Leviara, The Great Council Room

  Face-to-face was King Alan and King Dareth Vislor. He had a full beard, medium-long hair, and was clad in armor as opposed to King Alan. Dareth Vislor’s spear was in front of him on the giant round table, and two knights in red uniforms were behind him.

  “I had hoped to schedule a proper audience with everyone from the great kingdoms, but it seems like many could not make it.” King Alan said.

  “Not many could make it? Alan, no royal figure wanted to come here after what happened! I, myself, felt as if I should’ve been on guard!” King Dareth said with his fist clenched, gesturing to the giant hole in the council room’s wall. Despite the event that had passed, efforts were slow in repairing the damage.

  “Yes, I understand that, but I assure you the perpetrator would not dare make another move with my knights constantly patrolling.” King Alan replied.

  “Your assurances mean nothing when my envoy has vanished beneath your banners, Alan. How could I be so sure that you’re not the reason my envoy has gone missing!” King Dareth said, resting his clenched fist on the table near his spear.

  “Dareth, I thought we’d come to agree on the burial of conflict? In that war, we lost so much—and we can lose even more if we continue to squabble like this.” King Alan said.

  “So, then tell me! How will we find my envoy? You’ve searched all week and come up with nothing.” King Dareth said.

  “Due to today being Ember’s Respite, things have considerably slowed. Underneath the helms of our knights are not entities, but living people, Dareth. I will take it upon myself to pay a visit to the Matsumoto clan.” King Alan Replied

  “Hah! You barely show initiative, Alan. My men would have scoured every last inch of their lands in an instant! I don’t believe your men have what it takes to handle the likes of the Matsumoto. They eat, sleep, and breathe training. Maybe you should take a thing or two from them.” King Dareth said.

  “Forcing children to become cold-hearted murderers does not create a future with peace. Only one with unprecedented bloodshed like the old Genesis.” King Alan stated.

  “What’s your plan, then? To show up in their wilds and demand the perpetrator? We both know they’ll never do that. Even if you behead the clan leader, someone else will take their place. Try to kill all of them? One of those scurvy-eyed runts will get away. It’s the same thing as fully believing the dragons are gone, and we both know that’s a damn lie.” Dareth pounded his hand on the table and stood up, pacing around the room. King Alan’s gaze turned away for a brief moment.

  “I lost my wife, my children, and my best men because of your empathy!” Dareth shouts.

  “If we are to deal with a matter, we will deal with it fully! No remorse, no guilt! Think of the lives we’ll save with one act of so-called cruelty.” He adds.

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  King Alan exhales sharply, taking off his crown and resting it on the table.

  “What even leads you to believe that it’s the Matsumoto family?” King Dareth asked.

  “My son was there with me during the attack. He believes it was the work of assassins because he remembered the smell of a potion they made when used.” King Alan said.

  “That so? Looks like they missed the real target.” King Dareth said.

  “What is that supposed to mean, Dareth?” Alan asked.

  “Please, forget I said anything,” Dareth answered.

  “Mind what you say in this room, Dareth. I will not forget it. I swear to my father’s cleaver.” Alan replied.

  Dareth sat back down underneath the Vislinian banner, crossing his arms.

  “Hmph, your father’s cleaver was not used enough. Had you wielded it more, Augus’s enemies would fear her wrath, and many more would be alive.” Dareth adds.

  “It’s a good thing it’s in my hands and not yours, Dareth. Do not tell me how to use my father’s blade.” King Alan said.

  “My lords… T’was not on my list to see you bickering like this.” An elven man entered, talking with a smooth voice. His hair was long and the purest form of platinum white, while his lightweight dark-plated armor was covered with inactive runes. His frame was towering, and in tow with him was an odachi.

  “Echthron! I’m so very pleased to see your return from Eyheluna.” King Alan said.

  “Why, thank you, my lord. So, do tell what’s happening here.” Echthron asks.

  “This was supposed to be a… Council meeting for all monarchs. Only King Dareth showed.” Alan said.

  “I see,” Echthron said.

  “We were planning to visit the Matsumoto clan. They might have who we’re looking for regarding an envoy’s kidnapping.” King Alan said.

  “I’ve heard about that on my way here. The Matsumoto family, hm?... Oh, I do hope it’s not true. They smithed me this wonderful weapon, so I hope I can continue to use their services.” Echthron added.

  “Would you be able to spare the time and accompany us to their neck of the woods?” King Alan asked.

  “Ah, I’m afraid not, my lord. We’ve a fresh batch of young warriors that need training. My duty lies in strengthening the army today. It was great to see you, and I’m always obliged to be in your presence.” Echthron said before leaving.

  “I’ll be damned if I need the help of an elf to put a half-wit assassin into the ground.” King Dareth said.

  “Let’s prepare a carriage for our travels, then.” King Alan said, putting his crown back on.

  Both men stood and exited the council room with their guard knights.