(Arthur POV)
As we exit the airport, I'm struck by the Moonlight Kingdom's architecture. It's a seamless blend of aesthetic beauty and historical significance, typical of the Evros Continent's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.
"I've finally set foot in the sole elven kingdom on this human-dominated continent," I muse aloud as we walk.
Kyle smiles at my observation. "The Moonlight Kingdom is the most prosperous realm in Evros. Even other human kingdoms envy it. Evros would be nothing without the Moonlight Kingdom."
Firfel nods in agreement. "That's true. The first king of the Moonlight Kingdom brought significant changes to the continent. He revolutionized trade, agriculture, and urban planning."
I can't help but play devil's advocate. "But wasn't the expansion of trade networks also blamed for the plagues in the past? That's the argument humans use to downplay the Moonlight Kingdom's achievements."
Kyle snorts dismissively. "Plagues are a normal part of history, not solely due to trade. There were other factors, like poor sanitation in human cities. If not for our first king's laws on public hygiene and waste management, which human kings later copied, Evros would have suffered far worse."
"Indeed," Firfel adds. "The Moonlight Kingdom's advancements in medicine and magical healing also played a crucial role in containing those plagues."
As we continue our walk, I'm struck by how intertwined the histories of elves and humans are in this continent. It's a stark reminder of the complex relationships between races in this world.
"Well," I say, looking at the bustling streets around us, "I'm looking forward to experiencing some of this prosperity and culture firsthand. Shall we explore a bit before the festival preparations begin?"
Kyle grins, a hint of pride in his voice. "Of course. Let me show you why the Moonlight Kingdom is the jewel of Evros."
***
Kyle takes us on a whirlwind tour of Moon City's highlights. We weave through the bustling City Market, where elven craftsmen sell intricate jewelry and magical trinkets. The Red Tower looms over the city, its pearlescent walls shimmering in the sunlight.
"The Red Tower's been standing for over a thousand years," Kyle explains proudly. "It's said the first elven king built it in a single night using forgotten magic."
Our stomachs growling, Kyle leads us to the Crescent Bistro, famous for its fusion of elven and human cuisines.
"You've got to try the Japon beef," Kyle insists, ordering for the table. "It's imported from the East Watch. Melts in your mouth like butter."
He's not wrong. The pasta is divine, but the beef... it's a revelation. Tender, flavorful, with a richness I've never experienced before.
"This might be worth the trip alone," I mumble through a mouthful.
As the sun sets, the city transforms. Magical lights flicker to life, bathing the streets in a soft, ethereal glow.
"It's beautiful," Firfel murmurs, her eyes reflecting the twinkling lights.
We spend the next two days exploring hidden nooks and crannies of the city. Kyle's an inexhaustible source of historical tidbits and local legends.
Finally, we settle into our hotel, the Silver Leaf Inn. It's quaint but comfortable, with a view of the festival grounds.
As I lay in bed the night before the festival's opening, my mind races with anticipation. Tomorrow, we'll be introducing "Lord of the Rings" to the elven world. I just hope they're ready for it.
***
The next day, we arrive at the Moonlight Film Festival, and I'm immediately struck by how much more bustling it is compared to the Ferland Film Festival.
Me, Firfel, Fart, and the visibly nervous Imkrag and Kurt step onto the red carpet. The crowds lining the sides - a mix of demons, humans, elves, and dwarves - seem surprised to see me.
"That's Michael Corleone!" someone shouts.
Another voice corrects them, "No, that's the infamous prince Arthur Morningstar, before he became known as Michael."
"Really? I thought he was just an actor."
"What's he doing at the Moonlight Film Festival? Was he even invited?"
I can't help but chuckle at their confusion. A group of photographers rushes over, cameras flashing as they capture images of me and the cast.
An elven reporter approaches, microphone in hand. "Welcome to the Moonlight Kingdom, prince Arthur... or should I say ex-prince?" She doesn't wait for a response before continuing, "Your film was announced at the last minute to be appearing at this festival. Many film experts and critics think it's presumptuous to accept your film so late, even if you are the director and producer of 'The Demonfather'. There are doubts about whether your new film is truly worthy of the Moonlight Film Festival. What do you say to that?"
I take a moment to compose myself before responding. "What can I say?" I smile, trying to strike a balance between confidence and humility. "Honestly, if I said anything positive about my new film, it would sound like boasting and wouldn't be convincing at all. So I'll only say this: my film will speak for itself."
The reporter looks visibly surprised by my response before regaining her composure. "Well, it seems you're very confident about your film," she says. "Let's just hope it'll be as good as 'The Demonfather'."
I nod with a chuckle, "I hope so too."
The reporter nods, then drops a bombshell that catches me off guard. "It better be, because a famous and respected film critic, known not only in elven entertainment but worldwide, has announced he'll be viewing the film himself."
My eyes widen slightly at this news. "Caedan Aegis will actually view my film?"
The elf reporter nods, a hint of excitement in her voice. "Yes. He rarely attends the Moonlight Film Festival, but it seems your second film has caught his attention." She adds, "Well, it's not surprising, considering he just rated 'The Demonfather' a stunning 8 out of 10 stars. Perhaps he's interested in seeing what you've brought to the table this time."
After dropping this bombshell, the reporter moves on to interview other attendees, leaving me slightly stunned.
I quickly approach Fart, nudging him. "Why didn't you tell me that Caedan, that famous elf film critic, will be viewing my film?"
Fart's eyes widen in surprise. "He will view our film?" he asks, seemingly as caught off guard as I am.
I ignore his use of 'our film', acknowledging that in a way, as my partner, he can claim some ownership of "Lord of the Rings".
Fart scratches his head, looking a bit sheepish. "Well, I didn't know he'd view our film. It's a pleasant surprise."
I nod, my mind wandering back to what I know about Caedan Aegis. He's been a legend in the entertainment industry since I was a kid. But he's not just any critic - he's known for giving directors suggestions to improve their filmmaking. Many of those directors went on to become household names. That's why Caedan's opinion and advice are so valuable to filmmakers.
He's not just a critic who tears things apart - he's a mentor, a guide. Makes sense, given that Caedan was a director himself in his youth.
Fart's voice breaks through my thoughts. "Well, it will be better if Caedan sees your film!" He grins, confidence radiating from him. "I'm sure your film will definitely satisfy him."
I appreciate Fart's enthusiasm, but honestly, I don't mind either way if Caedan sees my film or not. I'm just a bit surprised by the news. Sure, it would be a nice bonus if Caedan gives "Lord of the Rings" a good review, but it's not something I'm hanging my hopes on.