Secrets of Magic

Later that evening, alone with my father in the quiet of the palace chambers, I felt a strange tension. He did not wear a worried look, just a father ready to show off something. He reached into his pocket and said, "Terran, this is for your eyes only. I trust you my son, this is something rare but extremely useful tool."

Enuma said in my head, "Heero, what is this mystery?"

Heero reached into a hidden compartment and produced a small, elegant object—a simple an elegant magical tool for long-distance communication.

He activated it, and a shimmering portal of light flickered to life. With a few precise gestures, Heero called out, “Akari.”

Enuma was floored, he understood the concept quickly. Crestfallen, the demon king admitted, "This is the massive difference between us, Heero and I. You have people using magic to help you, while I was trapped in a realm of demons that distrusted each other and only used magic to benefit themselves."

I was unaware of the moment, that Enuma was having. As I was astonished and amazed at such a creation. The ability to instantly communicate long distances, was probably the single greatest creations ever. The usefulness feels endless in situations of battle and peace times.

Within moments, the voice of his wife echoed softly through the device. Akari greetings "Honey, glad to hear your voice. Heero’s tone was respectful but serious. “Akari, I’ve just learned something troubling about Eldrin. Terran followed him tonight and found signs that suggest he might be supporting or even orchestrating something dangerous—possibly wanting to prolong the conflict with the demons.”

There was a pause on the other end before Akari’s reply came, steady and sharp. “Eldrin… I see. That would explain a lot. He’s not the enemy we thought, but perhaps he’s a player—one who believes war is necessary, or perhaps even desirable. We need to confront him directly.”

I nodded and it prompted Heero to say, "Terran, it is just as you said. Possible more based on what conclusion your mother came up with." and Akari said, "My little boy, I am so happy to see you doing so well. Work well with your father while I am away."

Enuma still sore, but thoughtful, "Akari is correct. It is like Eldrin wants war to continue, for an unclear reason. Almost like he wants humans to continue to strife and grow even more." 

I was feeling a surge of determination. “He doesn’t seem to hate the demons, but he wants the conflict to keep going. I think he’s playing a long game—one that could threaten everything.” As I spoke the thoughts of Enuma's aloud. 

Akari’s voice was calm but resolute. “Precisely, my sweet! Ask him why. Why does he want war to continue? What’s his goal?”

I paused, then with a clear, steady voice, I responded, “Because maybe he believes that only through conflict can true strength be forged—or that peace is impossible. But I have a different idea.”

Heero watched him carefully, sensing the resolve in his son’s words. Though Akari calmingly said, "Careful, do not think for him. Let his words direct you to understand him." 

Heero’s expression was proud yet cautious. “Good. Trust your judgment, Terran. Remember—sometimes the greatest strength lies in understanding, not conquest.” 

Akari said farewell on the communication device, "My boys, please be safe. I miss you both. Goodbye for now"

With that, the communication faded, leaving the air silent and me and my father left alone in the house. He knew this wasn’t just about uncovering a secret or exposing a villain. I told my father, "That is amazing, magic to communicate long distances." 

Heero replied, "They are very expensive, so only a dozen of us have these in the Empire. It is best to keep it a secret, so those that are carrying them are not targeted for the communication devices."

Enuma warned me, "That is correct, the demons could send a war party to kidnap or kill your mother just for such a device."

That prompted me to swallow my saliva hard. I felt my skin crawl at the idea of putting a loved one in danger accidently could be so easy. 

My thoughts lingered, but I redirected them to Eldrin. It was about a simple discussion—one that could change the course of everything if he was brave enough to ask the right questions. And in his heart, he was ready to face whatever answers awaited.

“I don’t need to save the entire world,” Terran said softly to Enuma. “Just need to have a conversation. To understand what he truly wants—and maybe, find a way to resolve this without more bloodshed. Sometimes, it’s not about fighting, but about ideas. And I think I know what I have to do.”

"Well said, it is truly like a leader to think about such possibilities and also it is a leader's responsibility to accept the risks as well." Enuma coached me up.  

Then I got a good idea. My responsibility and making use of other's strengths that others do not have.  My thoughts went to Uriko. I think I will confront Eldrin and meet his proud elf nature with respect. 

The next morning, I went to meet with my fiancé. Princess Uriko was happy to greet me first thing in the castle. I talked about the things I saw after the celebration, and we were finish explaining the details with a determined look in his eyes. My conversation with Uriko was very pleasant and deep. She listened carefully, nodding as I laid out a plan to confront Eldrin directly, seeking answers about his true intentions.

“You’re very bright to come up with this,” Uriko said softly, a gentle smile on her face. “I think it will work well. I trust you are doing what’s right.”

I hesitated for a moment, then nodded with resolve. “We need to know what he’s really after.”

In the afternoon, Uriko made her way through the palace and into Eldrin’s secluded grove. The elf’s workshop shimmered with natural beauty—trees intertwined with delicate elvish architecture, glass vials bubbling with mysterious liquids, and ancient tomes stacked neatly on shelves.