I ensured the strap of my backpack was secured tightly. One last I gear check that I have everything I need in my hip and back pouches. Alright, seems like I have everything all set. Today is the day I'll be heading to the elven forest. Once again I have to be apart from my family.
The giant hole caused by the explosion was finally fixed yesterday. Those premium repairmen was certainly worth every penny in getting it fixed quickly. And it wasn't some sloppy job either. It was like that wall never been breached before.
I glanced at Rose and Daisy who was staring at me as I inspected my baggages. I approached them but spoke to Daisy first. Once again, she looked really sad and had tears around the edges of her eyes.
"Hey there, my little sunshine. Daddy need to head out on another quest. Please study well and finish your homework, alright? And try not to cause trouble for your mum when she's alone taking care of you. Can you promise me on that?" I asked her while petting her head.
"Dad, I don't want you to go," she rushed in and hugged me.
"I know, sweetie. I know. But your father have to help those in need. Please find it in your heart to forgive me for not being able to spend more time with you," I explained to her.
She didn't answer me but continued to hug me tightly. I thought she was sobbing but I guess she just wanted some closure. I needed to break the hug but she refused and rubbed her face on my chest as she hugged me even tighter. Rose had to pull her apart to break the hug.
"Daisy, you know you're special, right? I'm sure you've figured out how to find me in the dream world by now. I'll always pick up your call when you search for me," I fixed her pinkish hair behind her ear and she just nodded with a sad face.
Now it was my wife's turn to say goodbye. We usually don't say much aside from the usual goodbye hugs. But this time around, she seems to be much vocal than usual.
"Hey you. Please, come back to me. I— don't want a letter or a messenger knocking at our door," whispered Rose as she hugged me.
"I'll come back for you, I promise. I will never leave you two even if I have to crawl my way back," I brushed her hair.
"Alright, time for me to go. I'll see you soon," I waved both of them farewell and headed out the door.
***
"Ahh, dammit. I was so used to being surrounded by ladies on my adventures. But this time around, it's just men," I jokingly said out loud in the carriage.
"Gee, you and your lucky life. Well, you're just gonna have to suck it up this time around. If you're that hungry for women then there's an army of female elves following behind us," chuckled John.
It was just the three of us inside this carriage. John, the Elementalist and me. The remaining adventurers would be following us on foot unless they decided to fork out some money for a carriage themselves. It would take about a full day for us to reach the elven forest. I was pondering on whether I should stop by my hut in the forbidden forest to pay my respect to grandfather. Feels like it's been awhile since I paid my respect to him.
"I wouldn't recommend it, if I were you. Elves— love to gossip. Things will eventually reach Lily's ears and knowing your wife, she might eventually find out who you've been fooling around with. There's a reason why we don't fool around, unlike humans, who only faces minor consequences. What was it called again? Divorce? Such a trivial thing compared to ours," chuckled the Elementalist.
"What do you mean? Do you mind elaborating on that?" I asked him.
"For humans, you go through your divorce procedure and then you're pretty much done. Only those who know you are aware of your actions. For elves, we will be heavily judged by our entire community. Having multiple wives is one thing, fooling around is another. Besides, it was the elves who initiated the multiple wives solution because we have less males as compared to females in the first place. Not to mention, our females have difficulties in conceiving, unlike other species. How convenient for humans to use our solution to have multiple wives as an excuse," he sighed.
"I'm sort of glad that both of you remained loyal to your spouse exclusively. I'm glad there are still noble humans out there," he smirked as glanced between us.
"Oh no, sorry Zen, I can't give you this. He's already planning to marry Lily. Not as noble as you think he is," smirked John.
"Hey, as of now, I still only have one spouse. I'm still a noble human right now," I explained to both of them.
"Y— you're planning to marry Lily? What about your wife? Right, scratch that. Your wife was literally pushing for it, as I recall. But Lily— can be quite.. aggressive, even by elven standard," he tried to explain to me.
