"Emperor" had refused so decisively that even Alger was somewhat surprised. He had not intended to become some so-called "helper," but neither had he planned to refuse.
Instead, he had intended to respond in a manner of neither agreeing nor refusing.
However, out of consideration for their relative strength, Alger had kept himself in the role of guide and subordinate throughout this expedition.
Therefore, although he did not approve of "Emperor's" handling of the matter, he did not voice any objection.
That aged and solemn voice seemingly had not expected Hobart to refuse so thoroughly either.
After a long while, it asked, "Child, do you not know how great a disaster Evil God Descends would bring upon this world?"
"It is precisely because I know that I refuse." Hobart said, "just now, I noticed the scepter and ring in your hand, which reminded me of the murals I saw in the temple.
"I also noticed that among these skeletons before us, there are two more rings identical to the one on your hand. If there is nothing wrong with my spirituality, then judging from the Extraordinary Characteristics beside them, these two ring-wearing elves were both Sequence 5 before their deaths.
"In terms of power, I believe such rings should be symbols of leadership among the Elven Race.
"And the scepter in your hand represents the authority of the highest leader."
The aged voice said, "Your guess is correct. This ring carries symbolic significance beyond your imagination.
"But what does that have to do with refusing my request?"
"It has a great deal to do with it!" Hobart said to Alger as he crouched down. "For example, this Elven Race Extraordinary Characteristic. You are a Beyonder of the Sailor pathway—feel it and see whether this is a Sequence 5 Extraordinary Characteristic."