The Endless Forest

“I will,” Lorem said, stepping up. Felix watched as the elf held out his hand for Zira.

“This will only take a couple of seconds,” she said confidently.

Lorem gulped and then nodded.

Meanwhile, Felix entered into Zira’s mind. They were going to join together for this, hoping that two minds would make it easier to spot any clues. It would only take a moment, but he still gave her a courteous ‘tap’ to let her know he was starting.

She acknowledged it and in an instant, their minds combined. They became one.

“Hold still,” they said as they moved Zira’s body, placing her head up against the elf’s hand. A moment passed as they began to suck in the mana.

“Whoa…” Lorem muttered, his hand quivering.

Then it was done.

Zira’s body pulled back. “Next,” they said…

One by one, they tested the four elves, finishing with Yedril. The sickly elf had gone slightly paler but overall, he was still on his feet.

As for Zira and Felix, they ran through everything they had seen and tasted. Comparing everything they knew with this new information, and while it wasn’t much, they believed they had found some clues.

Of course there was the most important part of this, the test itself. Ironically, the answer for whether they were safe or not, was easily answered. They did not dwell too much on that.

Separating, Felix quickly went over everything they found, committing everything to memory so he could write it all down later. For starters, he confirmed what he already knew. Everyone’s mana was unique, at least to some degree.

However, with that, he began to break down everything else. While that’s true, Yedril still held quite a bit of my mana within himself. I hadn’t quite considered that, but luckily Zira was quite familiar with the ‘taste’ of mine.

Still, it had changed…somewhat. It was slight and hard to tell, but it was still close enough. If it had been someone else’s mana, I doubt we would’ve noticed…

But it was because of that, that we realized that there is something more going on. There was…an essence within it that was unique. Perhaps Aluin would know? He has mentioned something about mana and souls before, maybe it’s tied to that?

Felix let out a breath that he hadn’t realized he’d been holding, being too lost in his thoughts. That, apparently, was the sign everyone was waiting for as the four elves quickly swiveled their heads in his direction.

He cleared his throat and addressed them all. “Congratulations, you’ve all passed.”

Eri let out a yawn as she sat watching Kyrith listening along to a story being told. The dragon was, metaphorically speaking, on the edge of his seat. There were several ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ that could be heard from the group of children that surrounded him.

Meanwhile, Eri was sitting a good distance away, opting for a bench that had been set out for the festival goers. She wasn’t too worried, as the storyteller was doing a wonderful job of keeping the dragon occupied. Besides, she was keeping a close watch of him through their bond.

Overall, she was exhausted. The previous night had been rough, and it wasn’t all Kyrith's fault… At least, not exactly.

Eri had fretted the entire night, worrying over every little thing that could go wrong. Kyrith struggled with the concept of caution. That wasn’t entirely his fault, the dragon was smart, a lot smarter than he would lead you to believe. However, his youthfulness meant he got easily distracted or worse, overly excited.

It didn’t help that the village was entirely new to him, or that everyone seemed to take an immediate liking to him. She had to keep constant vigilance over him.

Leaning back, Eri closed her eyes for just a moment, enjoying the quiet moment. At least for what passed as quiet during a festival, which is to say, none. Still, the voices, music, and random sounds blurred into background noise, offering her a small reprieve…

“Eri?”

She cracked an eye open, wondering who it was. It took her a moment to recognize them, but groaned internally when she did. Great…

“Torm? It’s certainly been a long time.” She said, straightening herself out on her seat. Despite how she felt about the elf, she still had appearances to keep.

“It has indeed.” He responded, his voice carrying a certain pompous tone to it. It certainly matched his aesthetics.

Torm was an older elf, at around ninety years old. He carried himself as if he was someone of importance, with the clothes to match. There was some truth to that. If anyone could be said to be rich, it was him.

His family controlled one of only two elven caravans that made trades with the gnomes and dwarves. They even had standing among several of the dwarven clans, rare as it was.

While it was true the dwarven clans got along with the elven tribes, that didn’t mean that there weren't disagreements or disputes. A long standing tradition of one-upping each other also existed, not helping matters.

The two races usually kept to themselves as a result, only coming together when the need arose. It was why there were no dwarves here, for example.

Unfortunately for Eri, she knew Torm for other reasons. The elf was constantly trying to undermine Aluin, and even tried to bribe her for information. There was no doubt in her mind that he had sought her out…

“May I sit?” He gestured to the empty space next to her.

“Certainly, it is for anyone.” She had to bite back what she actually wanted to tell him, despite their tense relationship. There were just too many ears, and rumors spread fast.

“So,” he started casually while taking the seat, “you and Aluin are now in the business of hatching and raising dragons?”

She narrowed her eyes, noticing his subtle slight. “Master Aluin is not involved, and it’s not a business.”

“Oh? It certainly seemed that way– With Master Aluin, I mean. Else why would he dare to stand next to a wretched human? I know that he prefers to be in the back, like a shadow, unseen and subtly controlling everything.”

