"Did it work?" I pondered, my mind momentarily adrift, as the dark elf cradled in my arms finally raised her gaze.

"I... I-I..." she faltered, her voice trembling.

"Are you alright?" I inquired gently.

Her eyes, once ensnared by a malevolent force, had regained their natural violet hue. The lingering vestiges of her enchantment had faded.

The dazed expression on her face, though, only enhanced her allure—a beguiling figure, masterful in her act. If it was indeed an act, she deserved commendation for its subtlety. However, I had learned over the years, through both life's experiences and countless workshops on interpersonal boundaries, to maintain a respectful focus on the eyes and cautious restraint from any problematic touch.

"Are you the one who vanquished the daimon that held sway over me?" she inquired, a quiver of hope in her voice. "Are you the wielder of such extraordinary power?"

"Yes... Probably," I replied with a measure of uncertainty.

"Then...then I am no longer a thrall."

With each word, her strength and will returned, although her newfound resolve puzzled me.

"What do you mean?" I asked, genuine curiosity in my tone.

"From this moment forward, I am Ravonica Harkness Silver. Your blade, my Master."

A perplexing revelation indeed. The fact that Remove Curse had an effect on her implied that her prior actions had not been of her own will. Who would subject her to such an enchantment, and for what purpose? It was a question that begged investigation, though for the present, the curse was broken, and Ravonica had been restored to herself.

"Though I was ensnared by a fiend's influence, I recall acting insolently, contrary to your wishes," Ravonica confessed, her voice weighted with remorse. She knelt before me, her hands clasped over her chest, a peculiar fervor in her gaze.

Observing her from this vantage, a profound sense of fixation and dependency exuded from her. It was disconcerting.

And there was more; she had effortlessly shed the ropes that had bound her arms and legs, as if they were mere threads.

"What is transpiring here?" I inquired aloud, addressing the room at large.

"She's offering to serve you," Petr chimed in, always the fount of knowledge. "A useful asset, having your own dark elf assassin."

A master? I contemplated the notion, perplexed by its source.

"I have no inclination to be anyone's master," I responded. "Your curse is lifted, and your past actions are under duress. You should answer for your deeds—through legal channels."

As far as I recalled, Vandaris possessed a courthouse. Ravonica could seek absolution through the judicial process, presenting evidence that she was coerced. A lenient sentence should be within reach.

"If that is your wish, I shall abide," Ravonica acquiesced, her eyes brimming with tears. "But I shall remain your Sword. I would sacrifice for you anything you desire. I can infiltrate organizations and wield influence to your benefit. If you command my life's end, I shall comply. Even this vessel of mine, I would surrender to you. But please... please, do not deny me as your master."

Her examples were disquieting. What had driven her to such extremes?

"Why such ominous scenarios?" I voiced my confusion.

"Ominous?" Ravonica echoed despairingly, her pallor deepening as she sank to the floor.

"Lord Xandros, do remain composed," Petr interjected, leading me to a quieter corner of the room. "You needn't be so severe."

"But Petr," I protested, "she seems intent on becoming a slave. I can't just—"

"You misunderstand," Petr interrupted. "A slave is subjugated against their will. In this case, she offers her service willingly. Show respect for her choice."

"Can't we simply be friends?" I suggested. "I see no reason to assume the role of a master."

Eryn's irate voice shattered our conversation. She lunged forward, seizing my right ear with a vice-like grip.

"What on earth are you two muttering about?" she snapped.

"Ouch! Eryn!"

Eryn's glare could almost conjure horns upon her brow.

"I can't believe you!" she exclaimed. "You claimed to break her curse, but I bet you used your magic to bind her even more tightly!"

"That's not what happened!" I protested.

"I never imagined you could be such a lecher! You should be ashamed!"

"This is all a misunderstanding!" I pleaded.

"If you didn't enchant her, then she's probably just trying to seduce you! Don't fall for it!"

While her fury was understandable if she believed I had enchanted Ravonica, my protestations fell on deaf ears.

"Please, madam, allow me to explain," Ravonica interceded, stepping between Eryn and me, her voice quaking.

"Madam?" Eryn echoed, baffled.

"I remain unbound by any enchantment, madam," Ravonica stated. "Even if I were, it would be inconsequential, for my deepest desire is to serve you both. I implore you not to be angered with your husband."

"My what?!" Eryn's voice squeaked.

