As with many half-elves, Ashera is the product of an unwanted union. Her mother, an elf maiden, was caught unawares on the borders of the elven sanctuary of Evereska by a roving band of human brigands. Ashera's birth was the result.
She grew up within the confines of beloved Evereska, and though her dark skin made her heritage obvious, she was accepted and loved by her people. In fact sympathy for her and her mother seemed to increase the care and special attention that she recieved as a child. She was taught the ways of the wood, which she embraced, as well as honor and faithfulness to the Goddess of the Wood, Mielikki.
It became clear, though, that Ashera's human blood made her different. She matured faster than her friends, who remained children as she became a woman. She also noticed a desire to travel- while her friends longed only for Elvenhome, Ashera longed to see the world.
Her mother understood these forces pulling at her beloved daughter, and she prepared for the inevitable. Though Ashera was ashamed of her heritage and hated humans for what they did to her mother, she could not quell the fire of human passion and ambition that was part of her. Adventure was her destiny.
The Forestarm of Mielikki who taught Ashera in the ways of the goddess seemed to notice her restlessness as well. One day he came to Ashera and spoke of it with her. After discussing the desires of her heart the Forestarm said, "Ashera, Mielikki has need of you." He then related to her a vision that he had of the human child, Evie, who had been left in his care as an infant. He had raised Evie and guided her as her 'gift' emerged. "Mielikki has chosen you, Ashera, to care for this child and to return her to her world. She is a special child with a special destiny. And your destiny with Mielikki lies with her."
Since that day she has traveled the woods and vales of the world with Evie, caring for her as a mother. She does not know where they are going; the Forestarm told her that Mielikki will guide their path. And so they continue to travel- woman and child. Even as she has grown to love Evie, she wrestles with her thoughts and feelings. Being with Evie reminds her of the shame of her own heritage. "How can this be Mielikki's will?" she often asks in the night. But the only answer she receives in the stillness is the calm assurance that she is being obedient to the goddess' will.
And so Ashera is thrust into this human world that she trusts so little, bearing the burden of this human child whom she loves so dearly...
As with many half-elves, Ashera is the product of an unwanted union. Her mother, an elf maiden, was caught unawares on the borders of the elven sanctuary of Evereska by a roving band of human brigands. Ashera's birth was the result. 
