feed off spiders. They also bloom with bell-shaped flowers that release a particularly fragrant perfume—which is why some elves consider them to be a unique gift (albeit slightly gruesome).
SPLENDORS
A rare species of plant that requires a great deal of specialized care in order to survive. Splendors only bloom once every year with purple flowers that are both beautiful and pungent. Their scent—and the unearthly glow from their freshly bloomed petals—draw the flickerwings, which is why splendors are used for Foxfire’s Opening Ceremonies. Every elite prodigy must cultivate a splendor throughout the course of Level Seven in order for it to bloom before they enter Level Eight.
STARGLASS FLOWER
The petals of this shimmery, star-shaped flower drip with a unique nectar that’s used to produce somnalene—a special type of eye drop known for its “midnighting” effect (which is described as feeling like there’s a twinkling universe inside the mind).
STARKFLOWER
These unattractive flowers have curled, shriveled black petals with gray speckles—and contain shadowvapor inside them. But once that darkness is removed, they turn lush, plump, and gleaming white—and even the shadowvapor serves a use, providing a smoky flavor to Calla’s legendary starkflower stew.
SUGARBELLES
Despite their name, the nectar from these pink flowers is anything but sweet. But sugarbelles have potent healing qualities that make their awful taste well worth utilizing.
SWIZZLESPICE
Long blue stalks that taste like sweet cinnamon—swizzlespice can be eaten by anyone, but it’s particularly popular with animals. Especially the alicorns.
TANGOURDS
These melon-size purple fruits grow on thick, thorny vines and are best known for their raw, meaty flavor. Most elves consider the taste to be too gamey, but animals being rehabilitated for the Sanctuary love them (except for the gorgodon, which has not seemed impressed).
THE WANDERLINGS
Grown in a special forest that serves as the elves’ only cemetery, Wanderling seeds are wrapped with the DNA of someone deceased before they’re planted. This allows these incredible trees to take on characteristics of the life that was lost, mirroring elements of the person’s appearance and personality as they grow. As a result, no two Wanderlings are alike, and the life they commemorate gets to carry on in a different form.
FASHION
I know Sophie thinks wearing capes is super weird. (I guess humans don’t really wear them?) But capes are more than gorgeous accessories that help keep you warm in the Lost Cities—they’re a sign of status! (Though they also help keep you warm—unless someone shares their cape with you…)
Some people wear gloves to keep their hands nice and toasty. Some wear them to make a fashion statement. And some wear them to hide a secret enhancing ability. Either way, once you put the gloves on, you can’t even feel they’re there—and they can be so pretty!
I *love* heels! But they may not be for everyone—especially people who have a hard time walking without tripping!
Biana’s Style File
Personally, I say, “The fancier, the better!” But what’s most important is wearing whatever makes you feel fabulous! (Though I still think sparkles make everything better!)
Gowns aren’t worn for everything—but they aren’t just for parties, either. Pretty much anytime you want to look important or be taken seriously, bring on the ruffles and frills! (And when you really want to impress someone, make sure to add a jeweled circlet or hair comb!)
Of course these are real jewels! Why wouldn’t they be?
If sparkles or jewels aren’t your thing, there’s always embroidery to add stylish detail! (Or a fun slogan! My next tunic is going to say: “You should stare—I’m letting you see me right now!”)
Everyone wears tunics here. And why wouldn’t they? Tunics come in every shape and style—every fit and fabric—and they always look awesome, whether they’re the whole “look” or something worn under a vest or jerkin.
Pants don’t always have pockets at the ankles—it depends on what kind of shoes they’ll be paired with. (And a lot of the taller boots have pockets at the top. Pockets are important, after all!)
The best part about wearing capes is the pin (well… unless someone puts a tracker in the pin).
Most of the time, this is where we wear our family crest—but the Foxfire uniform uses the grade level’s mascot.
And Team Valiant has special pins to represent the Prime Sources (because we’re fancy like that!).
Okay, this might not look as comfortable as a tunic (and it isn’t!). But some things are so stunning, they’re worth that little extra discomfort—and jerkins definitely fall into that category. I mean, look at all that incredible detail!
HOBBIES, SPORTS, AND GAMES
WHILE THE MAJORITY OF ELVIN culture primarily focuses on education (and general