Chapter 16: When in Doubt, Blame the Outer Gods
Abyss and his companions gave their names and their reason for visiting to the guard. Of course, the girls didn’t reveal their true surnames, their families too well-known among the elves. Their purpose, however, wasn’t a secret: they were attending the Druid council meeting to address the issue of the withering sacred tree and the animals’ strange behavior.
“Alright, that’s all the information I need. Normally, you would have to present valid identification, but since you’re Druids, I’ll make an exception,” the dark elf warrior said, handing the completed form to another guard. “You’re free to enter. You can continue your journey, or sit here and pray to the God of Nature. It’s up to you.”
“Miss, you mentioned earlier that humans are flocking to the Elven Kingdoms, seeking treasure. Could you tell me more about that?” Abyss asked, not leaving yet.
If he were an ordinary human, she wouldn’t have bothered answering. Dark elves didn’t trust outsiders, especially halflings, whom they often suspected of harboring ulterior motives.
But Abyss’s youthful, handsome face was her weakness. He was the “young and innocent” type she found irresistible. She couldn’t refuse him.
“Well… If you’re that curious, I can tell you what I know, but I don’t have all the details. Those treasure hunters are secretive, as if they’re afraid I’ll steal their nonexistent treasures,” she said after a moment of thought.
“Thank you,” Abyss said, bowing politely.
“I’ve stopped several merchants from Ossi trying to enter. Fortunately, this isn’t a major trade route. The guards at the border with the Western Empire are much busier,” she said, complaining. “These humans claim that dangerous animals have appeared in the Elven Kingdoms, and they believe these animals possess valuable resources, so they’re here to hunt them.”
“They’re hunting our animals?” Leona asked, her voice filled with disdain. “Their greed knows no bounds.”
“Surely the elves won’t allow them to hunt freely within your territory?” Rebecca asked.
The dark elf nodded. “Of course not. We elves might have been fooled by humans in the past, but we’re not stupid. We were simply too trusting. The Gray Elf council is enacting new laws to restrict hunting by outsiders. We won’t give them many opportunities. And even now, we’re imposing heavy taxes on any animal products leaving our territory.”
“That should deter them,” Rebecca said, nodding.
“I have faith in our Druids. You wouldn’t approve of these humans disrupting the ecological balance for their own profit, would you?” the dark elf asked Abyss, smiling.
“Of course not. Balance is essential. We Druids despise those who disrupt the natural order,” Abyss said, nodding in agreement.
“Exactly! If those humans get out of hand, we’ll show them the power of nature!” Maggie exclaimed, punching the air.
Druids believed in harmony with nature, but that didn’t mean they were pacifists. They were fierce protectors of the balance, willing to use force against those who threatened it. They wouldn’t hesitate to beat up and expel any poachers.
Their current methods were relatively civilized, thanks to societal progress. In ancient times, their methods had been more extreme—any species that disrupted the balance was eliminated, including humans.
“Well, it seems you Druids are doing your job,” the dark elf said. “That’s all I know. Even those treasure hunters don’t have many details. You Druids better solve this problem quickly, before it spreads to the rest of the world.”
“Of course, my dear,” Baggs said. “As you’ve recorded, we’re here to address the animals’ unusual behavior. We’ll make sure those greedy humans don’t profit from it.”
“Very well. You may pass,” the dark elf said, opening the gate for them.
They crossed the border, officially entering the Elven Kingdoms. Their next destination was the Druid council, located in the heart of their territory.
If they went directly, concealing their mounts’ true speed, they could reach it within a day. But Abyss had other plans.
“I don’t think we should rush back to the Druid council yet,” he said, turning to Baggs, who was perched on his shoulder.
“Ah, I understand, Mr. Belator. You want to meet with those treasure hunters, to learn more about the animals they’re hunting, right?” Baggs asked.
“Exactly,” Abyss said, nodding. “There must be a reason why they believe these animals possess valuable resources. I want to know what they’re after. And if it’s connected to something… beyond mortal comprehension.”
“You mean… Outer Gods?” Baggs asked, his eyes narrowing. “You know about them? You’re quite knowledgeable.”
“Yes, Outer Gods,” Abyss said, pleased that Baggs was aware of them. “It seems you’re also familiar with these beings. When something unusual happens, it’s always wise to suspect their involvement.”
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