The search

For millennia, the clash between humans and supernaturals has been an inevitable reality. My father, Dracula, a stalwart among the immortals, waged a relentless battle for the greater good—a struggle that spanned five hundred years, culminating in what we believed to be peace. But tranquility was short-lived with the arrival of the imperishables.

This conflict not only fractured power and unity but also predates the division among supernaturals. From the shadows emerged a faction, an alliance of supernaturals who, long before division took root, joined forces with humans. Among them, the faithful descendants of the SEEKERS, blessed by their creator Michael, wielded unparalleled powers bestowed upon them by the father of the first order of supernaturals.

Their mandate was clear: to broker peace and forge unity through this unlikely alliance. Thus, they birthed the council of supernaturals—a harmonious amalgamation of the venerable first order and the compliant yet formidable imperishables.

As time unfurled, a prophecy anew unfolded, casting the destiny of all—supernatural and mundane alike—upon the slender shoulders of my sister, Emma Stone. Leading the rebels against our Mother, the progenitor of the imitators, she carved a path to victory. Yet, our triumph proved but a prelude, for a fresh prophecy emerged, unveiling the specter of a looming malevolence.

Now, as the supernaturals ascend once more, a new alliance beckons, guided by the echoes of our illustrious forebears and the hand of our creator, the esteemed descendant of Michael. It falls upon him to uphold the legacy left by my late sister, ensuring that her noble efforts endure, fostering harmony among all.

Liliana's voice echoed in the wind as she spoke, her words carrying the weight of uncertainty. "For I feared that this may be the last of humanity's hope," she uttered before leaping from the highest skyscraper, landing gracefully on her feet, unscathed.

Twenty-five years elapsed, ushering in an era of enlightenment within a civilized school, where Professor Hamilton imparted knowledge of bygone ages to his eager students.

"History!" boomed Professor Hamilton, his voice commanding attention. "What significance does history hold for you?" he inquired, prompting a spontaneous response from a young female student named Cecilia. Her raised hand, an unexpected gesture, drew the professor's keen interest.

"Very good, Cecilia. Well said," replied Professor Hamilton, his approval evident in his tone.

"History," he continued, his voice rich with wisdom, "is a lesson woven into the fabric of life itself—a tapestry of experiences from the past guiding us through the present. It serves as a bridge to our heritage, illuminating both the known and the enigmatic. Through history, we gain insight into the essence of humanity, fostering a deeper understanding among us all. It is the timeless connection binding every individual who has trodden the earth, transcending mere moments recorded in textbooks."

Professor Hamilton's words resonated with his students, underscoring the profound significance of history in shaping our collective narrative.

Professor Hamilton's voice grew animated as he delved deeper into the mysteries of history.

"Indeed, there are countless histories waiting to be unearthed," he exclaimed, his eyes alight with curiosity. "From the ancient tales of Jerusalem to the enigmatic civilization of Babylon, and even beyond to the prehistoric epochs of early humanity."

"But amidst these chronicles lies one particularly captivating saga—the history of Aougst town," Professor Hamilton continued, his voice tinged with intrigue. "This town, shrouded in myth and legend, straddles the line between prehistory and posthistory, with many still believing it to exist in our present time. A place teeming with supernaturals, it is said to be the domain of Dracula himself, the progenitor of all vampires among the immortals."

"Legend has it," he added, leaning in closer to his students, "that long before the dawn of humanity, supernaturals roamed the earth, laying claim to its untamed lands."

As Professor Hamilton prepared to unravel the secrets of Aougst town, he paused, his gaze sweeping over his attentive students. "Dating back six thousand years," he began, "Aougst town emerged as the epicenter of supernatural activity, a sanctuary for beings beyond our wildest imagination. Its origins, however, trace back to a pivotal moment in history—a mysterious asteroid impact."

He leaned in, his voice lowering conspiratorially. "This event, shrouded in government secrecy, holds the key to understanding the enigma of Aougst town. While officially classified, as students, it is your duty to seek out the truths hidden from the public eye."

Before he could delve further, a dissenting voice rang out—a male student challenging the professor's assertions. Doubt cast a shadow over the room as he vehemently disputed the existence of supernaturals among humans, dismissing the notion as a mere hoax.

