But now this was their chance to shine! If they could somehow obtain this inheritance then they could become a key figure in the world that even the Emperor respected.
However, what of the human being? He somehow seems to hold an advantage? All the elves exchanged uncertain glances.
Therion couldn't bear it anymore and spoke up. "Elder Moros," he began, his voice calm but stern, "It is our right, as elves, to inherit your wisdom and power. This human has defiled our sacred land and has no claim over it."
"Yes, Elder Moros. Please allow us to cleanse this filth."
"Ancestor Moros, please let me serve you."
"Yes, Elder Moros. Please allow us to cleanse this filth."
"Ancestor Moros, please let me serve you."
One by one several elves began talking in an attempt to curry favor with the elder.
However…
"SILENCE!" The voice boomed, clearly not happy with the noisy environment.
The elves immediately quieted down with ugly expressions on their faces, but the next instant, the voice once again coldly boomed.
"Human being, I did not allow you to enter my shrine, and yet you have forcefully awakened a path and entered my shrine. You have used my elven kind to open a door for you."
The voice did not sound pleased. "You are not welcome here. Leave at once."
The elves immediately rejoiced. They celebrated Liam's misery and looked toward him, eager to see him disappear.
But a few seconds ticked by and nothing seemed to happen?
The human being was still standing…?
"YOU DARE DEFY ME?!!!" The voice boomed again, apparently even more irritated than the elves.
Eldrin gulped. He now had a newfound respect for Liam. It was one thing to not fear him or the royal elves but this guy did not even plan on showing respect to the legendary figure? Was he not afraid?
And finally, Liam opened his mouth.
"Esteemed elder, please forgive me. I would be gravely disrespecting you if I heeded your words and left now. My actions, though abrupt and uninvited, are driven by the profound respect I have for you."
"The tales of Elder Moros are legends even among humans. It is my lifelong dream to walk the same paths and to glimpse even a fraction of your greatness."
Therion scoffed, his voice dripping with disdain. "Honeyed words. Every thief knows how to sing praises when caught."
Liam continued, undeterred by Therion's mockery, "I didn't come here to steal or lay claim over something that doesn't belong to me."
"All I seek is one small chance to compete for your inheritance. It would be my greatest honor to even just witness this miraculous process. If that is a crime, then I stand guilty. But I will not run away."
Silence.
All the elves scowled. Come on. Surely, the legendary ancestor would not be swayed by just empty words?
However, the next second, what they feared came to fruition.
The omnipresent voice of Elder Moros echoed throughout the void, softer this time, but still filled with authority.
"Human, your words ring with sincerity. While your actions were indeed intrusive, your courage and respect for this place have earned my attention. Very well. You shall have your chance."