The Lightbearer's Gift

Lilian and I soared high in the sky, reaching a little over two miles. Both moons were out and there was not a cloud to be seen. Lilian, as expected, was apprehensive as she met Baelathor up close. It wasn’t surprising in the least. Anyone who could either see or feel the ether would know how powerful he was. This far north the air was colder, and I had to grab a long overcoat from my saddlebags. Lilian didn’t seem bothered no matter how high we rose.

“This is amazing.” Lilian said, sounding lost to the stunning view of the forest and stars above.

“Yes, it is. I have flown hundreds of times and still have never gotten bored.”

“How fast is Baelathor?” she asked. It was hard to gauge my speed with any accuracy.

“He could cross the entire continent from the Gikar mountains to Braken in a little over a day.” I said. It was a journey of around six or seven months by foot.

“Remarkable. And Noire, your other mount, was equally fast?’

“Faster, it depends on the creature really. Noire’s species primarily hunts among the forest canopy, so range isn’t as important. I would have to extend her stamina artificially.”

Then I remembered the white birds that flew nearly two miles in the air. “Migratory birds however could cross the entire world without stopping, if enhanced by my abilities.”

Lilian was silent for a whole minute before she responded. “The potential for such an ability is limitless.”

“I know, that is why, only now, I have been more liberal with its use. With my power, no one can force me to do anything.”

Lilian chuckled and said. “Now you want to use your ability to build your own kingdom. Queens and kings from all over will want alliances, or your death. Though if you had even a dozen mages on the backs of wyverns or even mounts like Noire. All their ships and massive armies would mean nothing to someone who rules the sky.”

“My thoughts exactly.” I said. But there is far more I wish to do. I need people to experiment on. Genetic manipulation is a complex thing, and even small errors could have horrific consequences.

“You have come a long way since that day in the forest.” Lilian said.

I chuckled as I remembered her with the knife at my throat. “It wasn’t the best of first impressions, though I was grateful for the clothing.”

“That was no great gift.” Lilian said.

“Perhaps not, but I never repaid you for it, and I don’t like owing debts.” In truth I cared nothing about the clothes. If Lilian was to rise in prominence within the clan she would need power. I wasn’t willing to evolve her yet, but giving her something like a Su’ran would be well within reason. Queen Sianna hasn’t yet told me to whom they would go. If I had to guess it would be to matriarchs who are loyal to her. Endali maybe, and one other.

It had only been a day since I had enhanced the Su’ran, yet it had grown half a head taller than the rest and sprinted with greater speed than any purebred racehorse, all while being completely silent.

Lilian wrapped me in a hug from behind and with a small amount of sarcasm said. “And how would you repay such a great gift that I have given.”

“It’s up to you really, simply ask. If I cannot give, ask for something else.” I said casually.

“Hmmm,” Lilian mumbled in my ear. Then she said, “I don’t think you would give me a flying mount. Nor do I have a Su’ran, none has chosen me, not for a lack of trying. It can be any creature correct?”

“Yes, once the bond is forged it will become an extension of yourself, and it can find you anywhere. As massively powerful as Baelathor is. I never have to worry he would harm me.”

“I think I have an idea, though capturing one is going to be difficult.” Lilian said with excitement in her voice.

“What do you have in mind?” I asked.

“Oh, it’s going to be a surprise, for now let’s head back, the night air is growing colder.” Lilian said. How exactly she tolerated it this long, in only a blue robe, was beyond me.

It only took 10 minutes to return to clan Noct’hrum. We landed with a loud thud and the few elves who were meandering around the clearing scampered out of the way. It was still odd how active they were regardless of time. I helped Lilian climb down and remove her harness.

I looked at the sky once more admiring the moons before deciding to rest. I still felt slightly drained from creating the royal mithrite, but a quick meal and deep meditation should set me right.

“What are your plans for the rest of the eve?” Lilian asked.

“It has been a hectic day, and some meditation is in order.” I said.

Lilian took in a deep breath before asking “Do you remember when we meditated in Vernon?”

I did and it was quite pleasant. “Yes. Clara and Bella were quite amusing.”

