Adventures in the Sacred Forest

Chapter 7: A Mission to the Elves

As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the city of Jaspen, High Lord Gidon Aguerius emerged from his meeting with the King, his expression a mix of concern and determination. Almas and Creetan eagerly awaited their father's return, sensing that something important had transpired within the walls of the Provincial Palace.

Walking briskly alongside his sons, their father's voice held a weight of urgency. "Boys, the King has entrusted me with a crucial mission. He wishes for me to journey to the remnants of the Elvish Kingdom, beyond the Dividing Mountains. It seems we are on the precipice of another conflict with the Lich Lords, and the King seeks to secure an alliance with the Elves."

Almas exchanged a worried glance with his father, understanding the delicate nature of this mission. The Elves had become reclusive over the years, isolating themselves from the affairs of men after their near annihilation during the war of destruction. Almas knew from Ulec's tales that their welcome would be anything but warm.

"We have just lost the Vatan Province, and the King is determined not to let another one slip away," their father continued, his voice tinged with both responsibility and concern. "I will leave in the morning with my guards, while the two of you will return to the Aguerius Estate later tomorrow morning, escorted by a contingent assigned by the King himself."

Almas listened intently, his mind racing with conflicting thoughts. He was proud of his father's important role, but he couldn't shake his worries about the reception they would receive from the Elves. Ulec had made it clear that their kind regarded humans with suspicion and caution.

Yet, Almas knew he couldn't voice his concerns in front of Creetan. The promise he made to Ulec, to keep the secret of his forest friend hidden, weighed heavily on him. He had to protect Ulec and his kin. Luckily he knew his father was aware of the same information that Almas was.

Returning to the inn, the weight of their impending separation settled upon them. Almas and Creetan began their preparations for their respective journeys. The room was filled with a mix of excitement and melancholy, knowing that the next day would bring significant changes to their lives.

Almas observed his father, watching as he meticulously packed his belongings, his mind focused on the task at hand. The High Lord's determination to secure the alliance and protect their land was unwavering, and Almas admired his father's strength.

As they gathered their belongings and made final preparations, Almas stole a moment alone with his father. "Father, please be careful on your mission," he said, his voice laced with genuine concern. "The Elves... they may not be as receptive as the King hopes. Their fear toward others runs deep."

High Lord Gidon's gaze softened, a mixture of appreciation and understanding. "Thank you, Almas. I am aware of the challenges that lie ahead. But I will do everything in my power to find a common ground and convince the Elves of our shared purpose. I trust you and Creetan to make your way home safely."

Almas nodded, his heart heavy with unspoken worries. They had to trust in their father's skills and the bond of family that united them. As they joined Creetan back in the room, their eyes met, understanding passing between them. Tomorrow would mark the beginning of a new chapter in their lives, and they would face it with courage and resilience.

With the evening sky fading into twilight, they settled into their beds, their minds swirling with thoughts of the future. As they drifted off to sleep, dreams of alliances, adventures, and the unknown danced in their heads, each determined to fulfill their respective roles in the days to come.