Maxxob
The Overseer

A vibrant bustle envelops Cliffrose Glade, the heart of this year’s Harvest Festival in the See of Fae. Leafy garlands stretch between branches overhead, forming a canopy of flickering lanterns. Beneath their glow, elves, gnomes, and other fae folk traverse wooden walkways grown directly from the twisting roots. Tiny sun-sprites—motes of shimmering light—dart among the crowd, occasionally settling on someone’s shoulder before fluttering off again.
Amice walks alongside Asuka and Tahmuras, both clearly relieved and excited to be at the festival. Asuka, with her delicate swanlike neck and crest of opalescent feathers tinged in blues and violets, shimmers under the afternoon sun, casting gentle, protective glances at the young gnome whenever the crowd swells. She keeps a reassuring wing on Amice’s shoulder—as if to ensure the girl remains close—her plumage shifting with a faint iridescent sheen at every turn.
Tahmuras, on the other hand, seems entirely at ease. His two-toned fur, a swirl of vibrant reds and soft white, bristles with alertness around his tall fox ears, and a playful grin appears whenever he spots a vendor selling sweet pastries or fruit wines. With a chuckle, he points out a booth where a stooped gnome is ladling hot cider from a steaming cauldron into wooden cups, the scent of spiced apples drifting across the walkway. An ornamental gemstone rests on his brow, catching the festival lights as he tilts his head to speak.
Ahead lies the festival’s main square, where vines and flowers coil around living arches, guiding revelers deeper into the throng. Stalls are laden with exotic produce from across the See of Fae: glowing mushrooms, succulent berries the size of an infant’s fist, and artfully carved gourds shaped like mythical creatures. A gentle breeze carries the aroma of honey and freshly baked bread through the air.
Asuka leans closer to Amice, her warm voice tinged with excitement. “There are so many people here this year—how are you feeling, dear? Not too overwhelmed?” The faint tremor in her tone betrays just how closely she has been watching over the girl’s well-being.
Tahmuras sniffs the air and speaks in a low, amused rumble. “This crowd is exactly what Amice needs—some fun, some music, maybe a chance to share a tale or two from her adventures.” He winks at her, half-teasing but undeniably proud.
As they step further into the square, Asuka gestures toward a quiet seating area under the sprawling branches of an ancient ember-bloom tree, its golden flowers faintly aglow. Wooden benches carved directly from the roots encircle the tree, providing a cozy retreat away from the festival’s busiest lanes. “Let’s find a spot to sit,” she suggests softly, her eyes alight with both concern and eagerness. “I’d love to hear all about what happened on your adventure. You’ve been through so much—I’ve been dying to know every detail.”
Tahmuras grins and nudges Amice lightly with his elbow. “You heard her, kiddo. Let’s grab a seat. I’ve been patient, but I’m not letting you keep us in suspense any longer.” His voice carries a playful tone, but the glint of genuine curiosity in his eyes makes it clear he’s been waiting for this moment.
The benches under the ember-bloom tree provide a view of the bustling festival, with its bright stalls and swirling dancers just beyond. It’s the perfect place to share stories, surrounded by the quiet hum of magic and the gentle warmth of the tree’s golden glow.