“They were pleasant hosts and demanded little of me. Though they had no filter.” A small smile came over her face as she was reminded of the two women.

“That is putting it lightly. But I do remember those sessions fondly. It’s one of the few times our interactions were not heated.”

I realized where this was going but I wanted her to ask. With a boldness I didn’t expect she stepped in close, reached down and caressed my hand.

“Perhaps we can meditate once more.”

Well, she was being surprisingly bold, but I’m not one to turn down a good time. Besides, I’m sure the elves watching in the forest would spread this through the clan. Hopefully the mount, the secrets I have offered her, and fulfilling her desires will be sufficient to foster a sense of loyalty. Though I'll still make sure that I ‘fire blanks’ as it were. It was an easy enough use of my abilities. Though at some point I would need children. Surprisingly, the prospect didn’t seem as dreadful as before.

7 hours later.

Lilian and I laid naked on the large circular cushion that served as a bed. Her small home was comfortably warm so there was no need for covering. Our time the night before was quite enjoyable. Though I underestimated her endurance, once she got started it took some time before she calmed down.

I rose from the meditation to see Lilian watching me with an expression that I could only characterize as smug. It disappeared as soon as she noticed I regained full consciousness. I decided not to bring it up. I took a deep inhale of the fresh air and foliage of the forest, savoring the scent of pine and the ever-present perfume of wood.

“Well, good morning.” I said to Lilian, I sat up then I looked at the sun, noting the time. “It’s already midday.”

“You looked tired, so I decided to wait until you arose from your meditation. Though Leithani did request your presence.” Lilian said, she looked far too pleased. I suppose that is why she looked so smug. I did fall into a rather deep meditation. The constant cycling of ether to enter the state was even easier with another person.

Might as well play into it, I adjusted my waist length hair and said. “Right, I likely have to have a lengthy conversation with Endali and Sianna. I’m sure they are already well under way to arrange a council with the Matriarchs.”

“You sound as though you dread the very prospect.” Lilian said.

“There is only so much clandestine plotting I can deal with.”

She straddled my lap and pushed me back onto the bed. I made no attempt to hide my admiration of her lithe body.

“I shall go hunting for my mount, let me ease your stress before you head back into battle.” I grinned.

An hour later I headed towards the castle. My mind, quite distracted by the memories from last night and this morning. Lilian helped with me dress and even offered me a black ribbon to tie my hair back. Her attitude had turned nearly 180 degrees. Now she was rather pleasant to be around. I even made plans to see her tonight. Apparently, the creature she wanted as a mount would take some time to hunt. Her slightly morose and resigned countenance had disappeared. Focus and determination took its place.

Throughout our sessions I fed her living ether, mostly to increase her health and vitality. It wasn’t enough to cause any drastic changes since it was only about a quarter of a normal human's life. Let us hope that this past me was correct and I wasn’t wasting time and effort on her. I didn’t like being directed even if I was directing. But I couldn’t ignore the potential benefits of having someone among the elves as an ally. Sianna was far too focused on her own goals. I’ll likely need an ambassador to the elves in my own country after all and who else would be better than her.

Leithani greeted me at the entrance to the castle. She, as usual, didn’t look pleased. I imagine she was a more traditional even woman and didn’t like my devil may care attitude. Most elven men I have seen were demure and were being escorted around.

“Leithani, a pleasure as always.” I said, with artfully masked sarcasm. I didn’t dislike her but now I knew she was useless to me. There was no point in showing her any deference.

“Greetings Moon, I see Lilian is not with you.” She tried to hide the sneer, but failed.

“Yes, we had a long night, so she is resting. Is Sianna available? I wish to discuss plans for the duels.” I still didn’t really understand the logistics in dueling over 60 elves.

“There is currently a meeting with the elders of the clan if you wish I can escort you.”

I shrugged, a private meeting with Sianna would be preferable since they no doubt have questions for me about yesterday's ritual. But what’s done is done.

