Overlords of the Elven Dominion

by Azure Seriu

After twelve years the popular DMMORPG Yggdrasil is shutting down it's servers. In its last minutes members of the Elf only guild Tears Of Elvhenan say good bye to the game they love. (Still Working on story rewrites and reworks. New chapter is a rework and new direction. Ains and co still coming...)

4. Red King in The Holy Kingdom

Azanar Vas Elvhenan

Azanar has long crimson hair that flows like fire over his pale features. He has heterochromic eyes. His left is gold like his brother's and the other an emerald sheen. He wears armor of golden plate laid upon crimson fabric with a gold embroidered red hooded cloak and was made to resemble the dragon hunter armor from the Dragon age series.

Haleir:

Haleir is a small elf who has slightly tanned skin, and wild shoulder-length red hair, with one green eye and the other blue. She wears a white fur cloak made from a wolf's pelt which hid most of her small frame over a white and blue tribal top and shorts. she also has two Daggers one sheathed to her lower back and one the other to her right thigh.

Arundeil:

He has tan, sun-kissed skin with blue eyes and shoulder-length auburn hair. A gold hoop earring in his right ear and wears a black tri-cornered pirate's hat with an Eagle feather, a black shirt with puffed sleeves with a deep v showing off his chiseled chest and the scar across it, tan breeches held up by a black leather belt with a gold Buckle which also holds his runed silver cutlass and duel pistols. And lastly black leather boots with gold buckles.

Argon:

Argon is a giant of an elf, has tan skin, light green eyes, and long black hair, which is shaved bald on the sides and styled into a ponytail reaching his lower back. He is clad in a caped gold and silver-colored set of Pathfinder full-plate Dragon Bone armor.

Xehanort

Xehanort is a hunched-over dark elf who walks with his hands behind his back. he is bald except for thin eyebrows and a curled, silver goatee and has piercing yellow eyes. His broad, hunched shoulders and crooked back make him appear to be a feeble old man. he wears a white and black coat with a red inner lining, over a white shirt with two thin black belts, as well as white gloves and calf-high black boots. His shirt is buttoned and the coat has a black lining on its edges

Aboard the Vingilot

The sun hung low in the sky as a beautiful ship traversed calm waters, the reflection of stars dancing around it. Haleir stood in the crow's nest, looking out into the vast expanse. Her eyes were wide with awe as she took in the splendor. She then looked down toward the landmass that she was fast approaching.

"Almost there. I wonder what kind of people live in the Holy Kingdom?"

The redhead thought out loud. Just then, she heard the sounds of laughter coming from below. Then with grace and ease, she slid down the ropes and landed on the deck next to Arundeil, who was steering the ship, and Argon, who was talking with him.

The giant then turned his attention to the little Beast Master.

"Ah, see anything from your pirch, Little fox?"

Haleir then answered.

"Hmmm... Well, from what I can tell, there are mostly merchant ships in port. Though I saw two that look like battleships but nothing that could challenge the Vingilot."

Arundeil then chimed in. "Haha of course not! The Vingilot is the king of the sea."

Argon then spoke again. "Yes, well, how long before landfall? I miss the solid ground."

Arundeil laughed a bit before smacking the big elf on the back and replying.

"Haha. All that muscle and no sea legs. Don't worry, won't be long now..."

Just then, the Trio heard a faint scream in the distance. Arundeil then took out his eyeglass and looked in the direction the cry had come from.

"Hmm.. looks like pirates are attacking a merchant ship. Haleir. Ask Lord Azanar if we are to engage."

Haleir nodded as she replied. "On it."

Haleir then turned and went below deck.

Azanar sat in his study, speaking to Valindra through a small Eluvian on a table covered with books and magic scrolls she was now blond with green eyes. Bookshelves and dressers lined the walls filled with tomes and scrolls.

"It happened moments ago."

The spymaster stated.

Azanar then quickly replied.

"And you are sure it was him?"

Valindra smiled before answering. "Yes, My Lord, I could never mistake your brother's beautiful face."

Azanar then replied. "Were you able to get his location?"

Valindra's expression saddened before she answered.

"Unfortunately, due to some form of magical interference, we were unable to maintain communication long enough to do so... Mithrein and Master Xehanort are currently trying to reestablish communications using the Grand Eluvian, but no luck so far...I am so sorry, My Lord."

Azanar then quickly replied. "There is no need to apologize. This news pleases me greatly. Thank you, Valindra, and make sure to tell Mithrein and Xehanort that I appreciate all their hard work."

Valindra then nodded as she replied. "I will see it done, Lord Azanar. I have no doubt they will be as happy as I to hear your approval."

Azanar then replied." And report any developments to me Immediately."

The image of Valindra then faded, leaving Azanar looking at his reflection. The High King let out a heavy sigh as he cupped his face in his hands, his long red hair flowing over his shoulders.

"Damn...Where are you, Evunial?"

Just then, Azanar heard a light voice come from his door.

"Brother? Is everything alright?"

Azanar then turned to see Haleir with a concerned look on her face.

Azanar then regained his composure and spoke. "It's nothing Haleir. Did you need something?"

Haleir then answered. "Ah, Arundeil sent me to tell you that we spotted a ship under attack and await your orders."

Azanar then stood up as he spoke.

"Hmm, well, let's not keep him waiting."

The duo then left the study and went on to the upper deck.

Once on the upper deck, Azanar approached Arundeil, who was still peering through his eyeglass, and spoke. "What's the situation."

Arundeil then answered as he continued watching the ships.

"From what I can tell, at least twenty pirates are attacking a merchant ship. A warrior amongst the merchants culled their number, but the Pirates rallied and took captives."

Azanar then looked out to the ships and spoke. "What happened to the warrior?"

Arundeil lowered the spyglass and looked at Azanar before answering.

"They are making sport of him."

Azanar then thought for a moment. "(Ok, a simple rescue quest. Just have to stop the pirates and save the captives...but I can't attack outright because that would risk the captives. Hmmm, wait...)"

Azanar then spoke out loud. "I got it!"

On The Merchant Ship.

Maniacal Laughter and jeers echo out to sea as a group of pirates and tied-up merchants watch as a man is forced on his knees by two men.

A third punched him three times in the face and then once In the stomach with vicious force causing him to double over and place his head on the deck while gritting his teeth in pain. The man was fair-skinned with dirty blonde hair, a small goatee, and blue eyes.

He was wearing dented iron armor. The man then forced himself upright and gave an icy stare at the center of the group of pirates where a finely dressed man sat on a stool and watched. The man had tan skin, black hair, and menacing hazel eyes.

The warrior continued to stare until one of the men hit him again knocking him back down. The finely dressed man then raised his hand and spoke.

"That's enough."

He then leaned forward with a cocky smile and continued.

"Are you ready to reconsider my terms?" The warrior sat back up and spoke through the pain.

"...I...already told...you...I will never...peddle your poison...in the Holy Kingdom."

The finely dressed man then replied.

"Poison? It's not that bad. Just a little something to take the edge..."

The warrior then cut him off and spoke.

"Save it!!... I have been to the Re-Esteize Kingdom... I know what Black Dust is and I know what it does...And the answer is still...never."

The finely dressed man then stood up with a sigh before walking to the kneeling man and bent down to eye level with the man before speaking.

"Now that is disappointing. The rest of your crew all took the deal even your captain...usually, I would just kill you and be done with it but we could use a warrior of your caliber."

The finely dressed man then addressed one of his pirates.

