[Alice POV]
After encountering a group of bow-wielding elves and barely getting through their suspicions without being turned into pincushions, my companions and I managed to survive that ordeal.
Now, we follow their lead, heading deeper into the forest.
I know it was a close call, but damn, we almost kicked the bucket back there.
In any case, the journey wasn't exactly comforting. The path ahead twisted endlessly, forcing us to weave through tangled roots, duck under low-hanging branches, and walk over uneven terrain that seemed determined to trip us at every opportunity.
Honestly, how much further could this place possibly be?
As we kept moving, my patience began to wear thin.
Eventually, I sighed deeply and spoke up.
"So... Are we there yet?"
The moment those words left my mouth, several of the elves glanced back at me, their sharp eyes narrowing in bafflement, as if I had said something completely out of line.
Yikes, I think I messed up.
Frowning slightly, I leaned closer to Almanfi.
"Did I say something wrong?" I asked, lowering my voice.
Without even looking at me, he replied flatly, "They don't understand the human language."
Hearing that made me pause, my eyes widening in realization.
Oh.... crap...
It never occurred to me that the language I'd been using was intended for humans all along. I initially assumed it was a common dialect everyone depended on to communicate, but it was actually more like speaking English to a group of indigenous people.
I rubbed my cheek awkwardly, glancing at the elves ahead of us. No wonder they kept giving me those foul looks, because to them, I'm just an outsider who is spouting nonsense.
Ugh... This is just the worst.
Just as I was about to sink further into embarrassment, the lead elf delayed her pace slightly and spoke—this time using the human language.
"We're almost there," she calmly said, her tone measured but not aloof.
I blinked in surprise, caught off guard by the unexpected response.
"Oh? Do you understand what I'm saying?"
She merely nodded and moved on, but the fact that she responded at all was enough.
Thank goodness... I almost thought I had been dropped into a whole new world again.
I let out a breath of relief and brushed the back of my head before calming myself.
"My name is Alice Dragonroad," I introduced myself before gesturing to my companions, "and these were Elinalise Dragonroad and Almanfi."
Elinalise offered a small nod and smiled kindly. Almanfi, on the other hand, continued walking without slowing down.
The elf walked a few steps before replying, "Ikeshia, captain of the scout rangers."
Scout rangers, huh... It sounds important.
I nodded to myself, committing the name to memory.
As we continued onward, I noticed that the forest slowly began to change. The trees became denser, thicker—almost unnaturally so—and the path became less uneven and more level.
But then, I saw something peculiar up ahead.
Standing right before us was a monumental wall made of interwoven branches that appeared to have grown naturally from the ground rather than being built by hand. In the middle of the wall were two enormous trees joining together to create a magnificent archway.
Whoa...
I marvelled at the architecture, slowing my steps.
"The entrance looks amazing," I muttered under my breath.
But before I could take it any further—
Shffk—
Several figures emerged on top of the wall, drawing their bows at us.
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Oh god, not again.
I thought the worst would be over once we arrived at our destination, but apparently not. We have been ambushed in the final stretch of this journey. To make it more disturbing, I realized that the figures on the wall were also elves clad in leather armour.
Were they expecting us as a threat? But what about the rangers? Aren't they on their side?
Just as my mind was racing for reasons, Ikeshia stepped forward and raised her hand.
"All watchguards, stand down."
Using the language of her people, she commanded the elves on the wall to lower their bows, and at the same time, someone stepped out of the arc.
"Captain Ikeshia, who did your squad bring to our settlement?"
A male elf strode forward with his bow still drawn, requesting the lead elf to explain herself.
Ikeshia straightened her posture while placing a hand on her chest.
"Vice Captain Vaelthorn, we have brought two elves accompanied by a human escort."
Her response shook not only the vice-captain but also the elves on the walls. They all shared confused glances while gossiping to one another.
Just then, Almanfi raised his hand.
"I must clarify that I'm a summoned spirit, not a human."
Even after the explanation, Vaelthorn still looked cautious and turned his attention to Elinalise and me, squinting his eyes in suspicion.
"How about these two elves? Where do they come from?"
"These two are Alice and Elinalise," Ikeshia explained. "The escort claimed they were rescued by his master from the depths of a labyrinth."
Vaelthorn furrowed his eyebrows even further. "I don't believe that last part."
Of course, he doesn't. Why would he?
"It doesn't matter," the lead elf retorted nonchalantly. "Just summon one of the elders here so we can grant them permission to enter the settlement."
The vice-captain hesitated, seemingly contemplating whether to let us inside.
"What are you still standing there for?" Ikeshia asked impatiently. "Move it."
"Tch..."
Vaelthorn clicked his tongue under his breath before he turned around and marched towards the archway without a word.
Great... Now we wait and see if things will get better from here... Hopefully.
While waiting for the vice-captain to come back, I glanced at the watchguards, who were still keeping a close eye on us. Even with their bows lowered, I could feel that the tension had not subsided completely.
