MATCHED

25.

As decided, the boys left to talk with the elders. Their arrival was announced and they were permitted to join the elders.

"Father," Eindriel bowed. "We have something to say," he said.

"Let's hear it," King Grandel

Eindriel glanced at the twins who nodded at him.

"We-

*blag*

They were interrupted by the door.

"Randal, what's the meaning of this?" Grandel asked his brother calmly.

"You know why I'm here, brother," Randal replied.

"I have visitors. Let's talk later," the king said.

"No! I want my answer now!" Randal demanded.

"Then you know the answer. It will never change," Grandel said.

Randal got angrier and tried to strike the king but Gulf deflected his attack. Kris, Levi, and Jake were terrified but the 3 princes were just calm. Their focus is on the assistant.

"You dared to hurt the King of the Elves?!" Grandel's voice boomed.

The guards are already surrounded in defense.

"You are not fit to be king!" Randal yelled.

Grandel just smiled, "You think you're the one that fits to lead? Have you ever wondered why Father chose me instead of you? Why did the people choose me instead of you?"

"Because you charmed them!" Randal exclaimed.

Grandel laughed, "Charmed? I charmed them?" he paused. "I know I'm charming but I never put any spell on them to be king. Well, I don't know about you,"  he said glancing at the assistant.

The assistant showed a very subtle reaction. He was surprised. Randal was about to respond but the assistant stopped him and whispered something.

Randal clenched his fists, "We're not done yet," he turned around to leave.

"Sure, brother," Grandel said.

"Father, are you just letting him go just like that?" Eindriel asked.

"He tried to hurt you and that's treason," he added.

Grandel smiled at his son and glanced at Gulf and Mew before facing them again.

"We believe this is the matter you boys wanted to discuss, right?" Grandel said surprising them.

"H-How?" Eindriel stammered.

Grandel chuckled, "You think I do not know your little realm visit?"

"Father, I-

Grandel raised his hand to stop his son. Thinking that he was about to get scolded, Eindrien lowered his head.

"Son, I'm not angry about it. I am proud. What you did shows you care," Grandel said.

"Then, will you allow us not to battle and just train together?" Eindriel asked.

Grandel faces Gulf, "Will it be okay to train first or?" he asked.

"They can learn along the way," Gulf replied grinning.

And so, the elders told the boys what they needed to do. They also told the elders about their thoughts.

For now, it has been decided that Eindrien will sub-lead the mission about the other realm and they will report to Kieran. Kieran's team will stand by.