Let us review the situation. Presently, Petr, Eryn, and I were jointly questioning a dark elf who had previously attempted my assassination and Lana's kidnapping on orders we presumed originated from a Cultist. Then, inexplicably, this dark elf began to profess herself as my slave, while Eryn was suddenly designated as my wife.

"That's not—I mean, I'm not... We're not..." Eryn stammered.

"You need not hide it," Ravonica asserted. "I am certain that a man of my master's strength would endure such verbal and physical abuses only from his wife."

That was quite a leap, if you asked me. Eryn appeared too dumbfounded to respond, her cheeks flushed as she fiddled with her hair. A moment ago, she seemed ready to explode; now, she seemed on the verge of tears. I sighed inwardly. I would undoubtedly need to address this later when Eryn vented her confusion.

I must intervene before matters spiral further out of control.

"No, Ravonica—Eryn is not my wife," I clarified. "She is a dear friend and trusted companion, as is Petr."

"Yes! Exactly!" Eryn chimed in, her embarrassment evident.

"He is right," Petr chimed in. "Pleased to meet you."

"I apologize for jumping to conclusions," Ravonica replied.

While I had managed to quell the rising tension between Eryn and our captive, our interrogation had yielded little of substance thus far. This needed to change.

We must expedite the extraction of information from Ravonica to unmask the orchestrator of this sinister plot, I pondered. Other dark elves remained at large, and any delay only increased the risk of the mastermind's escape.

"Why do you believe that our Emberus is your master?" Eryn inquired, her voice now restrained, a stark contrast to her previous outburst.

"For decades, I was enslaved by the fiend that dwelled within me. I carried out the assassination attempt on Master Xandros under its malevolent control. What appalls me most is that over those long years, I had grown accustomed to the fiend's dominion... but it holds me no more. Master Xandros has just released me from its grasp through his awe-inspiring power."

Could it be that daemons have infiltrated society, conspiring to overthrow it? Or was Ravonica's enslavement the result of cultists wielding fiendish magic? Either way, her narrative hinted at a broader, more intricate conspiracy.

"Words cannot capture the fear I experienced when the fiend was extinguished, nor the profound gratitude I felt upon realizing I was being rescued. Among dark elves, the preservation of one's tribe surpasses all individual concerns. Yet, when a dark elf acknowledges a debt of gratitude that transcends even the fate of their tribe, they pledge to serve."

If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.

"Well, that's understandable, don't you think?" Petr interjected, glancing between Eryn and me.

"I suppose dark elves have their own customs," Eryn conceded, albeit with some reservations.

This is Sedia, not Earth, I reminded myself. Sedia upheld its unique moral and ethical codes, and I had no right to impose my values on its people. Nevertheless, questions lingered.

"So," I finally spoke up, "you intend to cooperate with us, correct?"

"More than that... I pledge my unwavering loyalty and—"

"Yes, yes. We can discuss that later," I interjected. "First, I need you to provide us with information about the one who controlled you and your companions. We must ascertain the identity of the individual behind the poison plot. If your fellow dark elves are similarly ensnared, I wish to aid them. But once we apprehend those responsible, you all must face trial in the city. After fulfilling your societal debt, if you still wish to serve me, then, and only then, make your decision."

This compromise should suffice, I thought. Gathering the necessary information took precedence, followed by due legal process. This should offer Ravonica the opportunity to reconsider her servitude.

"Excellent," Petr remarked.

"Well... if it's your heartfelt wish to pledge loyalty to him, I suppose I won't stand in your way," Eryn relented.

"Thank you! Thank you! I promise, I shall be of great service!"

In Dravus, aside from the inherent loyalty to one's family and nation, it was not uncommon for individuals to willingly dedicate themselves to another, an organization, or a cause. I had observed this while working with the Adamant Knights, but I had yet to fully accept it.

My struggle to reconcile this cultural difference was why I still harbored doubts about Ravonica's true intentions. However, there was a way to dispel those doubts, though it felt somewhat underhanded.

***

Ultimately, I decided to employ Detect Thoughts to confirm Ravon's testimony. (Her full name was cumbersome, so I resolved to use a shortened version.) When I explained the spell's function to Petr and Eryn, they expressed reservations about my ability to delve into others' minds, but Ravon readily consented.

"Let's begin," I said. "First question: Was the entity responsible for your enthrallment and that of your comrades a fiend?"

