Chapter 08: A Promise Made

The two of them stayed in the tavern until dusk. They hadn't drunk much—most of the time had been spent talking.

From Sigilis, Kaen learned a great deal about the Western lands.

For instance, nine years ago, after the chieftain of the Northern Dúnedain, Arason, was slain by orcs, the Dúnedain had splintered into several tribes.

They now lived scattered across the region of Eriador—some building villages, others herding livestock in the wild.

Their military strength lay in the Rangers.

Every Ranger was an exceptional warrior, sworn to protect the remnants of the Northern Dúnedain. They lived freely in peacetime, following their own paths, but in times of danger, they would gather from every corner to defend their kin.

Sigilis was one of them.

Just before they parted, Sigilis said to Kaen,

"Friend, although we've only known each other for half a day, I can feel it—you are someone with a grand vision.

I am a Ranger of the Dúnedain. I bear the responsibility of protecting my tribe and my people. I cannot easily abandon that to follow you into the unknown.

But know this—if you can prove yourself, if you show that you have the strength to provide a haven for people like us, then I will bring my family and friends to your side.

And if you truly build a kingdom that stands against the darkness, I will swear fealty to you without hesitation. I give you my word."

Kaen nodded solemnly. "Give me time. The name Eowenríel will echo across Eriador. When that day comes, you'll be welcome in my kingdom."

"Then I wish you success. I look forward to that day."

. . .

Leaving the tavern behind, Kaen returned to the inn.

By now, the drinking contest had ended, and the crowd in the hall had dispersed. The place felt noticeably quieter.

Caden, Zakri, Mundar, and Lairon were completely drunk—utterly smashed.

They hadn't won the championship. Word had it that an Elf had entered the competition this year.

Kaen ordered a plate of roast meat, a serving of vegetables, and a few loaves of bread for his dinner.

Just as he was about to start eating, Cathril and Ameliah returned, carrying some packages. The moment the two girls saw Kaen, they hurried over.

"Lord Kaen, why are you here alone? Where are Lairon and the others?" Cathril asked.

"They're all drunk—snoring in their rooms right now," Kaen replied.

He took two pieces of bread, sandwiched the roast meat between them, and made two makeshift burgers, handing them over. "Come eat with me. I can't finish all this on my own anyway."

Hearing this, the two girls sat down and began eating as they shared the stories of their day.

Ameliah said, "We visited the library today. Rivendell preserves a wealth of ancient texts—so much knowledge, especially in medicine. It was incredibly helpful. I even bought a few books to study."

Cathril, her mouth full of roasted meat, mumbled, "I bought a pair of bracers. Cost me a whole gold coin. The prices here are ridiculous."

"Indeed they are," Kaen agreed.

"Rivendell is a sanctuary built by the Noldor Elves. Though its population is just over ten thousand, nearly half of them are craftsmen and scholars. Their knowledge and craftsmanship are unmatched in Middle-earth—even the Dwarves can't compare."

The Noldor were once close companions of Aulë, the Vala of craft and creation. In the Age of the Two Trees, they had learned many skills directly from him.

Among all the races, their artistry was the most refined.

Dwarves possessed unparalleled forging talent, but when it came to sheer technique, they could not rival the Noldor.

"Oh, right—Lord Kaen, we brought you a gift," Cathril said with a bright smile.

"Oh? What kind of gift?"

Ameliah pulled out a black garment from the bag and handed it to him.

"Your old outfit was torn to shreds during the battles in the Misty Mountains. This one's made by Elven hands—waterproof, warm, and breathable. It fits your figure perfectly. We hope you won't mind it."

"How could I?" Kaen smiled warmly, a rare trace of tenderness flashing in his eyes as he accepted the garment and gently ran his hand over the fabric.

"This gift is worth more than gold or jewels. Thank you—both of you."

Ameliah beamed. "You're very welcome, Lord Kaen. I'm glad you like it."

Cathril added, "Go on, try it on! If it doesn't fit, we can still take it back and have it altered."

"Alright."

Without hesitation, Kaen turned and went to his room to change.

When he reemerged, the entire hall seemed to still.

His long black hair, tied loosely behind his head, shimmered like a silken waterfall. The fitted black coat perfectly highlighted his tall, lean frame—every inch of his six-foot-three form exuding quiet strength. His striking features, combined with an aura of noble refinement, made him look like a prince stepping out of legend.

"Well? I think it fits nicely. What do you two think?" Kaen asked with a smile.

Thud!

A piece of bread fell to the table.

Cathril and Ameliah stared wide-eyed, speechless.

Even the few remaining patrons in the hall turned to look, their expressions a mix of awe and admiration.

"Oh my, what am I seeing? Is this some noble visiting the Elves?"

"This is my first time in Rivendell—I thought Elves were the peak of beauty. I had no idea a human could outshine them…"

"He's a man? What a shame…"

Murmurs rippled through the inn. Kaen walked over to the two girls, chuckling. "What's wrong? Does it not suit me?"

"N-No! It suits you perfectly!" Cathril blurted.

"Yes, it's… it's almost too perfect," Ameliah added, her eyes wide with amazement.

Kaen shook his head with a wry smile.

He had always been strikingly handsome, but ever since his panel upgrades from Mount & Blade, every level had enhanced him in every way—physically, mentally, even his very presence.

With each upgrade, his looks and aura had become more refined—more... flawless.

Ameliah clasped her hands together. "Lord Kaen, could you wear this from now on? You look absolutely perfect in it."

"I will. It's a gift from you both—and I truly like it."