A few days had passed after my first session of meditation with Lilian. Since then, I have been making time to see her. She, fortunately, didn’t make any overtures to get me to return with her to the elven lands. Instead, we spent most of our time meditating or discussing elven society.
It was a margely matriarchal society separated into clans whose bloodlines spanned centuries. The clan head is usually the eldest daughter of the previous clan head. If there were no daughters available or the daughters were found incompetent a male would be chosen instead. These 14 clan heads decided the laws and ran elven society. Elves cannot reproduce as fast as humans, so children are often seen as precious. Elven pregnancies can last about 3 years and only in the final year would the elven woman actually start showing.
Since even the weakest elf demonstrated some control over the Ether magical power is incredibly cherished in their society. Below the clan matriarchs the most powerful and influential elves are often those with the most magical power. The matriarchs themselves, as expected, boasted impressive magical abilities. They would only choose the most powerful males to mate with. This sometimes could lead to serious conflict as rival clan matriarchs would sometimes seek the same male.
There was no difference in magical power between male and female elves so a male with enough power couldn’t be forced to agree. This would lead to a long session of courting that could last years or even decades. If the male decides to agree then the two will have a ceremony in which they would be mated for life.
It was certainly an odd culture, but I saw it from a more human perspective. To Lilian this was simply the way of the world. Their application of magic though was significantly more interesting. They used no form of sigils or spell circuits. They impose their will upon the ether directly. This made it so that their approach to spell work was largely clan dependent. Unlike with human magic where most mages, depending on their skill, would use the same spells.
Elves used their spells in much the same way I created daylight. Theoretically I could practice daylight for centuries slowly improving it until it was just as if not more effective than Radiant Lance. Over thousands of years elves have mastered this form of casting and the structured and controlled nature of human magic was limiting. Elves could modify a spell mid-cast any number of ways making it practically impossible to predict what a spell would do.
It would be assumed that they would dominate the continent because of their superior magical power but humans simply bred far faster than elves. A significantly higher population meant that they could win through a pure numerical advantage.
That problem of a slow birth rate made the elves prioritize having children. Once an elven woman finds a male that they wish to reproduce with, the lengths that they would go to capture his interest and that of his family were sometimes extreme.
This only served to make me even more resolved to never go anywhere near elven lands until I had enough power to make it a hopeless matter to try to strong arm me into anything.
Today the company was set to meet at Grassy Grove tavern. to discuss the contract for the drake. I had a meeting with captain Heith before this, so I was running a few minutes late. I walked into the tavern to see everyone including Sten sitting at their usual table. Mikah noticed me and gave me a small signal to come over.
“Nice of you to finally join us.” Caan said as I approached. He certainly had calmed down around me most likely because I could end him with hardly a thought.
I ignored him and took a seat next to Bast. Sten gave me a nod and jumped back into whatever he was saying to the rest of the company.
“It’s been spotted within Ruben borders and has already killed two companies, one that actually had an air mage in their number.”
“Should we really take this contract then if it is so dangerous.” Bast said, ever the voice of reason.
“According to his steward the baron requested us personally. Which means he really requested Sarah and Moon.”
“What are the consequences of refusing the contract? “I asked.
“Largely nothing if you don’t mind being labeled a coward. A personal request from a Baron is not something to reject.” Sarah said.
“Still there is nothing that can force him to make us take the contract. So, before I sent my response, I wanted to hear all of your opinions.” Sten said.
“That’s a question for the folks who can shoot fire out their hands.” Tanner said as she looked at Sarah and me.
“A White drake is no small matter; the largest problem is actually getting in range to attack it. They have been known to create wind powerful enough to tear down fortifications and fly far faster and higher than would be physically possible. Even with Moon and I’m not sure if we could bring it down. Range is one of the problems.” Sarah said and gave me a look as if to ask my opinion on the topic.
“Indeed, my shields will be enough to protect us from the wind. The matter of getting the creature into our range is the problem. Is there any way to bait it into attacking us directly.” I asked.
“Drakes only hunt this much when they are preparing to clutch. If we find its nesting site then it will certainly try to kill us up close instead of risking its eggs.” Breala said.