“And what do you know?” Eri asked in retort, she could feel her blood start to boil. “That wretched human, as you put it, is in charge. Aluin is merely providing assistance–”

If Torm noticed her tone or expression, he did not show it. “Ah yes, it is as I’ve said, unseen. It does beg the question though, why even bother with the human?”

Eri opened her mouth to speak, but Kyrith entered her mind. Is everything alright? He asked concernedly. Looking out, she could see him staring back at them.

Everything is fine, just go back to enjoying the story. She did her best to not let him see her emotions.

If you say so… He was not convinced, but did as he was told.

She turned her head back to the elf, who was clearly studying her intently. Did he notice?

“Everything that Felix said during his speech is true. The Dragon Queen is the one who put him in charge. Master Aluin is merely assisting, not controlling anything.” She said, hoping he hadn’t.

“Is that why he pulled away another dragon? Ithea, I believe.” Torm formed a smile.

How did he– “How do you know that? That was never disclosed to anyone.”

His smile grew.

“It was not disclosed to everyone,” he corrected, “but it was to some. However, my sources are irrelevant. What is relevant is that I want in.”

Eri’s jaw dropped.

Torm continued. “Think about it, we stand to gain a lot from selling those eggs. From what I know, there are hundreds and I doubt a few going missing would be noticed. And by the time they hatch, it would be too late for Master Aluin to do anything.

“We could even use that human as well. He seems useful enough to me, though I prefer that we didn’t. However, if what you say is true about… Felix, then all the more better. We could simply cut the Sage out of the picture altogether.”

Eri went through a phase of emotions as the elf spoke; it started with shock, then horror, and finally, with rage. A cold rage, one that could only be rivaled by Ithea.

She jumped to her feet, whipping around to face him. “How dare you,” she seethed at him. “To come to me, the Sage’s apprentice, and…and ask for me to betray him? To backstab him?! Not only that, but you came to ask me to steal?”

The area around them went deathly quiet, but she did not care. Torm had offended both her honor and herself personally.

A shadow was suddenly cast over her, but she didn’t need to look to see who it was. Meanwhile, Torm looked absolutely surprised by her outburst, as if she had blindsided him.

A growl sounded out, startling him.

“Worst of all, you have no idea what you are saying.” She said in a raging whisper. “What will happen to you once it becomes known you stole an egg?

“Do you think the dragons guarding the forest would do nothing? Do you think Ithea would do nothing? Do you think Aluin would do nothing? And even if they did, I would do something.”

Eri turned and faced Kyrith. “And one last thing,” she said before walking off, “that wretched human, is a better elf than you.”

Felix found himself quietly observing the elves as he aimlessly wandered down the street. After congratulating the four and explaining what would happen next, they had all split up and gone their separate ways.

Now, it was just him and Zira. No one dared to come up to them, but he didn’t let that bother him. It gave him the space to see all the elves in action as they went from place to place, albeit side-stepping them.

From what he’d been told, and what he could see, elves did not use currency for buying or trading. No, instead they mostly relied on bartering, at least usually. With the festival, things were different still.

While the village of Bernel played host, it was the various tribes that brought tribute. Whether it was wild game, wine, or even entertainment itself; they were all expected to bring something. And everyone had a job to do, from cooking and cleaning, to chaperoning the kids. Obviously, they took turns.

Of course some were exempt from all this, which included him, Eri, and Aluin, as they were all invited as guests to the village itself. How that worked, Felix didn’t know, but he guessed it had something to do with Aluin being a Sage.

His thoughts turned inward after a while, as he realized that he had nothing left to do. That is to say, he had to comfort a depressed dragon.

It’s alright Zira… You’ve just got to relax–

She snorted in frustration. Relax? Like you’re the one to talk!

He winced at his mistake. Listen, I know you’re nervous, but you are a void dragon. I can feel you sucking up the ambient mana around you, it's putting everyone off from coming near you. Just take a deep breath– Wait, actually, don’t do that. Uh, damn. Hmm…

He thought about the problem for a moment. Okay, new plan. Let’s find Eri and Kyrith, I’m sure if you shadow him–

Zira cut him off. Oh gods no! Please, do not have me mimic him!

I never said anything about mimicking him! Felix tried to defend himself. I said, shadow him. Maybe have him introduce you to people? Besides… I think Eri could use a little break, she didn’t get much sleep.

He could feel her narrowing her eyes. Oh? I get it, you want to spend some time with her? There was definitely some jealousy leaking through from Zira.

He took a deep breath and held his ground. Yes, actually. I would like to spend some time with her, is that a problem?

And what about me? She asked, now sounding hurt.

Zira, we have three days. I promise you, I will spend the rest of our time here with you. Just… I’m asking for a few hours with Eri, and I really do believe shadowing Kyrith can help you.

She was quiet for a few moments, mulling over what he said. Fine! But you better keep your word, or else I will be using you as a pillow!

He gulped at the thought. She was no longer the small, freshly-hatched dragon. I will–

Eri and Kyrith came storming around a corner, nearly plowing into them.

“Eri!” He called out, narrowly avoiding the literal, smoldering dragon. Smoke poured from Kyrith’s nostrils and even the air around him was heating up.

