Finrod Saralonde's Story

Chapter 10: The Merchant, the Mermaid, and the Pirate

written by masato22

Aranhil stared silently at Merilwen while Aearion spoke with the Merchant Elf. He was indeed bothered by Brandeau the pirate’s familiarity with Merilwen. She was collecting her thoughts in silence as the possibility of her secret being revealed increased with the presence of Brandeau lurking about.

“Thank you for your welcome. The presence of those horrible humans attempting to attack us was indeed discouraging to our cause. I pray that you gain better control of them in the future, fore next time I will ruin them if they dare to strike at me again.” Aearion was furious that a human had the gall to attack them. He very much carried a low opinion of them.

“I’m so very sorry Prince of the great seas! Such foolishness will not happen again under my watch. These humans are of the working class slaves. They are ignorant brutes, pay them no mind please. I am Finrod Sáralondë. I am a high ranking elf of the Trade industry.” The Merchant replied in apology.

“Working class slaves? May I ask what that is exactly?” Aranhil broke is gaze away from Merilwen and inquired of the Elf.

“They are humans owned by elves and are sent to work in the docks to earn extra money for their masters. The working class slave is usually the head of a slave family, for example, the father and husband of a slave woman and child. The slave women and children are more so fit for work in the home. However, the men are better able to accomplish physical labor such as the import and export hauling of the docks, or the coal mine excavation sites. ” Finrod explained with a proud look on his face. Merilwen cringed a little as she listened to him go on about the use of human slaves.

“And would you happen to know and be able to tell me who the man that approached us was? Fore I much desire to know of his status.” Aranhil requested of the elf. He was very curious about that man and noticed that he seemed to be much different than the other humans present at the docks.

“Ah, THAT human…” The elf spoke with a noticeable attitude. “He is not a slave unfortunately. He is a Pirate named Brandeau. He’s not of Arcadia and I am not sure of which land he hails from. Pirates are not bound by slave status. They are indeed EXTEMELY low class citizens in Arcadia due to them being human. However because they are foreign and are undocumented they belong to no one. They are only allowed to remain in Arcadia for short time and are not allowed to take up residence here lest they become citizens and run the risk of enslavement.” Finrod spoke in an dull voice that showed his disdain for the pirate class and his annoyance with having to waste his time explaining them. “Please my lord Aranhil, am I correct?” The elf inquired, Aranhil nodded in confirmation before the elf continued. “Don’t concern yourself with matters relating to those low lives. The Festival of Unity will be afoot soon and you have the treaty that you wish to have signed. I was informed ahead of time. Are you prepared to make your way through Anaon? I could have an escort take you through the forests.” Finrod spoke.

“That’s quite alright we have a guide the lady Merilwen Vanamarilla. She knows about the land in abundance. However thank you kindly for your generous offer. If only other races were as hospitable as the elvan race.” Aearion spoke in a princely manner. “Shall we see you in Anaon dear sir?” He asked.

“I will be present there soon. I have import and export records to file with the administration of the Seelie. Well I wish you the most pleasant of travels and enjoy the festival. Good day royal highness Aearion, Duke Aranhil, and Princess Merilwen!” Finrod bowed elegantly and began to head for a docked ship barking out orders to the toiling human slave workers.

“Let us continue forward. Merilwen lead on please.” Aearion turned to the princess with a smile. He had gotten over his frustration with the human dock workers and Pirates.

“Oh, y-yes my lord.” Merilwen was pulled from her deep train of thought. She was relieved that Finrod had left. She very much disliked the sight of how the humans were treated along the docks. And to hear Finrod gloat about their enslavement so proudly made her look at him with less respect. The elegant elvan man turned out to be little more than a high class slave driver in her eyes. She wished that she could one day change the mindset of men like him. “We will approach a river soon. It is the central river of Arcadia. The area of the river closest to the docks is without a bridge. However that is not a problem for us.” Merilwen snickered a little to herself.