Everyone looked at her quizzically since it sounded as if she had experience hunting these creatures.
“Felling a great creature is how many young orcs prove themselves; most die in the attempt.” She finished.
“How sure can we be that it is indeed female, and it has clutched,” Brandon said.
“Unsure, but the most likely reason a White drake would come down from the mountains and hunt with such frequency.” Breala said.
Brandon shrugged, seeming to drop the matter. Breala was too straight forward with her answers to broker any argument to her reasoning.
“Moon, Sarah what do you think? Can you bring it down with your abilities if we can bait it into your range? I know creatures like this are resistant to magic.” Sten asked.
Sarah and I shared another look and spent a few moments contemplating how our abilities would fare against the creature.
Regardless of the resilience of the creature to magic, I sincerely doubted that it could withstand a beam of light that likely burned hotter than the surface of the sun. Assuming it comes down and strikes at us directly my shield should withstand it and I could instantly counter with a radiant lance to kill or at least seriously injure it.
“I’ve recently mastered dual casting. It is a simple enough matter to block any physical strike with my shield and counter with a radiant lance.” I said.
“You’ve mastered it already?” Sarah said, showing clear astonishment in her voice. Normally I would have enjoyed seeing the normally uptight woman gawk in amazement at my abilities but for some reason it felt hollow.
I created two light orbs to demonstrate the ease at which I could dual cast. It was slightly harder to do it with non-light magic, but it was still doable. Sarah gave me a penetrating glare that melted away into neutrality after a few seconds.
“I suppose it would be possible.” Sarah said as she kept staring at the two orbs.
“Ok everyone. Are we agreed on the acceptance of this contract?” Sten said.
There were some slightly worried glances as each member likely gauged whether or not the no doubt substantial contract price would be worth facing the white drake. But as expected greed won out in the end.
“Aye,” Caan said. Then one after another the entire company agreed to the contract.
“Very well then, I’ll arrange everything. We're set to leave in two days.” Sten said.
After going over a few details on our travel accommodations all members began to leave. I had already taken care of all preparations for the upcoming trip so I have little to do today. Lilian started to approach me but Sarah quickly beat her to it.
“Moon we should practice coordinating our abilities. Are you available for a few hours? “ Sarah said.
“Sure but where would we practice?” I asked.
“I have a large practice area within my manor. Now if you would join me in my carriage.”
She turned around and proceeded towards the exit. I checked where Lilian was to see if there was anything she wanted to talk to me about, but she had already disappeared. Shrugging exited the building and joined Sarah in her well-appointed carriage.
The upper city was strictly for the upper class. Nobles, rich merchants and visiting dignitaries are the only ones allowed within its confines. As such the area was largely residential and the majority of the businesses catered to the wealthy. As our carriage rode up to the gate the guardsman called us to a halt.
The woman who peaked her head in to see the occupants was someone I recognized.
“Ah. hello sir mage” The guardswoman said. She was covered head to toe in armor, but her voice was familiar.
“How’s your leg?” I said as I remembered where I had heard the woman’s voice before.
“It's great, hells I almost want you to look at the other one.”
“Stop by the clinic tomorrow I’ll be sure to take a look at it.”
“I’ll hold you to it” She recognized Sarah then said.“Good day Miss Newban.” and closed the curtain. From inside the carriage I could hear her yell.
“Gren, these are fine, let them through.”
She let us through without any complaints. It was the first time I had been within the upper city since entrance was restricted without the proper identification. I had no residence or business within the upper city to get that identification.
As we passed through the gates, I pulled back the curtain and admired the clean largely empty streets and the opulently decorated buildings. Almost no one walked instead choosing to travel by carriage. The few I could see on foot wore incredibly opulent clothing with a large number of jewels adorning their wrists, fingers, ears. This was true for both men and women.
By comparison the only jewelry I wore was the tarnished ring I got from the goblins den. I felt woefully underdressed. Even Sarah wore jewelry on her hands and ears. I resolved to acquire some jewels to adorn myself with. Since I intend to walk among these people at some point.
