“Please, you are the child’s only hope.” claimed the pretty dark elf.

“Now, don’t you go worrying yourself to death Peta.” Said a figure armoured in full plate steel from head to toe. The figure’s voice was low in pitch, but no accent was discernible.

Peta looked at the armoured figure her features becoming still as her smile faded.

“Ah, sorry, yes. The magical creature and foul magic which threatens to exterminate your entire people.” It answered cooly, appearing utterly unconcerned about both the insensitive comment and the possible demise of thousands of people.

“Yes, that is why the child left. Another silly human, trying to play the hero.” She huffed, her fingers repeatedly drumming the cover of the book on her desk.

“One which you want to be saved, correct?” it asked.

“Of course, my apprentice is being silly, making the situation more desperate than it is we have been living for thousands of years and made our home in these caves since before humans walked the earth. There is nothing to be worried about.” She spoke her musical voice charmed an otherwise patronising tone.

“I think I have to agree with the child on this one. I am more concerned about this creature.” It replied.

“Don’t be. We Faerie will resolve that problem.” She rebuffed.

“We will see.” He spoke solemnly.

“Quickly your arrival is most fortuitous, but now you must hurry stranger.” She answered, unheeding its lack of faith in her people to deal with the calamity, eager to get the child back.

“Stalwart. The name is Owen Stalwart.” Said the armoured figure as it left.

It took a few steps out the door when it collapsed. The fall caused an awful clamouring as steel struck stone as the figure grunted in pain and then lay still.

Peta rushed out the door. She waved her hand and dark blue lines appeared, they shimmered over the figure before they faded. Her eyes widened, and she let out a gasp.

“Dead.” She muttered.