Elowen
In times of need, the Corvian Riders can call upon the ancient powers of their forest homeland to cast protective enchantments, creating shimmering barriers of light that shield the city from the malevolent influence of the Shadowfell. Their unique magic, combined with the crows' watchful eyes, ensures that the city remains a bastion of light in a world threatened by darkness.
The relationship between the Corvian Riders and their guardian crows is not just one of duty but also one of deep respect and mutual trust. Together, they stand as a symbol of unity, showing that even the smallest beings can make a profound difference in the battle against evil.
Her name was Elowen, and she was known as the "Lightbearer of the Skies." Few years ago Elowen, together with her corvus Wingsong sensed the growing power of Shadowfell, but the Corvian Riders didn't have enough power to oppose it in their full power. So she flew away, to the ancient elven temple, to seek the wisdom of dusk. Her closest friend, her right hand, partner in all the risky adventures since their early childhood, Finnawan had to find her when the Shadowfell's breakthrough was nigh.
Nestled amidst the ebony feathers of his guardian crow, Finnawan was looking down for the signs of their sacred temple. While only white corvus riders had the right to stay there to learn the magic and wisdom of ancient generations, all the elves knew the signs that showed its current place. The temple was often changing location, traveling along the power lines of the continent from one natural power knot to another. It took Finnawan a while to find it, but now he knew he was close.
Finnawan found Elowen practicing mirroring magic on the roof of the temple's highest tower. He jumped from his crow's back and let his feathered friend leave. Wingsong cried her greetings from the height, calling Featherblade to join her.
Elowen looked absorbed in her meditation, but Finnawan knew she was aware of his presence and will soon return from her mind's mysterious travel.
The white crow rider, although belonging to the people of dusk, was said to have the ability to channel the purest form of light magic, which was a stark contrast to the darkness of the Shadowfell. This light magic had the potential to counteract the dark magic used by the malevolent force.
The Corvian Riders and their guardian crows encountered a significant problem when the malevolent force of the Shadowfell intensified its efforts to breach the city's defenses. The Shadowfell, in its relentless pursuit of darkness and despair, began to employ powerful dark magic that disrupted the magical connection between the tiny elves and the crows.
This disruption in communication made it increasingly difficult for the Corvian Riders to coordinate their efforts and respond swiftly to threats from the Shadowfell. It also weakened their ability to cast protective enchantments, leaving the city more vulnerable to the encroaching darkness.
The first white crow rider, a legendary figure among the Corvian Riders, possessed a unique and ancient power that could potentially aid in overcoming the Shadowfell's interference and restoring the connection between the tiny elves and their guardian crows.
Half an hour later, Elowen opened her eyes, large and glimmering, jumped up lightly and hugged Finnawan. He could tell from the strength of her hug that she missed him as much as he did miss her. Something in the way she clenched her arms around him however told him she was deeply worried.
She looked at him and whispered, sorrow in her voice: "the Shadowbinder was released"...
Original watercolor painting. Second part of the diptych. Painted in 2019.