“First time within the upper city” Sarah asked.
“Yes, it is quite eye-catching. “I said.
“Indeed, it's far better than living among the peasants, if a bit costly.”
“Do you own your own property?”
“Yes, it was another thing that my mother passed down to me. I've made some improvements to it over the years.”
We arrived at a large manner three or four times the size of any inn I’ve seen with a path towards an expertly decorated entrance. We passed through the main gate after our driver had a short conversation with the guardsman.
We arrived at the front steps of the home and the driver opened the door to the carriage. Sarah stepped out first and a servant, a young man in a dark blue uniform approached, bowed then said.
“Good day Lady Newnan, your supper is almost prepared. Would you and your guest care for some tea in the garden before dinner.”
Sarah gave me a look as if asking me if I did want tea. I wouldn’t mind some tea, so I gave her a subtle nod.
“That is acceptable.”
“At once Lady Newman.”
She took off her gloves and cloak and handed them to the young man who bowed and left.
As we walked through the house servants and bowed as we passed there wasn’t even the usually amazed stare at my appearance. Either they didn’t care that I was an elf, or they were simply that well trained. Sarah decorated the maror lavishly everywhere there was gold leaf furniture. Every wall had a painting depicting some epic acne of battle or humans. I couldn't recognize there was a painting of a woman who looked eerily similar to Sarah.
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The yard behind her manor was even more impressively decorated, there were statues of people and creatures I couldn’t give a name to. The grass was meticulously maintained and everywhere flowers were in full bloom. It was a beautiful sight. At the far end of her yard was a gazebo. We took opposite seats at the small table.
“Your manor is lovely.” I said appreciating the aesthetic view of the garden.
“Thank you it took some doing to restore it to a presentable state.”
“How much would it cost to purchase something this size? It’s one of the largest manors I’ve seen in the area.”
“Somewhere in the thousands of gelding depending on the state of the property.” As she said that a servant, the same you man, brought a tray of fine porcelain. Placing a cup and saucer in front of both of us the servant moved to pour; however with a single signal from Sarah he bowed and left. She instead poured both our cups.
I knew enough that Sarah pouring my drink instead of a servant was an act that is usually done with close friends. We certainly were not close friends in any capacity, but I’ll play along to see what her intentions really were. I took a sip and appreciated the earthy and fruity notes. Typically, tea isn’t drunk with sugar or milk and most consider it an insult to the tea’s quality if you ask for it.
“This is excellent.” I said.
“It was imported all the way from the Imperial Capital where the best growers reside. A single pound costs approximately 5 gelding.”
I chuckled and said. “Ha the wonders of wealth”
Wanting to be done with the pleasantries and asked. “Why do you play mercenary? As much as it is profitable, I doubt it covers the upkeep of this property.”
She took a few seconds to answer then said.
“Most of my coin is tied up in investments. This helps offset the price and allows me to maintain my lifestyle.”
“Would it not be more cost efficient to simply sell the manor and purchase something smaller.” I glanced over and noticed an old man methodically clipping a hedge. “With less staff.”
She scoffed at the idea “I may be a fallen noble, but I will not debase myself to lesser accommodations.”
“Fallen noble? “I asked.
“I’m sure you have heard the tale, most have.”
“You were disowned after refusing to marry Denerif Mason.” I recalled what Tanner told me.
“Yes, father was not pleased, but I was already an accomplished mage and my mother already gave me my inheritance; there was little he could do to force the issue.”
“What of your mother?”
“Dead, for over 10 years now.” She said her voice, betraying a small amount of sadness.
“Sorry to hear that.”
She waved away my comment clearly not wanting any sympathy.
“What of you Moon? Any answers to the mysteries of your existence.”
“None, though I have been learning more about elf culture from Lilian.”
She raised an eyebrow then said. “I thought you two hated each other.”
“We have come to a mutual understanding.”
The same servant from earlier returned with a plate of cheese, crackers and cured meat. As well as strange fruits I couldn’t recognize. I followed her lead packing a small plate using silver tongs with the things I desire to eat.
