After some small talk, the two began discussing the matter at hand.
Alva waved a hand to open a Demiplane passage, then gestured invitingly. "God-Bestowed Count, please follow me."
"Then I'll gladly accept, Pastor Alva."
The moment he passed through the passage, a rich scent of nature washed over him.
As the light before his eyes faded and he sensed his surroundings, Velin discovered that he was standing atop a towering ancient tree, with a platform woven from leaves beneath his feet.
Looking into the distance, he saw a boundless sea of forest stretching out before him.
Layer upon layer of treetops resembled green waves, extending all the way to the horizon.
A breeze swept through, making the entire forest rustle as emerald waves rolled across it.
In the distance, several irregular lakes lay embedded within the forest, their rippling waters reflecting the white clouds high in the sky.
Behind Velin, Alva stood quietly without disturbing him.
After a while, Velin came back to his senses. He turned to Alva with a faintly apologetic expression. "I neglected you."
"It's nothing."
Alva wore a gentle smile, then asked curiously, "You look very tired. Have you run into something troubling lately?"
"Nothing troubling." Velin shook his head. "I've just been immersed in studying recently and haven't had any time to rest."
"After being so busy, I couldn't help getting lost in such beautiful scenery."
"How long can you rest this time?"
Velin looked somewhat helpless. "Four hours, I suppose."
Alva looked surprised. "I didn't expect someone as important as you to work so diligently. It seems I'll have to work twice as hard after I return, or I might not even live long enough to witness your glorious days."
Seeing Alva's unexpectedly flirtatious side, Velin could not help teasing him. "I like