21 Bligh (1/2)

”What's taking him so long?” Deython said with his brows furrowed. Over ten minutes had gone by since they entered the settlement, yet nobody had attended to him. Meanwhile, as Deython complain, Arilya remained silent. She only sat on her seat while having a pensive look on her face.

Nothing stood out within the small wooden cabin they stay. Even the furniture looked worn out and showed signs of decay. However, its condition was still better than most of the homes in Elhorn and Lumvug's settlement. Just like Arilya, the duo also said nothing in response to Deython's words of complaint. Not that they did not have their own opinions on the matter, they just did not have the right or authority to air their views.

Within the small wooden cabin which had a faint murky smell, only the sounds of Deython's footsteps echoed within the room. Occasionally, he would curse or complain, too.

A few seconds later, Arilya snapped out from her pensive state as she stared at the Forest-Elves with a strange gleam in her eyes. Which caused the duo to shudder involuntarily.

”Since this is not my station, I don't have the authority to overrule the decision of the High-Elf stationed here. Unless, my rank is higher than theirs,” Arilya said with a relaxed expression on her face. Meanwhile, Elhorn and Lumvug did not know why she told them that information. However, they listened to her words intently. Even Deython who had been growing irritated, paused his aimless pacing, while focusing his attention on Arilya.

”Depending on the person in charge, it might become very difficult for you two to stay here. I don't think I need to remind you of the hierarchy among our race, right?” Arilya asked with a somewhat stern expression of her face. Involuntarily, both Forest-Elves nodded their heads in approval.

”Good. When the Captain arrives, say nothing unless I give you permission to speak. Also, if there is a need, you must share the same story you told us about your brother, Hariel,” Arilya said as she focused on Elhorn's reaction.

Surprised by her words, Elhorn's face twitched as he heard Hariel's name. However, Lumvug had a faint smile on his face. Over the last couple of weeks, the duo relayed every bit of information they had on Hariel. Although Elhorn was reluctant to give out information on his younger brother, he did not have a choice. Even if he said nothing, Lumvug would have gladly given out the information.

”Captain, is that necessary? Although he is an extremist, that Hariel is just a small character, is there any point in mentioning his name?” Deython asked.

”Deython, if he is a small character, how did he–a mere Forest-Elf, escape out formation? Do you think he was just lucky? Or, you feel that we are weaker than a mere small character?” Arilya said. She stared at Deython with her left brow raised while awaiting his response. However, Deython remained silent. Because, he too could not explain how Hariel escaped that day.

With Deython growing silent, Arilya continued her statement, ”Elhorn, you can do that, right?”

”Yes, High-Arilya,” Elhorn said with his head lowered. Because, he did not want to look at Arilya's probing gaze.

”Good. Lumvug, if Elhorn becomes overwhelmed, then you cover for him. Okay?” Arilya added.

”Yes, High-One. I'll do whatever I can to aid you,” Lumvug said. Unlike Elhorn, he had a smile on his face as he stared at Arilya.

”All right. Once you give your testimony in the capital, we will escort you back to your village,” Arilya said while fiddling with the surface of the table that separated her from the duo.

”Thank you, High-One. It's my pleasure to aid you in capturing…” before Lumvug could finish his statement, Arilya interrupted him. ”They are here. Deython, prepare to leave at once,” Arilya said. Then, she faced Elhorn and Lumvug, ”Remember what I told you,” she added.

Just as she finished her statement, a gentle voice echoed with the room. ”Pardon the intrusion!”

While the voice echoed, the creaking door of the cabin opened, and three High-Elves in a blue uniform made their way into the cabin. Which prompted Arilya and the Forest-Elves to rise to their feet.

Meanwhile, Vadis probed the four-man party with his deep blue eyes which resembled a beautiful sea. While sporting an amicable smile which could melt the frostiest of hearts.

”Welcome to Fyhir, my brethren. My name is Vadis, and I'm the Captain of this Settlement,” Vadis said with a gentle smile on his face. these are my deputies, Addor and Feynron. May I ask who am speaking with, and why you have requested to see me?” Vadis added.

From the way he talked and gestured, one could easily tell he was a courteous man. He even bowed a little after introducing himself and his deputies.

”Forgive us for intruding in your territory Captain Vadis. My name is Arilya, Captain under the roaming force, and this is my deputy, Deython,” Arilya said while bowing a little. She also had a rare, but a faint smile on her face as she spoke.

Just like Addor and Feynron, Deython did not bow in greetings. Because, Arilya represented him. Just as Vadis represented Addor and Feynron.

Meanwhile, the corner of Addor and Feynron's eyes twitched as they heard Arilya's words. With their mouths almost opening in surprise. However, Vadis was like a serene lake. There was no change to facial expression after hearing Arilya's words.