“So, tell me what did you want to practice?” I said as I ate a small cube of foul-smelling cheese with a piece of cracker.
“One of the problems with your shield is the inability to cast spells through it. Since you're able to dual cast this allows us to perform a technique called shield stacking.”
Seeing my confusion she continued.
“If you cast a shield around us and simply construct and charge the spell circuit for another without activating the spell.”
I realized it as she said it and interrupted her.
“I could drop the first shield, you would release a spell and I would instantly raise the second.”
That would give our enemy barely a fraction of a second to attack since I could expand the second shield incredibly fast. It was so simple I felt stupid that I didn’t take note of it sooner. I was actually eager to see this technique of shield stacking in practice.
“Let’s begin.”
Sarah led us to a large building near the rear of her manor. It had a high ceiling, most of the building was made of stone, inside the building was largely empty and the floor was entirely made of smooth stone tiles. Here and there were scorch marks likely from where Sarah practiced her fire magic.
Taking places within the center with my left hand I cast a shield just large enough to cover both of us. In my right hand I constructed the spell circuit for another shield and charged it but did not release the spell. Once we were enclosed Sarah began casing a fire bolt towards some stone pillars that acted as targets. Once it was fully charged, I dropped the shield and instantly raised the second.
“What do you think is right ? A third of a second. “I asked.
“Just about, I think. we could try a signal word perhaps that could better coordinate our efforts. “Sarah said.
“Hmmm it would be faster to time it with the pulse from your spell.”
She looked quizzical then understanding came over her features.
“Yes, I see. Elves do have a significant sensitivity to fluctuations with the ether.”
We spent a few hours practicing coordinating her spells to my shield. The delay between her releasing a spell and me raising a new shield was roughly a fifth of a second. I doubt any mage could possibly respond during that delay.
Deciding we had achieved what we set out to do. Sarah and I rested on a bench in a far corner of the room.
The same servant that brought us the cheese platter came over with a tray that held two silver tankards. We took the drinks and the servant left with a bow. There was a familiar jingle inside the tankard.
“Ice cubes?” I said in confusion. It wasn’t uncommon for an inn to have a crude icebox, but these cubes were an anachronism.
“Have you never seen an enchanted icebox before?” She sounded amused.
“No, I’ve never even heard of one,” I said.
I took a drink of the yellow-orange drink. It was quite sweet and had a citrusy aftertaste. It sent a delicious chill down my spine.
“I have to see it.”
She raised an eyebrow well and shrugged as if it was no small matter. Enchanted items were something of a rarity so I wanted to see them as often as I could. Sarah Took me through the house into the kitchens. Servants were perturbed to see her there, but they bowed as we entered.
“Well, there it is.” she said nonchalantly.
It was a metal box roughly similar to as safe as tall as my waist. It was held closed by two heavy metal clasps. Inside there were some meats and metal trays that held even more ice cubes. Looking into the ether I could see veins of ether flowing around the box. Most likely Mithrite since it’s the only metal I know of that can conduct ether. I couldn’t really tell what it was doing but there was an incredibly weak Etheric Jem powering the entire enchantment. At best I could guess that I was somehow transferring the heat from one side of the box to another.
“Fascinating. Is it costly?” I asked.
“This is an older model so perhaps 80 gelding.”
Enchanting was something that I was interested in pursuing. But from what I have learned It would take years to learn. Sarah showed me several different enchanted items like knives that never dulled to an ever-burning lantern. Each item cost gold depending on the enchantment. We sat down for supper, each taking an end of a far too long table for only two people.
“What are your intentions for the future Moon?” she asked casually but that was a question I have heard in many forms at this point.
“I’m not sure. That’s something I will have to consider after I complete my contract with Sten.”
“Why not just buy yourself out of the contract. I’m sure you will have enough gold before the year is out.”
I shrugged and said. “Sten has shown himself to be quite honorable in his dealings. I wouldn't want to simply abandon him.”
“No plans hm,”
After a pause she continued.
“Then I’m sure Madame Gardenia’s takeover of the red district and the increasing influence of the guard force were simple coincidences.”