"How many of our men did he kill?"

The pirate then answered.

"Sixteen sir."

"Sixteen men. Now that's not something to scoff at. And if peddling "Poison" isn't your forte...killing certainly is... So why not kill for me?"

A strange mist that had been creeping onto the ship as the two conversed was now becoming denser.

"Hahaha."

The warrior laughed through the pain before replying.

"You can't be seriously trying to recruit me right now."

The warrior then looked the finely dressed man in the eyes and continued.

"You can beat me...break me...or kill me. It doesn't matter because I will never work for scum like you."

The finely dressed man then stood up and replied as he gripped his sword.

"Well... that's a shame."

He then began to unsheathe his blade.

"You still owe me sixteen lives..." A dark smile then formed on his face before continuing.

"oh well guess I will start with your family and work from there till your debt is paid."

The warrior then grabbed a knife that was hidden in his boot and shot up with all his strength and plunged into the chest of the pirate to his left.

Then in one seamless move grabbed the pirate's cutlass and with speed and precision slit the throat of the one on his right and then threw the knife into the head of the pirate who had stepped in front of his leader.

He then lunged at the finely dressed man But felt cold steel rip into his gut. The man, his vicious smile still intact spoke as he pulled his blade from the warrior's gut.

"Make that nineteen lives."

The warrior slumped back down to his knees as the pirate raised his blade but stopped as he heard sounds of things hitting the ground behind him and turned to find that his men were passed out on the floor and fog had now enveloped the ship.

"What is this?!"

He yelled at the warrior, confused. Just then, a voice came from the mist.

"It's a fifth-tier spell called Hypnos' breath."

The man quickly looked in the direction the voice had come from and saw an Elf in magnificent red and gold armor who continued to speak.

"Not that you will care in a moment..."

The finely dressed man then spoke as he looked at the elf confused.

"An elf? Who the hell are y..yo..you?"

He then felt an incredible want to sleep as he tried to speak.

"What..are..."

Azanar then brought his hand up and snapped his fingers. The man then fell face-first into the ground asleep.

The warrior looked on in awe as elves in shining gold and green armor the likes of which he had never seen came out of the mist and began tieing up the pirates.

He watched as the giant came out of the fog effortlessly carrying two sleeping men and brought them over to the other Elves and then speak to the one in red. He tried to listen in but found that he could not understand the language.

The elf in red then turned his attention to the warrior. An overwhelming sense of fear washed over the man as the elf made his approach. But what could he do?

It took everything he had simply to stay conscious. The elf then knelt and looked the man over. The warrior then struggled to speak.

"Who...are...you?"

The elf then replied.

"My name is Azanar. What is yours."

The man answered.

"My name is Ricca."

"Well, Ricca, You have quite the willpower to still be awake. These pirates worked you over pretty good.

The elf then reached into his pack and pulled out a transparent Vial filled with a crimson liquid.

"Here, drink this, it will help."

The elf said as he presented the strange potion. The warrior took hold of it but seemed hesitant, and the elf spoke again.

"You are losing a lot of blood. If you want to live, then I suggest you drink."

The warrior looked at the elf in his strange mismatched eyes and saw no sign of deception. He then quickly drank the peculiar concoction. A calm washed over him as he felt his wounds and pain disappear.

Ricca looked himself over astounded before speaking.

"What was that?"

Azanar, who seemed surprisingly interested in the potion's results, answered.

"It's a healing potion."

Ricca then replied.

"I have never seen a red healing potion."

Azanar then spoke.

"But you have heard of healing potions."

Ricca then nodded as he spoke.

"Of course."

Azanar then stood up and rubbed his chin as he thought out loud and began to walk away.

"Hmmm, Interesting."

Ricca then stood up and bowed as he spoke.

"Wait. There is no way I can repay what you've done for my crew and me but allow me to offer my sincerest gratitude. And on my honor, if there is anything I can do to begin to repay you. Name it."

Azanar stopped and looked back at Ricca and Replied.

"I will hold you to your word one day, but for now I only ask that you and your crew help man the pirate's ship I would like to present it and its crew as a gift to the Holy Kingdom."

Ricca then spoke. "The Holy Kingdom?"

Azanar then continued. "Yes, we were headed there when we came upon your ship."

A gruff voice suddenly came from behind them. "As captain of this ship, it would be an Honor to escort our saviors to the Holy Kingdom."

The captain was an older-looking man with tan skin, light brown hair, brown eyes, and a burly beard. He was wearing a slightly torn ship captain's attire and a captain's hat.

Azanar then replied. "Excellent! My crew will put the pirates in the brig and then assist you in any way they can. If you need anything, I will be in my quarters."

Azanar then left the two standing on the deck as elves and men readied the ship for a sail around them.

The captain then spoke. "Ricca, I..."

Ricca then cut in. "Gaspin, There's no need."

But the captain insisted. "No...I have to say this...I was a coward to give in, and I hope you can forgive me."

Ricca then thought for a moment before he spoke.

"You only took the deal to save the men, and I won't hold that against you."

"But..."

"That's all there is to it."

The captain then nodded, and the duo walked to the side of the ship and looked at the Vingilot. Ricca then spoke.

"Have you ever seen anything like it?"

The captain then replied.

"Never. It's simply magnificent. As if the four gods built it themselves... These are no ordinary elves I know I said it would be an Honor but do you think it's wise to take them to the Holy Kingdom."

Ricca then spoke. "When I first saw him, I was overcome with terror, but when I looked into his eyes, I felt a calm and peace I haven't felt since the first time I saw the queen...So no, I don't think it's wise. I think it's providence."

A few minutes later, in the brig of the Vingilot.

The finely dressed man sat at a small round table with two chairs in a dark and windowless room.

"What the hell happened? Where am I?" Why does my face hurt?"

The wall then began to shine as Azanar walked through it and into the room.

"What the hell!?"

The pirate leader yelled as he fell out of his chair and backed up to the wall.

"Ah, I see you're awake,"

Azanar said as he sat down in the chair across from the pirate who then stood up and spoke.

"You're that Elf from the mist...Do you have any idea who you're messing with here? Eight Fingers will have your head for this."

Azanar then leaned forward onto the table before speaking.

"Your men tell me your name is Cazden. I have a few questions I would like to ask you Cazden, please have a seat."

Cazden then spat as he spoke. "You must be out of your mind if you think I'd answer to the likes of you...Knife ear."

Azanar then sighed before he spoke directly into the man's mind as his ring glowed.

"SIT DOWN."

The words seemed to rip through the man's thoughts, and he sat down without hesitation.

"What?..how did you?..."

The man said, now scared and confused.

Azanar then looked the man in the eyes with a dangerous glare and spoke.

"You are under the impression that you have a choice in the matter...Let me assure you. You do not. Now, the first question. What is Eight Finger's plan for the Holy Kingdom?

On The Docks of Rimun

A small crowd of people had formed as word of three ships coming into port spread. Townsfolk and Sailors spoke among themselves as the ships dropped anchor.

"Look at the one in front. What a magnificent vessel!" One man exclaimed.

"I have never seen anything like it!" Another said.

"I wonder where it came from?" A young woman spoke out.

"Isn't that one on the right old man Gaspin's." A sailor suggested.

"Yeah, and do you see the one on the left...I think that's a pirate ship." Another sailor said.

Just then, soldiers in silver armor and blue and white robes started pushing through the crowd led by two men, the first a bearded middle-aged man dressed in excellent purple noblemen's clothes. He had brown hair that had been slicked back and hazel eyes. The second was a young man in a blue caped full set of silver plate armor. He had rainy white medium-length hair and icy white eyes.

