86

86

Rivandil and Marrisith stand at the edge of our encampment. A dragon beside the Dragon Knight and twelve royal guards beside the Queen of Laurelorn. While beside me are Kal and Lak. I specifically choose both so that they might learn how to meet and negotiate with other races. Something I will need to prepare as my domain expands, I will not be able to be at two places at once and I am bound to delegate some authority. I have considered Druig. But he seems to have no interest in these kinds of things. While Dorn will certainly intimidate almost any mortal out there.

“I thought you would need more time to decide.” I said as regard both

There’s no chair and table here as beastmen don't make those. And I don’t think any of them would enjoy what the beastmen call ‘refreshment’.

“So, what would it be?” I finally ask as both don't respond to my initial greetings. Not out of scorn apparently but because of Marrisith. Judging by how Rivandil subtly glanced at her.

“We have decided,” Marrisith starts “I along with most of the Forestborn will stay. While those few who decide to leave will follow Lord Rivandil back to Ulthuan.” She surprises me with the decision. I thought the last night display of debauchery would deter most of the elves. But there might be some other reason for their stay.

“I am.. Surprised to say the least.” I start and look at the ruined city of Tor Lithanel behind them “May I ask the reason for so many of you staying?”

To my question, Marrisith looked at me in disbelief. As if it is something I should have known. She is however clearly reluctant to breach the subject. Again not out of secrecy but of guilt.

“It was.. An ancient pact my ancestors made with the forest when they settled in Laurelorn. That we will protect and tend the forest while the forest safekeep the spirit of our dead from the Prince of Pleasure.” She finally explains



Laurelorn forest is almost sentient



Now this is a welcome addition. A property that can be taxed. As for how this forest can generate souls, I think I can speculate. But the most interesting part is that the forest is almost sentient. Wonder if I can move the entire forest by telling it to uproot and walk somewhere else. The vast quantity of souls is tempting and I might get enough to blitz through my progress into evolving into a proper God. But I still need the chance to make allies, challenging the the Chaos Gods alone is a folly like a certain Greater Daemon that try.

“I can say nothing in this matter, daemon. But know that the High Elves will return.” Rivandil finally spoke

A warning that they will judge me on how I treat the Eonir and if I keep my words. Or a threat that they will come and attack. Either way I will be ready by then or that I won’t need to bother.

“As for me, I shall stay and keep watch of you daemon. But remember that you have no command over me.” My eyes went wide in surprise when the dragon beside Rivandil speak

They can speak!? Since when? Wait no, that is wrong. The eastern dragons all can speak so the dragons here should be able to speak too. It's just that they don’t bother speaking much. I must have missed this just like I miss the lore about wood elven forest. But it doesn’t matter, what matters is that I got a dragon. All that is left is how to seduce it so I can have my own dragon.

“Very well. I will keep my word and those who want to leave can leave.” I finished this meeting

Both Rivandill and Marrisith turn and leave

“And Rivandil,” I call out and he pauses, “The High Elves should look west and be ready.” That is all my warning before returning to my tent.