"Are you saying she's a brute? Or is it due to her insane punching strength?" I asked him.
"That's not what I meant. For someone to be called a brute, you have an example right here. It's more like her personality in nature. She's hot tempered and she sometimes— have no control over her speech or actions," he elaborated.
"Excuse me, did you literally just called me a brute and expect me to wave it off?" shouted John.
"Truth be told, for a second there, I thought you were referring to Rose. I guess that's why they are like sisters. And probably why I'm attracted to both of them in the first place. Tell me though, Elementalist, by elven standard, is Lily— considered a beauty?" I asked him curiously.
"I believe you had already met her mother, Violet Moonshine. Lily certainly inherited her beauty with slight variations. Violet is— a beauty that comes once in a lifetime. Many elven males tried to woo her but many failed. One of the reason was that she's flirtatious in nature," he chuckled.
"Tell me about it. She even flirted with me, and she told me that she was her Lily's older sister," I rubbed my forehead remembering how she flirted with me.
"Not surprising. Her husband, Noah was the only one who could withstand her personality. However, that does not mean that Violet fools around with other men. There had been no evidence that she had done so before, only being flirtatious which gives men the wrong idea," he elaborated.
"Hang on, if Violet was so sought after, doesn't that mean Lily is the same? How is she still single after all this time? But— Kirin mentioned that Ivy was even more beautiful than Lily," my jaw dropped after realising it.
"You know the answer to that, Zen. It's because of you. No doubt I'm sure there were plenty of males who had already attempted to woo her before she even left the elven forest. Who knew she would instead fall for a human so quickly after she left. Regarding your question, I have not the answer as I've never met Ivy before," he smirked.
"I can definitely vouch on that. I was there when Zen saved us from those bandits. He was like a hero to all of us. Which maiden wouldn't fall for a handsome sod who appeared out of nowhere to save her just in the nick of time?" John laughed.
"Ah well. Lily was literally the first female I ever met in my life so I guess it was mutual. Both of us had a crush on one another after our first meeting," I explained.
"It's not just a simple crush, Zen. If that were so, she would had forgotten about you during the time she was training in the guild. She always had trouble fitting in or finding her own combat specialty. Whenever she had difficulties, she will always talk about you. And I can tell you, she was already deeply in love with you even when you weren't there. You had already stolen her heart after you saved her that day. Take it from me as her guildmaster who is always confided in," smirked the Elementalist.
"If only you could tell me what she did for me after my fight with Tom. I have a feeling that she gave up something for my sake," I sighed.
"Sorry, that is the one thing I can't tell you. What I can tell you though , is that she really loves you, Zen. Maybe it is better for you to have two wives instead of one," he chuckled.
"Either it's going to be the best decision I ever made, or it's gonna be the worst. Only time will tell when that actually happens," I told both of them.
***
We carried on with our conversation until we reached the outskirts of the forbidden forest where we'll have to continue on foot. It was evening so we'll most probably reach the elven forest by nightfall. Not the most ideal arrival time but according to the Elementalist, apparently time was of the essence. The rest of the adventurers should be arriving by tomorrow morning since none of them opted for carriage. The mood of the adventurers were strangely cheerful, seemingly oblivious to the danger that we will be facing. Or perhaps they just don't know about it? Did the Elementalist even informed them on what they'll be doing?
The sky was darkening so I'm sure all of them will be getting ready to camp the night soon. Our task, however, is to announce ourselves to the elves first to ensure smoother passage for the adventurers.
As we walked through the forbidden forest, I was hit with nostalgia from every angle which caused goosebumps to appear on my forearms. I lived here with grandfather for 10 years and I'm certain I still remember my way around here, even with my eyes closed. I remembered one of my early training was to ambush grandfather as best as I could. Never once did I managed to sneak up on him. I wondered how would I fare against him now? His katana is a pain to deal with when it affects your vision during the initial stage of combat. I wonder if his katana is looking for a new owner to wield it. I've never been able to communicate with his katana before. Perhaps it's still mourning even after all these years as they had been together for who knows how long.
