Walking in Shadows

Under the canopy of ancient trees, Terran and Poh moved silently, shadows blending seamlessly into the darkened forest as they trailed Eldrin to his hidden workshop. The journey was uneventful—so much so that it quickly became tedious.

Hours passed, and all they saw was Eldrin walking with calm purpose, gathering supplies, reviewing his notes, and occasionally pausing to deliver a speech or teach some eager young elf apprentices nearby. Eldrin’s demeanor was impeccable—polite, noble, and utterly transparent. It was clear he was a model citizen of the empire, dedicated to knowledge and education.

Despite the long walk and the careful observation, neither of them uncovered anything suspicious. Eldrin was never involved in secret dealings; he was a celebrated figure, an inspiration to many, always eager to share wisdom and uplift others. His plans were straightforward, his speeches warm and encouraging, and his actions above reproach.

My patience wore thin as he watched Eldrin meticulously prepare his laboratory for the day’s work, displaying nothing more than a genuine passion for learning and teaching. Poh, equally bored, muttered under his breath.

“Well, this was a waste,” Poh said finally, stretching. “I didn’t see any shady dealings, no secret meetings, no demon plots. Just an elf who’s a little too good at being a role model.”

With my arms crossed, I sighed heavily. “Yeah. Nothing here but a guy who’s probably the nicest person you’ll ever meet. No underhanded stuff, no secret alliances. Just a damn good citizen doing his thing.”

They watched as Eldrin gave a small lecture to a group of young elves about the importance of balance in magic and nature. His voice was gentle but commanding, inspiring and warm—the kind of teacher everyone admired.

Finally, I muttered, “Well, I guess the good guys really do exist. Or at least, this one does.”

Poh nodded, unimpressed but resigned. “Sometimes, the simplest answer is the right one. Eldrin’s as clean as they come. We might’ve been better off asking him directly.”

With no signs of wrongdoing and their fruitless surveillance, the two quietly retreated back into the night, their disappointment tempered by the realization that not everyone hiding secrets was a villain. Sometimes, the most inspiring beings were just that—inspiring, honest, and dedicated to the greater good.

As Terran and Poh silently retreated into the shadows, Enuma’s voice echoed in my mind, dripping with amusement. "Well, look at that. You’re about as inconspicuous as a thunderstorm in a quiet meadow. Honestly, even the most amateur warrior would have spotted you two following Eldrin."

I scowled, rubbing the back of my neck. “Yeah, I get it. We’re terrible at sneaking. You don’t have to rub it in. I trained to be an Imperial Knight not a rogue.”

"Sorry, sorry," Enuma replied smoothly. "But seriously, it’s no wonder Eldrin didn’t notice you. Both of you probably drew more attention than a fireworks display. You’ve been noticed by the entire forest’s population, I’d wager."

I grumbled under my breath. “That still doesn’t explain why Eldrin’s so perfect. I mean, he’s practically the poster elf for everyone to look up to. No shady dealings, no secret motives, just... good. Too good.”

Enuma’s tone became more contemplative, almost amused. "Eldrin’s an elder, remember. Elves like him—those who live for centuries—have seen and done things most of us can’t even imagine. Their lives are long, and their wisdom deep. They have a different perspective. They’re often the keepers of secrets, but also the guardians of truth. What you see as ‘perfect’ might just be someone who’s learned to master patience and morality over centuries."

A strange idea flickered in my mind, sparked by Enuma’s words. He paused, staring at the graceful figure of Eldrin, who was now tending to some plants in his garden, completely unaware of their watchful eyes.

“Wait,” I said slowly, voice tinged with curiosity. “Are you saying… Eldrin might be hiding something? Or maybe he’s just so old and wise that he’s playing the long game—pretending to be the perfect citizen to keep everything balanced?”

Enuma chuckled softly. "That’s a possibility. Or maybe he’s just genuinely a good elf. But don’t forget—sometimes, the most dangerous ones are the ones who seem the most harmless."

Poh asked, "Why wait? What is your plan?" 

My brow furrowed as he stared at Eldrin, a new layer of suspicion forming alongside his curiosity. The idea of a centuries-old elf hiding secrets—or perhaps simply being a master of patience and morality—made his mind whirl.

“Maybe,” Enuma muttered, “but I’ll keep watching. Just in case.”

And with that, they melted back into the shadows, the strange thought lingering—what if Eldrin’s perfection was just another mask? Or perhaps, it was the wisest choice of all. He is true believer in his good nature and good causes. 

The idea of him doing dark deeds but is truly believes it is a good cause for the people of the empire. It would explain why Eldrin doesn't seem deceitful. 

Enuma suggested, "Better head back to Heero, explain it first before making a move." 

Terran and Poh returned to Heero’s palace, their footsteps hurried but subdued after the fruitless search. Once inside, they wasted no time in recounting everything—every detail about Eldrin’s movements, his workshop, and his demeanor.

My voice was sharp with disdain as I finally expressed, “Honestly, I think Eldrin’s a true believer. He probably thinks selling those black-market tools and slaves to demons is some kind of good deed. Like he’s helping balance things or something.”

Enuma was also pondering but was patient. Heero, listening intently, blinked in bafflement. Unlike his wife and Enuma, he was not the deep thinker. Still, he felt like the situation with Eldrin left him stunned. His brow furrowed as he considered the implications.

Poh, visibly astonished, nodded slowly. “You’re saying he’s not just an innocent scholar, but actually wants to keep the chaos going? That’s… disturbing.”

Heero finally broke the silence, voice calm but firm. “Thank you. I appreciate your honesty. We’ll address this tomorrow. For now, Terran, I want you to stay at home. I need to speak with you in private. It’s important.”  

Enuma was curious, "Oi! This must be good, let's find out what he wants to say."

I headed home for first time to relax in his own room. Still with the everlasting presence of the Demon King.