Azanar Vas Elvhenan:

Azanar has very 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. He is in plain clothes currently which consists of a white dress shirt, silver overcoat and pants, and shoes.

Mithrein:

Mithrein has fair skin, long flowing silver hair and silver eyes, and a slender yet curvy body that is as flawless as her face. to call her beautiful is an understatement. she wears a silver and blue dress that lies slightly snug against her skin.

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.

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.

Uriel:

A beautiful elf with short black hair, bronze skin, and green eyes with intricate markings resembling branches starting on her forehead and ending just below her eyes.

Ricca:

fair-skinned with dirty blonde hair. Has a small goatee and blue eyes. He wears gray iron armor.

Calder:

A young man in a blue caped full set of silver plate armor. He has rainy white medium-length hair and icy-white eyes

Roble Holy Kingdom Capital: Hoburns

Commotion and unrest filled the city as the citizens watched an enormous pillar of fire reach up into the sky in the distance. In the city's castle, an armored-clad woman marched through the halls. She had a short bob-shaped brown haircut affixed with a white hairband, exposing her forehead, fair skin, and dark brown eyes.

She wore a white and blue surcoat clad in silver full-plate armor. She then reached a room with a large ornate door and walked in.

"Calca, my queen?!"

She exclaimed as she walked in, surprised to find her Queen already up and looking out the window. The beauty in question had long, vibrant hair of spun gold and lovely cyan eyes. Her face was as beautiful as a freshly-bloomed flower, exuding majesty and dignity. She was wearing a light purple nightgown that barely hid her slender physique.

"I see it, Remedios..."

The golden queen spoke, not taking her eyes off of the flame.

"Are our people safe?"

She asked, slightly turning her head toward the paladin commander still transfixed.

Remedios then replied.

"They are, my queen. But the nobles are in an uproar. Some believe this is another invasion."

Calca then turned fully to face her friend and advisor.

"And what do you think?"

Remedios then scoffed slightly. "I think they are a bunch of idiots.."

"Remedios.." The Queen chastised.

Remedios sighed in defeat before continuing.

"We have had no reports of a breach, and far as we can tell, the flame is emanating from a forest outside of any major towns. If the demi-humans we're capable of this kind of power..."

The golden queen then spoke up.

"They would have attacked a town."

Remedios then nodded as she spoke.

"Exactly..."

Calca then looked back at the column of flame.

"What could have cast such a powerful spell?"

Remedios then spoke. "I don't know, but with your blessing, I'd like to lead an advanced unit to investigate the area. It seems to be near Rimun."

A concerned look made its way onto the queen's face. "I don't think...wait.."

She said as she remembered something. "Rimun? Wasn't Rimun's temple up for inspection?"

The two looked at each other for a moment before exclaiming.

"Kelart!!"

The Forest outside of Rimun

The night sky glowed brightly against the raging inferno below as thick gray smoke billowed into the atmosphere. The bright full moon was now hidden behind a veil of darkness as the smoke swallowed up the air.

Lady Kelart looked up in awe from the safety of Argon's arms as he made his way to the main gate, the Piller of flame's reflection in her dark brown eyes. "Such power," she whispered as she reached her hand out into the hot air. The heat caressed her fingers for a moment before the vibrant flame vanished.

At the main gate

Human and Elven soldiers stood guard as Uriel and Halier checked the wounded townsfolk while the Eight-Finger thugs sat tied up. Uriel then heard the sound of a familiar footstep approaching.

As Argon and Kelart reached the main gate, and Argon placed Kelart on her feet, Uriel and Haleir greeted them.

"Ah Lady Kelart, Argon. I take it the operation was a success." Uriel said

Kelart glanced at Argon, then answered.

"Unfortunately, that remains to be seen."

Uriel tilted her head, confused by the answer.

"But wasn't that spell just now, Lord Azanar's?"

Haleir looked around before inquiring.

"Where is my brother?"

Argon then began to answer. "He is..." Just then, Calder, Ricca, and the paladins ran up from behind them.

"Good. You are safe, Lady Kelart." Calder said as they reached the group.

Kelart spoke. "Yes, I am. But where is Lord Azanar? Is he not with you?"

Ricca then spoke up. "He told us to get clear so he could finish off Cazden. Said it would wipe us out too if we stayed."