Sigh, who knew that scrawny little brat who grew up in a forest would end up becoming one of the Four Great Powers. Or better yet, fought with one of them and ended up replacing his position. I swear I can see past visions of myself struggling to survive all the trainings that grandfather pushed me through when I was young. It does put a smile on my face seeing how far I've come.
"What's so funny? Thinking about someone?" asked John.
"No no, more like memories of my early days here," I sighed.
"Of all the places he could had raised you, I always wondered as to why he chose here instead. Is his— grave around here?" asked the Elementalist.
"Do you wish to pay your respect to him? How about a slight detour if you don't mind? It's not too far from here. I would like to visit him too," I asked both of them and they nodded.
***
"So this is where he's rested. How're you doing, old friend?" asked the Elementalist as he kneeled in front of grandfather's grave.
"Sorry you had to come along, John. Hope you don't mind?" I asked him.
"What're you talking about? I definitely want to pay my respects too. He's the reason as to why all three of us are alive today. Wished I could had brought something. Does he like liquor?" asked John nervously.
"You can offer whatever you want, John. Grandfather had never been a picky person before. You can pay your respect however you wish," I told him.
"Guess I'll do just that," said John as he searched for his liquor in his backpack.
I awaited for both of them to finish with their prayers and respect before I give mine. I was surprised when the Elementalist brought over grandfather's katana, seemingly wanting to ask me about it.
"Zen, his katana, may I have it?" he asked me solemnly.
"Well, I doubt he'll mind, but— are you planning to wield it? Or are you just planning to keep it?" I questioned his choice in taking it.
"I intend to display it for all to see. Richard, deserves recognition for all of his accomplishments. Consider it an honour for everything he has done for the Elemental guild, and also my way of honouring an old friend," he explained.
"Be my guest, then. Doubt anyone is planning to use it. I'm surprised you're able to hold it without difficulty. Isn't that katana supposed to be a legendary weapon?" I asked him.
"Legendary indeed. But Richard, your grandfather, had never spoken about his weapon being special before, aside from the reflective part," he answered.
"Guess this katana doesn't have any celestial being then," I stroked the scabbard of katana. A glimpse of a vision of something appeared in my mind for a split second.
"What's wrong? You looked spooked after touching it. Is something the matter?" asked the Elementalist.
"I— thought I saw something. You might want to be careful with that. Feels like there's something slumbering in it," I explained.
"Well, it had not rejected me yet so I shall carry it with me until otherwise. Thank you, Zen, for allowing me to have it," he bowed.
"Better than just leaving it out here with risk of being stolen, I suppose. Now's my turn to give my respect," I headed towards the gravestone.
"Ojii-san, hope you're doing fine. Sorry I couldn't swing by often as I have a family now. The pink haired female you saw before you passed, I married her, despite telling you I've taken her in as my little sister. But I might take in another wife soon. I know you didn't raise me to fool around with women, but I— felt like I owe it to both of them. I wished to make them happy even if I have to break my principals. I hope you would give me your blessings when I hold Lily's hands. Here, I brought you your favourite sake since I thought I might had the chance of stopping by. I hope I bought the right one since it looked like the exact same bottle that you drank often," I poured some over his grave.
"Many things had happened but I'll always remember what you told me. I always have to be better than being sorry. All your teachings will always be with me. Sayonara, Ojii-san. I'll visit again soon," I tapped on his grave and bowed with a prayer before heading where John and the Elementalist waited.
***
We were coming upon the borders of the elven forest. You'll immediately noticed the change of floras upon crossing their borders despite being enveloped in darkness. There is a strange difference in air quality and temperature as though they were capable of controlling nature itself.
John and the Elementalist moved forward cautiously while each of them held a torch, knowing full well they are within the elven borders. Where are the sentries though?