Professor Hamilton listened intently to the student's dissenting remarks, his expression calm yet resolute. "Ah, the age-old debate between science and folklore," he remarked, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Indeed, science has illuminated many truths about our origins, tracing human evolution back to our primate ancestors."

"But," he continued, his tone measured, "let us not dismiss the richness of human history and the enduring allure of myth and legend. While science offers explanations grounded in observable phenomena, it does not preclude the existence of phenomena beyond our current understanding."

"Vampires, witches, and other supernatural beings," Professor Hamilton emphasized, "may indeed be steeped in myth, but myths often contain kernels of truth. They serve as windows into our collective imagination and the mysteries of the human psyche."

With a gentle nod, he concluded, "So, while our understanding may differ, let us approach these discussions with an open mind, acknowledging the complexity of human belief and the vastness of our universe."

As skepticism lingered in the classroom, Cecilia stood unwavering in her belief in the existence of supernaturals among humans in ancient times. With eloquence and conviction, she marshaled forth her arguments, weaving a tapestry of evidence and insight that captivated her peers.

Drawing upon historical accounts, folklore, and cultural narratives, Cecilia presented a compelling case, challenging the prevailing skepticism with her unwavering conviction. Her words resonated with clarity and authority, leaving no room for doubt.

As she concluded her impassioned defense, a hush fell over the classroom, her classmates spellbound by her words. The male student who had earlier voiced skepticism now sat in stunned silence, his arguments dismantled by Cecilia's unassailable logic and evidence.

With cheers and applause, Cecilia's classmates rallied around her, celebrating her victory in the intellectual battlefield. And as she basked in their admiration, Cecilia knew that her steadfast belief in the supernatural had triumphed, leaving an indelible mark on the minds of all who bore witness to her unwavering conviction.

As the night class drew to a close, Professor Hamilton couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction wash over him. The lively debate, sparked by Cecilia's impassioned defense, had invigorated the classroom, leaving an atmosphere of intellectual curiosity in its wake.

As he distributed the assignment for further research on Aougst town, Professor Hamilton observed the eager expressions of his students, their minds already buzzing with anticipation for the semester ahead. With a nod of approval, he dismissed the class, bidding them farewell until their next meeting.

As he settled in to update his blog, Professor Hamilton was pleasantly surprised by Cecilia's visit. Her words of gratitude warmed his heart, reaffirming the impact of his teachings on the next generation of scholars. He listened attentively as she shared her admiration for his work and expressed her dedication to following his research on his blog.

With a smile, Professor Hamilton thanked Cecilia for her kind words, knowing that moments like these were the true rewards of his vocation—the opportunity to inspire and nurture the minds of young scholars like Cecilia, who embodied the spirit of curiosity and intellectual pursuit.

As Professor Hamilton made his way home, his mind abuzz with the events of the evening, he couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. The heavy rain pounded against his raincoat, obscuring his vision as he trudged onward, his belongings snugly wrapped beneath his arm.

A black limousine trailed him, its presence growing more conspicuous with each passing moment. Despite his unease, the professor dismissed it as mere coincidence, focusing instead on navigating the treacherous weather.

But as the limousine drew alongside him and came to a halt, a sense of apprehension gripped him. A towering figure emerged from the vehicle, blocking his path with an air of authority.

"Professor Hamilton," a voice resonated from within the sleek confines of the limousine, its timbre commanding attention. Intrigued yet wary, the professor pivoted to meet the speaker, a surge of anticipation quickening his pulse. Mr. Hawthorne, a renowned billionaire shrouded in the luxurious interior of the vehicle, emerged as the orchestrator of the unexpected encounter, extending a gracious invitation to his own residence, offering shelter from the tempestuous weather.

As Mr. Hawthorne extended his invitation, Professor Hamilton found himself swept into a world of opulence and grandeur. The billionaire's home, a sprawling mansion of unparalleled luxury, stood as a testament to his vast wealth and influence. Every corner of the compound exuded magnificence, from the nourishing gardens to the cascading fountain waterfall.

The professor marveled at the sight before him, awestruck by the sheer scale of Mr. Hawthorne's estate. The expansive car park garage, the antique store brimming with treasures of bygone eras, and the open field stretching as far as the eye could see—all spoke of a life steeped in extravagance.