Helier then looked at Argon, who smiled and gestured to listen. Helier then closed her eyes. The sound of light trots caused her to open her eyes and smile. "He is coming."

Kellart then spoke.

"What?..."

She then heard the sound of hooves coming down the road and turned to find Azanar approaching astride his noble mount Eikthyrnir.

"Lord Azanar!" The group exclaimed.

Azanar smiled as he reached the group and dismounted. Halier then jumped up and hugged Azanar. The Elven King patted her on the head as he spoke.

"There was no need to worry, Halier...'

Kelart then sighed in relief.

"That's easy for you to say."

Azanar chuckled. Ha, I suppose you are right. Sorry for making you worry."

Ricca then spoke up. Yes, we are all glad you are ok, but what happened? Did you get him?"

"Yes." The Elven lord answered.

"But unfortunately, I was unable to recover him or their leader. I am sorry."

Kelart then quickly replied. "You don't have anything to apologize for, Lord Azanar. We' wouldn't have been able to shut down their operation without you."

Ricca then spoke up. "The High Priestess is right. Let him run away with his tail between his legs. He can't come back from this."

"This isn't a true victory yet..." Calder interrupted. "We still have a traitor to flush out."

Kelart then spoke. "Yes. I expect you to explain everything to me, Calder."

Calder then stood up straight and replied. "Yes, My Lady."

Kelart then continued. "Though I would have liked to examine his so-called holy relic."

Azanar then reached into his coat as he spoke.

"Well, I was able to recover this."

He then pulled out an empty potion bottle save for a little bit of silver liquid at the bottom.

He then held it out to the High Priestess

Kelat then reached out and took the bottle.

As she examined it, she noticed the Holy Kingdom seal on the bottom, confirming her fears.

She then spoke.

"There can be no mistake; this did come from a holy reliquary."

She then squeezed the bottle as anger washed over her before calming herself.

"We will find the traitors responsible and bring them to justice. But first, let's get these people home."

The group nodded in unison,

A few feet away, Arin and Kirian spoke among themselves.

"We should leave." Kirian urged.

"Not without properly thanking them." Arin objected.

Kirian then pleaded. "They are of the Old Blood. They can't be trusted. Let us leave."

Arin laid her hands on her hips and stood defiant.

"If they were "HIS" kin, we would all be dead or their playthings. I won't leave without showing gratitude." Kirian then sighed in defeat as he pressed his hand against his face.

"Ok...we will thank them. But then we are leaving."

Arin then smiled as the duo then approached the group.

Uriel noticed them and addressed the pair. "Ah Kirian, Arin, this is Lord Azanar, who I was telling you about."

Kirian then addressed the group. "Excuse us but as grateful as we are to you for freeing us. We are not from the Holy Kingdom, so we will be leaving..."

Arin then nudged him in the gut as she stepped forward, and began to speak with a bow.

"Words cannot express..."

But before she could finish as she rose back up to full height, she found Azanar approaching very quickly as he raised his right hand. She flinched and closed her eyes. Before reopening them as she felt his hand softly touch her ear.

Kirian then protested. "What are you doing?! Back away from her!"

Azanar then rose his other hand. "Be calm. I mean her no harm."

Kirian couldn't help but listen as the rest of the group were all taken aback by Azanar's unexpected behavior.

"Lord Azanar? What's the matter?" Kelart inquired.

Halier then answered. "Isn't it obvious?" Kelart then looked at Halier and then back, still confused.

Azanar then looked Arin in the eyes and spoke with barely contained rage while cupping her ear.

"What is your name?"

"Arin, " The green-haired elf answered.

Azanar the continued. "Well, Arin, what happened to your ears?..."

Arin could barely stand as Azanar's presence seem to press down on her. But as she looked into his eyes, she felt a calm come over her. She could sense that the anger in his eyes was not meant for her.

"They were cut short so that I would be more attractive to human men."

Azanar could barely hold in his rage. "(These bastards?! How dare they defile the beauty of the elves!...)"

His ring then began to glow, calming him before he spoke. "Who did this to you, child?"

Arin then shakily raised her hand and pointed at a big man sitting among the captured thugs.

Azanar's eyes fell on the man with cold rage as he spoke. "I will deal with him."

The man gave a confused look. "Wait, I'm a prisoner. You can't kill me in cold blood!"

A cruel smile crept onto the Elven king's face.