Leithani escorted me to a room within the tower where eight elves including Sianna and Leithani were. They were all female of course, sitting in a circle, each elf was sitting cross legged on a small cushion. Leithani was on Sianna’s left and the cushion to her right was empty.

“Glad of you to join us, Moon.” Sianna said as I made my way to the empty cushion. I didn’t know if I was supposed to sit there, but I wasn’t going to ask for permission.

“I was occupied. Now Leithani tells me that you wish to discuss the duels.” I said as I sat down next to her. A few elves whispered to each other in their native tongue. I couldn't understand a word of it.

“Yes, we were discussing format. Typically, the offended party chooses. However, it is unusual with so many elves offending one party.”

“What are the limitations? In a duel.” I asked.

“None, you may bring all your magic to bear. Though it is still in discussion on whether or not Baelathor is allowable.”

“Before we get into it, explain how the duel works.” I said.

An elf with golden brown hair and brown eyes started talking. “All duals take place upon the fields of honor. It is roughly two leagues, both in length and width. It is to the death. Any magic or magical items are allowed, the only thing that matters is victory. The winner will receive all the magical artifacts as spoils.”

“If two elves are dueling, could they bring their Su’ran?” I asked the elf.

“Yes, the bond between an elf and a Su’ran is for life, and thus is considered a part of the elf itself.” She explained.

“There is your answer then, Baelathor and I are one, and thus is applicable to enter. The bond we share is a magical one. I’m sure Sianna can attest to this.” Sianna nodded as if she expected my answer.

“Indeed. Therefore, Baelathor is well within the accords. Though the elves might claim dishonor if he is used and call into question your power, since it is known you practice human magic.” Endali said.

“Who is the most powerful among them?” I asked. I already knew the answer.

“Matriarch Xalia.” Another elf said.

“I will face her alone. After her death I will face the rest of the elves all at once with Baelathor.” That erupted the room into frenzied discussion.

“You are powerful Moon, but matriarch Xalia has centuries more experience than you. Your victory is not assured.” Leithani said. She got an icy stare from her mother before I answered.

“Perhaps, but she was the prime orchestrator whose actions lead to the death of one I considered my child. Honor demands I face her myself.”

More frenzied discussion I couldn’t understand broke out. Though I could see some eager nods and approving glances. In truth I couldn’t care less about honor, but perception is a useful tool. If I ever feel like I have a chance of losing then Xalia will have to deal with a two-thousand-ton rampaging fire breathing wyvern, honor be damned.

“Is this acceptable?” I asked after the discussion calmed down.

Sianna spoke, addressing everyone. “Yes, I believe this is agreeable. Six other matriarchs have openly condemned Xalia’s and Boriel’s actions. Once you arrive with Baelathor in tow the rest will fall in line. A council of all matriarchs has been called, there we will formally make the accusation and force her and the guilty into a duel.”

Sianna looked at everyone for objections, none were found. Heads nodded and in a single voice they all said. “Sum.”

Endali stood and said a few words in Evaian before the elves bowed and exited the room leaving only Endali, Leithani, Sianna and l.

“How long until the council is gathered?” I asked Endali.

“5 days. It only takes a day to reach Nu’Vian, a neutral keep where all council gatherings occur. It is only a few leagues from the fields of honor.”

“When do we leave?”

“It is best to arrive early, so we leave in three days. While I believe you will be victorious, preparation is always necessary.” I shrugged and accepted the advice.

Unlike human magic the amount of ways an elf could manipulate their primary affinity was infinite. Though from what both Sianna, Lilian told me. Elves usually focus on a specific form of manipulation. One elf with water magic may focus on the manipulation of massive tentacles of water to restrain and destroy enemies. While another focuses on specific kinds of ice spells. Though the older they became the more complex these manipulations could become.

I had dozens of spells at my disposal, but it really didn’t mean much. Speed usually won the day in any battle. And if I don’t use my primary affinity I would just be under a handicap. Endali, Sianna and I discussed for some time the ways an elf could use water magic in combat, but Xalia has kept her true strength hidden for over a century. So, the best advice they could offer was focusing on defense and slowly learning how her abilities work.

