Landsbyen -Into the North- An Epic Poem 32

“What concerns you,” he asked? “This one looks much like his kin, has he inherited other aspects of his father as well?” “Do you mean magic?” The guard just looked at him, knowing he knew what he meant. “Yes,” was his answer, “but don't concern yourself. He is also very kind like his father. Speaking of magic, I've heard that Rian has been doing some practicing as well.” “You've heard correctly, He was always quite strong but he has honed his skills over the last hundred years. I would not like to face him. As for this Joulupukki, is his magic strong?” “If you remember Erlenkönig's magic, his would be as a child's to his son's.” “Whew,” exclaimed the guard.” “If you ever find yourself confronted by him, walk away. He will allow that. If you don't, he will snuff you out like a candle flame, I tell you this because you are a friend.” Putting a bit of fear into the mind of the elf would serve them both good. He knew that the guard was just doing his job and had no great allegiance to Rian. He was truly not sure of the extent of Joulupukki's power. What he did know was that the half elf was strong and could do things that he had never seen before. Joulupukki took the last turn, and standing in front of him was the entrance to the Keep. He stopped. It was not what he expected. A simple double door, large but unadorned. Two elves stood to either side. The guard stepped forward and spoke with one of them and they opened the door. Inside was a different manner, they stepped into a grand hallway, with two long, wide stair cases running up either side. The floors were made out of a smooth white stone, the walls were a matching larger stone and stair treads the same. They rose up five stories. The hand rails were of a dark wood and seemed to have been grown in place with beautiful purple flowers budding from the wood. Under each staircase were several sets of open doorways. “This way please,” the guard said. He guided them to the right hand set of stairs. “All the way to the top.” DynDoeth knew the way to the Councilman's chambers, but felt it was a kindness given for Joulupukki. He also noticed, as Joulupukki walked by the guard, he bowed his head slightly. They made their way to the top floor. As they did Joulupukki allowed DynDoeth to take the lead. Upon arriving in the chamber DynDoeth spied Rian casually seated in Erlenkönig's throne, one leg draped across the arm rest with a big smile on his face. “Ah, finally, the Council has been waiting for you DynDoeth. We have a very serious matter to discuss with you. If you are judged to have been using experimental magic without the Council's permission it could mean the expulsion of your magic for good.” “Yes, a serious charge, My Liege,” his use of the honorific an obvious slap in Rian's face. Slipping from the chair, Rian's anger almost got the best of him. He started to verbally attack DynDoeth when the Forest Elf spoke up. “If we could get to the matter at hand.” Rian returned to his seat as the elf inquired of DynDoeth. “Have you been practicing or using any magic that is unusual by elf standards?” “Well, Seileach, it is good to see you.” The Forest Elf nodded but as he started to answer, Joulupukki made his presence known.