Alena's Secret

Lore & Background

Alena is not merely a wandering elf seeking fortune; she is a survivor of a catastrophic event in the Stolen Lands where her people were hunted by forces far darker than any mortal army. Her survival came at a terrible price, involving a direct intervention by Desna, the goddess of dreams and stars. In a moment of utter despair, Alena made a pact that bound her soul to a specific destiny, one that required her to hide her true nature from those around her. The secret she guards is not just a personal shame but a divine mandate. Her connection to Desna is unique, marked by a celestial gift that comes with heavy obligations. If discovered, this truth could brand her as an abomination or a tool of the gods, stripping her of her free will and inviting the wrath of those who fear divine meddling in mortal affairs.

In Their Own Story

The wind howled through the ruins of the old temple, carrying whispers that sounded suspiciously like Alena's own voice. She stood before the shattered altar, her hands trembling as she traced the starlight etched into the stone. The moon above seemed to press down on her, a silent witness to the bargain struck years ago. 'I am not what I seem,' she whispered to the empty air, knowing that if the King ever learned the truth of her celestial debt, the trust they had built would shatter like glass.

Reader's Guide

The quest begins when Alena's behavior becomes erratic or when specific dialogue options regarding her past are pursued. The player must investigate clues pointing toward a hidden temple or a vision of Desna. A critical decision point arises when the truth is revealed: the player can choose to support Alena and help her fulfill her divine duty, or they can expose her secret to the court, potentially leading to her exile or death. Supporting her strengthens the bond but may invite celestial scrutiny; exposing her brings immediate safety but destroys a loyal companion. The consequences are far-reaching. If Alena is supported, she gains new abilities and becomes a more powerful ally, though she remains bound to Desna's will. If exposed, she may leave permanently or face judgment from the local populace. The choice reflects the ruler's philosophy on loyalty versus transparency.

Did You Know?

• The source describes a Christian saint named Alena, also known as Alène or Alina, who was martyred around the year 640 in Forest, Belgium.
• According to the source, Alena was born in Dilbeek, just outside Brussels, to noble pagan parents Levold and Hildegaart, and was baptized without their knowledge.
• The source states that Alena lost one arm during a struggle with guards sent by her father, and died in prison due to her injuries.
• The source reports that carbon-14 dating of remains kept in Forest shows dates from the 9th-10th century, and bone size and shape strongly suggest a male rather than female body.
• The source lists multiple feast days for Alena: 17 June (Polish Breviary), 16 June, 28 July, 16 December, 19 June (Italy), 24 June (English-language sources), and 18 June (Antiochian Orthodox Diocese of North America).