"Make way! Make way!" The older man yelled out.

Then the younger man spoke.

"Yes, make way for Mayor Brine!"

As they reached the front of the crowd, the older man then spoke again.

"Thank you, Captain Leon...Have you any idea who it might be?"

The young captain shook his head as he answered. "The merchant ship is one of ours, and the second looks like the pirate ship that's been attacking our merchants. But the third... I have never seen anything like it or that flag before. Have you?"

The Mayor then looked at the ship's flags waving in the air.

"Hmm, A dragon and a lion before a white tree? No, can't say that I have."

Just then, Planks hit the ground before passengers of the strange ships began to disembark.

"Wait..." The Mayor began as he took a closer look.

"Elves?"

He said as six elves, three Male and three female clad in gold and green armor with beautiful Katana Great Swords strapped to their backs (Azanar's elite guard) stepped off the ship followed by Azanar, Haleir, and Argon. The crowd of people was mesmerized by the beauty of the Elves as they came to a stop in front of them.

"Look at how their armor shines!" A woman in the crowd said.

"I did not know Elves got that big!" A young boy said as he pointed at Argon.

"Look at the one with the long red hair!!... He's gorgeous!" A woman said as she stared at Azanar.

Captain Leon gripped his blade as he leaned in and whispered to the mayor.

"I have never seen armor or weapons like that before. There is something strange about these elves. We should be wary."

The Mayor shook his head and put his hand on the captain's shoulder before replying as he saw the crews of the second and third ships disembarked.

"Don't be so hasty, Calder..."

Ricca and Gaspin stepped off their boat and led their men and prisoners to the front of the crowd.

The Mayor then noticed their torn clothes and walked up to Gaspin and spoke.

"Ricca!, Gaspin! What happened? Are you alright?"

Gaspin then replied.

"Yes, old friend. Pirates attacked us, but thanks to this elf and his crew, we were able to capture them."

The Mayor then looked to Azanar and began to speak but stopped as he noticed the elf's eyes. He stared for a moment before regaining his composure and speaking,

"I am the Mayor of Rimun, Ricton Brine. And the young man to my right is our Captain of the Paladins of Rimun, Calder Leon."

Azanar thought for a moment before he replied. "(Hmm, that's right. I should have a last name. Hmm.. oh I know!") "It is a pleasure to meet you both. My name is Azanar Vas Elvhenan. I am the leader of this crew."

Mayor Brine then spoke. "Thank you, Sir, for saving them and bringing them home."

Azanar then replied. "It was no trouble at all.

Ricca had held them off for quite a while before we arrived. He is quite the warrior."

Calder then spoke. "Well, I would expect nothing less from a former Paladin knight."

Azanar saw shame flash across Ricca's features before Calder continued.

"Although I must ask how simple pirates gave him such trouble. Former or not. Pirates should be nothing to a paladin."

Gaspin then spoke up. "These were no ordinary pirates. They work for Eight Fingers and have a ranking member acting as their captain."

He said as he pointed at the pirate's leader now known as Cazden.

Calder then turned his attention to the man in question. The man's eyes looked fogged over, and he seemed to be looking out into the distance. Calder then spoke. "What's wrong with him...he looks far away."

Azanar then answered.

"Just a side effect of the sleep magic I used to subdue him and his crew. Some take longer to recover fully."

Calder looked at the man for a moment before accepting Azanar's explanation and continued.

"Hmm, well, in any case, what were you planning on doing with the prisoners?"

Azanar then answered. "I would like to turn the pirates and their ship over to the Holy Kingdom. Since it was you, they were trying to wrong. It's only right that you judge them."

The Mayor looked slightly surprised.

"Oh? Well, on behalf of our beautiful kingdom, I thank you."

He then turned to Calder, who then spoke to his men.

"Take this pirate scum to the holding cells to await judgment."

The soldiers then led the pirates away. The young captain then turned his attention to Azanar before speaking.

"As grateful as we are to have our men back safe and that pirate menace in custody, I must ask what you were doing so close to the Holy Kingdom. What's your business here?"

Ricca then spoke. "Calder. He saved us. I don't think there is any reason to treat him like a criminal."

Calder then replied to Ricca. "True... But unlike you, I am not so naive as to believe it was simply out of the kindness of his heart."

Ricca then spoke under his breath. "Nice to see you too..." Calder then looked at Azanar again. "You are clearly an Elf of means and a mage no less. What business brings you to the Holy Kingdom."

"Calder..." Ricca began to speak again but was stopped by Azanar speaking.

"It's quite alright, Ricca."

Azanar stepped forward and replied.

"My companions and I have come from a far-off land in search of knowledge and an understanding of the peoples of these lands."

The crowd murmured with Interest in the statement. The Mayor then spoke. "A far-off land? So you are not from the Elf Kingdom in the west?"

Azanar shook his head before answering.

"I have heard tell of my kin in these lands but have not yet met with them."

The Young Captain then spoke up. "You are very well armed and armored for simple seekers of knowledge."

Azanar then looked at the young captain and replied. "The path to understanding this world is fraught with danger for those not well armed and armored. Just ask your merchants."

Calder was taken aback by the quick retort as the Mayor rubbed his beard in thought and then looked at the Elven ship before speaking.

"What manner of cargo do you carry?"

Azanar then gestured to some of the elves still on board who brought out glittering silks and small chests filled with jewels. The crowd looked on in awe as Azanar answered.

"We did not come seeking something for nothing. We bear gifts for the Ruler of this land."

Calder then seemed insulated and spoke out abruptly. "Her Majesty does not need for such!..."

The Mayor then raised his hand and spoke. "Calm your self Calder!... Please forgive his outburst his admiration for our Queen is quite great "

Calder then regained his composure and lowered his head as he apologized, "My apologies."

Azanar then raised his hand and spoke. "There is nothing to apologize for...If these gifts are not adequate, then..."

The Mayor then spoke up. "No. I believe the Queen will be more than happy with such exotic gifts, and I believe she would very much like to learn about the people who crafted such a magnificent ship. I will gladly send word for an audience,"

Azanar then nodded before speaking. "That would be greatly appreciated."

The Mayor then clapped his hands before speaking. "Fantastic! You and your crew will be my honored guests for the night, and in the morning, we will make preparations for the journey to the capital. The Inn will take care of everything for your crew, but I would be honored if you would stay with me in my estate."

Azanar then replied. "You are too kind, but I would ask that my sister be allowed to accompany me." Haleir then stepped forward with an enchanting smile and spoke. Hello, my name is Haleir."

The Mayor bent down with a smile to reply but stopped as he noticed something.

"She has Mismatched eyes too.."

He said under his breath before the captain's hand on his shoulder brought him back to reality.

"Is Everything alright, Sir?" The young captain asked.

The Mayor then quickly regained his composure and continued. "It's very nice to meet you, Haleir." He then stood back up and continued. It is not a problem; you are both welcome."

Azanar had noticed the look on the mayor's face. "(Hmmm, it was her eyes. He couldn't look away...I wonder..)"

Argon then leaned in and spoke to Azanar.

"Na- hi sael mui hir?" (Is this wise, my lord?).

Azanar put on a smile as he waved Argon off and answered.

"Ceri- ú- let cín tiri- dad. N- readui an anou."

(Do not worry. but stay sharp.)

