>>6004855"Not yet, but I dealt with the worst ones on the council," you mention vaguely, an answer that prompts Luaue to raise a curious eyebrow. "What is <span class="mu-i">he</span> doing here?" You spit, gesturing at Lael. "'HE' was sent by the High Sorcerer to assess the situation with the dark elves after recent events, and report back to the council. 'HE' is also here to collect one of these children as tribute," states the apprentice, who saunters over to you.
Luaue gently elbows Lael in the ribs, causing him to recoil back in pain. "What 'HE' means is that 'HE' is searching for an apprentice of his own," explains the priestess as she lowers her voice. "The truth is, apprenticing under a mage is a chance for one of the little ones to have a better life. Lael is..." she pauses, weighing her next words. "... eccentric, but he did play a part in our rescue, in the end."
"That I did, and my selfless deeds are <span class="mu-i">still</span> yet to be rewarded," he interjects, provoking another appropriately forceful elbow jab from Luaue. "Ah! Cyric's blood woman, cut that out!" Shouts the apprentice. She huffs in response. "Come with me," you command, urging the priestess to follow in your direction. "Sis-" she clears her throat. "Sindiira, I can't. I need to be here with the children while the others finish their chores for the evening."
"I can watch them. What's the worst that could happen?" Queries Lael innocuously. Both you and the priestess exchange knowing looks and shake your heads in unison, an act which leaves him visibly ruffled. Clearing his throat, he begins to address you with faux indignation. "Oh, I see how it is! No good deed goes unpunished! Even after everything I did for you-"
"Fine, fine!" Cries Luaue, her words resounding throughout the forest valley. "Just... just stop," she sighs, defeated. The mage boy nods to himself contentedly.
