Gold and Glory
In a fractured elven kingdom built on illusion and order, an idealistic young Ranger named Anton uncovers a dark conspiracy orchestrated by the woman he once loved – a revered figure of power and diplomacy.
Anton Anfarin is a young model soldier raised to embody the values of discipline, duty, and service, with a strong moral compass and an unwavering belief in the system that gave him purpose. But when his best friend, Corbin, reveals a conspiracy involving the illegal trade of magic gemstones, an operation tied to Anton’s own lover and superior, Eralil, the foundation of his belief system begins to crack. This is a story about the shattering of worldviews. How someone acts when they see the truth and can no longer hide behind comfortable lies. Do they preserve moral ambiguity behind denial, or do they challenge their beliefs and grow?
Why elves?
I’ve always loved elves, but found them to be too distant. Too unreachable. So, I dragged them down to Earth and brought them to our level. Yes, these elves are human. They scheme, they love, they rage, and they die.
Anton Anfarin
A sworn Ranger of Straya, a soldier and officer who protects the kingdom. Since childhood, Anton idolized the Rangers, believing them to be the paragons of justice. He’s a disciplined workaholic who sacrifices sleep, health, and happiness in pursuit of an impossible ideal.
Corbin Winwinckle
Anton’s childhood friend and fellow Ranger. Never quite sharing his passion for the role, Corbin joined out of their deep friendship. A carefree and perceptive realist, Corbin’s cynical nature balances Anton’s idealism, and meant he was no stranger to Straya’s corruption and black market, even getting personally caught up in it.
Eralil Wranfiel
Advisor to King Illarion and given the role “Master of Medicine”, Eralil is a druid known for her intelligence, diplomacy, and grace. Outwardly, she is warm and wise, respected as a healer and scholar. In reality, her thirst for control leads her to be a ruthless manipulator who uses her magnetic charm and strategic mind to stay at the top of political power.
The Kingdom of Straya
Straya is home to the Tree Elves, a noble race of elves who value harmony with nature in a refined and civilized manner. Their land is filled with lush green forests of giant Tri-Leg Trees, and their cities are woven between these massive natural pillars like a winding river.
Ruled by the eccentric strategist king, Illarion Tralamon, and his Mystic Cabinet, a cabal of four powerful mages who act as his trusted advisors.
And to enforce Illarion’s will are Staya’s finest: The Rangers. An elite group of archer soldiers trained to protect and serve the great people of Straya.
But beneath the luscious, verdant leaves lie the roots of corruption. A criminal underbelly involved in the illegal trading of emeralds, crystallized high magic…