I think they'd still shoot me if I breathed the wrong way.
Just then, Ikeshia turned towards Almanfi and gave him a stern look.
"Once the elders grant them entry, your duty ends here and you're free to leave afterwards."
Hearing that calm declaration, Almanfi simply nodded.
"Understood."
That's it? No small talk? No hesitation? Just complete the mission, and you're gone? Boring.
Meanwhile, Elinalise stood quietly besides me. I could tell she was trying to remain collected, but the way she kept clutching her stomach convinced me otherwise.
"Are you alright?" I asked just in case.
Elinalise turned to me and nodded. "Yes, I'm just hungry."
Hmmm... Something is wrong with her, but I can't prove it.
Tap... tap... tap...
After a moment of contemplation, I heard footsteps coming from the archway. We all glanced ahead to see Vaelthorn return with someone accompanying him.
An elven woman walked with a calm, steady pace, her presence instantly drawing everyone's attention. Her long white hair was braided neatly, flowing down her back with faint green tips at the end. She wore a white robe with golden accents that shone softly under the sunlight.
And her eyes were gentle and had a bright shade of green, with distinct four-cornered, leaf-shaped pupils that shimmered elegantly.
Seeing this elegant person made me question one thing.
Who the heck is she?
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The moment the elf woman walked forward, even the watchguards instinctively straightened themselves. She approached us with quiet curiosity, her gaze settling on Elinalise and me.
"So... where are the two elves you spoke of?" she asked softly.
Vaelthorn pointed forward. "Over there, my grace."
The elf woman looked forward, so I instinctively raised my hand. Elinalise noticed my gesture and copied it without knowing what was being discussed.
Great job, Elinalise. I believe in you.
Amused by our gestures, the woman's expression softened almost immediately.
"Oh my..." she murmured gently, stepping closer. "How adorable."
Adorable? I mean, she's not wrong. My new face was kind of charming when I last saw it.
Eventually, the elf woman stopped in front of us, observing our expressions.
"What are your names, dear?" she asked kindly.
Crap, how do I respond to this? If only I could learn their vocabulary sooner.
I scratched my cheek awkwardly before answering in the only way I could.
"Alice Dragonroad," I pointed to myself before gesturing to my side. "Elinalise Dragonroad."
The woman raised her eyebrow, clearly confused by how I introduced our names.
"Oh, dear... Why are you speaking so rigidly?"
Before I could respond, Ikeshia stepped in on our behalf.
"Greater Lord Rukkhadevata, these two were unable to speak the Beast God Language," she explained. "However, they use human language instead."
Ah, so that's her name.
Rukkhadevata... sounds a bit of a mouthful to pronounce, but okay.
The elf woman—or rather, elder—looked back at us, her brows knitting together in concern.
"They're unable to speak our language?" she repeated softly. "How could this be?"
...
No one answered Rukkhadevata. Not even Ikeshia or Almanfi responded to the question.
Oh, God... I guess there's no other way to explain this than what I'm about to do.
Taking a deep breath, I straightened myself and answered honestly.
"I don't know if you could understand me, but we forgot how to use your language. Yet, I can somehow follow what your people were saying."
For a brief moment, silence hung between us, delicate but unsettling, like a thread stretched a bit too thin. Rukkhadevata's eyes widened ever so slightly, not in anger nor in disbelief, but something softer: compassion.
"I see now," she finally spoke, pausing for a moment before continuing. "Don't worry, some of us elves are trained to learn other vocabularies just in case."
Hearing her switch to human language mid-sentence made me feel better. At least there's no longer an issue with miscommunication for both parties.
"Anyway," Rukkhadevata resumed, changing back to her normal language, "I will permit these two to enter the settlement."
A soft wave of relief passed through the watchguards above, their tension soothing now that the verdict had been reached.
Yeah, baby! That's what I've been waiting for!
Clenching my fist with excitement, I immediately turned to Elinalise with a smile.
"We're in," I whispered, barely containing my delight.
Elinalise's eyes widened before she smiled in relief, her shoulders finally relaxing.
"That's good to hear," she murmured gently.
You're goddamn right, sister.
After that, I turned toward Almanfi next, lifting a hand to get his attention.
"Hey... Thanks for escorting us this far."
In response to my appreciation, he merely nodded. There were no dramatic farewells or wise words—just that same quiet, efficient acknowledgment.
This person is the embodiment of boring.
Without uttering another word, he turned his back and vanished in an instant, leaving nothing but a swirling cloud of dust behind.
Huh... and there he goes, gone with the wind.
"Ikeshia, you and your scout rangers are dismissed," Rukkhadevata commanded gently.
The captain and her group put a hand on their chest before replying in unison, "Understood."
One by one, they dispersed, blending back into the trees like shadows.
Rukkhadevata then turned back to us, her expression warm once again.
"Come now, young ones," she beckoned softly. "Follow me."
I nodded and nudged Elinalise lightly. "Let's go."