The Mayor and Calder tried to hide their surprise at hearing the strange language, but Azanar noticed right away.

"(Hmm, judging from their reaction, the elves here might not speak different languages...Interesting.)"

Azanar then turned to face his soldiers and addressed them.

"Alright... I want you all to behave yourselves for Captain Calder here. Am I clear?"

The soldiers then saluted by placing their right fists on their chests. Azanar smiled and spoke. "Excellent."

Calder then walked up to Mayor Brine and spoke quietly. "Shouldn't we notify Father Maxwell?"

The Mayor then whispered back.

"Father Maxwell will have his hands full with High Priestess Kelart's upcoming inspection. We can notify him in the morning."

Calder then nodded and spoke before the mayor started to walk to the carriage.

"If you say so, sir."

Argon then watched as Azanar and Haleir got into a gilded carriage with the mayor and rode down the road.

He then spoke as he watched. "Im ceri- ú- li hi." (I do not like this.)

Arundeil spoke from behind. "Nin neier. ut mín sou estel i aran estel ou hir" (Me neither. But we must trust our Lord.)

Gaspin and Ricca then walked up to the two elves, and Ricca spoke.

"You two look like you need a drink. How about a few on me to welcome you to the Holy Kingdom."

Arundeil then replied. "Ha, you will never see me turn down a free drink. Lead the way."

Captain Calder then stepped in front of the group and spoke. "Please follow me. I will show you to your lodgings."

Argon nodded and then gestured for the rest of the Elves to follow.

In The Carriage

Azanar and Haleir sat across from the mayor as the carriage moved at a brisk pace. Halier stared out of the window, enjoying the scenery while the mayor enthusiastically asked Azanar question after question.

"Amazing. So this land you come from is called Lokelonde? What an interesting name."

Azanar then replied. "Yes, well, the name comes from the first language of the Elves."

The Mayor then spoke. "Ah, you mean the language you spoke with that big elf."

Azanar then corrected. "No, that was the language of the young. Only the oldest of Elves are fluent in the first."

The Mayor then rubbed his beard as he spoke. "And this land you come from.. are there only Elves there?"

Azanar took a moment before answering. "If you are asking if any humans live among us, the answer is sadly, no. Although in the past, we have invited exceptional humans to come and visit...that has not happened in quite some time."

The Mayor looked disheartened by the revelation. "(That might of been too harsh...)"

Azanar thought to himself before continuing. "But I am hoping good relations with this country will see our peoples walking into a new age together."

Mayor Brine then smiled as he replied. "I would very much like to see that day."

Azanar then smiled before speaking. "Now, I would like to ask you a question."

The Mayor then replied. "Of course."

Azanar then continued."I would like to know a bit about your ruler before I meet her. What is your Queen like?"

The Mayor then began rubbing his beard in thought before answering. "Hmm... She is kindness incarnate. Wisdom and beauty in equal measure. It's because of her that this kingdom prospers."

Azanar then replied,

"She sounds like a true treasure... I have one more question."

The mayor then replied. "Oh, go ahead."

Azanar then leaned forward.

"You have been quite welcoming to complete strangers... honestly I was expecting a bit more hostility to our abrupt visit. Especially given what I've heard about the treatment of my people in these lands..."

The elven king's eyes darkened and his ring of domination began to glow slightly as he finished.

"And I will not be taken as a fool. So I ask you. Why?"

The mayor then stammered.

"Oh, Well you..you see...I"

The glow of the ring seemed to calm the man down as he then answered with ease.

"Because like my queen I do not see your people as lesser. In fact, from the moment I saw your eyes. I knew what you were."

Azanar then pressed as his ring continued to glow.

"And what am I?"

The mayor then continued.

"Royalty.. most humans would just find it an interesting trait, but I know what those eyes mean for an elf. Power... My grandfather made many trips through the Elven Kingdom in the east on his way to visit relatives in the Slain Theocracy. He wrote of the wonders he saw including the Royal family. And the thing they all had in common was heterochromic eyes."

Azanar then sighed.

"I suppose I've been found out.."

Azanar then chuckled to himself.

"Ha, whether I like it or not huh.."

Azanar then regained his composure.

"And what were you planning to do with this information?"

The mayor then stammered.

"Oh.. nothing untoward I assure you. I am sure you have your reason for hiding your royal blood and if you had ill intent you wouldn't have gone out of your way to help Ricca."

Azanar then began to move his hand forward slightly.

"So what do you want in return for keeping my secret?"

The mayor then answered as he looked out the window.

"All I want is for things to go back to what they once were. For elves and men to walk side by side again as equals.

Azanar then looked confused as he spoke.

"That is a noble request, but I thought your queen already saw us as equals."

Mayor Brine then replied.

"Her Majesty does her best but many of my countrymen refuse to give up their idiotic beliefs."

Azanar then inquired.

"And what makes you so different exactly?"

The mayor then began.

"Well, I..."

Just then, the carriage driver yelled out.

"We have arrived, Sir!!"

The Mayor then spoke. "Excellent. We can finish this inside. We have arrived."

The carriage came to a stop, and then the Mayor stepped out, followed by Azanar and Haleir, who took in the beautiful home.

From the outside, the house looked beautiful and traditional It was built with burgundy bricks and had white cedar wooden decorations. Tall, rounded windows lined the outside of the house most symmetrically. The building was shaped like an L.

The extension extended into wooden sunscreens structures circling half the house. The second floor looked bigger than the first, which created a stylish overhang around half the house.

The roof was flat and covered with burgundy shingles. Two small chimneys sat at the side of the house. A few round, small windows let in enough light to the rooms below the roof.

A well-kept garden surrounded the house itself. Grass, flower patches, and trees had been placed stylishly. Azanar and Haleir followed Mayor Brine up the cobblestone path to the house.

Azanar then spoke as they walked."I must say you have quite the home here."

The Mayor then replied as they passed the garden. "Thank you, Lord Azanar. It's been in my family since the founding of the Holy Kingdom 200 years ago."

"(Wait...This country is only 200 years old.)" Azanar thought to himself.

Haleir then spoke up. "This country is young."

"(Right?)"

The Mayor then laughed as he replied.

"Haha, I suppose in your eyes it would be... Lady Haleir."

As the trio approached the house, they noticed two children, a boy and a girl playing in the garden closest to the main house as a young woman watched them.

The boy had short blonde hair, and brown eyes, and looked to be twelve or so, and the girl had long brown hair and green eyes and seemed to be the younger of the two. The boy was the first to notice the group and ran down the path to greet them, followed by the girl.

"Grandpa!!"

The two yelled as they ran into the arms of the mayor, who greeted them after the embrace. "Allder, Reani. I do hope you behaved yourselves while I was away."

The children nodded, and then Reani replied. "Yes, grandpa. We were good."

The Mayor stood up and smiled at the two children before hearing the voice of the young woman as she made her approach.

"Back so soon, Father? Was everything alright?"

The young woman had fair skin, long rainy white hair, and icy white eyes. She was wearing a blue and white dress that flows from top to bottom and has a jewel neckline, which subtly reveals the modest dress worn below it.

The satin, corset-like tied fabric of her dress covers her stomach where the continuous flow is broken up by a thick cloth belt worn fairly high around her waist.

Mayor Brine then replied.

"Ah, Yes, my dear. Pirates attacked captain Gaspin's ship, but thanks to our guests here, they made it home safe."

He said as he gestured to the elves behind him. The young woman then bowed slightly as she spoke.

"It is very nice to meet you."

