>>5925513“We simply did as we were instructed, Queen of Humans,” the one called ‘Thief’ volunteers after a moment, when none of the others seem ready or able to explain themselves, with a respectful bow of his head. “The Dragon King requested that we investigate reports of an elven outpost, loyal to the True Fey and Wild Gods, on the outskirts of the city. We heard tales of strange and nefarious rites being performed under your own nose, and that of the King. We found truth to these tales.”
“NEFARIOUS?” you repeat, honestly offended at this hypocritical reptile-in-disguise casting aspersions upon your good work.
“Thief, I would remind you that your King is only PRINCE CONSORT in these lands,” the Queen chastises him, whereas I am a Queen here AND in your home Why was I no informed?”
The Thief and the others exchange a furtive look, before he replies pointedly: “Queen of Humans. Mate of the Dragon King. NOT Queen of the Master Race. Mine is the SERPENT Queen, and the Dragon King is king ever and always, EVERYWHERE. His word is law.”
“That’s not how I recall the coronation speech delineating our authority,” Queen Ekaterine snaps back, but then sighs, rubbing her temples and lowering her head. “So he instructed you to keep this from me. Theral…”
“What on the Gods’ Green Earth made you two find a magical berry-bush NEFARIOUS?” you interject, unable to help yourself. “It’s a means to alleviate HUNGER! To improve people’s LIVES!”
“An army marches on its stomach,” the sagely-looking dark elf says simply. “A food source that can be feed hundreds or thousands with only a single small patch of soils, and limited water, can render a people immune to a siege, or simplify supply lines.”
You recoil at this mindset which would so casually and profanely militarize of a holy gift from the Celestial Realms, which you brought back and reared with only best intentions. What sort of elf IS this man?
“That’s not—” you begin to protest.