CHAPTER TWELVE
Ryu stood tall before the Darkwalker Council, his gaze meeting the collective eyes of the esteemed lords and ladies who held the power to decide his fate.
The grand hall of the Twilight Court emanated an aura of ancient wisdom and authority, the high ceilings adorned with intricate tapestries depicting the rich history of their people.
His parents were not present at the Council; since Ryu had petitioned the Council, they could not present to speak for or against his proposal.
Ryu had met his parents before breakfast, and his conversation with them over tea had helped soothe his nerves.
“You’ll do fine, my son,” his father had said with a reassuring grin, and Ryu had nodded.
He would do fine because there was no other alternative. Disappointing his father was not an option.
Now, Lady Isara, a respected member of the council and a prominent figure among the Darkwalker Elves, raised an eyebrow, her voice gentle and neutral.
“Ryu, you stand before us today, requesting that you be given the chance to prove yourself as one of the potential heirs to the Twilight Throne.” Her gaze flicked to Lord Hayashi Kenji, sitting quietly on the other side of the Council, his face neutral.
As Ryu’s cousin, Kenji was also a candidate for the Twilight Prince, though in the end, it all came down to who the Throne would choose.
Kenji had never expressed a desire to ascend the Throne, but if the Throne chose him, that would not matter. The ancient elemental magic infused in the Twilight Throne chose the person most suited to lead the Darkwalker Elves. Ryu had to prove that he was that leader.
“You have asked us to approve your candidacy as heir, but can you truly assure us that you are ready to take on such a responsibility?”
Ryu’s jaw tightened, his hands clenched at his sides, but he maintained a calm composure. "I understand your concerns, esteemed council members," he replied, his voice steady and resolute. "But I stand before you today not as the same Elf you once knew. I have grown, I have learned from my mistakes, and I am ready to lead our people into a new era."
Lady Isara, known for her wisdom and discernment, nodded thoughtfully, while Lord Isamu frowned, and leaned forward.
“You have shown favor to humans, Lord Ryu,” he said harshly. “Your human ward and your predilection for building alliances with the human kingdoms have raised eyebrows among our kin. How can we be assured that you will prioritize the welfare of our people?”
Ryu took a deep breath, making sure his gaze remained unwavering. This again. When would the Council move past these old concerns?
“I understand your concerns,” he replied, keeping his voice soft with an effort, “but my interactions with humans have convinced me of the benefits of bridging the gap between our worlds. The humans are not as they once were when our ancestors colonized them. They are smart, resourceful, and I might even say, ingenious. I believe that by fostering relationships with other realms, we can create a stronger future for our own.”
Lord Isamu’s face contorted with disbelief. “Unity with humans? They are weak, inferior beings,” he scoffed. “To prioritize their welfare over our own kind is a grave mistake.”
Ryu met Isamu’s gaze. “Strength does not solely lie in power and magic,” he argued, meeting the eyes of every Elf on the Council. “It lies in understanding, compassion, and the ability to grow beyond our own prejudices. I believe that by embracing these qualities, we can forge a new path for our people, one that is inclusive and prosperous.”
Whispers erupted among the council members, debates and objections intertwining like a symphony of dissent. Ryu’s heart pounded in his chest, his resolve growing stronger with each passing moment. He had expected opposition, but he refused to waver.
“As expected of a human-lover,” Lord Isamu spat, shaking his head. “Your human ward is blinding you to the—”
“What if I got rid of her?” Ryu said quickly, his voice cutting through the other man’s words. “To prove my commitment to the welfare of our people, I will settle my human ward, Ella of Strayhaven, far away from the Ellem Isles, and break all ties with her.” He looked around at the gathered council. “Surely that will be acceptable and no one can accuse me of being manipulated by the humans?”
The council fell silent. All eyes were on Ryu, surprise mingled with uncertainty. He fought back a smirk. The moth-eaten ancients hadn’t expectedthis, he was sure.
Lady Isara leaned forward, frowning. “Are you truly willing to sever that connection?”
“Yes.” Ryu ignored the sudden pang that gripped his heart. He didn’t have time to deal with the unruly emotions brought about by the bond. He had to do this.
“Since I am accused of putting the humans above our people, I will show that my devotion lies solely with the Darkwalker Elves and our realm.” He shrugged, putting on an air of nonchalance, despite the sudden sinking of his heart. “It is no great sacrifice.”
The council members exchanged glances, contemplating Ryu’s words and weighing his intentions. The air hung heavy with anticipation as they deliberated.
Finally, Lady Isara spoke.
“Lord Ryu, your determination and willingness to make difficult choices have swayed the council.” She looked around at the other members. “Are we agreed?”
Sanada Isamu spoke, his voice tinged with reluctant acceptance. “I agree.”
