The Author's Viewpoint

Tave walked through the grand alabaster corridors of Vensalor Palace, flanked by two stoic elf knights who silently cleared the path before him. Their presence was imposing, but even more so was the weight of expectation pressing upon him. His heartbeat echoed in his ears as he approached the throne room.

He stepped inside the vast chamber, its walls gleaming ivory and gold, banners of the royal crest fluttering gently overhead.

At the far end, seated upon a gleaming ivory throne, resided the Elf King, an old and majestic figure whose courtroom age was evident in every line of his face, though his posture remained as poised as someone decades younger. His long white hair cascaded down his royal robe, and a finely wrought crown rested above his serene gaze.

Standing to the King's right was another figure, tall, armored in forest-dark green, with sleek black hair falling past his shoulders. Tave recognized him instantly as Zoron, the strongest Imperial Knight and, astonishingly, Aura's younger brother.

One of the escorting knights stepped forward and announced in a clear voice:

"Your Majesty, Honor Guest Tave is here to present himself."

As the knights departed backwards, Tave strode determinedly toward the throne. Zoron's stern eyes tracked his every step, sharp and unyielding. Tave rose to a respectful stop mere paces away.

The King offered a thin smile, nodding gently. "Welcome, Tave. We have been expecting you."

Zoron's stance remained rigid, but his gaze softened slightly.

Tave swallowed hard. He inhaled, squared his shoulders, and spoke in a low, confident tone:

"Your Majesty, Lord Zoron, I am ready."

Tave held himself with surprising composure and, for once, made no move for his bow. A boldness hung in the air, perhaps arrogance, but here he stood before two individuals capable of shattering an entire human kingdom at a whim.

Yet he intended to remain grounded, humble, though not without acknowledging his own value.

The King's eyes softened, and he offered a warm, royal smile. His voice carried across the marble floor.

"Welcome to the Kingdom of Vensalor, Tave. Apologies for the delayed greeting. It's been a busy time. But rest assured, you'll receive the highest regard as our honored guest."

Tave inclined his head deeply. "Your Majesty, I am deeply honored to be welcomed into your kingdom. My time here has been nothing short of extraordinary, especially under Lady Aura's wing. Her archery training has been invaluable, a rare opportunity more profound than anything I could hope to find anywhere in the world."

The King chuckled, a soft, genuine sound. "You are sincere and… remarkably entertaining. I look forward to speaking with you more, even after this. It's been far too long since I've had a direct conversation with a human."

Zoron remained silent, arms folded behind his back, his stance as unwavering as ever. Yet even his gaze held a trace of curiosity.

Tave allowed himself a modest smile.

The King leaned forward, his interest clearly genuine.

"I've heard much of you, from my dear Princess Vanya, no less," he said kindly. "And I'm well aware of your deeds during the Rift Expedition. You defended our allies bravely, risked your life to protect Vanya herself, and stood firm when others faltered. Such courage does not go unnoticed."

"Your Majesty, I'm deeply grateful. My only aim has been to fulfill my duty and to prove that the trust placed in me was not in vain. But the truth is, none of those challenges could have been overcome without the strength and unity of the entire team. It was the collaboration between all of us, especially our allies from the forest elves, that allowed us to survive. Their courage and resilience were vital. We would not have made it out of the Rift alive without every single one of them."

The King's expression softened, impressed by Tave's sincerity. He nodded thoughtfully.

"In recognition of your service, and as a gesture of our kingdom's gratitude, I offer you a single boon, to be granted under the crown's authority. Name your request, and if it lies within our power, it will be yours."

Tave took a steady breath. His mind raced, weighing desires and needs, but above all, he wanted to remain honorable and thoughtful.

"This is a tremendous honor, Your Majesty," he said calmly. "And I won't take it lightly. But… if I may, I'd like to ask for time to consider this gift. A decision like this deserves the same level of care and respect with which it was offered."

The King's eyes glowed with approval, the corners of his lips lifting slightly.

The King's smile softened, regal yet warm. "Then consider this an open invitation, Tave. You and your sister will always be welcome here in Vensalor, whenever you wish."

"Thank you, Your Majesty. I am honored beyond words."

The King nodded thoughtfully, then fixed Tave with a curious gaze. "Tell me, then, what mission do you foresee? What purpose do you carry forward, whether in the near future or years to come?"

Tave inhaled, collecting his thoughts with visible respect.

"Your Majesty, I was raised in Deadbay City, surrounded by its walls and the distant sight of this floating island, a place I admired from afar. I long to live in its embrace, to preserve the moments I've experienced for as long as I'm alive."

He paused, voice steady. "During the Rift Expedition, we encountered a named demon. Though, with Lady Elincia's help, we managed to defeat it. It was a pivotal moment."

He looked back at the King. "But I can't stop there. I want to do more, ensure the safety of Deadbay, and ensure threats never reach the kingdom again. I will stand guard, intervene when needed, and protect both the city and Vensalor from anything that rises."

"Your resolve is commendable, Tave. Your concern for both Deadbay and Vensalor is deeply valued. Know that I, too, stand with you for that purpose."

Tave took a steady breath, every word measured with care, his position here at stake. And yet they lingered on everything but the pact. It felt like they were wasting precious time.

He cleared his throat. "Your Majesty… after this, I will return to Deadbay City. I swear I will do everything in my power to ensure the city's safety."

The King's gaze sharpened, and he leaned forward, voice steady yet indirect. "And what makes you believe you can stand against them? If such a threat emerged tomorrow… you would have no time to prepare."

He paused, letting the weight of his words settle. "A warrior without training is no shield. It might be better… if you remained here a while longer. Gain strength. Learn from those who can teach you most, until you are truly ready."

Tave felt a keen understanding bloom inside him. This was not just about his own safety. It was about protecting Vanya, too. The kingdom did not want him returning prematurely, if he were harmed, the ripple would threaten the princess herself.

Tave lowered his head briefly, then lifted it again, his voice firm.

"Your Majesty… I understand your intention. I know the strength I have now is not enough. And I know this place could offer me the finest training I could ever hope to receive."

He took a steady breath, his tone soft but resolute.

"But no matter what happens… I must return. That city, Deadbay City, is where I grew up. It's where I fought to survive."

His eyes met the king's, steady and full of conviction.

The King's thin smile deepened, his voice calm yet probing. "I admire your conviction, Tave. Your loyalty is clear. But tell me, are you certain a true warrior does everything with words alone?"

Tave paused, he recognized what the King meant. This was more than a test of character; it was a test of strength. A demonstration, perhaps against a Grand Master or another champion of Vensalor.

The weight of the moment pressed on him. He drew in a steady breath, folding in humility, determination, and respect.

"Your Majesty," he began, voice measured, "words alone are hollow without action. I understand that. I will show you, truly show you, through deed. If you require proof of my responsibility and resolve, I welcome the challenge. I am prepared to stand, to fight, and to prove that my words hold power."

He held his gaze on the King's, unwavering.

"I won't just speak. I will act."

The King's smile.

The King's gaze shifted to Zoron.

"Zoron," he said, "could you assist me? I would like to observe just how exceptional our honored guest truly is."

Zoron inclined his head, stepping forward with measured grace.

"So… what do you say to a challenge?"

Tave drew in a thoughtful breath, his posture steady. "Lord Zoron, I trust in your wisdom as an Imperial Knight. I would be honored if you would guide me through this test."

Zoron allowed a thin smile, meeting Tave's eyes. "Gladly. I believe my son will be most interested in this challenge."

Tave's eyebrows shot up in surprise.

His son?