The three passed through the docks. There were many humans that were astounded by the rare sight of merpeople on the land. The sailors and pirates were accustomed to seeing or even catching them on a rare occasion. However a land bound human would merely hear of them in tales and see them in pictures. They gasped and awed at the sight of the three majestic royals. Merpeople were considered unlucky to catch to sailors, they were known to summon storms and tsunami waves in order to escape capture. They were a sight to behold.

As they crossed the border of the docks Aranhil, still curious about Brandeau, began to question Merilwen. “Merilwen, you have met that pirate before have you not? Why was he so familiar with you? His conversation disturbed me.” Aranhil spoke calmly.

Merilwen’s etyes opened wide in surprise. She hadn’t expected Aranhil or Aearion to ask her about the ordeal given the distraction Finrod provided. Aearion ceased his advance and turned to Merilwen. “Yes, Aranhil brings up a very curious point indeed. Tell us what this is about and answer honestly.” Aearion warned Merilwen calmly.

The pearl princess sighed and looked down to the ground below. She then turned to the docks behind them. She bagan to move her hands in a manner that looked like she was smoothing out a sphere shape. The air in between her hands carried a mist of ice that soon formed an icy statuette in Brandeau’s likeness. “That pirate… almost killed me once.” Merilwen spoke solemnly. The other’s eyes widened in shock. “During the reign of Humanity, I was one day swimming along the surface of the sea. I desired to see the sun and fill my lugs with air. There appeared a large pirate ship. I quickly ducked beneath the surface but they were fishing and threw out a large net. I got caught and dragged on board. Brandeau was the captain of that ship. He said that the flesh of merpeople was known to give a human immortality if consumed. He was going to kill me and sell me to someone who desired to live forever.” Her tone was filled with sorrow.

“Why didn’t you say anthing about this before?! How did you escape!?” Aearion asked desperately. He was mortified by the tale.

“I… was saved by a man. A young, human, gentlemen on board the ship disliked the fate that was being affixed to my life by Brandeau. He, under the cover of night, snuck me away on a rowboat to the shore of Arcadia. His name was Aiden Vanderhill.
(Young Aiden Image: http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l52 ... -36013.png ) I was afraid at first but he was kind and gentle. He and I spoke and became friends. He set me free.” Merilwen smiled as if lost in a daydream.

“What became of him? If that was the age of the Reign of Humanity, he must have passed away.” Aranhil inquired calmly.

“He and I… fell in love. We saw each other every day. He lived secluded not far from a deserted shore of Arcadia where Brandeau could not find him. He was my source of happiness. He grew older, because he was human, and as he aged I did not.
(Aiden Aged image: http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l52 ... trophe.jpg )
He was just as handsome in my eyes and I loved him not a fraction less than the day we fell in love. He grew sick and this sickness threatened to take him from me. I offered him immortality and he refused. He said that he was but a season in my life and that his time to end had come.” Merilwen’s expression grew sorrowful. “On his deathbed I couldn’t cease crying. My tears glowed and somehow he became trapped, incased in a magical crystal. I knew not of the spell I cast, whether to call it a blessing or a curse. He lives in suspended animation asleep in crystal. I want to break this spell this is why I desire to know as much about the land and it’s magic to set him free. I know you may frown upon my love for a human my lords, I pray that you grant me forgiveness and understanding.”

Aearion was in shock. He couldn’t bring himself to yet speak. Aranhil floated over to Merilwen and gave her a gentle hug. “I dare not cast scorn onto your heart. I am grateful to the man that saved your life and blessed your heart with tender love. If this human has indeed treated you well I have no objection to him.” Aranhil encouraged Merilwen with a smile.

Aearion collected himself, “I do not understand how such attraction to a human being is possible, but… I shall try my best to understand. Your gentle heart is far too kind and gracious. Perhaps we can all learn to love as openly as you do. I suppose we shall have to find a way to restore this human to animation. But, he is most definitely going to have to get my approval before you are to have the sea’s blessing.” Aearion said sternly, trying to suppress his smile.

“Oh Thank you Prince Aearion, Duke Aranhil!! You have my deepest thanks!” Merilwen shed tears of joy.

