Ultan Of The Shell

Few in Teleria consider the Dark Elves of Durham Forest to be a kind and compassionate folk, and even fewer would welcome a Dark Elf into their midst. It is no surprise, therefore, that people are cautious of even those who prove themselves to be an exception among their cruel kind. Such are the reactions Ultan of the Shell has come to accept and bear without judgment. Raised a warrior in Durham Forest, it was evident that Ultan would outgrow the harsh ways of his people. He did not possess the stomach for senseless violence and saw no honor in beating exhausted slaves. Where his siblings gave no thought to their dwellings, Ultan dreamed of a land graced by the sun and free from gloom. As he matured, he realized that it was not a dream that could become reality in Durham. Leaving his home, Ultan wandered the world. Receiving only contempt and distrust from the other races, he journeyed to the farthest reaches of the land and found a forest so beautiful it was worth suffering abuse from its population just to gaze upon it. It was none other than the Mistwood. Daring not to offend its guardians, he only explored the woods by day while he would be easiest to track, and wandered no further than the outskirts. Under the eyes of the Sylvan Watchers, he admired the blossoms, trees, and abundant wildlife, his sword always sheathed. One day, Ultan came across one of the most splendid delights of the Mistwood he had yet seen. In a clearing of blooming flowers alighted a woman with glimmering wings. Unlike the other Sylvan, she did not hiss threats at Ultan but welcomed him to sit in her grove. The lady asked him what he dreamt of and Ultan described his fancied lands of wonder. Amused by his answer, the Fae granted him a wish. All he asked was that she tell him her name. It was Oella of the Fae. Much to her surprise, Ultan returned her favor and said she could make a request of him. She implored him to visit her grove again. With their every encounter came a new pair of wishes. Ultan asked to learn of the Mistwood and the Sylvan, but Oella’s request always remained the same: to see Ultan again. As they lay side by side in her bed of flowers, Oella told Ultan about the spirits of the woods, of the sweet fruits Elves could eat, and of the Rhythm that connected all beings of the forest. One day Ultan asked to see her city. Having fostered a great trust for the Dark Elf, Oella accepted his request and led him to Nyresa. The Fae there regarded Ultan with hostility but Oella demanded an end to their protests and revealed herself to Ultan as a queen among her people, and appointed him Lord of Admiration. Unsure of the true meaning behind his title, Ultan nonetheless took it as his duty to admire every sight the Mistwood had to offer and bless every tree, spirit, and rivulet with his utmost respect and gratitude. Years passed and Ultan became one of Oella’s most beloved companions, often accompanying her and acting as a bodyguard during her travels. During one excursion, Ultan’s skill and dedication were tested to breaking point. Oella, Ultan, and her handmaidens journeyed to the remains of the Great Grove, the seat of the lost sacred Heart Tree, to rid it of its malice. But an ambush lay in wait. Sylvan long lost to the corruption attacked from all sides and Ultan met every blade to protect his queen and her entourage. He fought past exhaustion, severing his foes’ tendons and piercing hearts, all while being cut and stabbed in turn. After vanquishing the last threat, his blood poured from a dozen wounds and the last thing he remembered was his head striking the hard earth before everything went black. Ultan awoke in Nyresa, Oella’s hand in his, and his mind entangled in hers. Through an act of true love, his queen had saved his life by binding their souls. Oella’s heartbeat was his, and through her he heard the Rhythm and felt a connection to the Mistwood. The same day, Oella named him her consort. The Fae respect Oella’s decision, and Ultan’s selfless act has gained him some acceptance from the Sylvan. He has vowed to serve the Mistwood at Oella’s side as a sentinel and vowed to prove that the Sylvans’ hard-earned trust is well placed.