"Feels different, doesn't it? Being the helpless one."

"What? No! What are you doing!?"

Ragnar cursed as he struggled with his binds. Azanar then raised his left hand and readied to snap his fingers.

"(Inciner...)"

But before he could, he felt a strong hand grab hold of his own. He looked to its owner and found Calder.

"Calder... Release me..." He said, visibly angered.

Calder stood firm and spoke.

"I understand your rage. But as a paladin, I cannot let you kill a bound and unarmed man."

Calder then said under his breath. "Not again."

Azanar then looked at Kelart, who had a thoughtful look as she spoke.

"Please, Lord Azanar. As much as I would like to punish all these men for their crimes against your people and mine, myself. The battle is over, and we must abide by proper procedure and have them tried first."

Azanar then looked back at Ragnar, who was hiding a smirk under fained fear.

Azanar could feel his anger boiling as he received another dose of calming energy. He then took a deep breath and thought.

"(I can deal with him at any time. so I will back down for now...)"

Azanar then pulled his arm away from Calder.

"Fine...I will leave his judgment to the holy kingdom."

Azanar said. His composure was restored.

"Thank you, My lord," Calder replied with a bow.

"You can't just leave it to them!"

Kirian interjected.

"He doesn't deserve to live for another moment, let alone; however long it will take them to carry out a sentence."

Azanar looked at the elf warrior for a moment before looking at Arin's ears. He then waved his hand over the girl's ear and spoke.

《HEAL》

A green light glowed around her ears before dissipating and leaving her ears wholly restored.

"It's not much, but it's all I can do for now, "

Azanar said with a weak smile. Arin touched her now healed ears as tears started to form in her eyes.

"Th...thank you.." She said through sobs.

Kirian looked at Arin's new ears and then back an Azanar. "I...thank you."

Azanar's smile brightened a bit before replying.

"No need to thank me..." He then turned and noticed Kelart examining the injured and sick humans as he continued.

"I have to go and help, but I would very much like to sit with the both of you before you leave. I would like to know more about our people in this land. I think there is much we can learn from each other."

The two elves looked at each other, Kirian for his part, looked to dislike the idea, but Arin then looked back at Azanar and spoke.

"It would be an honor, my lord."

A flash of annoyance went across Kirian's face before he sighed in defeat. "Yes..an honor."

Azanar smiled slightly. "Don't worry. You won't regret it..."

Kirian scoffed quietly as The Elf-lord walked away.

Azanar stopped for a moment as he passed Calder and spoke, all levity gone from his voice as he stared into his eyes.

"I respect your sense of honor, Calder... But If you ever stay my hand against a tormentor of my people again..."

Calder began to buckle under the angered presence of the Elven lord. "I will not suffer it a second time."

The paladin nodded slowly in understanding as Azanar walked passed him.

Azanar then made his way over to Kelart, who looked sympathetic, "I am sorry, lord Azanar..."

Azanar then spoke. "No need. He is your prisoner, not mine." He then gestured toward the sick.

"We have more pressing matters anyway."

Kelart took a breath and then nodded before speaking.

"After examining some of the villagers, I have found that they are all suffering from similar symptoms to what we found in the Demi-Human district of Rimun. Albeit more severe."

Azanar then replied. "Hmm, Uriel said the same...so whoever they were working with is exposing this poison to the demi-humans in Rimun."

Kelart then spoke. "I still can't believe someone in the church could be working with these monsters."

Azanar then replied. "There is no need to worry about that now. For now, let's get these people home."

Kelart then spoke. "But we won't be able to heal all of them, their condition..."

But before she could finish, Azanar raised his hand toward the sick.

《DETECT POISON》

A large magic circle appeared around them as a bright white light enveloped them. Azanar watched as a dark mist became visible within each of the sick villagers.

He then spoke again.

《ALL-GREATER HEAL》

A green light then mixed in with the white as the dark mist seemed to expel from their bodies as the magic caressed their skin. Color now returning to their features.

Kelart and her men looked on in amazement as the light dissipated.

"Such incredible healing magic," Kelart said.

"Hmmm?" Azanar looked slightly confused.

"That was easy...well, now that I know its just a toxin, simple cleansing magic is more than enough. Now we just have to find the source back in town, and I can start healing the townsfolk."

Kelart then shook off her disbelief and spoke.