Aranhil’s smile faded slowly, “Wait a moment, If your Aiden and that Brandeau lived during the Reign of Humanity, which was centuries ago, how is it that Brandeau is this alive and as young as we saw him today? That was the strange aura I felt from him. His energy did not feel like the other humans present. He said, ‘That he had all the time in the world.’ He must have somehow acquired immortality.” Aranhil spoke with a grave tone, his eyes glowed with a serious intensity.

Chapter 13: The Miracle Invoking Elf

Voronwe lay at peace in the quiet area of the Anaon Forest at a stream near an Elvan cemetery. He was there to visit the grave of his deceased wife and child. He would often visit the peaceful Elvish cemetery at least twice a week. Following his ritual he would kneel down in front of the grave stones and pray to the divine for peace and their peace and prosperity in the afterlife. He then would pray for the miracle to occur, to be able to see his wife and child. Light illuminated the surrounding area and he began to slumber by a tree.


His lost son, an elf child of great beauty, crawled next to his slumbering father. He was of much peace and joy. Voronwe cuddled his son and spoke of life to the child. Laerwen, his late wife, smiled and cuddled at Voronwe’s side. “Time is thin but I enjoy the site of your face like a thousand joyful moments. I wish I had been stronger with the passing of my brother…” Laerwen’s spirit spoke quietly.

“Let’s enjoy this miracle while it lasts my love. I refuse to allow the past to steal this wonderful present moment with you and our son. I love and miss you two with every fiber of my being. I just wish I would be granted the miracle of your restored lives but I’ve been denied so many times…” Voronwe let out a deep sigh.

“Love I want you to live, rejoicing and with gladness. Our seasons have come and gone. Grace clings tightly to you. Don’t waste it for its blessing is to be shared with others in your life. Be open to love finding you again. I will it for you. It’s time you will happiness for yourself. We must go now, for the grace that the divine has given us to meet here has come to a close. I love you, Cugedhion loves you as well.” Laerwen kissed Voronwe on the lips and cradled Cugedhion in her arms.

“I love you both. I will see you soon if the divine will it again.” Voronwe’s eyes began to tear up. “I promise I will be open to happiness as it comes my love. Fare thee well.” Voronwe watched as the light faded carrying Laerwen and Cugedhion away. The light faded and Voronwe awoke from the miracle invoked. He let out a sigh and adjusted his white fur overcoat in preparation to leave. “I suppose I am allowed to love again. I’m not getting any younger.” Voronwe smiled and he chuckled a bit to himself. He was grateful that his late wife looked after him even from the afterlife.

Voronwe mounted his horse and bowed in respect to wish Laerwen and Cugedhion goodbye. He rode off toward Spire Rock. He knew that the council was to be expecting ambassadors from the Morenion Kingdom any day now. Upon hearing of the death of the Elvish nobleman a few days ago he was bewildered concerning the Seelie council’s future decisions. This was to be handled delicately otherwise war could erupt. Certain council members were not completely happy with the fae democracy as it was. Some members would rather have a dictatorial like system and total supremacy over Arcadia, not just having significant political influence. Voronwe and Ingwe were two of the fair voices of reason on the council. They fought to maintain the current balance that existed within the Seelie. Certain members were more often of a double mind. They would side with the more influential members to stay in the favor of the powerful.


Upon reaching Spire Rock Voronwe ran into Finrod Sáralondë, the elvish trade merchant. “I have not laineyes on you in quite some time Finrod. How are you?” Voronwe spoke in a cheery manner. He found Finrod to be an amusing person to speak with at times. However he did not approve of Finrod’s participation in the human slave trade. Voronwe was constantly trying to persuade Finrode to cease such immoral business, but with little to no success.

“It has been too long my dear friend. I am well. Thank you for asking. You’re ever the polite one Voronwe.” Finrod responded with a chuckle. “So are you going to say the magic words to get us atop the tower or must I do something magical for once in ages?” Finrod joked. He didn’t often use magic but was able to if he desired.

“Sorry friend, allow me.” Voronwe replied. He then spoke the phrase for activating the gate way to the top of Spire Rock. “So what brings you here tonight? Making a report?” Voronwe inquired pleasantly.

