Chapter 1: The Ceremony
Maila looked at herself in the mirror. She sighed at the bags under her eyes, which were already fading as she just finished drinking her morning herbal tea. It always calmed her nerves and gave her energy, removing the bags under her eyes. She smiled gently at her image, puffing out her chest and doing a power stance, folding her arms over her chest, her face assertive, her stance dominant. She giggled at her childish behaviour and stepped away from the mirror.
Maila was happy with how she looked; as were most Stelrid. She had pale and flawless skin, with forest green eyes that seemed especially bright that morning, as well as shoulder length platinum blonde hair. Her tattoo was going to be on her shoulder, which was bare, her jacket being on her bed. She was average height of 5'5 and had large pointed ears that reached up to the top of her forehead, and also a sharp, pointed nose.
Her clothing was the standard practice uniform, a black tank top with mint green leggings and leather boots and belt. She wore a sheathed dagger which was strapped to her thigh and wore black gloves trimmed with gold and green diamond and swirl designs, matched with leaf embroidery for her nature element.
Overall, her beauty was average. She wasn't too full in all areas, but was physically healthy, and that was all that mattered.
Satisfied with herself, she grabbed her cape and clipped it into place, walking out of her room and closing the door behind her.
She walked down multiple stairs, descending down the spire, and walking towards the Great Hall of the Time Yard Palace, where she lived. Maila's father was the captain of the Royal Guard of the Nature Sector, where all nature Stelrid lived, and today she was to take his place, finally finishing her extensive training and fulfilling her dream.
She walked up to the Great Hall doors, the butterflies in her stomach not dissipating as she expected. If anything, they got worse, and she cursed her tea for not having strong enough herbs. She waited for the guards to open the doors, and once they did, she released a breath she didn't know she was holding.
The Great Hall was indeed grand, with tall walls and intricately carved ceilings which adorned breathtaking crystal chandeliers. There were large stained glass windows which contained the four original monarchs, leading up to the four Elemental Gods. There were rows of Carawood Tree benches, which had a lovely caramel color, hence their name, which were decorated with bows and flowers of the regal colors. There was a single seaweed green velvet carpet leading up to the altar, with miniscule gold trim, one inch from each edge.
It was beautiful.
At once, each Stelra who attended stood up and faced the front, and Maila began walking forward. It was tradition to wear training uniform to humble the Stelra going through the ceremony, remind them that they are receiving a gift from their Elemental God.
Maila reached the altar where her father, her Queen, her best friend (second in command of the guards) stood, along with a few other important politicians stood. She bowed down in respect and the Queen allowed each guest to sit. Maila remained still. The Queen looked at her and smiled, beginning the ceremony.
"Today's gathering is one of utmost importance, one of service, loyalty, and courage. Our blessed child, Malia Faise, has been training significantly to fill the role of her retiring father, Laun Faise, in becoming the sworn protector of our land. She has been guided by Naidi, the Goddess of Life, to protect those who we love and shall swear to be loyal to not only our land and people, but also the responsibility that comes with it.
Maila, repeat the words of the Oath;
I, Maila, swear to protect the Land that I, and all others who reside in it, Love, and shall put my life before my kingdom. I swear that no matter the costs, I shall find the courage to spread our legacy, and shall not be led by corruption or bloodshed but instead by honesty and truth."
Maila repeated the words, each word filling her with power and certainty, the butterflies fading. The Queen placed her hand on Maila's shoulder and chanted a couple of words, a light erupting from Maila's shoulder which was once again bare.
Maila instantly crumpled to the floor, gasping in agony. Her shoulder erupted in pain, and she held back screams as her vision was blurred by countless tears. After a few minutes she was left on the floor, gasping in pain, her eyes drooping in fatigue. Fighting against the instinct of immediately collapsing of exhaustion, Maila summoned enough energy to stand up, her shoulder baring a magnificent seafoam green leaf tattoo, surrounded by gorgeous gold designs.
The Queen smiled at her and took her chin in her hand.
"Go, rest child, for in the evening we are to celebrate."
The Queen stepped back and Maila's maid, Talia, stepped up to help Maila to her room in the spire.Mailed smiled and waved weakly at everyone that had gathered as she left the room, releasing a sigh of relief when the doors behind her closed.
The trek up the stairs was long and quiet and once the two girls finally reached Maila's room, Talia spoke up.
"How are you feeling?" Talia had a look of worry on her face which didn't compliment her features well.
Maila laughed quietly and looked at Talia.
"Tal, I'm fine, I promise."
Talia visibly relaxed and puffed out Maila's cushions, taking the duvet off and gently helping Maila into bed. Her eyes flickered to the new branded tattoo that adorned Maila's shoulder.
"Does it still hurt?"
"No, I'm just tired."
Talia nodded and covered her close friend with the duvet, closing the curtains and lighting a single candle on Maila's desk.
"If you need anything, give out a shout, I'll wake you up for the party. Sleep well!"
Talia walked out, and Maila fell asleep in seconds.
CREATORS' THOUGHTS 
Cupcakelover821
Cupcakelover821 Hello! Thank you for reading this chapter, I hope you like it <3 I wanted a soft start to the story so I hope it doesn't come off as too dramatic! If you want any info about the Stelrid, comment and I'll edit this note to add some info!
Please vote and comment if you enjoyed! ^^
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