229 Next Stop

Ryze's mindset is very complex. In a sense, for Ryze, steadfastly fulfilling his mission and collecting every lost World Rune is his destiny and his way of atonement.

And now, suddenly, I hear that perhaps I no longer need to atone for my sins... or rather, that the mistakes I made can be made up for.

Even if it was just a sign, Ryze still couldn't express the joy in his heart with simple words in the face of such a surprise.

Thinking it over, Ryze said:

"I don't know if what you're saying is true, but I do know something about Zilean... Coincidentally, I'm about to head to the Shurima desert, and I'll verify it along the way. If everything is as you say..."

As he spoke, he paused, a hint of determination appearing between Ryze's brows:

"Admittedly, or rather, I must admit... I still can't completely trust you. But you can rest assured about one thing: I will believe in you. If needed, I will be by your side immediately... As long as it doesn't endanger the entire Runeterra, I'm willing to help."

Hearing Ryze's words, Yuan Chen nodded and said, "That would be best... How long do you plan to stay here?"

Although Ryze's words were vague, Yuan Chen was basically certain that, given Ryze's current state, he would likely stay in Ixialia for some time.

It's not that Ryze is in bad form, but rather that Ixialia's knowledge is too vast. For Ryze, who was born and rose to prominence during the Rune Wars, much of the history before the Rune Wars was kept secret.

The relaxed academic atmosphere in Ixialia can greatly alleviate Ryze's doubts about the past.

Although he wanders, he remains a mage. Whether driven by his own desires or the call of a mission, learning is essential for Ryze.

After a moment of silence, Ryze said, "Two days... I will be leaving in two days. But in the meantime, I would like to tour the Royal Archives of Ixialia."

"That doesn't really matter."

Upon hearing Ryze's request, Qiyana casually replied, "Go ahead and look. With your level, you're more than qualified to access the royal library and read the classics of past sages... But as a price, you must also write down your thoughts."

She paused, a playful smile appearing on Qiyana lips, "Of course, you can also choose to write anything harmless... as long as it's passable, the masters responsible for reviewing the books won't object."

Hearing Qiyana's words, Ryze shook his head and said, "Your Majesty underestimates me... I would be very willing to make arcane wisdom a part of Ixialia, because it can make Runeterra stronger. In fact, I desperately want more companions by my side. But unfortunately, the price is too high..."

"Or perhaps, not many people can bear this loneliness and torment..."

A complex expression crossed Ryze's brow, then he shook his head wearily and said:

"I will write down my insights into Arcane Magic... and likewise, I will write down my ideals and mission. If possible, Your Majesty, please do not stop those scholars who wish to accompany me..."

"This world lacks people who are aware of the crisis."

"You can rest assured about that." Hearing Ryze's request, Qiyana shrugged and said, "After all, to deny you... is to deny me, this disobedient teacher!"

As she said this, Qiyana glanced helplessly at Yuan Chen beside Ryze.

Qiyana wanted Yuan Chen to stay in Ixialia... However, over the years, Qiyana had come to know her seemingly eccentric teacher all too well.

If it were anything else, it would be fine, but when it comes to matters of principle, Yuan Chen almost never backs down.

It was almost as if... as if someone had cast a spell, making Yuan Chen determined to save the world.

Even Yuan Chen himself did not reject this idea.

The reason his teacher had stayed by his side was probably to resolve Ryze's obsession with the World Rune. Now that Ryze's obsession had dissipated and he was safe, he could calmly continue to study the mysteries of "Elemental Domination" with a peaceful mind.

As a consequence, his teacher... might also have to leave.

No... we have to find a way to keep him here!

Qiyana narrowed her eyes.

Whether for public or private reasons... or even if one were to have a slightly stronger personal motive, it wouldn't matter; it's best for Yuan Chen to stay here.

Because whether it's reputation or anything else, Yuan Chen can quickly play a crucial role for Ixialia now... At least, with Yuan Chen around, even those with ulterior motives and conspirators wouldn't dare to make the slightest move.

They cannot shake Ixialia's current state while Yuan Chen is present... Therefore, this is not for my own selfish reasons, but for the stability of the entire Ixialia!

"Finally out."

Two days later, not long after Ryze left Ixialia, Yuan Chen appeared beside Ryze as a stream of light flowed from the scroll on Ryze's back.

As they walked, Ryze glanced at Yuan Chen with some surprise, then asked curiously, "Why did you leave this way? Do you dislike Ixialia... or your student?"

"I wouldn't say I hate it, it's just that I'm too familiar with it."

Upon hearing Ryze's question, Yuan Chen shook his head, then, while stretching his arms, simply said:

"I know my student's character very well... She's proud and won't admit to the softness in her heart. So, she'll definitely come up with a reasonable reason, like for Ixialia or for the whole world, to ask me to stay."

"If I insist on leaving, even if it hurts, he won't stop me..."

Upon hearing this, Ryze asked with some curiosity, "Then why do you do this...?"

"Disheveled?" Yuan Chen glanced at Ryze, then chuckled and said:

"It's okay to be a little embarrassed, at least he just dislikes me, not hates me... Leaving without saying goodbye is impolite, but at least it feels easier."

With that, Yuan Chen turned and walked to the other side of the road. "Go ahead and do your thing... wait a minute."

"Um?"

In response to Ryze's question, Yuan Chen stroked his chin and said, "My next stop is also Shurima... How about it, interested in going together, traveling as companions?"