“Why you’re most perceptive too. I hope to be as vital, smart and handsome as you when I reach your age Voronwe.” Finrod joked mockingly. Voronwe was admired for his handsomeness and wisdom by many a Fae. “I must be young and inquisitive and ask. Where are you coming from at this hour?” Finrod always wanted to know things that weren’t really his business to know and he was well aware of the fact.

“I just went to visit my late wife and child’s graves. I was granted the miracle of seeing their faces once more. However I’m afraid I’m a bit late for a business dinner now.” Voronwe replied with a small smile.

“Ah… sounds so very bittersweet Voronwe. Speaking of business, at my business earlier today I was honored to meet your guests. I must say those Merpeople are truly a sight to behold. They are quite majestic. The royals are much different in aura than the normal merfolk you see randomly at sea or in the lagoons of Arcadia. I was almost a bit jealous…” Finrod chuckled superficially. “They caused quite a stir on my ports today. The ignorant humans thought them to be aggressors. I tell you humans are poor judges of character. I don’t see how you care for them so much. Besides it was because a human killed your brother-in-law that your wife passed as well. You are much too gentle with them…” Finrod spoke bluntly and realized too late that Voronwe was very upset with his words regarding the loss of his wife and child.

“I blame not the human. Fore he did what it took to be free from elves who think like YOU do. A word of advice to you my YOUNG friend. Be careful for there might be another human on one of your import slave ships that is just as willing to kill you for his or her freedom as the slave that killed my brother-in-law was. I’d hate for that to be your fate Finrod. Good eve.” Voronwe quickly left Finrod who stood still tense and in shock.

Voronwe stopped in an inner hallway of Spire Rock. He let out a heavy sigh and ran a few fingers through his long hair. He was not happy about having to get verbally aggressive with Finrod but a line was crossed with him. Voronwe went to his quarters to get settled and then proceeded to meet Ingwe and the guests at the grand hall. He laid eyes on the large group including Ingwe, his daughter Alatariel, Elemmire the Dryad, and the three Mer royals.

“Sorry I am late Ingwe. I just came from visiting Laerwen and my son. Pardon my tardiness distinguished guests, I do not intend to be rude.” Voronwe said politely as he approached the group. He bowed to them in respect. “Elemmire, Alatariel, it is most lovely to see you as well.” Voronwe kissed one of each young lady’s hands.

“Ever the dream Fae you are Lord Voronwe!!” Elemmire blushed in response.

“Your presence pardons any tardiness you have Lord Voronwe. Besides visiting your beloved is nothing to have to be apologetic about.” Alatariel responded with a smile.

“Ah it is very good to see you Voronwe! Distinguished guests, this is Voronwe Saeldur high councilman of the Seelie.” Ingwe introduced Voronwe grandly. “Voronwe, This is Prince Aearion Turin of Morenion, The Pearl Princess Merilwen Vanamarilla, and Duke Aranhill Rinion.” Ingwe smiled greatly, he really wanted Voronwe to meet the Mer Royals.

“It is indeed an honor and a pleasure to meet your highness, lord and ladyship!” Voronwe took a moment to examine the three royal more closely with his eyes. They were truly elegant in appearance. His eyes were somewhat caught on Aranhil, whose aura enticed Voronwe to gaze in entrancement at the merman. He seemed to bewitch those in his presence with just his mere presence. Voronwe found it equally alluring and disturbing. The two made direct eye contact and Voronwe felt transfixed on the Duke of the sea. “I must say it is most difficult to break my gaze from you Lord Aranhil… Something about you is mysteriously captivating….” Voronwe tried to fight the odd bewitchment he felt.

Aranhil swiftly broke his gaze away from Voronwe and averted his eyes toward the floor. “I am most sorry! I tend to have that effect on people sometimes! I am often called ‘Aran the Bewitcher’ by human sailors because of this strange natural ability of mine. I really find it hard to control, a thousand apologies my lord Voronwe!!”Aranhil spoke nervously he was embarrassed to have made Voronwe feel so awkwardly. It was indeed unusual for this ability to have such an effect on a Fae.