"Well then, let's not waste any more time. Let's head back to Rimun."

As the group all prepare to move out, Kelart addressed the Elven Lord again.

"Azanar?"

The elf in question then replied.

"Yes?"

"I..."

But before she could finish, she heard a voice in her head.

"(Kelart!?"... Kelart, can you hear me!"

Taken aback by the sudden interruption, Kelart raised a hand to Azanar, asking for a moment. Azanar nodded in understanding before Kelart replied to the voice.

"Remedios? Is that you?"

The voice then replied. "Yes! Oh, thank the gods you're safe! We saw a pillar of fire near Rimun and thought the worst, what's happening?"

Kelart then replied. "Everything is fine; the mission was a success. The compound is under our control."

There was silence for a moment as Kelart waited for a response. The High Priestess then spoke again, frustration now in her voice.

"You didn't read my letters, did you?"

Remedios then stammered a reply.

"W...well I.."

Kelart then cut her off.

"Dammit, Remi!"

Remedios then retorted

"Hey! Don't yell at me! Gustav must have forgotten to bring them to me."

Remedios then seemed to get distracted by someone else.

"What?... No, I don't blame you for everything..."

"Remi?"

Kelart said, trying to get the paladin's attention as she became more and more irritated.

"No, I don't!"

Kelart then yelled.

"Remedios!"

The Paladin Grandmaster then replied.

"Yes?!"

Kelart then took a breath, calmed down, and spoke,

"It doesn't matter now. When will you arrive?"

"Should be there by midday."

Remedios answered.

Kelart then replied. "Good, I will tell you everything then."

She then glanced at Azanar before continuing. "There is also someone I want you to meet."

Back in Lokelonde.

Gothren sat up in a start. His usually slicked back blonde hair now messy and unkempt.

"Where am I?"

He asked himself as he took in his surroundings. A dark room with no visible doors and a single dim lamp was hanging from the ceiling over a small table with two chairs.

He then tried to get up but found himself chained to the wall. He then began to panic as he tried to recall his last memory. His eyes then shot open as he remembered a grotesque smile.

"Cazden!"

He spat as he remembered his friend's betrayal.

"Why!? Why would he betray me? When we were so close to achieving our dream. Her dream!

We were so close, you bastard!"

He yelled out into the dark room.

He then heard a sultry voice as something came through the wall causing him to stumble back against the wall.

"Oh, stop your mueling human...you're giving me a headache."

The elf was of otherworldly beauty. She had long white hair, dark skin, and red eyes that looked straight through him as if he was nothing.

Gothren was dumbfounded. Never before did he believe a beauty existed that was greater than his Hilma, and yet here she stood.

"Who...who are you?" He finally spoke.

The woman then sighed in annoyance before she replied.

"That is not something you are worthy of knowing... creature. What you should be more concerned with is what I am.

Valindra's eyes began to glow green as she drew closer to Gothren, who retreated till his back was pressed against the wall. The wall then seemed to fall away, leaving Gothren sitting on the edge of a vast cliff face.

Gothren looked into the bottomless pit. And then looked back to find the elf's face directly in front of his face. Her eyes filled with the promise of suffering.

She then whispered into his ear.

"Death"

Gothren then pleaded.

"Please, no! I will do anything you want, tell you anything you want."

Valindra then smiled and replied.

"Oh, that's adorable. You think you have a choice..."

The next day

The sky shone a brilliant blue, and the sun hung high as Azanar and Kelart stood outside the gates of a decrepit looking estate with Argon and Calder waiting by their carriage with a group of elves in craftsmen attire.

The grounds looked unkempt and overgrown. Ivy and ferns grew through the crevices of the old winding stone path, which led directly to the massive structure. The mansion loomed proudly behind creaky rusted iron gates, flanked by rows of skeletal trees crowned in crimson, swaying gently to the chilly autumn wind. At its threshold stood the delicate moss-covered marble fountain, the soft gurgling of the clear water melodic as it resonated in the surrounding silence.

"Before we meet with the Paladin Commander, I wanted to start on my end of our deal. Housing for you and your men."

Kelart said as she looked at the old structure.

She then sweatdropped as she continued

"But I must say I am rather surprised you would choose this of all places."

Azanar then replied as he looked through the gates.