After over an hour of discussion I sat in the field as elves practiced riding their Su’ran. I could focus on creating more royal mithrite, but I wanted to be at full strength. Creating even a small ingot was draining both physically and mentally.

I watched Sianna and a group of elves atop Su’rans sprint across the large field. Hers was by far the largest and fastest. And within a few moments she left the rest in the dust. Their mock race wasn’t even close.

Next Sianna progressed into testing the agility of her mount. The half dozen elves threw spell after spell at her and the mount dodge with supernatural agility. Then she did something altogether strange. Sianna channeled ether into the deer and cast a spell. The deer leapt, clearing a distance of over 200 feet before landing completely silent. Then she dashed into the tree line with the Su’ran skipping off branches of the massive trees and disappearing from sight. Her audience looked at each other confused. Apparently, they did not expect that kind of agility.

“Your abilities are impressive, Moon.” Endali said. She was standing next to me the entire time as I watched the performance.

“Thank you for the compliment. I knew the Su’ran to be more agile but that was beyond anything I expected.” I said.

“The bond between an elf and their Su’ran is built over decades. The bond you created between them seems to have deepened the connection to the point where they can anticipate each other’s desires.”

“What price would, and elf offer for a mount like that?” I asked.

“Much. Especially with how superior it is to others of its kind. Vanity is not something exclusive to humans. Do you intend on selling your abilities?”

I smiled and said. “Not quite yet, I’ll wait until anticipation grows.”

Endali gave me a piercing stare as she asked. “What is your real goal, Moon? I know of your deal for the secret of royal Mithrite.”

While we had a conversation about the ritual. I was sparing with the details. Especially with what was written on my hand. That only made them more determined to know my true intentions.

“It’s mostly to take the attention away from flying mounts. That is a power I offer to no one. This serves as an excellent source of advertising. I imagine once Sianna rides in on this mount others will want one for themselves and they will have to pay.” I said. Then I remembered the two mounts I still had to provide.

“Are you not among those who will receive mounts?” I asked.

“No, it would not serve my purpose. They will be given to two other matriarchs who you will meet soon.”

Well, it seems Sianna is already making headway, this is good. The faster she takes control of the clans, the better.

“Moon,” A voice from behind me said.

I turned to see Lilian, she was dirty, sweaty and had a manic smile. “Do you have it?” I asked.

“Yes, it took some effort.”

Clearly.

“Let’s see to it then. I have been anxious to see this mystery creature.” Endali was watching the conversation with unhidden curiosity.

It seems Lilian didn’t inform them of my choice to give her a mount. Excellent, though I don’t think I would ever get her to betray the elves, everyone has selfish desires, and this would be a good step in having her lean into them more. If I were her, I would choose a creature whose base strength would surpass a Su’ran.

“Whatever are you two talking about.” Endali asked me.

Lilian looked nervous so I stepped in. “I owe my old mercenary compatriot a debt. It wouldn’t do to not show gratitude, especially since she has been so accommodating.”

There were numerous elves around and I could see ears twitching in our direction. Endali looked suspicious, all the more proof that Lilian hadn’t informed her of my offer. I left with Lilian as the eyes of dozens of elves followed us into the forest. Ten minutes later she led me deep into the forest where I could just pick up the sound of a creature panting. After rounding one final tree I was rather shocked with what she chose.

On the ground was a massive feline creature with ink black fur. It almost looked like a panther but had large, pointed ears. There were two arrows embedded into the creature. One in its shoulder and another near its rear leg. As I got closer, I admired the well-muscled limbs and unretracted claws. If this was standing up it would probably be as tall as I was.

“What is this?” I asked Lilian.

“Noct’thrax or Shadow Cat in common. They are impressive hunters and can even use the ether to go nearly invisible.” Lilian said.

“It seems that many creatures in these forests can use the ether.” It was something I noticed over time. Birds, even small rodents that scampered in the tree line seems to have some small etheric ability.

“They know not to encroach on our lands, and we respect theirs, humans however expanded everywhere and wiped out most of the etheric beasts. Only in the high mountains do they remain.” She explained.