The young woman then adopted a slightly worried look before continuing.

"Wait...didn't Ricca sign on with Captain Gaspin's crew?"

The Mayor then spoke. "Ah.. yes, but you need not worry. He is safe along with the crew."

Aurora then gave out a sigh of relief before replying. "Oh, thank goodness."

The Mayor then addressed the elves. "Allow me to introduce you to my daughter Aurora and my grandchildren Allder and Reani."

He then turned to introduce the guests.

"And this is Lord Azanar and Lady Haleir. They have business with the Queen and will be staying with us while they await an audience."

Reani then walked up to the duo with a curious look before speaking."Umm, Mister Azanar. Are you elves?"

Azanar then bent down with a smile before answering.

"Why yes, we are, Little one. What gave it away?"

Reani giggled before pointing at Azanar's ears. Azanar then spoke his smile again, still present.

"Ah, of course... They are rather distinctive, aren't they?"

Reani nodded as she smiled. Azanar then noticed something about Allder as he stared at Haleir. A faded scar on the top of each of the little boy's ears. Haleir then looked at him, and the boy quickly looked away while blushing.

Azanar thought to himself as his golden eye glowed slightly.

"(It couldn't be...)"

《TRUE SIGHT》

Azanar's eye looked over both Reani and Allder.

The Mayor laughed as he then bent down to Allder and spoke.

"I have an idea Allder! How about while Aurora and I show lord Azanar the guest rooms, you and Reani show lady Haleir around the grounds?"

Allder nodded and looked over at Haleir, who had a confused look on her face. Halier then began to say something, but before she could, Reani grabbed her by the hand and spoke.

"Come on, Miss Haleir, we will show you the gardens first!"

The young girl then ran off, holding on to Haleir with Allder chasing behind.

The Mayor smiled as the trio ran toward the gardens. Aurora then spoke.

"I can show lord Azanar to the guest rooms if you would like, father." Mayor Brine then looked at Azanar before speaking.

"Ah, yes...I am sure you are weary from your journey Azanar. Would you like to rest?"

Azanar's calming ring shined slightly as he watched the children run off before he answered.

"It would seem your grandfather was not the only one who had an interest in my people.."

Mayor Brine then spoke, confused by the statement... "I'm sorry. I don't..."

Azanar then spoke out cutting Mayor Brine off.

"Their ears... they've been cut, magically healed, and reshaped but their is no mistake. I know my people..."

Azanar then turned to face the Mayor and Aurora his eyes filled with rage.

"You speak of respecting my people and yet I find two kidnapped and disfigured here in your home!?..."

A magic circle spread out around them as fire erupted around them.

Aurora then spoke up. "Kidnaped? No it's not what you think Lord Azanar."

Mayor Brine then quickly spoke as the fire rose around them.

"They were not kidnapped! They are the children of my eldest daughter and her elven husband, and I love them with all my heart... It is for their future that I ask for your help."

Azanar rage subsided, The fire then faded as he relented.

"And their ears?"

The mayor then answered.

"Done at their birth by their father's request. He wanted them to live a normal life with their mother, free of prejudice."

As the last of the fire dissipated the mayor continued.

"You asked me what makes me so different from the other nobility. This is it. Please come inside and I will explain..."

Azanar then took a deep calming breath before following the mayor and his daughter in.

Once in the study, the two sat down, and Azanar spoke. "Your daughter is quite lovely... Although I can't help but notice a resemblance to Calder. "

Ricton then replied. "Ah...well, I would hope so since she is his elder sister."

Azanar then spoke."So then Calder..."

Ricton then shook his head before speaking. "Not exactly...I adopted Aurora after her parents died during the Srush invasion ten years ago; we call The Long Rain, but the church conscripted Calder."

Azanar then spoke. "I am so sorry... but why would the church conscript him instead of letting him be with his sister."

Ricton then began to reply.

"Well, that's..."

Just then, Aurora walked in with tea and spoke.

"The tea is ready."

Ricton then responded with a smile.

"Thank you, my dear."

Aurora then placed two cups on the desk the duo was sitting at and served the tea.

"I hope you like it... it's a family recipe."

Aurora said as she stepped back.

Azanar picked up his cup and blew on it before speaking.

"Thank you."

He then took a sip.

"(Wow, this is pretty good...but it tastes familiar.)"

He thought to himself before placing the cup back on the desk with a satisfied sigh. He then noticed Aurora staring at him expectantly.

"Do you like it?" She asked.

Azanar smiled sheepishly and replied. "Yes, I do. This is really good!"

Aurora then smiled back before she answered.

"I am glad."

Azanar looked at her slightly confused before Ricton spoke up.

"This is the Gray Earl's tea. Legend says that the God of Water himself created this tea for weary travelers, and if they liked it, it would bring prosperity upon them and the one who made it."

Azanar then thought to himself.

"(No way...Its Earl Gray tea!)"

Aurora then spoke again. "Would you like anything else?"

Both Ricton and Azanar shook their heads. Aurora then clasped her hands and spoke.

"Ok, then I will check on the children if you need anything father, just let me know."

"Of course,"

Ricton said as Aurora left.

He then turned his attention to Azanar and spoke.

"So... First, we will go over court etiquette."

BACK AT THE INN

The inn's tavern area was filled with laughter and song as elves and men drank and ate. At the center table sat Arundeil, Argon, Calder, Ricca, and Gaspin, who was telling of the day's events to Calder.

"And then he walked out of the mist, and all of the Pirates just passed out. After that, all we had to do was tie them up."

Calder then replied. "Wow, you're lucky they showed up when they did."

Then Gaspin spoke after placing an empty mug on the table.

"Ha...You're telling me... I thought it was all over, but Ricca here kept fighting till the end."

Argon then spoke. "Yes, your man was quite the warrior."

Ricca then chimed in. "Whole lot of good it did. We would have been dead if not for Azanar..."

Calder then spoke. "Even so... you fought like a true paladin. Aurora would be proud."

Ricca was taken aback for a moment before he inquired. "How is Aurora?"

Calder then thought for a moment before answering. "She is doing well...I am sure she would be happy to see you."

Ricca gave out a heavy sigh before replying.

"I can't... not after what happened."

Calder then spoke. "Well, have you considered rejoining?"

Ricca then looked Calder in the eyes and replied. "You know I can't..."

Calder then responded. "That's not true...if you just spoke with the Grand Master then..."

Ricca then cut him off as he slammed the table. "I will not grovel at that..."Woman's" feet!"

Ricca then took a deep breath before continuing. "Sorry, but things are the way they are...and I am fine with that."

He then noticed all the empty mugs on the table and spoke.

"Looks like we are running low. I will go get some more ale."

He then stood up and walked to the bar.

Calder then began to stand to follow him but was stopped by Argon's giant hand on his shoulder.

Argon then spoke. "Leave him be... a warrior's stubbornness can be our greatest strength.."

Arundeil then chimed in.

"It is also what makes you a giant pain in the ass!"

Earning a laugh from the table.

Gaspin then spoke up. "You know what will liven this place up?...a song!"

Just then, Ricca came back and sat on a platter with fresh mugs of ale down as he spoke. "

Oh no, old man, I have heard enough of your singing on the high seas to last a lifetime."

Gaspin then laughed before looking at Arundeil and Argon. "Hahaha, well, what about you guys, any singers among you?"

Arundeil and Argon looked at each other for a moment before Arundeil looked at the table behind them, where Azanar's elite guard sat in their gold and green armor and spoke.

