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As elves, we know that art is more than a mirror—it is a window to the unseen, a glimpse into truths we may never fully grasp. These two works of art, The Girl With Deadly Visions and The Valarian Elf, are a great study for the scholars of elves. The Valari are a rare and enigmatic kin appear at the edges of history and fate, always present when something momentous stirs.

But who are the Valari, really? These paintings might reveal some of their secrets.

A Valari Elf. Pale skin, four arms, and purple eyes.

The Girl With Deadly Visions

A painting sent from the far west, beyond the flame, on the other side of the cavern where the elves are still ruled by a king. Several similar paintings have been sent to cities around the cave, requesting they be displayed publicly. A text is inscribed on the face of the painting:

“You told me you saw the solution to my problem. Another one of your visions. How was I to know then?
In my naiveté, I thought you would plead with my brother, the king, to see reason. But with one glance over your shoulder, I knew the truth. By then it was too late to stop you—I just stood there, stood there as my brother was murdered, stood there as you killed him.

Everyone had told me not to bring a snake to court, that you were cracked, dangerous. They were right.

I hated you for what you did, for my brother, for forcing me to take up a crown I never wanted.

But I too see now, see as you did, see how there was no other way. I see that you were the only one with the courage to do what was right.

It hardly matters now. I would see my kingdom burn, I would kill my brother a hundred times over—if it meant I could have you back.

Aroish, come back to me my beloved.”

Artist: Unknown painter from the far west, possibly the king himself.
Style: Classic.
Medium: Oil on canvas.
Trivia: Does she look familiar? That’s because all Valari appear eerily identical. While some of them have more arms than others, their facial features are practically identical.

The Valarian Elf

An ancient unknown artist’s study of proportions that highlights the difference between human, Crimson elves, and Valari elves. Please note that the artist’s views do not represent the views of this art exhibition. Everyone knows the Crimson elves are the best elf.

Did you know? There are no male Valari elves. Instead they produce eggs spontaneously, though they still need to consume the souls of two living elves for the eggs to be viable. Some elfologists suspect this might be the reason all Valari elves look the same.

Humans

Humans are a lesser kin with some resemblance to the elves. Humans have a bulky, square form. They live short lives and have many silly ideas.

Elves

Elves are more elegant, triangular, with their longer legs and smaller torso. The most common type is the Crimson elf with their bright red skin.

Valari elves

Valari elves are a perfected offshoot of elven-kin. Their arms split at the elbow, giving them four (sometimes more) hands. Objectively the best elf.

Two elves sitting on a bench chatting

So, He sent a painting this large from the other side of the cave?
And he wants you back even after you killed his brother?
He really does like you, eh?

Fate is irresistible, as you have tasted yourself.

Well, it’s a cute painting.
Are you going back to him?

His Fortune is yet to be decided.
My task is to fulfill your destiny now.

I told you to stop talking about my “destiny”.