“Like the drake?”

“Precisely.”

I got closer, placed a hand on the creature and examined its body. It seems the arrows were coated with a paralytic.

“You can remove the arrows; it won't take long.” I said.

She looked at me dubiously, “Are you sure? He was not easy to bring down alive.” I understood her hesitation. This creature had to weigh at least 800lbs, most of that being muscle.

“I’m sure,” she shrugged, gently removed the arrows, and stored them in her quiver.

“Now place your hand there.” I instructed. Then I repeated the process with Lilian and the Shadow cat. However, since she had much less living ether than someone as powerful as Sianna. I had to funnel some of my own into her, wait for it to commune then channel it into the Shadow cat. This made it take longer than usual, but in a matter of minutes the creature broke through and the bond was forged.

“Now we wait, prepare yourself. This process is rather unpleasant. And after that you will have to send him hunting in the forest for a day or two. He will grow rapidly.”

Lilian shook herself off as she reeled from how much living ether was sapped from her. This Cat was much more powerful than the deer after all. Still, it was only a large magical cat and didn’t need as much as a human would.

“How much bigger?” she asked.

I shrugged “It depends on the creature, so far, I have done a horse, Su’ran, wyvern and a bird. They all grew bigger yet to find a pattern beyond the amount of power provided.”

After hours of violent twisting and screaming the creature finally finished and slowly got to his feet.

“Remember he is a part of you now and you him. just send him a command and he will follow.” I said.

“Vanish.” Lilian said.

And just like that the creature turned invisible with a small pulse of ether. I walked around where the creature stood and noticed it wasn’t perfect. There was a slight distortion, though in the night I imagined he would be impossible to see.

He reappeared and walked over to Lilian. He nuzzled her hand then she ran her finger across his shiny black fur.

“You should go hunt with him, spend time understanding the bond. While he is a part of you, each enchanted creature has their own personality. Baelathor for example is impressively lazy and requires prodding.”

She nodded absentmindedly. She looked completely entranced by the creature. “I shall repay you for this gift Moon.”

I chuckled and said, “Repayment is not necessary, let us, from this moment, begin anew as allies and let the past remain the past.”

I held out a hand which she shook. I met her green eyes. They were focused and determined. “Very well, Moon. The past is the past and we will move forward as allies.”

Three days later.

Over 100 members of the Clan Noct’hrum walked through the forest towards the fields of honor. I would have preferred to fly there but Sianna was adamant that procedure was necessary. We traveled by Su’ran for most of the entire journey, I didn’t have one of my own, so I hitched a ride with Endali. Lilian of course rode on the back of the now massive shadow cat she named Velith. Many members of the clan were enthralled by the beast especially with how impressively large it was.

It stood a head taller than me at around 6 feet and weighed at least half a ton. Regardless of its massive size it was beyond agile, and she could disappear with it. How she was able to remain on its back through the massive leaps the creature took was beyond me, though I know magic was involved. Every time we stopped a small group of elves would gather around Lilian and her beast in enthusiastic discussion. Sienna's Su’ran by comparison wasn’t as impressive. And that is what I wanted. I would deliver on my agreement with her of course and have them envy Velith.

I got the distinct feeling some wanted to approach me but stern stares from both Endali and Sianna dissuaded them. Leithani was of course displeased with the attention Lilian was getting. Elves may preach about their superiority to humans but in the end, everyone is attracted to power and prestige.

“We are only an hour away. This is sacred ground, and no act of violence is tolerated without permission.” Sianna said.

“We have already agreed, no need to remind me.” I said.

In the distance I could see a large white tower surrounded by many stone houses. It almost reminded me of the higher-class neighborhoods in noble quarters. Though the streets were almost barren. Grass gave way to white cobblestones, and I had to admire the fine architecture. Each clan had a specific section of the small town for their exclusive use. But of course, they were expected to tend to their own needs.

“We will report our presence to the overseer. Moon, you should join us.” Leithani said. The Su’ran were kept outside the city in an open field. There was apparently no fear of them wandering off.

