyr's expression shifted, his gaze intense as he studied me for a moment before answering. "Because someone is trying to take what belongs to meâ.
the kingdom? his kingdom? is he finally coming to destroy us?. I furrow my brows as my mind races for answer. â the kingdom?â I finally ask, ripping the proverbial bandaid off.
His eyes scan the garden and castle before landing back on me. A chill runs down my spine as a gust of wind hits.
â No, though it is mine. Iâm talking about something-someone elseâ.
