Pillars of Age

Iron Amid the Waves

RIVAR

As he stepped out of the main doors of the Forest Elf Representative Building, Rivar's face etched with confusion against the evening's fading light. Tarvih had just informed him that his duties were done for the night, leaving him at loose ends.

The bustling square atop Parsha's hill was one of Rivar's least favorite places. When he lived within the thick walls of the representative building, the noise was a distant hum. Now, residing in the inn above Innez's tavern, the cacophony seeped into his rest, making serene sleep elusive.

As he contemplated his next move, a plump man flanked by imposing figures called out from Innez's tavern.

"Rivar, join us. I have something to discuss," called Yunnas.

Though hesitant, Rivar did not refuse. Once seated, Yunnas summoned Innez to bring a thick desert root drink.

"I asked Mistress Innez about your favorite drink. She said this is what you usually order, so I took the liberty," Yunnas explained.

"Thank you, sir, but I don't understand what you need from me."

Yunnas scratched his head, twisting his moustache before speaking cautiously. "I'm not comfortable asking this, but since Master Gaelin left, the Forest Elves have been quite reclusive."

Rivar nodded slowly, sensing the weight of Yunnas's concern.

"Do you know when Master Gaelin will return?"

Rivar shook his head.

"Do you know when his replacement will arrive?"

Rivar shook his head again, adding, "I believe Master Tarvih will be the permanent replacement for Master Gaelin."

"Unfortunate, because that Forest Elf is incredibly rigid."

Rivar remained silent, his expression unchanged.

"Drink up, lad," Yunnas urged, pondering his next question.

Rivar sipped his drink, the thick sweet and warm liquid refreshing his throat.

"Frankly, I don't understand the Forest Elves' sudden change of behaviour. Their secrecy, especially towards the Noble Elves, is perplexing."

Rivar offered no response, simply listening.

"You see, I'm the one being pressured by the Noble Elves, particularly Lady Rhana. Her graceful yet heavy demands and my inability to meet them leave me very weary."

Rivar realized that Yunnas was venting rather than seeking answers.

"Even when they left Parsha disappointed last week, I felt relieved not to face Miss Rhana anymore. But..." Yunnas's gaze, distant and troubled, fixed on Rivar. "...will the Forest Elves in the city continue like this?"

"I don't know, sir. Master Gaelin often spoke with me, and the others were friendly, even if infrequently. Now they avoid talking to me, except for work-related matters."

Yunnas nodded, understanding Rivar's also confused about the elves' sudden change in behaviours since the arrival of the Noble Elves and Gaelin's disappearance.

"The Noble Elves also hide many secrets. When I ask anything about humans in their world, they evade. If this continues, suspicion and unnecessary conflicts will arise among us," Yunnas mused, his eyes drifting again.

Yunnas stood, paying Innez before bidding farewell to Rivar.

Rivar lingered briefly in the tavern. Once Yunnas was out of sight, he stood and walked away, heading towards Parsha Lagoon.