Lord and Master

Chapter Three: A Destiny Yet To Come

Through the days of training, Isidore successfully passed the test within six days. All wouldn't have transpired if it was not for Idhrenniel's incredible enthusiasm and Isidore's hard work and amazing workmanship. The entire week was a mere routine for Isidore: in the morning, after dressing, he would make for the outdoor balcony to release his stress, soothing and relaxing himself. After breakfast he would spend the rest of the day at the training field, practicing his moves until he has refined all.

Finally one day off for a while and Isidore decided to explore furtherer into the extraordinary elf city.

Coincidently, Arphenion was to visit and ensure that one of his best friends was well. That day, he and Arphenion set off to a boat moor; a location where anyone is free to use a few boats intended for traveling across the river to reach any part of the city desired. Arphenion had notified him that they might come across similar moors and waterfronts about once or twice if they want to get to his friend. He also handed him a few gold to eat and venture out in the market. Thus they loaded themselves onto one of the elegant gold boats that was shaped like a leaf. It was crafted with so much high - level detail that to an extent, it made him feel diminutive when compared to it.

Arphenion was the first to row, and they agreed to alternate when they reached the next moor.

"So, how've you been so far, Isidore?" asked Arphenion heaving as he pulled the oars back and forth. Fortunately that slowed down his speaking since Isidore can't make out half the words he says most of the time.

"I've been great actually... I haven't seen myself in the mirror for a long time though!" they laughed.

"It doesn't matter though; you still look great and fitter than ever."

"Thank you!" he chortled, "So who's this friend you're visiting?"

"Oh... well, yes. I must tell you that he is my father's friend's son."

"Is he your friend?"

"Well, you can say he is. Not a bad man though, but I don't think he's a close friend to me. Maybe he will be, not long after a short while! If he likes her then yes! Then we can be the best of brothers!" he said smiling cheerfully.

"How so?"

"Family issues... I don't know for sure! It depends on some things." Isidore simply nodded and gazed at the beautiful mighty buildings. Shadows were elongating over the water as it rippled when the boat passes by. The water was so glistening clear that he could see small fishes, swimming about in it. The river itself didn't seem that deep either for he could see the white rocks beneath them. He laid back, feeling relaxed while contemplating the comforting, uplifting views that lay before him.

When they reached the shores they walked the boulevard and they aboard the second boat. This time it was Arphenion's opportunity to lie back and enjoy the morning sun when he guided Isidore to his friend's accommodations. Several times, he had to repeat what he said so that Isidore could understand what he had just told him. Isidore felt embarrassed about asking him to speak slower: It's either he can't hear properly or he just can't comprehend. Or it could be both. Later he entered a line of beautiful domiciles, each exhibited superb porches. Every house were sophisticated and decorated with grace. Most of them were the colour of different shades of blue, all the windows were open. Some neighbors were relaxing in the open air while other houses looked empty and vacant for quite some time.

Isidore was told to stop before a residence. Out on the porch was a gentleman, a princely young fellow who greeted them as he came over to the boat. His smile was charming and attractive. Isidore felt a scorn tickle of jealousy.