14. Draknir

Ilead my mentor through the grand halls of my luxurious estate. The sound of our footsteps echo off the marbled floors and ornate walls, lined with portraits and tapestries. I beckon Captain Hayes to follow me into my private study, a quiet oasis amidst the bustling estate.

The intricately carved oak door swings open with a soft creak, revealing the warm glow of flickering candles and the scent of sandalwood lingering in the air. As we step inside, a servant appears, pouring two glasses of rich amber liquid from a crystal decanter.

The fire crackles and pops in the grand stone fireplace, sending comforting waves of warmth and the rich scent of burning wood throughout the room. I take a slow sip from my drink.

The room is filled with an air of old-world elegance, with intricate tapestries adorning the walls and towering bookshelves overflowing with leather-bound volumes. The sound of gentle piano music fills the air, adding to the cozy atmosphere as we settle in for a long-awaited reunion.

"I received a summons," Hayes responds dryly with a small sip of his liquor, his eyes glinting with curiosity as the amber liquid swishes around in his glass. I take a fortifying gulp from my own drink, savoring the rich aroma that fills my senses. "Rumors are running rampant that you've fallen for some human girl? Or perhaps her grandmother." He laughs. "The things men talk about when there's no fighting to occupy them. Anyhow, I assume you've decided to agree to your father's request and become his legal heir?"

"No," I say, leaning in closer to Hayes. "I intend to marry the human girl, Kathleen, in just three days" time." The firelight dances across our faces, casting shadows on the walls of the grand hall where we sit.

Hayes nearly chokes on his drink, his eyes widening in shock. "Marry her? Have you lost your mind?" His voice is laced with disbelief and confusion.

I take a deep breath before answering, knowing my words will only add to his shock. "I may have, but not for the reason you would think. Please believe me, my friend, I would never deceive you. Our bond runs deeper than mere duty."

A flicker of understanding passes through Hayes" features, softening his expression. We have been through thick and thin together, our loyalty and friendship unbreakable.

"You have been my mentor and father figure since I was a young recruit," I continue, my voice filled with heartfelt gratitude. "But this union with Kathleen is the surest way to secure my freedom. I implore you to have faith in me now."

My superior"s brows furrowed in concern as he leaned back in his ornate chair. His gaze bore into mine, searching for any signs of hesitation or wavering resolve.

"This marriage is a dangerous gamble, my boy. Are you absolutely certain you want to bind yourself to this girl forever?" he asks, his tone laced with worry and caution.

I meet his gaze steadily, resolute in my decision. The words spill from my lips, confident and unwavering.

"I have no desire to be a pawn for that wretched noble family claiming to be mine. I need no one"s power or wealth." The thought of being controlled and manipulated by those who seek only to exploit their ties to my supposed title fills me with disgust and determination. "This marriage may come with risks, but it is worth it if it means true freedom from the clutches of those who would use me for their own gain."

He leans closer, talking in a lower conspiratorial tone. "If this ruse is discovered, the punishment could be execution! Mating vows cannot be undone or transferred easily."

"I am prepared to take that risk. Once Kathleen and I are bonded, none can force their will upon me again. I will not be a substitute groom for someone's political schemes."

"You are playing with fire, my friend. Marriages last eternities among our kind – you would be chained to this human girl until death."

"I am very much aware, thank you. But at least it's my decision. My woman. I will not become a puppet."

He finishes the rest of his drink, and I pour him another. "Think carefully, the risks are immense if your ruse is exposed," he finally continues.

"I am prepared to pay the price, whatever it may be. My only prospect now is securing freedom on my own terms."

"Come now, an eligible officer like yourself could have your pick of brides. Why bind yourself to this unknown girl?"

"I never aspired to marry at all. I trust no one but myself," I grunt. "You should know this better than anyone.

"And yet you would yoke yourself to a human you barely know?"

"Kathleen has willingly bound her life to mine. That vulnerability and sacrifice make her trustworthy in a way no elf could be. With her, I take a chance on something real."

He considers this for a moment, as if trying on the words. "Your logic is dubious, but I cannot fault your determination. So be it, the die is cast," he finally replies, with a snort of laughter.

"Thank you, my friend. With you as witness, I fear no risk."

"Well well, let's not be so dramatic. I'll do what I can, but please don"t put me in a bind. I have a family to care for as well, you know."

"I know," I say, taking his rough, calloused hand in mine and clasping it tightly.

"I promise to stand by your side, through both good times and bad." His deep voice carries a sense of loyalty and determination that fills my heart with gratitude.

"I know this seems madness," I say, taking Captain Hayes" rough, calloused hand in mine and clasping it tightly.

His deep voice carries a sense of steadfast loyalty and determination that fills my heart with gratitude. This stalwart soldier has been like a father to me since I was a fresh recruit. I would be lost without his wisdom and support.

Captain Hayes nods slowly, his dark eyes glistening. "You have grown into a fine officer and honorable elf. I am proud to call you friend."

We sit in contemplative silence for a moment, hands still joined. Then the captain gestures to the pipe on my desk with a wry smile.

"Come now, let"s light up and sit awhile, as we used to when you were but a brash youth."

I chuckle and pass him the pipe, then light my own. We puff contentedly, reminiscing about days gone by and musing over where the years have gone.

We puff on our pipes in comfortable silence for a while. Then Captain Hayes speaks up reminiscently and gets a mischievous glint in his eye.

"Remember that wild celebration after we crushed the orc invasion in the east? You drank so much spirits that night you jumped atop a table and bellowed you were the "scourge of all orcdom.""

I flush with embarrassment. "Gods, I hoped you had forgotten that display."

Hayes guffaws. "The sight of you, pissed as a whelp, challenging imaginary orcs to come fight you stays seared in my mind."

We share a hearty laugh. It feels good to recall simpler times before duty and destiny weighed so heavy.

The captain"s expression turns thoughtful. "You have truly grown into a formidable leader since those early antics. I suppose we all must leave such follies behind someday." Hayes chuckles, shaking his head. "Yet some follies are worth repeating. Like that bonnie barmaid who caught your eye at the celebration."

I cough, having forgotten that ill-advised romantic tryst in a drunken haze.

"You were so keen on charming her that you fell straight off the stool while propositioning the poor girl!" Hayes says.

I cover my face, groaning. "Clearly, I was not at my most graceful."

We laugh again, but then Hayes grows serious once more. "Jests aside, be cautious, my friend. The heart often wants what reason would reject. Guard yours closely."

Memories of our past adventures flood back as we sit in the dimly lit room, surrounded by the sweet scent of smoke. Across from me, Hayes looks wistful as he remembers our days as mentor and mentee. "I never could have gotten here without your guidance," I say earnestly, grateful for his presence. "You were the mentor I needed."

Hayes nods, his eyes reflecting a mix of pride and nostalgia. We continue reminiscing about old exploits and the bond we formed through them.

But time passes too quickly, and before we know it, Hayes rises reluctantly to leave. He clasps my shoulder tightly, giving me a reassuring look. "You"ll do right by that girl, I"ve no doubt."

I grasp his arm in return, feeling a sense of strength and determination with him by my side. "With you at my back, I fear nothing, old friend."