As they entered the main apartment, Professor Hamilton's breath caught in his throat. The interior surpassed even his wildest imagination, resembling a grand stadium in its sheer size and splendor. Manservants moved about with graceful efficiency, their harmonious uniforms a testament to Mr. Hawthorne's meticulous attention to detail.

Within the billionaire's home, every corner held a treasure trove of wonders. Art and sculptures adorned the walls, ancient artifacts whispered tales of forgotten civilizations, and an array of living and preserved species captivated the senses. The professor marveled at the vast aquarium, teeming with life in all its myriad forms.

In this auditorium-museum of opulence, Professor Hamilton found himself immersed in a world of beauty and intrigue, his senses overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of Mr. Hawthorne's fortune.

Professor Hamilton's eyes widened in amazement as he took in the splendor of the sparkling chandeliers above, each one a testament to Mr. Hawthorne's exquisite taste and vast fortune.

"Indeed, your home is a marvel to behold, Mr. Hawthorne," the professor exclaimed, his words tinged with genuine admiration.

As the evening unfolded, Professor Hamilton found himself treated with the utmost hospitality by Mr. Hawthorne's attentive manservants. He savored the taste of the most expensive wine, the rich flavors dancing upon his palate as they made a toast to unknown celebrations.

Intrigued by the air of mystery surrounding the occasion, Professor Hamilton leaned in, his curiosity piqued. "Pray, Mr. Hawthorne, what is the cause for celebration?" he inquired, eager to unravel the secrets hidden within the billionaire's memories.

As Mr. Hawthorne recounted his family's legacy of power and wealth, Professor Hamilton listened intently, his curiosity piqued by the mention of flaws in their family genomes. The revelation of a discovery tied to his own research left him intrigued and eager to learn more.

Entering the expansive room filled with experiments, Professor Hamilton's breath caught in his throat as Mr. Hawthorne revealed the contents of his father's journal. Before him lay a marvel of science—a thousand-year-old genetic living tissue, a relic of ancient times.

"My God," Professor Hamilton breathed, his mind racing with possibilities.

Mr. Hawthorne's words echoed in the room, his question hanging in the air. "Do you believe in the supernaturals, Professor Hamilton?"

Without hesitation, Professor Hamilton nodded, his belief unwavering. In that moment, he realized the profound connection between their paths, bound by a shared pursuit of knowledge and discovery. Together, they stood on the brink of unlocking secrets that could reshape the world as they knew it.

As Professor Hamilton examined the ancient genetic tissue, a mixture of awe and disbelief washed over him. Here, in front of him, lay tangible proof of his father's lifelong pursuit—a quest that had cost him his career and reputation in the relentless pursuit of uncovering the truth behind the supernatural.

Mr. Hawthorne's offer hung in the air, tantalizing in its promise of redemption and recognition. The professor's mind whirled with conflicting emotions, torn between the allure of acceptance and the lingering shadows of his father's legacy.

Unbeknownst to him, a hidden thread connected their pasts—a clandestine alliance forged between their fathers, binding their destinies together in secrecy. Mr. Hawthorne's father, once acquainted with Professor Hamilton's own father, had orchestrated their introduction with a calculated purpose—to ensure the continuation of their shared pursuit without the interference of authorities.

As the weight of this revelation settled upon him, Professor Hamilton realized that his journey was not one of solitary pursuit, but rather a legacy passed down through generations, bound by a silent pact between two fathers. And in this realization, he found both solace and determination to embrace the path laid out before him, guided by the echoes of the past and the promise of the future.

Mr. Hawthorne's gratitude radiated as he thanked Professor Hamilton for accepting his proposal, recognizing the significance of his expertise in their shared endeavor. With a sense of purpose, the professor prepared to embark on a journey unlike any he had known before, accompanied by Mr. Hawthorne's esteemed team of scientists, archaeologists, and researchers.

As they assembled, Professor Hamilton marveled at the wealth of knowledge and experience gathered in their midst, knowing that their combined efforts would propel them towards unprecedented discoveries. With well-armed bodyguards providing protection, they set forth on their expedition, braving the unknown with courage and determination.

Together, they stood at the threshold of discovery, bound by a shared purpose and propelled by the tantalizing prospect of unraveling enigmas that had confounded humanity for ages. The following day, Mr. Hawthorne ensured all their requisites were met, enabling the teams to divide into smaller groups as they commenced their expedition beneath the once-thriving yet now forsaken outskirts of Aougst town, abandoned by the government long ago.