"Hey, Uriel! Your clan is famous for its songs, right? Care to sing us one?

The she-elf in question had short black hair, bronze skin, and green eyes with intricate markings resembling branches starting on her forehead and ending just below her eyes. She looked at Arundeil with a dismissive sigh and replied. "Hmmm? Oh... am I to be your personal bard now, Arundeil?"

Arundeil then smiled nervously before replying. "Oh, don't be like that...give us a song and show these shem what real singing sounds like."

Uriel then sighed in defeat before she spoke.

"I guess I could give you a short one."

She then took a deep breath and began to sing.

"He sang of leaves, of leaves of gold, and leaves of gold there grew."

Her voice was sweet and smooth. Clear and quiet yet commanding. The whole room listened as she continued.

"Of wind he sang, a wind there came, and in the branches blew.

Beyond the Sun, beyond the Moon, the foam was on the Seas,

And by the strand of Ilmarin there grew the golden Trees."

Her voice swelled with power and emotions as she went on.

"Beneath the stars of Ever-eve in Lokelonde they shone, Upon the walls of Elvhenon in Lokelonde they stood.

And there they grew the golden leaves upon the branching years."

Her voice then rolled over the room in sorrowful waves as she finished.

"While far beyond the Sundering Seas now fall the Elven-tears."

The room was quiet as the patrons reeled from Uriel's voice. Calder then spoke, unable to take his eyes off Uriel. "That was beautiful, like nothing I have ever heard."

Uriel tilted her head slightly as she smiled sweetly before replying. "Well, of course, you haven't, it's from our homeland."

Calder then began to respond. "No.. that's not what..."

Just then, three soldiers came into the tavern and went to the center table. "Captain, there is something you need to see!"

The soldiers waited for a response as Calder just stared at Uriel.

"Captain?"

The soldier said again, now confused.

Urial then spoke. "Your men need you, Calder."

Calder then broke from his trance-like state and spoke. "Oh..oh of course, what is it, Lieutenant?"

The Lieutenant then leaned in and replied. "It's a very sensitive matter. You need to see it for yourself."

Calder then looked at the man and saw the grave look on his face and replied as he stood up.

"Lead the way, men." He then followed the soldiers out of the tavern.

Arundeil then began scratching the back of his head as he spoke to Uriel. "Um, I was thinking something a little more upbeat."

Uriel then scoffed as she replied.

"Beggars can't be choosers."

AT THE DOCKS

The stars and moon's reflection shined brightly under a cloudless night sky as the soldiers stopped at the ramp on the captured pirate ship and the Lieutenant led Calder on board.

Calder spoke as they walked.

"I take it you found their supply of Black Dust."

The Lieutenant then replied.

"Yes, it's stashed in a hidden room behind an enchanted trapped door."

Calder then stopped and folded his arms before speaking.

"Well, you could have just put it in the report. Why bring me here, Hains?"

The Lieutenant then looked at Calder and spoke. "It's not about the Black Dust, sir. It's about what we found it in."

The two then walked across the deck and down the stairs leading into the hold and threw the hidden door to a pile of sacks and crates filled with black dust.

Calder looked at the pile for a moment before noticing the insignia on all the containers. "No..it can't be.."

Hains then spoke.

"I didn't want to believe it either, but it has the church's sigil. This was how they were going to smuggle it into Rimun. No one would question cargo with the seal of the four gods on it."

Calder then spoke as he knelt to take a closer look.

"Are you sure they are not forgeries?"

Hains then shook his head as he spoke.

"I thought of that too, but they all react to the holy magic of our enchanted weapons."

Calder then brought his dagger up to the sigils, and they glowed brightly. He then looked down, saddened, and cursed.

"Damn it!... Do you know what this means?"

Heins nodded before answering.

"That someone in the church is working with Eight Fingers."

Calder then sighed as he stood up and spoke. "Not just someone...only the highest-ranking members have access to the seal of the four gods."

Heins then spoke. "Well...What should we do, Captain?"

Calder then folded his arms and thought for a moment before answering. "Hmmm... who knows about this?"

Heins then answered. "You, me, and our two men outside."

Calder then replied. "Do you trust them?"

Heins then explained matter-of-factly.

"Completely."

Calder then nodded as he spoke.

"Good...Because this needs to stay quiet for now."

Heins then questioned.

"Huh.. but why?... High Priestess Kalart should be here tomorrow. Shouldn't we notify her."

Calder then shook his head again as he spoke.

"No, we shouldn't. As things are now, we can't trust any ranking members within the temple. This has to go directly to the Queen...quietly. And I think I have a way to do it."

Heins then sighed reluctantly before speaking.

"If you think it's best.."

Calder then spoke.

"I do... now seal this place up. I will give you further orders in the morning."

Hains then replied as the two left the room, and Calder went up to the deck. "Yes, sir."

He then turned to seal the room and thought he saw something red glowing in the shadows. "Hmm...must have been my imagination."

THE NEXT MORNING

Azanar stirred in bed before waking and sitting himself up. He then looked around the room and then brought his right hand up and examined it for a moment before thinking to himself.

"(Still here, huh? I keep thinking I will wake up at home, get on chat and tell everyone about this crazy dream... but it looks like that's not the case...)"

He then stood up and walked to a mirror in the corner of the room next to the dresser and examined himself. He was wearing a lightweight white shirt and red leather trousers.

"(It's not all bad though.)"

He thought to himself as he admired his chiseled form through his shirt. Just then, he saw a ripple in the reflection. Azanar then waved his hands as he spoke.

《Reveal Truth》

Just then, Xehanort's visage appeared on the mirror and spoke.

"Ah..Good morning Sire."

Azanar then smiled and replied. "Good morning Xehanort. I hope our guest is behaving."

Xehanort then replied. "Of course, my Lord, your decision to hand over a Doppelganger in place of the pirate leader was very wise. The information he has already provided us in the short time we have had him has been invaluable."

Azanar then responded. "That's good to hear, and have there been any updates on my brother's location?"

Xehanort then cleared his throat before speaking.

"Unfortunately, we still have yet to find his exact location, but by using scrying magic and the locate guild member spell simultaneously, we were able to narrow down his whereabouts to the eastern border of the human territories."

Azanar then questioned. "The human territories?"

Xehanort then answered.

"Yes, well, according to the information Cazden has provided, although humans have a commanding presence here in the west, the further east you go, the less social power humans possess.They are even used as food."

Azanar rubbed his chin as he replied.

"And I assume elves are treated the same in the east." Xehanort just nodded in response.

Azanar then continued.

"So the first thing we need to do is narrow down his location as much as possible. Hmmm, send out two Great Eagles to survey the eastern region."

Xehanort then quickly replied. "I will see to it, sire."

Azanar then spoke. "And notify me of any updates."

Xehanort's image then faded from view.

Sighed as he thought to himself.

"(One step forward, two steps back.)"

Azanar then noticed the reflection of movement in the bed. He then gave out an annoyed sigh as he went over to the bed and pulled the covers back, revealing a sleeping Haleir.

The young elf slowly rose and began rubbing her eyes as she spoke, still half asleep. "Morning, brother...is everything alright?"

Azanar's annoyance melted away.

"(She's so adorable!!)"

He thought to himself before calmly answering.

"Yes.. everything is fine, but I would appreciate it if you would sleep in your bed from now on."

Haleir rubbed the last bit of sleep from her eyes before replying. "But...what about my assignment?"

Azanar gave her a confused look before inquiring. "Huh? What assignment, Haleir?"

