"This is your humans' custom. We elves are children of the earth; we have no need for such things." Behind the elven leader, an elf who seemed unable to stomach Dole's words suddenly spoke up.
At those words, the expressions of several elven elders abruptly changed. At the same time, Dole looked in that direction with some surprise.
They all turned to look, only to find that it was a saintess. Her gaze was lofty and cold, her beauty icy and striking; even among the saintesses, she stood out brilliantly.
The elderly High Priest turned and glanced at Avidia. Avidia looked back, and the elven girl who had spoken instantly went pale green. She took two steps back, falling behind the other two.
Dole saw this but said nothing. They were not of the same race, so it was only natural for their beliefs to differ.
Seeing that Avidia was about to flare up, Dole let out a soft sigh and spoke first. "Compared to children nowadays, I had it far worse when I was young. Neither of my parents was by my side. At thirteen or fourteen, I crossed thousands of miles alone, from the Northern Kingdom to the Glory Empire. Only afterward did I gradually achieve what I have today. By comparison, my children are indeed far more fortunate."
Hearing Dole's words, the elves were all moved.
Avidia glanced at Dole and gave a slight bow. She was nearly as tall as Dole, perhaps even a little taller.
"Wizard Dole's life story truly is legendary. Others have no right to pass judgment on it. We will not discuss this today. We invited Wizard Dole here for two reasons. First, to express our gratitude—the dark elves have brought us immense trouble. Second, to establish diplomatic relations with Albis City