"The one who initially placed me in that state was a human, I believe. However, lurking behind the power that ensnared me, and within the entity to which I was bound for countless years, I sensed the presence of a fiend. I can never repay you adequately for liberating me, even if I serve you for the remainder of my days." How deplorable it was for me to submit so completely to another... Yet, the mere act of relinquishing control offered a semblance of salvation... Before me stood one whose power eclipsed that of the fiend... Oh, how I yearned to be dominated, bound, and compelled into submission by that extraordinary might...

I had to regain my composure, steadying myself.

"Are you alright?" Eryn inquired.

The overwhelming surge of Ravon's undiluted and unwavering loyalty (if it could indeed be called that) threatened to overwhelm me.

In my youth, I had occasionally undertaken excessive workloads out of respect for an esteemed supervisor. So, on some level, I comprehended the desire to sacrifice oneself for another. Yet, the intensity of Ravon's sentiments catapulted her into an entirely different realm.

"I-I see... However, you must understand: While you pledge loyalty to me, it is difficult for us to accept your words at face value. How can we be sure this is not a ruse to facilitate your escape?"

"I would never entertain such thoughts! There is nothing more natural than pledging unwavering loyalty to someone as deserving as you, my master! Should you doubt my sincerity, I shall tear my heart from my chest and show you the purest crimson it can bleed." Woe unto me, for my Olry doubts me! The sole individual to whom I can turn—nay, should turn—lacks faith in me... Rather than endure this, I wish he would end my miserable existence this very moment!

"You... there's no need for that. I understand what you're trying to convey."

As terrifying as it was to admit, whatever Ravon felt, be it loyalty, devotion, or something entirely distinct, she concealed nothing. While her words, taken at face value, offered an oversimplified representation of the complex emotions simmering beneath the surface, I had already perceived more than I desired.

Despite my discomfort, I found some solace in Eryn's reaction. It was the most human response in the room, grounding me in the midst of this fantastical world.

"No," I replied at last, my gaze meeting hers. "Thank you, Eryn. I hope you never cease your admonishments, just as you always have. Please, remain as you are."

"What... What did you just say?" Eryn's voice quivered with disbelief.

While the remainder of our session with Ravon held its own events, I'll condense the subsequent details. Ravon cooperated, sharing every recollection she possessed.

According to her, the one who had controlled and coerced her into assassinating me was a gaunt man who bore the airs of nobility. His abode bore a family emblem featuring a sword and sail. At the mention of this, Petr swiftly connected the dots, identifying a person of interest flagged by the Adventurers' Guild.

His name: Kimbal Cornwall, a baron sitting on the city council. Cornwall's notoriety stemmed from his ceaseless antagonism of the mercantile faction, from the council's chairperson down to its lowest-ranking members.

There had been unverified accounts of individuals vanishing near Cornwall's estate, alongside reports of suspicious figures entering and departing the premises. A maid even testified to witnessing a fiendish ceremony conducted at the estate. The list of allegations was extensive. In response to these rumors, the Adventurers' Guild had conducted an independent investigation, leading to a firm belief that the rumors carried substantial weight. Ravon's account was the final piece of the puzzle.

"This settles it," Petr declared. "Cornwall is our Cultist."

"So, should we prepare to raid his estate?" Eryn asked.

"I'm joining you," added Ravon.

"On what grounds?" I interjected. "We can't simply carry out an extrajudicial arrest and interrogation. Even if we're convinced, we lack the legal authority to act based solely on suspicions."

First, we must notify the Adventurers' Guild and the city guard of our suspicions, I pondered. Then, we'll request that they locate Cornwall, prevent his departure from the city, and establish surveillance on his estate.

Following my explanation, Petr, Eryn, Ravon, and I headed directly to the city hall. Although I recognized it was short notice, I insisted on an audience with Chairman Budow and the city guard's captain.

When the chairman and the captain arrived, looking somewhat flustered, I detailed how Kimbal Cornwall was the mastermind behind the assassination plot and was highly likely associated with the Cultists. Despite Cornwall being a political rival of Budow's, it still came as a shock to both him and the captain that such a high-ranking official was entangled in Dravus's most abhorred practices.

"I never would have suspected him... but it appears there's little room for doubt," Budow commented.

"In addition to the dark elf's testimony," the captain chimed in, "the Adventurers' Guild has amassed significant circumstantial evidence that aligns with her account. I propose we move forward and arrest Lord Cornwall on suspicion of orchestrating an assassination attempt and engaging in fiend worship."

"Hmm... What do you think, Lord Xandros?" Budow inquired. "Is that acceptable to you?"

Ordinarily, it would be preposterous for someone of Budow's stature to seek confirmation from someone like me. Yet, I could discern that he was well aware of my stance. Once again, he had impressed me.