Haleir then answered matter-o-factly.

"To make sure no harm comes to you and to watch you while you sleep so I can describe it in detail."

Azanar then sighed before speaking. "And who gave you this duty?"

Haleir then answered with a smile. "Lady Valindra did."

Azanar then spoke.

"Of course, she did.."

Just then, there was a knock on the door, and a feminine voice yelled out.

"Lord Azanar, are you up?"

Azanar then answered. "Yes, Aurora, come in, "

Aurora then spoke as she opened the door.

"I can't seem to find Lady Haleir I was..."

She trailed off as she saw Haleir sitting on Azanar's bed.

"Oh, that's where she is. Thank goodness, I was worried the kids had scared her off."

Haleir smiled and replied.

"Oh no, I had a lot of fun with them, but I had to make sure my brother was safe."

Aurora then smiled back as she spoke.

"Aww, that's so sweet of you."

Azanar then chimed in.

"Don't encourage her. she should sleep in her bed."

Aurora then replied.

"Now, now Lord Azanar, you should appreciate this while you have it, it won't last forever."

Azanar then thought before answering.

"(This must remind her of Calder when he was little...)"

"I suppose I can let it slide this time."

Azanar then patted Haleir on the head.

Aurora smiled as she looked at the siblings before speaking. "Oh, my father wanted me to tell you that he will most likely be gone all day, making preparations for your journey to the capital, so make yourself at home."

Azanar then responded."That's very kind of him, but I was planning on going into town to take a look around and visit with my crew."

Aurora then replied. "Oh well I am going to town for groceries, I would be happy to show you around before you meet with your men."

Azanar then smiled before replying. "That would be greatly appreciated, Aurora."

The silver-haired girl smiled as she spoke.

"Great! I will get the cart ready, come down when you are ready." And with that, Aurora left the duo alone in the room. Azanar then looked at Haleir and noticed her staring at him with suspicion.

Azanar then spoke nervously. "What? She offered."

Haleir's stare then intensified. Azanar then scratched the back of his neck before speaking.

"Umm well... shouldn't keep her waiting."

He then threw on a red and gold ornate coat and boots and quickly walked out of the room. Haleir then smiled to herself and followed after.

A few minutes later, Azanar was sitting next to Aurora in the front of the cart while Reani, Allder, and Haleir stood on the side of it.

Aurora then spoke to the children.

"Now, you two behave for Lady Haleir, ok."

The two then answered in unison. "We will."

Then Azanar addressed Haleir. "We will be back soon."

The little elf smiled as she replied.

"See you soon."

Aurora then pulled on the reins of the brown cart horse and rode down the path.

The ride was quiet for a time until Aurora spoke up. "So... Lord Azanar... I wanted to thank you for saving Ricca...He means a lot to me..."

Azanar then replied. No thanks needed. I had the power to intervene, so I did."

Aurora smiled as she replied." Well, you have it anyway."

After a few moments, Azanar then spoke again.

"So then you and Ricca..."

Aurora then answered.

"Not anymore... After he was kicked out of the Paladin Order it was like he had lost a piece of himself, and he stopped coming to see me."

Azanar then thought to himself before replying. "(Hmm interesting.)"

"May I ask what happened with him and the Paladins."

Aurora then answered. "All they said was that he disobeyed a direct order from their Grand Master during his Captain's exam. But I know Ricca he would not do that unless he had a good reason. And when I asked Calder about it, he wouldn't tell me what happened."

Azanar then spoke. "Well, in any case, I believe the order made a mistake. Because from what I can tell, Ricca is a very skilled warrior."

Aurora then spoke, her smile returning.

"Thank you for saying that...I just hope they realize their mistake."

Just then, the two began to pass the gates an old and foreboding mansion. The estate looked as if it hadn't seen care in years with over grown plants and trees and parts of the building falling apart.

Azanar then inquired. "What is this place?

Aurora then answered. "Father told me It once belonged to one of the noble families of Rimun. But that they were forced out of the kingdom. No one go's near it anymore. and most people think it's haunted."

Azanar then thought to himself. "(Haunted huh? I am getting an eerie feeling from the place...)"

As the duo then road on the main gates to Rimun came into view.

IN RIMUN

The sun hung high over Rimun as Azanar and Aurora walked through the bustling market. People bartered and traded as Azanar followed and watched Aurora go from storefront to storefront buying goods. As they continued through the market, Azanar noticed all the attention he was getting from the townspeople.

Aurora had noticed as well and spoke.

"Don't mind them. They just haven't seen anyone like you before."

Azanar then replied. "I don't mind the looks of interest or confusion...it's the looks filled with contempt that is getting on my nerves."

Aurora could feel the frustration emitting from Azanar as they moved passed the merchants. Then the duo came upon a store that had all kinds of beautiful and exotic fabrics on display.

The store owner called out to Aurora with a smile as Azanar looked at trinkets in another stall.

"There she is...The silver maiden of Rimun."

Aurora smiled back and spoke as the Beautiful dark-skinned woman walked up to Aurora. She had long black hair green eyes and was wearing an exotic two pieces that left little two the imagination.

"Haha, Twilight, must you always call me that?"

Twilight then took hold of Aurora's hands enthusiastically and spoke.

"Well, of course. How else would you know how beautiful you are, hmm?"

She stepped back and looked Aurora up and down before continuing. "Speaking of which, where is the outfit I made for you? You said you would wear it around town."

Aurora then blushed as she replied. "I was going to, but when I put it on, I saw that it was really revealing."

Twilight then waved her right hand dismissively as she replied. "Nonsense... what's the point of having a body like yours if you don't show it off, hmmm?"

Aurora then smiled nervously before looking around for some way to change the subject. She then ran up to Azanar and brought him over before she spoke.

"Let me introduce Azanar. He is visiting from a faraway Elven Kingdom. Azanar, this is Twilight. She is a Merchant from the Baharuth Empire."

Azanar extended his hand in greeting as he spoke. "It's very nice to meet you, Twilight."

Twilight then looked surprised at the kind gesture and took Azanar's hand before replying. "It's nice to meet you too, but It's not every day that a free elf extends a hand to a Baharuth citizen."

Azanar then thought to himself.

"(That's right...the Baharuth Empire is well known for its use of elven slaves.)"

He then noticed a barely visible mark on her left shoulder so faded only eyes as keen as his could see it. He then replied,

"I get the feeling that you understand their plight better than most."

Twilight was taken aback by his words.

"How.."

But before she could finish that thought, her fingers brushed up against Azanar's coat sleeve. Her body moved as if she had been shocked by lightning. She then spoke.

"Please forgive me, but I simply must know. What fabric are your clothes made of? I have never seen anything like it."

Azanar and Aurora were both taken aback by her sudden forwardness. Azanar then answered.

"This is made from Iron Spider Silk."

The woman then looked shocked by the answer but didn't look away.

"Spider silk? May...may I feel it?"

Azanar thought to himself.

"(This chick is weird.)"

Azanar then spoke.

"Sure, I guess..."

She then wasted no time grabbing ahold of Azanar's coat and examining it. "Simply magnificent! The feel, the tensile strength..."

Twilight then looked up at Azanar and spoke.

"Do you have any more of this Iron Spider Silk?

Azanar then answered. "Well, yes, but I brought it as a gift for the Queen."

The merchant then spoke. "Whatever the price, I will buy it from you. What do you say?"

Azanar then thought to himself.