“No need to apologize! I… actually found it quite interesting… In all actuality… I enjoyed the feeling somewhat. I haven’t felt that way since the time I first met my late wife Laerwen.” Voronwe breathed a little heavily as he composed himself. He was very much interested in speaking with Aranhil in the future. This was an anomaly to Voronwe.

“Well I’m glad I didn’t disturb you.” Aranhil glanced up at Voronwe in short spurts with a sheepish smile. He was still nervous about bewitching the elf lord again. He suddenly felt like a little boy with a crush.

Aearion looked Aranhil up and down with a curious smirk on his face. “You’re blushing cousin. I’ve never seen your pale face turn a shade so red! My Lord Voronwe my cousin might just fancy you.” Aearion was thrilled to seize this opportunity to tease Aranhil for making fun of his volume regarding the Aviopter earlier. He began to snicker. The group began to join in the chuckling.

Aranhil’s face turned redder and Voronwe smiled nervously at Aranhil. “Aearion stop! This is most inappropriate!” Aranhil snipped at Aearion. He was thoroughly embarrassed.
“Don’t worry Duke Aranhil, I’d gladly fancy you over the Prince if there were to be a competition for my heart on any day.” Voronwe touched Aranhil on the arm in a reassuring manner and smiled as he giggled. Aranhil looked in surprise and relief at Voronwe. Aearion ceased laughing in realization that his joke had now backfired. He was most annoyed now.

“Thanks my lord.” Aranhil said quietly to Voronwe. He was indeed glad that the elf stood up for him. His cousin could be very petty at times like this. Aranhil felt very comfortable with Voronwe and could sense that he was very gentle in spirit. He liked to be in the presence of someone like Voronwe.

“Ingwe we should hurry into dinner now. The other council members should definitely be there now and waiting.” Voronwe suggested. Ingwe nodded in agreement. Voronwe ushered Aranhil and the others into the grand hall.

Chapter 14: Introducing the Seelie Councilmen

Upon entering the grand hall the Mer royals, Ingwe, Voronwe, Alatariel, and Elemmire were greeted by the other members of the Seelie council. The room was very large and grand. The dinner was more like a ball. There were many Fae nobles present. Prince Aearion looked in awe at the grand gathering. He thought that this size of gathering would be fitting for the Festival of Unity that would take place in a day or so. However he was not made aware that such a large gathering would take place on the night of arrival.

Merilwen turned to Alatariel and whispered, “I’ll have to ask you to excuse our surprised reactions. This is somewhat shocking for us because it is contrary to our customs.”

“Oh, How so Princess?” Alatariel responded inquisitively.

“Generally Merpeople when hosting guests hold a quiet dinner with a small few and the guest on the guests first day of arrival. The next day usually has a bigger celebration if one is required. So this grand party on our first night is just slightly overwhelming. Sorry…” Merilwen explained calmly.

“Ah… I see what you mean. Our apologies, we should have looked into that a bit more cautiously. I hope you aren’t too put off by this grand fiasco?” Alatariel apologized.

“Oh… it’s quite alright! You all went through such the trouble for us and we appreciate this! It is simply cultural exchange and that is always most wonderful.” Merilwen reassured Alatariel.

Ingwe Laralonde turned to the group and announced the Three Mer Royals. They all bowed and lifted there glasses of Champaign in a toast to their Royal guests. He then turned to the Mer Royals and asked, “Would you, my dear guests, follow me a bit? Fore I much desire for you to meet with a few councilmen of importance.”

“But of course, Lord Ingwe.” Prince Aearion responded with a smile. He looked over to his companions and beckoned, “Aranhil, Merilwen, come. There are people of importance to meet.” Then he proceeded to float as if swimming above the ground behind Ingwe.