"Yes, well, Aurora and I came across it a few days ago, and it piqued my curiosity. But when I asked her about it, she was decidedly vague. Would you mind telling me about it?"

Kelart then sighed before complying.

"I suppose if you must know. This mansion belonged to a noble family before they fell out of favor with the previous King. Rumors of dark rituals and grave robings started to circulate, and the young Lord of this manor was the prime suspect. When the paladins were sent in to investigate, they found the house abandoned, the owners seemingly having fled the kingdom. The paladins found strange markings throughout the house but could not discern their meaning. So no one comes near it anymore in fear of being cursed, and it's been a blight on Rimun's history ever since."

Azanar looked at Kelart and then back at the mansion.

"Hmm, Interesting..." He then seemed to look closer. "That settles it. I will take it."

Kelart then stammered as she brought out a ring of keys.

"B...but It's not in the best condition, and it's not the biggest we have available in Rimun. If you like, we could even see what's available in the capital..."

Kelart said as she held out the ring of keys.

Azanar then reached out and took the keys without looking away from the old building.

"No need, this will do nicely, I think. I will send word to my men to start renovations immediately."

"(There is something more to this place...I know it.)" The High King thought to himself.

Kelart then shrugged and spoke as the duo left the gates and headed toward a carriage.

"Well, if you insist, I won't argue. Now, let's meet with Grandmaster. Once I appraise her of the situation, we can complete our search for the black dust source in the Demi-human quarter."

After a moment, Azanar then inquired.

"Speaking of which, anything I should know about the Paladin Grandmaster?"

"Hmmm.." Kelart thought for a moment.

She then raised her hand with two fingers extended.

"Two things. One; she is the most stubborn person you will ever meet. And two, she will be the biggest obstacle in your pursuit of the queen's hand. So make a good first impression."

Azanar then blushed as he stammered.

"What?...wait, I have meant to tell you..."

But before he could finish, they had arrived at the carriage, and Calder addressed the duo as he opened the carriage door.

"Done already? Good. This place always gives me a bad feeling."

Azanar then replied as he entered.

"Yes, Kelart was telling me it's sorted history. Though I hope to give it a new start."

Calder then spoke.

"Oh? So you will be taking up residence then?..."

Azanar then answered. "Yes..."

Calder then smiled and spoke. "Well, if anyone can bring honor to that place... it's you...I hope."

Azanar then laughed as he replied. "Hahaha. I thank you for the vote of confidence."

Azanar then turned his attention to Argon, who was standing outside the carriage with the group of elves.

"Argon, Have the men start work on the estate immediately."

He then pulled some scrolls out of his jacket and handed them along with the keys over to the giant elf.

"Have them follow these specifications. I have already notified Mithrein; she has the materials ready."

Argon took a quick look at one of the scrolls, and his eyes widened a bit as he looked at the plans.

"But this is..."

Azanar then smiled as he spoke up

"A little piece of home."

Argon then looked passed the scroll to one of the craftsmen and looked at Azanar.

It will be done, my lord."

Azanar then replied.

"Thank you, Argon. I will be back soon."

The elven lord then reached into his jacket, pulled out a silk handkerchief, and handed it to Argon.

"I asked Ricca to bring some tools and supplies I got at the market. Give this to Mithrein. It will help her make the most out of them."

Argon nodded as he took hold of the cloth and felt a weight to it, hinting to something hidden within. He moved the fabric to reveal a piece of the item. Crimson stone encased in gold. His eyes widened in shock before immediately covering it back up.

"The Philosopher's stone?! But my Lord...

He then looked up to address Azanar but found that he had already got in the carriage.

Argon sighed in defeat as he watched as the carriage went down the road.

Once out of sight, the giant elf spoke as he waved his hand.

《SUMMON GREATER ITEM: ELUVIAN》

A bright light shined in front of him before dissipating and revealing the elven portal. Elves carrying exotic elven tools and building materials began coming out from the mirror until a sizable workforce had assembled.

Then a slender figure stepped out of the Eluvian.

Her long flowing silver hair and blue dress danced in the soft breeze of the countryside. Her silver eyes then fell on Argon before a smile spread across her flawless features.

"Argon! I see you are still fit as ever." She said, her voice soft as silk.

Argon then replied.

"And you are stunning as ever Lady Mithrein."

Mithrein's smile persisted as she looked around and took in her surroundings before speaking.