Together, we walked forward, passing through the massive arch, and just like that—
We entered the elven settlement.
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As soon as I set foot beyond the archway, I was instantly enchanted by the wonders that the settlement had to offer. Every tree in the vicinity was shaped into habitable homes. Each was connected by platforms and bridges created from interwoven branches.
"Welcome to Lethariel Grove, young ones," said Rukkhadevata, signalling us to move forward.
While we strode the streets, I observed the elves roaming gracefully between buildings, their movements resonating with the tranquil harmony of nature and everyday life.
This society feels more sophisticated than I thought.
Now and then, I stole a glance at Elinalise, who stayed quiet yet keenly mindful of everything happening around her.
"What are your thoughts on this place?" I inquired, eager to hear her opinion.
Elinalise glanced at me, resting her chin on her hand. "Well... it looks quite exquisite."
"Oh my," Rukkhadevata interjected, seemingly pleased. "That's high praise, Elinalise."
As we ventured deeper into the settlement, I noticed several bystanders glancing at us while whispering to one another. Some stared with curiosity, but others watched with suspicion.
It seems that our presence has garnered a variety of mixed reactions.
Eventually, Rukkhadevata led us to a vast clearing where many elves converged from various routes of the settlement. Just then, the elder stopped and turned towards us.
"I must leave you two here for now," she declared gently.
Tilting my head, I asked, "But why, though? We're just getting used to the scenery."
"I understand you wished to explore more of the settlement," Rukkhadevata responded, "but I must inform my sisters about your arrival and prepare a place for the two of you to stay."
Oh? I wonder who her siblings are. Hopefully, they're just as approachable as she is.
As I contemplated Rukkhadevata's sisters, she assessed my gaze before turning towards the crowd of elves and pointing at a certain one with pink hair, a white dress, and a purple jacket.
"Hey, Cyrene! Can you come over here?"
The pink-haired elf flinched upon hearing the elder's voice and instantly rushed forward.
"Cyrene reporting for duty~! How may I help you, your grace?"
Rukkhadevata chuckled at her bubbly energy and then gestured to us.
"Let me introduce you to Alice and Elinalise," she explained. "They are new to the settlement, and I would appreciate it if you could give them a tour to help them get used to the place."
Cyrene turned towards Elinalise and me, and studied us for a while before returning her gaze to the elder.
"I see," she acknowledged, fully grasping the situation. "You can count on me, Your Grace."
"Thank you very much," Rukkhadevata praised, turning around before looking back. "And one more thing, these two can only speak human language, so good luck."
"Okay~! Wait... Your Grace, I—"
Before Cyrene could ask any questions, the elder walked away, leaving us in her care.
"Hrrm..." she grumbled, scratching the back of her head before turning to face us. "I suppose I'm stuck with you two for now."
Surprised by her ability to communicate in human language, I shrugged in response. "There's nothing we can do about it."
"I guess so," Cyrene agreed with a deep sigh. "Come, you two, let me show you around."
With that, Elinalise and I followed the pink-haired elf to explore the settlement more. Though the path ahead seemed lively, I couldn't shake the feeling that we were being watched, as if something bad was about to happen.
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[Third POV]
Meanwhile, Vaelthorn remained stationed near the settlement's archway, visibly pissed as he gritted his teeth in frustration. His earlier encounter with Alice and Elinalise had evidently left him on edge.
"Tch, those outsiders got the nerve to gain the Greater Lord's approval."
He kept his problems to himself, as most of the watchguards had ended their shifts. Even so, the peacefulness of the forest helped soothe him somewhat.
Crunch... crunch... crunch...
Just then, the sound of distant footsteps interrupted Vaelthorn's peace, making him alert.
"Who goes there?"
As he observed the area ahead, he noticed someone emerging from the treeline. Seeing this, he narrowed his eyes and nocked an arrow into his bow.
"You there, stop where you are and identify yourself."
Although Vaelthorn gave a warning, the figure didn't respond and continued walking forward in an erratic, swerving manner. Irritated and suspicious, he drew his bow and aimed ahead.
"Hey! I said stop! That's an order!"
When the figure still didn't react, Vaelthorn adjusted his bow slightly and released the string.
Whoosh—
The arrow soared towards the figure but missed them by just an inch.
"WOAH!!"
Startled by the sudden attack, the figure cried out and stumbled back to the ground.
Vaelthorn nocked another arrow and stepped forward, preparing to draw again.
"Now, answer me. Who the heck are you?"
The figure, snapping out of their daze, raised both their hands and immediately responded.
"Wait! Don't shoot! It's just me!"
Hearing the voice, Vaelthorn wavered mid-action, his expression switching as recognition set in. He lowered his bow slightly and walked closer, scrutinizing the fallen figure.
Eventually, the vice-captain dropped his shoulders and let out a tired sigh.
"Oh... It's you again... Just where have you been—"
The tension dissipated slightly as Vaelthorn lowered his weapon completely.
"—Aerion."