The group approached an elf of exceeding grace and elegance. He wore shining lightweight silver armor over his lean body. He looked very youthful and kind. Ingwe patted him on the shoulder to gain his attention and then turned to Aearion, Aranhil, and Merilwen and spoke with a great smile of excitement. “Friends, this is Councilman Rúmil Nénharma!” (OOC: Elvish name meaning- fair Warrior)

Rumil smiled and greeted the Mer Royals, “How do you do? It is indeed a pleasure to meet the son of the Great Sea King Vehiron, Prince Aearion, Aranhil Rinion Duke of Ilaria the Western Sea, and Merilwen Vanamarilla, the Pearl Princess of Airemana, the Eastern Sea. Welcome!” He was cheery and genuinely very much anticipating the treaty signing.

“I see you are every well informed Lord Rumil. It is a pleasure to meet you as well.” Aearion replied with a bow of respect.

“May the heavens grant us divine favor in our upcoming negotiations.” Rumil responded with a polite smile.

“Indeed.” Aearion responded. The Merpeople had slightly different systems of belief than those who lived on the land. The Fae were heeding to gods and goddesses while the Merpeople were heeding to the spirits of the oceans and water. It was the spirit of the Sea the lives in the Merpeople and allows them the blessing of the sea. Tidus was an average ocean dweller’s sovereign deity, and it was from him that all of the royal family descended.



Ingwe next pulled over another elf of great distinction. He was pale and had long curly blonde locks of hair. He held a golden cane that was purely decorative rather than a necessity. He wore a grand creamy gold colored coat that was adorned with many tassels and frills. He was quite stuffy in demeanor. “Ah, it is the distinguished guests. I am Maeglin Felagund, it’s an honor to make your acquaintance.” Maeglin spoke with a very distinguished demeanor. (OOC: Elvish name meaning- Vain Noble) The Mer Royals bowed in respect and made a little small talk. Maeglin was very polite but not vey interpersonal. He seemed to adhere to formality first and foremost above all else. This was much in contrast to Rumil, who was more so friendly.


Ingwe introduced the group to the next councilman. Lólindir Fëfalas (OOC: Elvish name meaning- Dark Monk) was one of the older Fae of the Seelie. He was deathly pale and of long raven black hair. His dark eyebrows were of a specific and sharp shaping. His face and nose was long and his stare quite intense. He wore a dark purple robe with black double tier shoulder armor, with edges lined with bronze elvish trimmings. His body was quite defined with muscles hugged by his robe. After Ingwe’s introduction the elf spoke.

“Lolindir Fefalas, a pleasure to lay eyes on the reclusive royals of the Mer-kingdoms. You must all be exhausted with all of this pomp and measure. I myself would rather attend to business rather than all of these meaningless pleasantries. However, Ingwe is quite fond of a circus.” Lolindir commented snidely.

Aranhil picked up a very strong magical presence from Lolindir. This Elf was well versed in the magic of a darker variety. “Sometimes it’s good to celebrate our future successes, Lord Lolindir.” Aranhil responded.

Lolindir grinned. He then looked at Voronwe who stood at Aranhil’s side. “I see celebration is indeed in order, seeing as ‘Aran the Bewitcher’ has shifted Lord Voronwe’s mind from his loss of wife and child. This is indeed some enchantment ability you possess Duke of Ilaria!” Lolindir mocked smugly.

Aranhil blushed in embarrassment. He hoped he hoped his power had not manifested unwillingly again. Voronwe calmly placed his hand on Aranhil’s shoulder and said, “No worries my young Duke. This councilman always entertains many a mean spirit in his humor. Much of it should best be ignored for to pay it too much mind with ruin your chances at peace.” Aranhil felt relieved at Voronwe’s reassurance and the group wrapped up their conversation with Lolindir.



The group was then whisked away by Ingwe so they could meet the next councilman. He was tall and very muscular. He also had a long face of an almost bronze complexion and sharply pointy elvish ears. His eyes were almost seemingly pupil-less and of a golden color. He had course shoulder length blonde hair. He was half elf and half Uruk-hai/ Orc. He wore golden bronze armor the molded to his muscular figure perfectly. He carried a very sharp look that would scare the timid of heart.

He introduced himself, “I am Mablung Tasartir. (OOC: Elvish name meaning- Bronze Orc) I am looking forward to setting the wheels of change in motion for Arcadia in our negotiations. I do hope you are willing to cooperate with this change, young Prince Aearion.” Mablung’s voice was deep and hard hitting.