"So is this where His Majesty wants the Villa?"

Argon then spoke.

"Yes, my lady, he wishes this estate to be the starting point.

Mithrein then walked passed Argon as the gates blocking the path were opened by one of the craftsmen and took a look at the estate.

Dried leaves covered the ground but made no sound under the Siver Elf's steps.

She walked over to the fountain and looked into the muddied water for a moment as Argon walked up next to her and spoke.

"This place is in such disrepair. Such water is not worthy of your reflection, My Lady."

Mithrein looked at Argon, chuckled softly, and replied.

"My Dear Argon, you must remember. With power such as ours. We must not judge a thing for what it seems to be, "

She then dipped her index finger into the water, and it turned crystal clear.

"But instead what it could be."

Argon then nodded in understanding.

"Of course, My Lady."

The duo then heard approaching footsteps as Ricca, and his men arrived with more materials.

Argon then greeted the men as Mithrein continued to examine the grounds.

"Ricca! My friend!"

The giant bellowed as he smacked both shoulders of the smaller man.

"Haha, It's good to see you too, big man, "

Ricca said with a pained smile.

"But Ease up a bit, will you. I am still sore from the battle. We can't all be one-man armies."

"Haha, you have time yet, my friend."

Argon said with a hardy laugh.

Ricca scratched the back of his head sheepishly.

"Haha, I could train for a hundred years and still not come close to your power."

Aragon smiled and replied.

"You won't know until you try."

"Hahaha, Well, I better get right on that then."

Ricca said jokingly before turning and gesturing toward the carts and his men who seemed entranced.

"In any case, I brought the materials your lord requested."

Ricca then heard a soft, soothing, feminine voice come from behind him.

"Oh, this will not do. It's not high quality at all."

Ricca then turned and retorted.

"It may not be elven, but this is the best the holy kingdom has to offer, so if you got a..."

Ricca stopped mid-sentence as he found his men transfixed on the source of the voice, an elf of otherworldly beauty.

The ex-paladin froze as the Elf's gaze met his. His world began to spin as he desperately tried to remember how to breathe, lost in her silver eyes.

Mithrein then raised a hand in front of the man's face and pressed her fingers together.

SNAP!*

Ricca and his men were freed from their trance and began forcing air back into his lungs.

Mithrein gently patted the man on the back as she spoke.

"There, there, young one. Lord Azanar speaks quite highly of you. It would be a shame to lose you for lack of breath..."

Argon then spoke as Ricca composed himself.

"Haha, sorry, my friend, I should have warned you of her beauty. Allow me to introduce you to Lady Mithrein, one of Lord Azanar's most trusted advisers."

Ricca stood up straight and fixed himself before addressing the beautiful elf.

"My apologies, my lady, You caught me off guard..."

Mithrein then spoke up as she raised her hand in protest.

"There is nothing to apologize for. Tho the quality of this material does need to be addressed."

Ricca then replied.

"This is the best the Holy kingdom has to offer... If it's not enough, then..."

Argon then walked up to the duo and spoke.

"I believe Lord Azanar foresaw this and provided us with a solution."

He then handed the veiled item to Mithrein, who revealed it in her palm. A brilliant red jewel in gold casing.

Mithrein looked shocked for a moment before she smiled and replied.

"I believe you are right, Argon."

In Rimun

The carriage carrying Azanar, Kelart, and Calder rode through the town to the temple, where a group of Paladins stood in wait.

The carriage stopped in front of the temple, and the passengers got off. As they did, the sound of arguing could be heard getting closer.

"Grandmaster, please! You must talk some sense into your sister. She refuses to see reason. This elf cannot be trusted." A male voice spoke out.

A commanding yet feminine voice then replied.

"The high priestess has sound judgment. I will not hear it questioned without sufficient proof.

Azanar watched as three figures approached them.

Two were clad in white and blue armor, and the third in robes.

" (Hmm, Looks like Maxwell is still trying to get rid of me... Which means that woman..." Azanar thought to himself as he looked the Grand Master over.

The woman had a striking resemblance to Kelart and had a short bob-shaped brown haircut affixed with a white hairband, exposing her forehead, fair skin, and dark brown eyes. She wore a white and blue surcoat clad in silver full-plate armor.

"But If you would just..."

Father Maxwell tried to rebut. But Remedios cut him off as she caught sight of Kelart and ran toward her.

