“They’re elves!” Azura exclaimed, the first sound she had made since battle.
“Not quite,” Broderick responded with disdain. “The world you guys grew up in was made from stretched truths of this world. The elves you guys know are actually based off of Elzians. The pointed ears, angled features, fair skin and voice, and affinity for magic are all Elzian characteristics grafted into the Illusion’s culture. Just remember what we said about them. They’re snakes and you have to be careful and observant.”
Jay continued to lead them along a winding path of levitating walkways. Eventually the path turned into a closed tunnel, with marble walls similar to that of their doorway. It was a spectacular display of architecture. As they neared two large double doors, a guard made himself visible. He was adorned in shining metal plates and had his chin jutting out in an arrogant fashion.
“Let me do the talking,” Jay whispered to the group so that the guard couldn’t hear.
Broderick wrinkled his brow. “Are you sure? You don’t exactly have the best reputation around here.”
“Neither do you,” she retorted. “Just let me handle it.”
He eventually relented. Meanwhile, the guard eyed the group wearily, but made sure to suppress his suspicions at the first humans to appear since war. “Welcome ambassadors of Gaia. Elzia welcomes you. May the bond between our sister worlds live on,” he said stiffly.
“We are grateful for you hospitality, and request shelter,” Jay replied, matching the guard’s formal tone of voice.
A critical moment of silence passed between them. It was a massive error on the guard’s part, and Jay had already sized up her opponent. His weaknesses would be used against him in the future, but for now, she kept her warm façade.
“Of course,” he replied, completely unaware that Jay was sizing him up as a predator would its prey, “Store your weapons and armor in the room in the west wing and you will be shown to your room. We seek your pardon for our magic is limited and our healers will be unable to tend to your wounds. Fresh bandages will be sent to your room, however.”
“Thank you.”
Jay turned down the corridor and led the rest of the group down the long hallway. Broderick looked at her doubtfully. “I don’t think it’s necessary that we leave our weapons in a separate room.”
“There’s no point in arguing. Everything’s under control.”
“Whatever you say,” he surrendered.
The three young girls looked at each other thoughtfully. Jay and Broderick had always seemed to have the upper hand on every situation. However, if Broderick was one step ahead then Jay would always be ten steps further.
