Elvarion

"Hmm?" Liam's action paused.

It was apparent to him that the elf standing opposite held a power level far beyond his own. The aura that the elf exuded was not just strong, but it held a depth and complexity that suggested years of cultivation and mastery. action

Yet, here the elf was, asking him to wait, even going so far as to negotiate his own worth.

Liam mulled over this scenario. He could glean a rough idea of the events that had transpired.

Perhaps the elf had observed his control over the soul beasts, their eventual dissolution and made certain assumptions about his abilities. Maybe he had mistaken Liam's power level.

But there was a puzzle piece that didn't fit. Shouldn't the elf be able to determine his level of strength?

If an individual held a much higher level than another, they could use the basic skill [Inspect] to view the other's status. It was a fundamental function that allowed one to gauge the power and abilities of another.

Given the elf's evident power, his high-quality attire, and his location in this realm, it seemed highly probable that he would have access to this basic skill. More so, Liam hypothesized, the elf may even possess an advanced version of [Inspect].

But why then, did the elf not seem to know his power level? Why negotiate when he could easily overpower him?

Taking it as a compliment to his soul skills, Liam decided to go along with it and wordlessly descended down toward the elf, who took that as a silent acceptance of peace.

"Thank you, elder. Thank you." The chubby elf repeatedly bowed to Liam. He then looked hesitant as he added, "Please forgive this young one's impudence, but aren't you going to gather the blood essence."

Elder? Blood essence? Liam did not know which thread to follow and he quickly turned around to see what the elf was pointing at.

Behind him, at the spot where the soul blood beasts had disappeared, faint, crimson droplets hung in the air. This must be the 'blood essence' the elf referred to.

"Elder, those beasts were soul blood beasts. They are rare creatures born from the condensation of abundant soul energy and blood energy. Their blood essence is invaluable as it can boost one's physique." The elf explained.

"If I may ask, is the elder a guest of the elven Emperor? If so, I can use my communication channel to notify the royal guards."

Liam looked away from the blood essence which still hung around in the air without dispersing and shifted his gaze back to the chubby elf. Talk to the elven Emperor? That wouldn't bode so well for him.

However…

"Do communication channels work within this world?" Liam raised a brow.

Just now it felt like the elf was trying to probe him. It looked like he had started to get suspicious if Liam was really all that powerful. This person was cunning.

"Yes," The elf replied, nodding fervently. "With a communication crystal, we can relay messages instantaneously. It's a basic enchantment in our world."

Liam absorbed this information, his mind working swiftly. While it was clear the elf had started to suspect him, he also had to be wary of alerting anyone who could potentially pose a threat.

"I see," Liam said, his voice non-committal. But before he could say anything else, the elf hurriedly opened his mouth again.

"Please forgive this junior. If I may be so bold… Does the elder perhaps need some tour guide in this mystic realm?"

Liam's face changed. He could see that the elf in front of him probably figured out everything. However, to his surprise, the chubby elf spoke again. "Ah… the thing is… this junior got separated from his group and I am very scared of these soul blood beasts. If the elder can protect this junior, then perhaps I can guide you to the sword scar?"

"Hmm?" Liam paused once again, surprised by the elf's audacious proposition.

The elf had noticed his uncertain response to the blood essence and the question about communication channels, quickly piecing together that he was a newcomer to this mystical realm.

Instead of using this knowledge to his advantage, the elf offered his help. He wanted to serve as Liam's guide in exchange for protection from the soul blood beasts.

Liam took a moment to assess the situation. Was this an opportunity or a trap?

The thing was he needed to accept the offer because if he refused then anything could happen. Besides, he did want to know where he was and what he was dealing with.

He could either have the confrontation with this elf right now or he could go along and find another suitable time to slip away without consequences, perhaps the next time the soul blood beasts surround them.

Until then…

"Tell me more about this mystic realm. Does this belong to the elves?" Liam cautiously probed.

"Indeed, elder. This mystic realm is known as the Elvarion, a hidden realm in the dominion of the Elven Emperor. It is a sacred place, a sanctuary for our most prized treasures and secrets."

"Many sacred beasts, like the soul blood beasts, inhabit this realm. Besides, the mystical energies here are dense, making it a prime location for cultivation."

The elf continued, "This ancient ruins is under the direct protection of the Elven Emperor, guarded by formidable enchantments that only allow certain individuals to enter. For example, esteemed guests such as yourself."

Liam's face twitched as he could feel the elf hinting at something.

"And as for the sword scar that I mentioned, it is an ancient artifact of our people. A remnant from a great battle fought long ago."

The elf then paused, seemingly recalling a tale he had heard.

"Legend says that the sword scar is actually a rift in reality itself, caused by a divine weapon wielded by one of our greatest warriors during an ancient war. Its energy is still palpable, even after countless generations."