As they delved deeper into the uncharted territories of possibility, Professor Hamilton felt a surge of exhilaration and anticipation coursing through his veins. He knew that their odyssey held the power to reshape the very essence of existence itself.

As the teams descended beneath the civilized facade of Aougst town, excitement and anticipation filled the air. They set to work, digging and exploring, each discovery fueling their determination to uncover the truth hidden beneath the earth.

To their astonishment, the professor's research yielded results beyond their wildest imagination. The billionaire, eager to witness the findings firsthand, led Professor Hamilton and a select few on a journey deeper into the heart of the abandoned town.

Entering a tunnel, they emerged into a desolate building with an eerie resemblance to a church. Unbeknownst to them, they stood upon the site of a long-forgotten battle between supernaturals, where ancient secrets lay dormant, waiting to be unearthed.

Suddenly, a ray of light illuminated a strange object above them, casting an ethereal glow upon the scene. Their eyes widened in disbelief as they beheld a sight beyond comprehension—a cluster of burnt, ashen bodies impaled together with a sword.

Mr. Hawthorne wasted no time in issuing orders to his guards, instructing them to remove the sword and secure the bodies for further examination. With bated breath, they attempted to pull the sword from its ancient resting place, only to find it stubbornly resistant.

Pooling their strength, the guards worked together, their efforts rewarded as the sword finally yielded to their combined might. As it was lifted free, the bodies suspended in midair, defying gravity in a display of unearthly power that left them all in awe.

"Unbelievable," exclaimed a researcher, his voice filled with astonishment.

Mr. Hawthorne leaned in, whispering, "Incredible," as he observed Professor Hamilton meticulously examining the bodies.

Then, in a moment of eerie suspense, one of the bodies' eyes snapped open, wide with an unknown intent.

Professor Hamilton recoiled in terror, stumbling backward as the lifeless body sprang to life, swiftly dispatching the guards who dared to remove the sword. Chaos erupted as the resurrected being unleashed her relentless assault, laying waste to the majority of the researchers and all the guards in a swift and merciless onslaught. Professor Hamilton recoiled in horror, his heart pounding with fear, as the creature, now fully revived, exhibited unimaginable strength and agility. With each calculated move, she dispatched her victims with brutal efficiency, leaving a trail of devastation in her wake that struck terror into the hearts of those who witnessed her rampage.

As the acrid scent of blood mingled with the echoes of gunfire, the professor and the lone remaining researcher stood transfixed in a state of shock, their minds reeling as they grappled to make sense of the harrowing nightmare unfurling before their eyes. However, amidst their bewilderment, Mr. Hawthorne stood apart, his countenance adorned with a sinister smile, a chilling contrast to the gruesome tableau playing out before them.

In stunned disbelief, they watched as the resurrected being, fueled by an insatiable thirst for blood, indulged in her macabre feast, her piercing gaze never once wavering from their trembling forms. Locked in a macabre dance of predator and prey, the trio found themselves ensnared in a web of dread and uncertainty, uncertain of what horrors the night still held in store.

With the immediate threat neutralized, she turned her attention to the other deceased body impaled alongside her, tenderly caressing it and whispering, "My daughter," before it crumbled to ash, dissolving into nothingness.

Amidst the swirling chaos, with onlookers frozen in disbelief, Mr. Hawthorne's sudden act of betrayal sent seismic shockwaves reverberating through the professor's mind. Seizing the tumult as cover, Mr. Hawthorne swiftly executed the other researcher with a concealed dagger from his ornate walking stick, plunging the professor into a vortex of stunned horror.

As the life drained from the researcher's body, a grim testament to calculated treachery, Professor Hamilton found himself paralyzed by the enormity of the betrayal unfolding before him. Helpless to intervene, he could only bear witness to the tragic demise of his colleague at the hands of one he had trusted.

Meanwhile, the resurrected being observed the unfolding tragedy with an unsettling calmness, her inscrutable gaze betraying no hint of emotion as she stood amidst the carnage, a silent sentinel amidst the chaos.

