We entered Miraal, no soldier dared to stop us. I looked around taking in the trees and the fireflies, occasionally seeing an elf as elves mainly lived in Miraal. The trees were tall, rather large, it made it dark and hard to see yet the fireflies led the way as they acted as a source of light. A couple hours into the forest a young figure approached us. A rather young looking elf. She had a cloak around her while also wearing the traditional elf clothing, just a plain shirt and a skirt, underneath. She slowly took her cloak off and looked me in the eyes.
"Sir Hero! I come on behalf of Queen Mano. I was sent to inform you that the queen requests to see you on peaceful terms." The little elf said. I wasn't too surprised as I couldn't imagine her wanting to fight a battle she would lose. She was a rather caring queen who wouldn't want to endanger her people unnecessarily. I gave a slight nod to the elf.
"I accept this invitation. Please, lead the way young...?" I slowly said with hesitation. The elf blushed slightly, her pale cheeks turning slightly pink.
"Chae! My name is Chae, Sir Hero..." The elf yelled, quickly getting embarrassed and apologizing under her breath. I let out a light chuckle.
"Well then Chae, please lead the way." I said as I looked back at Nora who was analysing the trees and taking in the mana that surrounded us as the Kingdom of Miraal was also known for containing an immense amount of mana in its forest. Chae nodded.
"Right this way sir!" Chae said as she walked indicating for us to follow her. Both Nora and I followed her deep into the forest, Nora then whispered in my ear.
"Don't you think this is strange? What if she is taking us to a trap?" Nora asked quietly. I let out a small smile and responded.
"She isn't. I don't sense such intent in her." I answered as we walked. Nora gave a nod and carried on walking by my side. After 20 minutes of walking we reach a large tree that's lit up from the inside. As we entered the tree I saw layers and layers of floors going up. I carry on walking as I approach the throne of Mano which was surrounded by elves.
"Great hero Michael Forte. It has been a while since we met." Mano said as she smiled towards me. I looked up at her slowly as Nora stays on full alert behind me, trying to sense if there is any danger.
"Yes, it has been quite a while since I last saw you." I replied with a smile. Queen Mano adjusted herself then jumped off her throne and walked around the room.
"You haven't come to the Sacred Tree before have you?" She asked, her expression now a bit serious.
"No I don't think I have." I said in return while scratching the back of my head.
"Michael, I trust you. So I'm willing to give you what you desire but I wan't 2 things in return." Mano said as she sighed and turned to me.
"And what is that?" I asked, curious to see the offer she would give me.
"In exchange for our Great Crystal, firstly I'd like you to spare my country and its people. I want to ensure that my people won't be hurt by you as you stay here. And secondly..." Mano says while she looks down at Chae slightly.
"...I'd like you to train Chae. She has a potential for magic which we cannot handle." Mano finishes with. I gasp as I wasn't expecting such a job. I slowly look down then back up at her.
"Very well, I accept." I reply with, finding her deal rather amusing. Nora quietly whispers in my ear.
"But hero, that will delay our quest!" Nora says in a panic. I sigh and look at her.
"We could take some time off. It'll be good to strategize as well so I think it's worth it." I say confidently. Nora also lets out a sigh.
"Very well then..." Nora says in defeat. I then proceed to look down at Chae who seemed nervous. Queen Mano then spoke up.
"Chae will lead you to your room. Please make yourself at home for as long as needed." Mano said, sounding a bit desperate as she wanted to end on peaceful terms to ensure the safety of her people. Chae gave a slight nod and looked up at us.
"Please, follow me Sir Hero." Chae said as she walked us to our room. As we followed her it wasn't long before we reached the room. There were 2 beds and a desk.
"Please rest Sir Hero. I shall be in the room on the right." Chae blurted out nervously. I gave out a soft smile.
"No need to be so formal, call me Michael. And be ready by 7 in the morning. We have a lot of work to do." I replied. Chae gave a little nod.
"Yes, Michael..." Chae whispered before leaving the room. As I sighed and sat down on one of the beds I noticed Nora pouting slightly.
"What's wrong?" I asked, wanting to know what was upsetting her. Nora looked down slightly.
"S-So she can call you Michael but I cannot?" Nora asked, quiet and softly. I let out a small chuckle.
"You can call me whatever you want Nora." I said, lying down and putting a hand behind my head. Getting my approval Nora's cheeks blushed, emitting a bright pink colour. She quickly dashed to my bed in excitement, snuggling up to me from under the covers as she wrapper her hands around my waist. I looked down, seeing her look up at me from under the covers was cute.
"Well then, Master Forte~ That is what I shall now call you!" She exclaimed as she nuzzled up to my chest, purring like the tiger she was. I couldn't help but let out a laugh as I used my magic to close the lights.
"Very well then! Get a good sleep, Nora the Tiger. We have a lot of work to do tomorrow." I said softly as I fell asleep.
As he was sitting in the forest Nishioka was approached by Hans who was surrounded by his guards. Nishioka slowly looked up and laughed maniacally.
"That bastard Michael. Hes as strong as ever!" Nishioka yelled with a massive grin on his face.
"Oh really? Do you think you can handle him?" Hans asked sceptically, raising one eyebrow in the process. Nishioka licked his lips.
"Don't worry ya old bastard. I'll catch up to him!" Nishioka said, starting to collect his thoughts as his voice slowly calmed down.
End Chapter.