"Kelart!"

Remedios then ran up to Kelart and grabbed her hands, bringing them up to her chest as she checked the woman over.

"Are you hurt? The Queen and I were worried, sick!"

Kelart then replied.

"I am fine, Remedios. And if you had read my letters. You would have known about the operation."

A gruff and slightly worried voice then came from the male paladin next to Remedios.

"My... apologies High Priestess..."

The man looked to be middle-aged, with light-grayish brown hair and a small goatee on his chin. He had a hand on his stomach, which seemed to be bothering him.

"It may have been an oversight on my part to make sure she took note of your letters."

He finished with a bow.

Kelart then waved her hand dismissively.

"Don't make excuses for her, Gustav. We both know my sister is fully capable of making her own."

The priestess said with a sly smile.

Remedios sweatdropped at the comment.

"Well, I read them all on the way here, so..."

Kelart then replied, unimpressed.

"More likely, Gustav read them and gave you the footnotes.

The two Paladins then scratched their heads nervously.

Azanar then spoke up, breaking the silence.

"You didn't tell me the Grand Master was your sister. Well, that explains the resemblance."

Remedios's eyes then fell on the Elven Lord as Kelart began to introduce him.

"Oh, yes. This is Lord..."

Remedios then interjected.

"Azanar... The Elf from a distant land who wishes to meet with Her Highness. Father Maxwell was just talking about you."

"Good things, I hope."

Azanar quipped.

"Afraid not," Remedios replied.

Azanar's gaze then fell on The priest.

"Oh, shame, and here I thought we had hit it off."

Father Maxwell glared at Azanar from behind the two paladins unamused.

Kelart then spoke up in Azanar's defense

"Father Maxwell's worries aside, the fact is Azanar was instrumental in last night's raid. In fact, given the strength of one of their agents. I might not have survived without him."

Remedios looked surprised by her sister's statement as she inquired.

"They had someone equal to you?"

Kelart then answered.

"Stronger... But not by his power. This leads to something I must speak with you about... In private."

Remedios glanced at the others present before nodding and following after her sister out of earshot, leaving the three men and Elf alone.

The Calder tried to ease the tension with

conversation as Father Maxwell watched the sisters walk away.

"It's been a while, huh, Gustav? It looks like the Grandmaster is keeping you busy."

Calder said with a nervous smile.

"Haha, ouch..." Gustav grimaced, gripping his stomach as he continued. "Too damn busy, I was almost caught up on reports for the past month, when this fiasco came across my desk, so thanks for that."

Calder then replied.

"Well, better this, than Black Dust flooding the country."

Gustav then shrugged.

"Well, You got me there."

Gustav then turned his attention to Azanar.

"And I suppose we have you to thank since you suggested the assault."

Azanar looked at the paladin.

"(Hmm... He is trying to figure out my motives... I should keep it simple.)"

"No thanks needed. Your people were in need. And besides, I was compensated for my services."

Gustav then chuckled.

"Haha, Oh I am under no illusions you did it out of the kindness of your heart. But never the less I thank you for ridding us of that poison. And for protecting The high priestess, she is important to the kingdom."

Azanar nodded as he replied.

"I can see why. Lady Kelart is an impressive woman."

Gustav then smirked as he replied. "Ah... Maybe you had more reason to help than you'd like to admit. "

Azanar then stammered a reply... "What? No. I..."

Azanar then noticed the amused look on the Paladin's face before Calder spoke up.

"He's messing with you. Means he likes you."

Azanar then replied unamused

"Oh, is that what it means?

Gustav then chuckled.

"Hahaha. Was only a joke."

He then grimaced slightly and grabbed his stomach.

Azanar then inquired.

"Are you ok?"

Gustav then replied.

"It's nothing. Just my stomach. It's a condition I've learned to live with."

Azanar began to inquire more but then noticed the glare from the priest, which he had been trying to ignore was becoming more intense."

"(Damn...this guy is getting on my nerves.)"

After a few strained moments, Azanar addressed the man.

"Is there something you want to say?"

The Priest looked Azanar in the eyes as he replied.

" Though it is true we owe you our gratitude for protecting Lady Kelart, you are still not of the Holy Kingdom and therefore will do what best benefits you in the end... And I think it's quite convenient that you saved the day on the mission you suggested."

