Incompatible Interspecies Wives

Chapter 50: The Second Wife (2)

As we stepped into the elven territory, a subdued wave of applause met us.

There was no raucous celebration — no cheers and flower petals rained down on our way, as the werewolf had done in Blackwood.

Instead, they solemnly, almost ceremoniously, clapped for us. It seemed to be their own form of etiquette.

However, upon closer observation, I noticed something else. Although their applause conveyed gratitude, their eyes ...also held fear.

Our arrival, as a race often labeled uncivilized, savage, or barbaric, clearly unsettled them more than their polite applause let on.

Frankly, it made sense given our appearances alone.

Adam Hyung, the captain, was covered in blood, and the rest of us were in no better condition.

The blood we shed, along with that of the monsters, stained the white stone paths the elves had crafted.

Just by moving, we left our marks on the elves' streets.

I also decided to ignore their gazes.

I was satisfied that these so-called arrogant elves were applauding us. And it wasn't as if we had come here seeking their applause in the first place.

Our sole objective for this trade was clear-cut.

Hence, I just admired the surrounding landscape, shaking off my thoughts.

It was the first time I entered the elves' territory, and it was beautiful enough to be described as radiant.

Buildings and roads were constructed from pure white stone. Trees had been strategically planted to create lush landscapes, and vibrant flowers adorned artfully designed bridges throughout the territory.

And then, before me stood the World Tree.

Looking at that tall and upright tree, I simultaneously felt its grandiosity and magnificence.

Now, I could understand why the elves believed that the world would come to an end if the World Tree died.

"..."

I chose to ignore the voice that once again resonated in my mind.

'...Did I ever think I'd see all of this without her?'

Beside me, Ner kept stealing anxious glances in my direction.

When I raised an eyebrow in question, she averted her gaze.

"...?"

A sense of unease began to well up within me at her sudden change in demeanor. Worried, I asked her...

"What do you think, seeing the World Tree?"

...now my companion.

Ner glanced at me sideways.

"...I've seen it before, a long time ago."

She spoke with a firmness in her voice, yet she couldn't completely hide her melancholy.

"..."

In the meantime, Adam Hyung made eye contact with some older elves at the end of the road.

They were most likely the elders. And even though there was no announcement about subjugators or subjugation, they must have been watching all of our actions from atop their walls, anyway.

As we got close to them, Adam Hyung dismounted, and the rest of the Red Flames - except for the injured - followed his lead.

I extended my hand to Ner so she could dismount as well.