“Very well.” I said. I was interested in seeing the large tower up close. It was over 50 feet across and stood almost 500 feet into the air. At the top were the council chambers, where the matriarchs and their seconds would meet. With the early morning sun shining off the smooth white stone it was almost hard to look at.

Endali, Leithani, Lilian, Sianna along with a few other elves made our way to the tower. After around 10 minutes of walking we reached the massive entrance, a large steel double door. Outside stood an elven man in black robes. Speaking to him was a familiar sight, Xalia, her daughter Kerelia and over a dozen elves I didn’t recognize.

They turned to watch as we approached the elven man. She couldn’t help the sneer that arose as we met eyes.

“Xalia, Kerelia, how nice to see you two again.” I said. completely breaking decorum.

“I see you are still as impetuous as ever.” Xalia said, with a sneer, but Kerelia remained neutral. Interestingly enough she wasn’t among the guilty. It seems that Xalia knew that this was a possibility and ensured that her daughter would not be amongst those on trial. Xalia was only slightly more powerful than Morianne but from the ether I could see a powerful etheric gem in her pocket. And several other enchanted items on her person. Even her clothing was enchanted.

“This is neutral ground provocation is beneath you both. Let all be settled within the council and the fields of honor. Is this agreed?” The overseer said in common. Likely for my benefit.

“Yes.” I said.

“Sum” Xalia said.

“Good, only three clans are yet to arrive. The council will begin when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky. Do not shame our ancestors by breaching these accords. I shall report on the arrival of Clan Noct’hrum and clan Lit’havn” Elf looked pointedly at me and started towards the tower. The door opened by itself and closed behind him. I was just able to make out a few elves wandering around in the same dark robes.

“I see the royals have already joined forces. Soon enough they will breed and bring about more ruin.” Xalia said.

Sianna said. “You have made your choice Xalia, instead of open discourse you chose treachery and murder. You must pay the price.”

“The death of a single human hardly counts as murder. It is doubtful you will convince the clans of such.” She sniffed in indignance. I sent a mental command to Baelathor while they sparred with words. In truth it was more likely for the gathering audience than for each other. Now there were at least a hundred elves watching the confrontation.

“Moon considered her a daughter, trained her in magic himself. But you, in your desperate need for control, threw the lives of over 30 elves away. For no other reason than your pride and the pathetic illusion of control.” Sianna responded. That brought some excited discussion amongst the audience. Then the conversation switched to Evaian. And I had no clue what was being said. Though it did start to become quite heated as I could feel the ether flowing off both of them. As much as I couldn’t understand it was quite entertaining. This was a rather common occurrence before a council meeting. It usually was for the audience, how they reacted would largely dictate the decision of the council.

“What does Moon say to this?” Xalia asked.

I looked at Sianna since I had no clue what she was talking about, though from how intently the audience was looking at me it was a serious question. Noticing my confusion she said, “She wished to know what you will do if you are not given a chance to exact justice via a duel.”

I suppose she wanted me to admit my more murderous tendencies to the audience. I shrugged might as well give a good performance. So, I ignored her and faced my audience. I imagine if I was a normal elven male I would be intimidated by the hundreds of eyes staring at me. It was a mistake to call me out like this. Even now she underestimates me.

“I woke alone and naked in a forest south of Vernon. No name, no history, I had barely enough magic to fight off a goblin. Even now, I know not, what my true name is. I am called Moon because I found the two moons beautiful and was enraptured by the sight.”

Not every elf spoke commonly so I could see some frantically translating to others. I gave them a few moments to translate and continued.

“Then I met Lilian, she was as shocked to see me as I was her. I didn’t even know what a royal elf was then. The human who gave me the name Moon saw my potential and offered to get me training in light magic. Though Lilian offered to bring me to her people, I feared the intentions of elves I knew nothing about, only now I realize that time has proven me wise.” I paused once again and let my audience digest that information. At that point they were enraptured, and no one seemed poised to interrupt.