"(Hmm, this reminds me of random events in RPG's. I could sell it to her for a quick fortune, keep it for the Queen or go into business with her...But I should get permission to do business first.)"

Azanar then spoke. "Hmm, I will tell you what... Once I have spoken with the Queen, I will see what I can do."

Twilight then sighed in defeat before replying. "But...Ok...You better remember what you said."

Azanar smiled as he replied. "I will."

Aurora then hugged Twilight goodbye before her, and Azanar continued through the market.

As they walked out of the market, Azanar spoke. "Your friend is kind with good salesmanship and a good selection. But she didn't have very many customers. Why?"

Aurora then answered. "That would be thanks to all the taxes placed on her and all other non-citizens by the nobles when the Queen opened the borders after our neighbors in the Re-Esteize Kingdom abolished slavery."

Azanar then replied. "Can't the Queen overrule these nobles?"

Aurora then answered. "I am sure she could, but then the nobles would use that as a way to lower her standing with the people by saying she was showing favoritism to non-citizens..."

Azanar thought to himself. "(I feel sorry for her...Having to cater to Idiots while trying to maintain her dignity...I wonder if there is anything I can do to help?)"

Just then, a commotion could be heard coming from ahead of them. "Thief!!! Stop right there!"

A guard in iron armor yelled as he chased an elven boy down the street toward Azanar and Aurora.The boy expertly moved through the crowd as he made his escape.

Azanar watched the boy slightly impressed.

"Hmm not bad, His speed and evasion skills are above average, but his spacial awareness is sorely lacking."

He thought out loud.

Aurora then spoke, confused. "What do you mean?"

Azanar then answered. "He missed one."

Then as if on cue, a guard jumped from around a corner and tackled the elf boy to the ground a few feet in front of Azanar and Aurora. Causing what he stole to fall onto the ground and brake.

"Noo! Damn it!" The boy exclaimed as tears started falling down his face.

"(Potions?)"

Azanar thought to himself as he looked at the pile of different colored liquids and broken glass.

The guard then brought the boy up to his feet as the other guard, and a priest caught up.

The priest then spoke with a smug smile on his face.

"Ha caught you, you little bastard."

He then patted the boy down. His smug look dissipated as he looked for the potions to no avail.

Then one of the guards spoke.

"Umm over here."

The guard pointed at the broken bottles. The Priest's expression turned to pure rage as he spat.

"Noo, you broke them!! Do you have any idea what the penalty for stealing from the church is? You heathen! You will hang for this!"

Azanar's mind raced.

"(I shouldn't get involved. I have to remember why I am here. I can't risk making enemies of the church. Even if it is for a kid...Dammit...what would you do, brother?...)"

(FLASH BACK) LOKELONDE'S GUILD ROOM

Azanar sat in his chair at the head of the table and scolded Evunial.

"You can't keep accepting a contract to go on quests with Heteromorph players. The guilds in our alliance are tired of running into you in the field."

Evunial then responded.

"You mean tired of me stopping them from PKing."

Azanar then replied, a little annoyed.

"Damn it, Does it matter? There are thousands of humanoid player contracts that you could take on if your bored.. just pick one."

Evunial then responded slightly frustrated.

"It's not about being bored. It's about helping people when they need it. I mean, what's the point of having maxed out characters if we don't use them to help the players that get picked on the most?"

Azanar then calmed down and spoke. "But it's just a game."

Evunial then questioned. "True...but what if it wasn't?"

(END OF FLASH BACK)

The priest then raised his hand to strike the boy, but when his hand came down, it was stopped by Azanar, who now stood between the man and the young elf.

Azanar then spoke. "Now, now...no need for that."

The man then spoke through his surprise. "What?...where the hell did you come from?"

Azanar, still holding the man's arm, used his free hand to point at the area next to Aurora, who, for her part, was just as shocked by Azanar's show of speed.

The priest then tried to pull his hand free but could not move an inch until Azanar let go resulting in the man falling backward.

Just then, two paladins came around the corner.

The priest yelled at them, angrily.

"Why are you just standing there?! He attacked me!"

Azanar then denied.

"What? I did no such..."

Before he could finish, the paladins were on him. The first one attempted to grab Azanar, but Azanar effortlessly moved around the guard, positioning himself at the guard's back.

He then tapped him on the back while speaking.

《PETRIFY ITEM》

The paladin then froze in place, trapped in his armor.

The other one then went for his sword, but before he could unsheath it, Azanar raised his hand and spoke

《LESSER PARALYZE》

The paladin then fell unable to move. Azanar then looked at the two guards who were shaking with fear. Azanar then spoke.

《SLEEP》

And with that, the two guards fell to the ground, unconscious.

Azanar then turned his attention to the priest, who was still on the ground. The priest then quickly got up and ran away.

Azanar then looked over to the boy who was being consoled by Aurora.

He walked over and crouched down in front of the elf boy before speaking.

"It's ok now, little one."

The boy then replied through tears.

"N...no It's not.."

Azanar then looked at Aurora, confused.

"What? Why not?"

Aurora then answered. "It's his mom...she is sick. That's why he stole the potions... he is trying to heal her."

The boy then spoke while failing to hold back tears.

"The man he, he said I could take the potions.. that the gods would help my mother..."

Azanar then quickly inquired.

"What man?"

The boy then answered.

"In the temple. I went to pray. To ask the gods to save my mom. But then a priest came. He said he heard me praying and could help me he took me deep into the temple and showed me the potions. He said I could take them. But when I took them and turned he was gone and the other priests got mad and chased me."

Azanar then thought to himself.

"So someone used him. They wanted the guards distracted and played on his love for his mother to get the guards to chase him... Bastard!"

Tears started streeming down the boys face.

"I begged them... to help... my mom but they just...wouldn't... so I ran...but now...I thought things would be different here... I failed her..."

Azanar then saw a flash of a woman with unending kindness in her eyes. He suddenly grabbed the boy and spoke.

"You did not fail her!! Take me to her and..."

Just then, Azanar heard the sound of soldiers approaching.

"Damn.."

Azanar then reached into his coat and pulled out a vial of healing potion and a vile of cure status potion.

"Here have your mom drink this. She will be good as new."

The boy then took hold of the vials and replied. "Really? But... I have no way to repay you.."

Azanar then smiled as he replied.

"Don't worry about it, kid. You just take care of your mom, ok."

The boy then wiped his tears away as he replied.

"Ok."

Azanar then spoke.

"Good. Now run."

The boy then hugged Azanar tightly as he whispered.

"Thank you."

The boy then ran away.

Azanar stood up and looked at Aurora.

"You should get out of here too."

Aurora looked at Azanar, surprised and hurt.

"I wouldn't just leave you..."

Azanar then spoke. "Someone is useing that boy. Which means they dont care who the put in harms way. I couldn't live with myself if something happened to you."

Aurora then replied. "Don't worry. I can talk to them. Once I explain, they will understand."

Azanar then replied. Hmm, and just so I know...whats the penalty for stealing from the church?"

Then a magic circle appeared on the ground around them, and the immobilized soldiers all got up, and a woman's voice rang out the answer.

"That would be death, Azanar Vas Elvhenan."

Azanar then turned to see the source of the sound standing at the head, a powerful looking regiment of paladins. The beautiful woman had long, bob-shaped brown hair affixed with a white hairband and was wearing black, white, and blue robes.

Azanar then inquired. "Dispell magic? Impressive, Ms.."

The woman then spoke. "I am High Priestess Kalart Custodio... Now come with me.