“Of course, what would a lone elf like me have to gain?”
“Hm be coy if you must, but your intentions are clear. Has anyone approached you yet, your name has been on the lips of many Nobles.” Sarah said.
“None actually, so you are the first. Though I do wonder; Why exactly did you invite me here? Our practice could have been done on the road.”
“I have a few acquaintances among the nobility who wish to meet with the light mage everyone has been talking about.” Sarah said.
“Who are these nobles?” I certainly wasn’t going to agree to any meeting before I found out who they were. My first introduction into noble society would decide who my allegiance was with.
“The Stelworths, both husband and wife as well as Leanor Gravits. I could arrange a luncheon tomorrow before we leave for the contract with Sten.”
This proposal seemed innocent, but I couldn’t believe that she didn’t have ulterior motives. No doubt she and her cohorts were attempting to have me on their side before another snatched the opportunity. It mattered little that I didn’t even have a last name, my power alone was enough that they didn’t want to risk it falling into another’s hands. If we successfully felled a white drake how many would begin to clamor for my allegiance? What would they be willing to offer? I couldn’t close that door just yet by allying with Sarah and her group.
“Unfortunately, I’m busy tomorrow. I have a meeting with the guard captain quite early and meditation with Lilian in the Evening. Not to mention the remaining healing work I need to perform in the clinic.” I put on my most innocent expression since I was blatantly lying.
Her eyes tightened minutely as this information was not what she wanted to hear. Whether she saw through my lies or not she didn’t press the issue.
“Some other time then. I do hope you would not insult me by refusing my hospitality; it is rather late after all.”
I glanced out the rather large window and the setting sun. By the time I made it back to the inn it would be the dead of night. Refusing hospitality for no reason is considered insulting in noble society.
“Of course not, however I have no spare clothing to change into.” I said.
“All will be arranged rest assured.” she said confidently.
Sarah had spared no expense with our meals it seemed. It has 10 courses of exotic dishes that I have never heard of. Exotic meats, rare fruits, expensive wine, I wasn’t sure if Sarah was trying to impress me or if nobles actually ate like this regularly. I lounged in the seat sipping a cup of tea as the last dish was brought away.
“I must say that was the best meal I have ever eaten.” I said honestly.
“You’re most welcome.” Sarah rang a bell and a servant walked in. I almost did a double take as the woman looked incredibly familiar. Red hair, freckles, green eyes, she was practically Dena’s clone.
“Yes, my lady.” The woman said as she approached Sarah.
“Moon here will be staying the night. See to it that he has proper accommodations.” Sarah said. then turned her attention to me.
“Lira will see to your needs and arrange your clothing for the morrow, as I am in need of rest I will retire for the day. I will see you off in the morning.”
“Very well Sarah, Thank you again for the meal and the pleasure of your company.”
She gave me a deep nod and exited the room leaving me with Lira.
“If you would follow me M’lord I have a bath and a change of clothes prepared.”
“Lead the way.”
The Lira led me through the large manor house to a luxurious bath. The floors were polished marble and in the center of the room was a copper bath large enough four people.
“Would you like my assistance M’lord?” Lira said with a sweet smile that disconcerted me.
Perhaps I was being paranoid and her resemblance to Dena was a coincidence but there was one thing commonly known about nobles was their predilection for scheming.
“No thank you dear Lina, I would like some time alone with my thoughts.”
“Of course, M'Lord, simply ring for me if you need anything.” She pointed to a gold leafed table which held toiletry along with a single silver bell.
“I’ll be sure to.” I said, taking my leave.
In any other situation I wouldn’t have minded having someone to wash my back and hair. But I couldn’t trust that Lina wasn’t another form of manipulation created by Sarah. Throughout the day she had been the picture of hospitality but that was even more cause for concern than her usual apathy.
I enjoyed the bath for over an hour since the water never got cold. It wasn’t a surprise when I checked and realized it was enchanted. I dressed in the fine night clothes provided to me. It was a deep purple shirt and pants that were made of a cloth material so soft I barely felt it on my skin. Lina led me to my rooms for the night and as expected it was richly appointed. The bed alone was larger than my room at the inn. Before I closed the door Lina asked in a sultry tone.