“A human taught me light magic and as a mercenary earned good coin. All the while Lilian was by my side constantly asking to bring me to my people. Lilian taught me to meditate and showed me how calming it can be with others I trust, still I refused to return to my people because I feared elves I did not know. Eventually I grew tired of serving the human nobles, their arrogance was exhausting.” There were some mumbles of approval. Of course they would approve of disparaging humans.

“So, I set off on my own and then I was attacked. It took me some time to learn who orchestrated it. I was burned bereft of two limbs and crawled along the forest floor near death for hours before a human came and helped me.”

I paused once again, there was silence. With nothing but the wind and the muttering of elves rapidly translating.

“This human fed me and kept me safe while I healed my wounds. She asked to be my apprentice, and for the first time in this short life of mine, I found one I truly trusted. She held my secrets and loyalty from the moment I met her until the moment she was killed in the street. Xalia says that this is not murder because she is not an elf.”

A small rumbling started through the crowd. I continued on with a bit more fire in my voice. “A human gave me my name. A human taught me the magic that saved my life a dozen times over. A human taught me the meaning of family and loyalty. Who will say that this is not murder?”

I waited until the crowd calmed down and the translation finished before continuing. “An elf decided that I should be murdered for what I am; for past crimes I didn’t not commit. An elf decided that my apprentice’s life was worth nothing and had her butchered in the street. An elf risked the lives of thousands for her own selfishness, her own fear. Who will say that this is not murder?”

Baelathor arrived at the same moment his massive form blotted out the sun, his blood red wings and his white scales glowed in the sunlight. He roared so loud it shook the very paving stones, elves dove to the ground covering their ears.

‘Alright that’s enough,’ I commanded him then he flew away. Slowly they got up off the ground, the fear dissipating as Baelathor flew away.

“I brought that beast here for justice. And I would have gladly unleashed his full power on every clan until I found those guilty.” The translators were far less enthusiastic about their translations.

In a calmer voice I continued, “But an elf showed me true magic.” I gave an appreciative stare to Sianna. “An elf showed me the failure of the royals and the crimes they committed. An elf showed me the beauty of the Su’ran, the taste of Guyara. An elf showed me that my hate and rage should be directed only at the guilty, that I can find allies and friends among the elven. An elf showed me the beauty and comfort that can only be found amongst those of my own kind.”

I looked to Endali, Leithani and finally gave Lilian’s hand a soft caress that should send their tongues wagging. Time to finish up I suppose. Then I turned to Xalia who was quietly fuming. I suppose she could have interrupted me, but that would have only worked in my favor. I was tailoring my experiences to fit a certain narrative.

So, I have garnered some sympathy, some fear, now, it’s time to give them an ultimatum. I really didn’t want to bother with this performance, but I do intend to be king someday and what is a king without allies? But I can't be too generous with the elves. They elves need to know that I am more than willing to bring death on a mass scale if they refuse me justice. What is power afterall without the willingness to use it?

“Make no mistake Xalia of Clan Lit’Havn. Regardless of the outcome of the council. This will be the last sunrise you will ever see.” I made sure my iris dilated, turning my eyes into black pits to punctuate the seriousness of my words. If they refuse, I will be forced to act. It would be a shame to slaughter these elves before I learn their magic.

Her brow tightened; her pulse quickened. I could practically taste the fear that was coming off of her. Over two centuries of life will end today, I suppose most people never woke up with the idea that today could be their last.

I turned on my heels and walked away. The crowd cleared a path as if standing too close to me would direct my ire to them. The massive amount of ether I was gathering near the end of my speech was probably not helping things.

Hopefully, this performance will have the desired effect. I’m sure my name will be on the lips of every elf in Isran soon enough. The speech covered everything I wanted, expressing my rage and willingness to destroy. Shame them with how poorly I have been treated by my own kind in comparison to humans.

I’ve given them some hope that all is not lost and there is a chance I can be retained as an ally. Finally, have everything contingent upon finding those who I accuse guilty.

This should be enough to set the stage for Sianna to build influence and for everyone to know I am intimate with Lilian. With the open display of affection and the etheric beast she rides, as well as the terror, the council will do as I desire. And if they don’t, they will suffer the consequences.