"Of course, I have no objections to his arrest," I affirmed. "However, I suspect Cornwall may resort to supernatural powers if cornered. As a precaution, I would like to be involved in his apprehension. Furthermore, it's an opportunity to demonstrate to Vandaris's citizens that I stand by their side."

"Ch-chairman?" the captain stammered. "Is that acceptable?"

"I'm delighted to hear you say that," Budow replied. "By all means, lend us your assistance. Captain, do not hesitate to involve Lord Xandros in all aspects of the arrest, and do not hesitate to seek his aid."

"Yes, sir."

Petr, Eryn, and Ravon stood restlessly while the chairman, captain, and I continued our conversation. To those accustomed to taking swift action, my methodical approach must have seemed unbearably sluggish.

Nevertheless, coming from a background steeped in the American legal system, events were unfolding at a remarkable pace. The decision to apprehend Cornwall was made in a short span, without complications. It served as a stark reminder of the profound differences in values between this fantasy world and modern-day America.

"Chairman," I addressed him.

"What is it?"

"Thank you for placing your trust in me."

"Observing your actions in the past few days, it was an easy decision," Budow responded. "Anyone, with adequate knowledge of you, would have done the same."

In other words, in a world like Dravus, where science and the legal system were less developed (though describing it as "less developed" oversimplifies the intricate dynamics of nation-states, a phrase I preferred to avoid), trust was the most vital currency. It could be argued that a nation's customs and authority structures were designed to cultivate this essential element of trust among its citizens.

As a counterexample, if Vandaris's populace perceived me as someone who followed the law only when convenient, their trust would quickly erode. Chairman Budow recognized that my aim was to demonstrate my respect for the city's laws and agreed to assist me.

"Lord Xandros, concerning the dark elf..."

The captain turned to me, his expression uncertain.

"Yes, I nearly forgot," I acknowledged, turning to the captain. "I will hand her over to you and the city guard. I request that you arrange a public trial to address her crimes."

Silence enveloped the room.

Ravon's hands had been bound, albeit for appearances' sake. She insisted that I, rather than Petr, perform the binding. Although Ravon had clearly taken pleasure in having me bind her hands, I remained oblivious. Entirely. That was my official stance.

Another detail I did my best to disregard was Ravon's unyielding determination to kneel beside me whenever I came to a halt, moving only when I did. Yet, this seemed to distress the captain of the guard.

"But, Lord Xandros..." he began, furrowing his brow. "From what I can see, she now acts as though she's your servant..."

"This and that are unrelated," I explained. "Regrettably, Ravonica has transgressed the laws of this city, and it's only natural for her to face the city's justice."

It wasn't as if I felt no remorse for her. Particularly after receiving her intense loyalty directly, a hint of guilt pricked at me for delivering her into the hands of the authorities.

If I were to overlook Ravon's transgressions and claim her as my servant, I had no doubt that no one (save for Eryn) would protest. Nevertheless, in doing so, her societal debt would remain unpaid. I couldn't absolve her of her crimes. Even if she had been manipulated, I mused, it was likely she had committed other offenses in the past, long before her coerced actions. The determination of how her debt should be settled wasn't mine alone to make.

"If that's your wish..." the captain murmured. "We generally hold trials at the end of the month—ten days from now. Until then, we'll keep her in custody."

"At the trial, she'll need legal representation and a guarantor," he added. "May we assume you'll stand as her guarantor?"

"Hmm? Uh... Yes, absolutely."

Guarantor? I pondered. I was unfamiliar with the legal procedures in Dravus, but I had no qualms about aiding her case. In fact, I was more than willing to advocate on her behalf. Hopefully, her sentence wouldn't exceed a few years of imprisonment and labor.

"Just so you're aware," I continued, "Ravonica was manipulated by a Cultist, leading her to commit crimes against her will. She has expressed remorse for her actions and a desire to make amends. I would appreciate it if you could ensure these factors are considered during the trial, particularly in regard to her sentencing."

Did I go too far, I wondered, immediately after delivering my request. Overemphasizing her case could potentially backfire, resulting in a harsher sentence.

"Don't worry, we understand. Rest assured, we'll handle the matter," Budow assured me.

"I'll instruct the guards to ensure her comfort until the trial," the captain added.

Comfort? I contemplated. Something about their responses appeared... peculiar. Petr had remained silent throughout, but his conspicuous grin, which I should have noticed earlier, now spoke volumes.