Calder then spoke up in Azanar's defense.

"Father Maxwell. I fought alongside Lord Azanar. He is a good man. We can trust him."

The high Priest then replied coldly.

"I am simply stating an observation ."

"But..."

Calder began but was stopped by Azanar.

"It's alright, Calder. Father Maxwell is welcome to his opinion. But He is right. I am an outsider, and it will take more than one mission to earn the trust of the holy kingdom and its queen...though I have an observation of my own If you would hear."

Father Maxwell looked visibly curious.

"Oh, and what would that be?"

Azanar gave a sly smile as he continued.

"Just that for someone who seems so adamant about ridding the kingdom of Eight Fingers. You don't seem very pleased with their demise."

Father Maxwell then chuckled.

"Haha, you will forgive me if I temper my glee until we have their leader in custody who, for all your bravado, let escape."

Azanar then replied.

"You were also the only one not to pledge any of your men to the assault. Perhaps if you did, he would not have escaped

The High priest was becoming annoyed by Azanar's calm words and demeanor, but before he could retort, Kelart and Remedios returned, and Kelart addressed Azanar and Maxwell a matter of factly.

"I hope we are all getting along."

Azanar then replied with a smile.

"Swimmingly My Lady."

Kelart then spoke again.

"That's good to hear, but as much as it pains me to break up this budding friendship. We must discuss a troubling revelation from last night."

Father Maxwell then inquired.

"Oh? And what was that?"

Remedios then spoke up.

"That there is a traitor within the church."

Father Maxwell was taken aback by the Grand Master's outburst.

Kelart then spoke.

"Remi! I thought we agreed..."

Remedios then cut her off.

"I know, Kelart, but I can't. I will not lay in wait while traitors walk among us."

Remedios then addressed the High Priest.

"Father Maxwell... You will provide a list of all members of the Church and give my men full access to the temple."

Father Maxwell, then replied.

"Of course, Lady Remedios, but surely this must be some kind of mistake. A member of the Church would never betray the Kingdom."

Kelart then reached into her robes and pulled out a potion bottle.

"Then tell me how someone reached the deepest recesses of the temple and got this.."

She then handed the bottle to Father Maxwell, who examined it for a moment before speaking.

"But how did?..."

Remedios then spoke.

"You recognize it then?"

Father Maxwell then answers, barely able to hold in his anger.

"How could I not? It's part of our most precious collection said to have been made by the God of Earth herself."

Gustave then spoke.

"Then we should start in the reliquary. Make sure nothing else was taken."

Father Maxwell then replied.

"Right. I will escort you there."

Just then, a cart road up, and Aurora got out and came running up to the group out of breath.

Calder then quickly addressed her.

"Aurora? what's wrong?"

Aurora then spoke

"It's Father!"

Kelart then inquired.

"What about the Mayor? What's happened?"

She then answered.

"The Non-human District found out the sickness was caused by poison, and they believe the people of Rimun are responsible. Father went to calm them down, but they've taken him hostage and demanded a cure."

Father Maxwell then spoke, visibly angered.

"How dare they! Don't worry, my dear. Your father will be saved. That trash will not harm him."

Remedios then spoke.

"How could they have possibly learned that?! Who told them?"

Azanar then spoke up, irritated.

"I could think of a few who would benefit from an Elven uprising.."

Father Maxwell then scoffed.

"It doesn't matter how they know. What matters now is saving the Mayor. Lady Remedios's men can overtake the district easily. It will be over in moments."

Azanar then spoke up.

"I would advise against It. It would only prove to them what most of them believe. That their lives mean nothing to the rest of the city..."

Father Maxwell then retorted.

"Ha. Of course, you would defend them, and after the mayor spoke so highly of you. You would leave him to die?"

The air around them seemed to shake as Azanar replied.

"I would do No such thing!!"

Azanar then calmed himself before continuing.

"Mayor Ricton is a kind and noble man who would not want the death of a single innocent on his behalf. It is because of men like him that I have hope for your race... I would never abandon him."

Aurora then spoke, moved by Azanar's words.

"Lord Azanar is right. My father could not live with himself if innocents were hurt."

Kelart then looked at The Elven lord and spoke.

"Then what would you suggest we do?"

Azanar then answered matter-of-factly.

"Simple. We do what they ask. Walk in and cure them."