Chapter 22:

Promise

Short & Short


Many years had passed. Decades came and went, and Edelgard was considered a real elf now. To create the best environment for her child, she immediately traveled around the 176 elders' trees, proving her worth as an elf.

As it turned out, Elven children took a century to be born.

Magmaranda's prediction held true, however, and Edelgard grew older by the day. Soon, her skin was wrinkled and grey. Only her hair kept its beautiful color, swaying in the wind as she sat in front of her lover, turned to wood.

Her wrinkled hand rested on his wooden cheek, attempting to feel him underneath the bark.

"I'll join you soon," she mumbled, hearing footsteps approaching.

She looked behind her.

She had never seen these two before. They carried the same dignity as elves usually did, and more... they seemed like elders to her.

They watched her, a faint smile appearing on their lips.

"We didn't want to interrupt you," the man said.

"But we had to say hello to the one our son chose... the short-eared elf," the woman added, a bit of wonder in her voice.

Edelgard's tired eyelids widened.

"Are you-"

"As I said, we didn't want to interrupt you," the man repeated, watching her belly. "We look forward to our grandchild."

With that, they bowed, walking away.

Edelgard smiled after them, turning back to Karkass.

"So your parents came, after all," she said, hoping her words would reach him. "I'm sorry, though. I won't be able to look after our child. I spoke with Starkus and Claudia... they will gladly take it in... did you know? They are having a baby, themselves! Claudia looked so happy when she told me, and she was glad for the company her child would have... but I still wanted to look after it myself! I wanted you to be by my side, and watch it grow up with me! I... want to see you again..." She stifled the tears, standing up. "I won't let our child die. And if it's the last thing I'll do, I'll give birth to it. I promise!" She leaned closer, whispering to the statue. "And when I see you again, our kiss will last a century."

Smiling again, she walked away, holding her belly.

An energetic kick told her that this child would be an adventurer like his father.