“I hope to renew our treaty with the Seelie council. This was my father’s primary concern.” Aearion replied. He was confused by Mablung’s true meaning of the “Setting the wheels of change.” Comment.

Mablung simply gave a swift smirk with a huff. He then turned and walked away without any further words. The group looked on in confusion. Elimmire the Dryad rubbed her arms. “My my… that Fae gives my petals the chills. One touch from him would send dear me to a frost!” She commented. Merilwen rubbed her arm in a playful attempt to warm Elemmire up.


The next councilman to address the group was an aged elf. He was the oldest of the Seelie Council. He wore heavy black armor with silver lining. His skin was tanned and slightly wrinkled. His hair was silky and white. He wore a grand red cape with a fluffy white fur the fit across the shoulders. He carried a large sword and shield, He was no doubt a proud warrior. “Ah… I have not laid eyes on you since you were a child at Vehiron’s side! Hello Prince Aearion and fellow Ocean Royals! These old bones are Amroth Telrúnya! It’s indeed an honor to meet you.” Amroth greeted the group pleasantly. (OOC: Elvish name meaning- Tradition Keeper)

“So you are personally acquainted with my father?” Aearion asked with a smile.

“Yes indeed! We were quite a team in the war against humanity many years ago when it was at it’s beginnings. You were but a young merboy flailing in the brine. My have you indeed grown strong! I would love to challenge you to a duel someday soon, to see if you are as tough as your father.” Amroth chuckled gladly.

“I would gladly and respectfully give you a run for your money my dear elf lord.” Aearion chuckled. He liked Amroth because he reminded him of his father.

“Good to know you’re confident! And just to make it fair, I’ll even let the Duke and Pearl Princess lend you a hand. You’ll need them. I can tell you all work best as a team. Never doubt this old warriors’ eyes, as keen as the day I was born I tell you.” Amroth replied gleefully.

Another younger elf approached the group. He had long dark hair and wore silver chest armor and a red cloak. He wore a thin elvish crown across his forehead. His face was handsome. He was on a wise and relaxed disposition. “I see Amroth is on a roll again. He can’t put that sword and shield away for at least one party… Good evening, I’m Círdan Singollo. I hope you all aren’t too tired after travelling all this way.” Cirdan spoke kindly. He was smiling at the group. (OOC: Elvish name meaning- Raven Night)

“Does one leave his arm at home Cirdan? I don’t think so. So I shall bring my sword and shield. Warriors habit.” Amroth huffed in reply.

Cirdan refocused his attention to the Mer Royals, “I heard that we should be expecting Ahnaliese Catherine Nicolette, Countess of Deva. She should be here by this hour I suppose.” Cirdan pondered aloud.

“My father had not made me aware that the Dragon people would have a representative present. This will be most interesting. I did not often see them in the past. I suppose he is truly testing my diplomatic abilities. Well I look forward to meeting this Countess of Deva.” Aearion spoke confidently.

“It is to my understanding that the Merpeople and the Dragon race have a history of being on good terms with one another. Both groups tend to stay out of the lime light it seems. So in my many years, I’ve never really been able to confirm the existence of an actual alliance between the two.” Cirdan inquired kindly. He generally was interested in race relations between all Arcadian races.

“Yes. My father used to play Poker with one of the Dragon nobles regularly when I was young. He still will venture off to the shore to have a game or two nowadays.” Aearion replied.

“I suppose I should go out and check for Countess of Deva. If you’ll excuse me.” Cirdan addressed the three Mer Royals and headed out of the Grand hall.

The night sky was illuminated with stars. Cirdan looked around the courtyard for the Countess. He checked the entry passage to Spire Rock and down below was the Countess and her travel party. He activated the elevation passage using the magic chant and the three were finally atop Rock.

“Greetings Ahnaliese Catherine Nicolette, Countess of Deva. It is truly an honor to have you here at Spire Rock. I am Cirdan Singollo, a high councilman of the Seelie. Please follow me to the Grand Hall.” Cirdan spoke pleasantly as he motioned for her to follow him.