The sound of a whoosh sliced through the air and the elementalist unsheathed one of his dagger to parry the arrow aside. More arrows were being shot and John enlarged his axe to block all of the arrows. What else are they planning to do next?
The elementalist spoke the elvish tongue and the forest went silent. Someone emerged from the darkness and replied in elvish before bowing to him and John.
"Welcome, Elementalist and Viking Lord, to the elven forest. We were expecting you," he bowed politely.
"If you were expecting us? Why attack us then?" squinted John.
"Merely a test. What guildmasters aren't capable of blocking a few arrows? Am I right?" smiled the elf.
"Come, allow me to guide the two of you into our forest. Very few humans are granted access into the heart of our forest, so don't get lost," he gestured us to follow him.
"T— two? There's three of us," uttered John.
"Sorry?" asked the elf with a confused expression.
All of them went silent as they searched around for a missing person. The elven sentry went cold as he realised there was a cold metal dagger around his throat after I unveiled my Conceal spell.
"Gotten sloppy with intruders, eh? I always thought the elves protected their borders well?" I smirked as I held the dagger at his throat. He raised his fist to gesture the other elves to stand down. Those who knew me are aware of my capabilities as I've trained with them during my stay here.
"What can I say? I've not done sentry work for quite some time. Do forgive an old man for losing his touch," he smirked.
"Old man? I thought only youngsters are qualified for sentry work?" I asked as I lowered my dagger.
"That's because I knew you were coming, Zen Hawthorn and wished to meet with you once again. After all, my daughter is extremely fond of you," he said.
"D— daughter? Wait, Noah— Moonshine?" I asked the elf.
"In the flesh. How've you been, Zen? Quite impressive that you're skilled enough to avoid our detection and ears. Seems like you haven't been slacking off with your trainings," he turned to face me and extended his hand.
"I— I'm so sorry, Mister Noah. I had no idea it was you. Please forgive me," I bowed to him.
"Mister? I don't remember you being this polite before. What's the matter? Afraid that I'll reprimand you for not marrying my daughter?" he chuckled.
"Oh, that's the least of my concern. I need to stay on your good grace if I wished to—" I stopped as someone placed their hand on my shoulder.
It was the Elementalist and he spoke something to Noah which changed his expression to a much more serious one. What did the Elementalist said to him exactly?
"Come, you all must be tired from your journey. Allow me to guide you to where you'll be resting tonight. You can have the audience with the council tomorrow morning when the sun is up," he gestured us to follow after him.
I approached closer to Noah and whispered to him. I wonder if he's aware of Lily's action when she saved me.
"Excuse me, Mister Noah. Are you— aware of your daughter's action after my battle with Tom?" I asked him softly. No doubt I'm sure all the other elves were able to hear every word of what I said to him.
"What kind of nostar would I be if I'm not aware of what she did. Suffice to say, I was shocked indeed. But her actions speak louder than words, for I understood why she did it. I am sorry, Zen. Despite being her parent, I cannot tell you what she did on that fateful day. Only Lily is allowed to inform you about it on her own terms. What I beg of you, however, is to treat her well. That is all I ask of you. And also, just call me Noah," he smiled but I detected hints of sadness during his speech.
Damn it, it sounds as though Lily had done a great deal in resurrecting me back from the dead. And it seemed as though she had committed some form of cultural incident that made all of them tight lipped. Perhaps marrying Lily is a good way of thanking her for what she had done for me. But I am still deadly curious as to what she did. I just— need to know.
We came upon an extremely dense forest that prevents us from seeing further ahead. The forest sounded peaceful with the sound of insects singing in the distance. Have we reached the entrance to the heart of the elven forest?
"Gentlemen, we are here. Not many humans have the— opportunity to feast their eyes on our forest. But today, be thankful that you're alive to witness— our way of life," said Noah as he waved his aside and the trees moved their branches and roots aside.
Words couldn't describe what I'm seeing, not to mentioned Ents were actually guarding the entrance. Perhaps some other time, when words starts forming in my brain to explain what exactly am I seeing.