“Felix,” she said rather curtly, “where is Aluin?”

Him and Zira shared a look before he addressed her. “He’s back at the Chief’s house… Is something wrong–”

“Yes, but not here. Come, it involves you both.” Eri walked past them, leaving Zira and Felix to quickly turn around and follow.

What do you think happened? He asked Zira.

No clue, but I haven’t seen Kyrith that upset in a while…

Furrowing his brow, Felix understood it took a lot to piss off Kyrith. That meant it was serious…

They arrived at the Chief’s house in record time, with Eri throwing open the door. They were instantly greeted by a room full of the village’s most important members, including Chief Yorlen and Aluin.

Eri bowed, but she held her serious expression. “I apologize for my rude interruption, but Master Aluin, we need to speak. Now.”

The Sage quickly stood from the chair he was sitting in, his expression hardening. “Understood,” he said before turning to the Chief. “It appears something has happened, I will be back.”

Felix could only see from behind Eri, but the look that Yorlen gave was severe. He’s probably wondering if something happened with one of his villagers… That, or seeing Aluin serious isn’t a good sign.

Eri and Felix stepped out of the way as the Sage walked through the door, closing it much softer than Eri had opened it.

“What’s happened?” He asked, looking at the four of them.

“Not here, Master. Somewhere quiet.” Eri responded, much the same way she had to Felix.

Aluin nodded, then waved his hand in a circle. Suddenly, the outside world stopped existing. “There we go, no one can hear or see in. This is the most private we are going to get. Now, please explain.”

Eri took a moment, taking several deliberate breaths, before speaking. “It’s about Torm…”

“I see,” Aluin said after she got done explaining what had just taken place. Felix and Zira both, however, were absolutely furious.

That… That BASTARD! He thought to himself, at least he thought so… But now everyone was looking at him, surprised.

“What?” He said, too angry to feel embarrassed.

“You almost never curse.” Zira said, speaking for everyone.

“Yeah? Well… I don’t like it. Anyways, where is he? I’ll deal with–”

He was stopped by Aluin. “Hold on now, it sounds like Eri and Kyrith handled it well enough.”

“I’m not so sure, Master. He isn’t one to let things go…” Eri commented.

“Then I shall deal with it, not any of you. Now go on, enjoy the rest of the day. I will go and speak with that fool.”

They nodded, but Felix couldn’t help but have a bad feeling about it all. Any joy he had was now gone, replaced with a looming dread that may never come. That only made it worse.

The spell around them dissipated, revealing the outer world once more. The four of them watched as Aluin left, before anyone spoke.

“Well, what do you want to do?” Felix asked, hoping to escape from the mood.

“Honestly? I don’t–” Eri smacked her forehead. “I’m so sorry! I completely forgot to ask how it went!”

“Huh? Oh, you mean the volunteers. Well–” He glanced over to Zira, seeing if she wanted to explain, but she was busy watching the direction Aluin had gone. Something wrong? He asked her. “–It went well. Good, in fact.”

“Oh?” Eri cocked an eyebrow. “So you found someone that Zira…trusted?”

I’m just wondering if I should go with him, Zira responded.

“Four, in fact.” He said, doing his best to juggle the two conversations. You’d stick out too much… But, I think I’d prefer someone to go with him.

“Four?!” She sounded surprised. “I’ll be honest, I thought you’d only find one or two.”

I can fly high up and circle, plenty of cloud cover.

Fine, but let me know immediately if something happens. “Yeah, ironically that’s all that showed up. So, I guess it was for the best.”

Zira stepped away, carefully unfurling her wings.

“What is she doing?” Eri asked curiously.

“She wants to keep an eye on Aluin. She’s just going to stay up and circle the village. Worst case, people will think she is just bored or something.”

Eri looked contemplative for a moment. “I’m…not so sure. It might concern them instead. Besides, Aluin can take care of himself.”

Shrugging, he watched as Zira took off into the sky. “Perhaps, but I think we would feel better this way.”

Torm was a trader at heart, and a very successful one at that. With the skills he picked up from his parents and honed on his own, he was very good at what he did.

But that didn’t mean he was satisfied.

No, far from it. He longed for something more, something that was unobtainable to most. It wasn’t power, per se, but influence. Influence the likes of which built kingdoms. He longed to rebuild the trade empire his family once owned, long before the war.

The stories had been passed down, from generation to generation, with all the lessons, values, and economics that came with them. It was how his family had survived such a tragedy, it was how they had built inroads with the other races…

So that is why he was sitting in his tent, fuming, and staring at the letters sitting on his desk. The contents of which he did not care for. He was only looking for a distraction to allow him to calm down and think.

He knew it would be a long shot with Eri, but he hadn’t completely expected her outburst. His plan was for her to sit on it, just for a little while. Then, he would test the waters again, perhaps even sweeten the deal a bit more. Greed usually worked, especially for those with power.

But no, she had rejected it almost immediately…

There was a commotion outside, before his tent flap flew open. It was Aluin.

Torm stood up, quickly masking away his feelings with a smile. “Greetings, Master Aluin.” He gave a respectful bow.

“What brings you here–”