As Professor Hamilton's hands trembled with the weight of their dire predicament, he grappled with the harsh reality of their situation. Caught in a deadly dance between the resurrected being and a ruthless adversary, he knew that his chances of survival dwindled with each passing moment. Bracing himself for the next twist in this grim narrative, the professor steeled his resolve, determined to defy the odds stacked against them as he reached for the beta sword, a symbol of hope amidst the encroaching darkness.

With a steadying hand, Mr. Hawthorne urged Professor Hamilton to maintain composure, offering the blood of the fallen researcher to the resurrected being as a conciliatory gesture. Accepting the offering, she drank with a hunger that briefly rekindled her strength, casting an ominous shadow over their fragile hopes for escape.

As her gaze landed on the sword, Professor Hamilton's grip tightened around "the beta sword," yet under the intensity of her scrutiny, it began to liquefy, melting away. Without a word, she ascended into the night sky, disappearing into the shadows from whence she came, leaving behind a stunned and bewildered Professor Hamilton.

Contrastingly, Mr. Hawthorne's expression lit up with unexpected joy at the sight of the being departing. He couldn't conceal his elation as he watched her vanish into the darkness, a sense of relief washing over him. His reaction stood in stark contrast to the professor's, leaving the latter even more perplexed by the billionaire's seemingly peculiar response.

As the tumult faded and the resurrected being faded into the night sky, Mr. Hawthorne beseeched Professor Hamilton to uphold utmost secrecy about the unfolding events, assuring her of the return. With a blend of apprehension and reluctant acceptance, the professor consented, keenly aware of the far-reaching consequences looming ahead. Amidst the uneasy silence, a memory resurfaced in the professor's mind, unveiling their prior discoveries—a truth already within the billionaire's grasp.

Professor Hamilton was consumed by a creeping unease, his mind grappling with fragments from his father's journal and their shared research. Slowly, the puzzle pieces aligned, revealing the harrowing truth: the resurrection of Azriel, a formidable entity cloaked in darkness, and the obliteration of the legendary beta sword. In a somber exchange, Professor Hamilton confided in Mr. Hawthorne the dire consequences of their unwitting actions. However, the billionaire remained stoic, his composure unshaken, even in the face of the professor's mounting anxiety.

Professor Hamilton's warnings were met with mere gratitude from Mr. Hawthorne, who brushed aside the gravity of the situation. The professor, unsettled by this dismissal, couldn't shake the nagging suspicion that Mr. Hawthorne harbored hidden agendas and dark secrets beneath his calm demeanor. As extraordinary events unfolded, the facade of the billionaire only intensified Hamilton's intuition, whispering of ominous depths concealed beneath the surface.

Upon receiving news of the meteor's discovery in Aougst town from fellow researchers and scientists, they wasted no time. Swiftly, they secured the extraterrestrial artifact and transported it to their base for thorough analysis and study.

As each moment slipped by, the web of intrigue surrounding the billionaire only grew denser, leaving Professor Hamilton to contemplate the depth of Mr. Hawthorne's involvement in the unfolding events. While awaiting further developments, the professor couldn't shake the nagging question: what other secrets lay concealed beneath the surface of Aougst town, waiting to be unearthed by the relentless pursuit of curiosity and ambition?

In the dim shadows of the Wise family's new abode, Becca Wise jolted awake, her heart pounding with the weight of a haunting vision. Dread seeped through her veins as she foresaw the resurgence of Azriel and the impending cataclysmic war that would shape the destiny of all existence.

Meanwhile, across the sprawling expanse of their home, Hanna Wise was gripped by an inexplicable sensation, a foreboding whisper that sent shivers down her spine. Without a moment's hesitation, she hurried to her daughter's chamber, her footsteps echoing in the silent corridors.

Upon reaching the threshold, she found Becca wide-eyed, her gaze filled with unspoken truths and a silent plea for solace. In that charged moment, mother and daughter shared a wordless exchange, a communion of understanding that transcended speech.

Becca's countenance betrayed the burden of remorse and the gnawing fear of the unknown, etched upon her features like heavy shadows in the flickering candlelight.

On the flip side of reality's coin, Bella Grace and Dante Fowler dwelled in bliss as a couple, their lives intertwined with the enchanting presence of their beloved daughter. Veiled amidst the facade of humanity, they safeguarded their identities, shrouding their supernatural essence from prying eyes. Within the confines of their sanctuary, Dante nurtured the burgeoning talents of their daughter, a quabrid—a being of unprecedented lineage, embodying the essence of vampire, werewolf, human, and fawich. Remarkably, she could share her immunity to sunlight with her father, who himself was a fawich. Together, they formed a strong and harmonious family unit, navigating the complexities of their supernatural existence while living among humans.