“Is there anything else I can do for you M’lord.”
It was glaringly obvious what she was suggesting, normally I wouldn’t hesitate. The luxury, the food and finally Lina, everything was to my taste. Hells, I almost didn’t want to return to the lower city. But that was the problem. It was too perfect, too enjoyable if I remained, I would become Sarah’s creature without seeing any other prospects. Sarah likely wanted to use me as a stepping stone for her own advancement within the peerage.
“No thank you Lina I must rest for the night for I have a busy day tomorrow.” I said casually.
“Of Course, rest well, M'Lord.”
I closed the door and threw myself into the bed. I found that I quite like being called my lord. I settled down in bed for the night crossing my legs to prepare for meditation since I couldn’t fall asleep normally.
A knock at the door finally caught so I decided to bring myself out mediation after a few minutes I was fully awake.
“Enter.” I said loudly.
A different servant, an older woman with graying hair entered with my clothes neatly folded in her arms.
“My Lord, your clothes have been laundered. I regret to inform you that the lady of the house has left on urgent business so will not be able to break her fast with you. My apologies for any offense.”
“No offense taken. Has transportation been arranged?”
“Yes, my Lord, a carriage is available at your convenience.”
“In that case I’ll leave immediately.”
“As you wish my Lord.”
She handed me my clothes and I dressed. They had a wonderful citrus scent from the laundering. The servant led me through the house until the main courtyard where a carriage was waiting. I boarded it and returned to the inn.
Inside the dining area I found Sten sitting at a table meticulously going over maps. He noticed my entrance and signaled me to come over. As soon as I came within earshot he said.
“It’s going to take at least a week by carriage to reach the Drakes hunting grounds. Latest report says she’s settled somewhere around here.”
Sten pointed to a series of hills that ran parallel to the border of Vernon and Ruben.
“How was your practice with Sarah?” Sten asked.
“Fruitful, I think. She showed me a clever way to use the shield with dual casting. I should be quite effective at allowing us to return fire to the enemy without losing defense.” I said.
“Sounds interesting. You and Sarah will have to demonstrate while we’re on the road. Have you broken your fast yet?”
“No actually.”
“Well, you’re free to join me if you wish.”
“Much obliged.”
Aunt Nettie eventually came over and as expected offered us food. There was a stew going as always and neither of us felt particularly picky about what to eat. In no time each of us had a steaming bowl of stew. In the middle of our meal, I remembered Sten had some meeting with his daughters. I was far too busy to catch up with him. So, I asked.
“How was that meeting with your daughters?”
He slightly pursed his lips then said.
“It was….............better than I had feared.”
He saw my quizzical expression then elaborated.
“They were mostly cold and angry. What I did was something that they won’t forget especially since their mother still has the scar.”
He paused for a moment in some contemplation then said.
“It was over an hour of them venting. Can’t really blame them for being angry. Though after we finished eating. They said they’re willing to have lunch with me again.”
“What did you say to them?” I asked.
“Some more apologies but I just let them do the talking. Who knows, maybe in a few years they might even start calling me father.”
“No hope of becoming a family again.” I asked.
“No, the best I can probably hope for is simply being a part of their lives. Maybe…………. just maybe. I could hold my grandchild someday or attend their weddings. Either way if that never happens, I can content myself with having a meal with them from time to time. It's less than what I want but more than I deserve.”
“Something is better than nothing I suppose.”
“Better than nothing.” Sten whispered to himself.
Our conversation eventually tumbled into an awkward silence. With neither of us sure what else to talk about.
“I’ll see you in two days then. Is there any special preparation I should do.” I asked.
“Hmmm none that I can think of just be sure to be ready for a real fight.”
I gave him some farewells not wanting to deal with the awkward situation anymore. I didn’t actually have any plans. My armor and weapons were in pristine condition, and I had plenty of medical supplies to last the entire trip. I shrugged and decided to spend the day at Gardenia’s, at the very least there would be something or someone interesting to do.