"Steady now, my dear," murmured Dante, his voice a gentle reassurance. "Impressive. You possess more strength than I anticipated," he remarked with a chuckle, his daughter effortlessly outmaneuvering him in their training session, their laughter echoing in harmony.

"My radiant child," Dante exclaimed, marveling at the sight of his daughter's prowess. "Your power rivals that of your mother, Amy."

"Thank you, Dad. I cherish you both dearly," Amy replied with a warm smile.

"Dad, can we practice the transformation? I want to master it," Amy eagerly inquired, to which Dante readily consented. Rising to their feet, father and daughter prepared for the metamorphosis, a testament to their bond.

With a graceful shift, Dante demonstrated his transformation, assuming the form of a fawich before Amy's awestruck gaze. Impressed by her father's metamorphosis, Amy awaited her turn, anticipation coursing through her veins.

"Your turn, Amy. You've got this," Dante encouraged, his voice brimming with support. "Take a deep breath and let it flow."

Amy heeded her father's counsel, delving deep within herself to initiate the transformation. A surge of raw energy surged through her veins, intertwining with the very essence of her being. Nature itself seemed to respond to her call, as the wind whipped around her with unrestrained fervor.

Her physical form underwent a mesmerizing metamorphosis, a kaleidoscope of hues blending seamlessly. Her once ordinary complexion dissolved into a symphony of pale, gray, and fair tones, each shade harmonizing with the next.

As her features contorted, her face emerged as a captivating amalgamation—a visage adorned with deep blue human eyes, one eyelid draped in ethereal gray, the other in haunting pale. Her teeth mirrored her hybrid nature, a juxtaposition of human and fearsome fangs. The ears that graced her head bore resemblance to bats, yet retained a semblance of humanity.

Her hands and feet sprouted razor-sharp claws, a testament to her lineage's predatory prowess. Her physique, reminiscent of a lycan, possessed a delicate yet formidable frame, with hints of malnourishment accentuating her ribcage. Patchy fur adorned her body, leaving swathes of skin exposed, a tangible reminder of her supernatural heritage.

"I did it, Dad," Amy exclaimed, marveling at her newfound form, though a tinge of disappointment lingered as she yearned to soar with wings.

"Patience, my sunbeam. Your wings will unfurl in due time," reassured Dante, his voice infused with unwavering confidence. Guiding her through the intricacies of a potent fawich spell, he marveled at her swift adaptation.

Their training was abruptly interrupted by Grace, bearing news of lunchtime. Yet, amidst the mundane call of sustenance, a palpable shift in the air rippled through their sanctum. Dante's eyes ignited with a crimson blaze, mirroring the sudden luminescence in Grace and Amy's gaze. An ominous aura enveloped them, suffusing Dante with an unforeseen empowerment, while the bewildered family exchanged wary glances, their once tranquil haven now shrouded in uncertainty.

Amidst the ancient rites of the Wiccan Sabbath, a foreboding energy permeated the hallowed grounds, unsettling the very fabric of existence. Peggy Lance, ensconced within her chamber coven, was the first to sense the anomaly during her meditative trance. A sudden whirlwind extinguished the flickering candle flames that adorned her sanctum, only to reignite upon her awakening. Engaged in a communion with past witches and communing with her grandmother through necromancy, Peggy sought guidance from the ethereal realm, consulting revered spirits such as Dorothy, Fuji, and Taylor Lance.

Becca Addison, attuned to the pulse of the supernatural, sought out her mother's presence, her demeanor reverent as she approached Peggy Lance with news of the unfolding events.

"Mother," Becca whispered, bowing deferentially as Peggy Lance drew a calming breath, her silent acknowledgment understood by Addison.

"She has risen," Peggy declared solemnly. "The hour of reckoning is upon us."

Across the verdant expanse of the fairy colony, Sharlene East and her kin felt the tremors of the arcane disturbance. Like a tempest unleashed, a mighty gale swept through the fairy colonies, stirring unease among the denizens of the enchanted realm.