The Elves had been meticulous in surveying the island and had discovered a narrow but deep river, well hidden between stretches of primeval forest.
Since this waterway led very close to the Main Temple, only the Elves' inner circle knew of it.
That Luo Laike was allowed to approach by boat along this route showed how highly he was valued and trusted.
Throughout the journey, Luo Laike remained silent, watching the scenery pass as he pondered.
In truth, Luo Laike had little confidence in the Elves' prospects. But like those pirates, he had no way back.
Yet however much he fought alongside the Elves, he was still human, not an Elf.
The thought left a bitter taste.
They went ashore and traveled through the forest for a while. By the time they reached their destination, evening had fallen, and the setting sun bathed the world in light.
The group walked along a stone-paved road. Luo Laike heard his footsteps echoing far into the distance and felt an oppressive weight, but he could only keep it to himself.
Farther along, they encountered several Elven warriors and mages.
The Elf guiding him presented a badge. The Elves who had stopped them for questioning looked at Luo Laike in puzzlement and hesitated briefly before letting them pass.
From this alone, Luo Laike keenly perceived that the Elves remained deeply wary even of humans who shared their faith.
But a rich, sacred presence was already spilling out from ahead. The Elven Temple stood before them, a temple Anion had built himself. Though modest in size, it had twenty tiers.
"Master Luo Laike, please enter. The archbishop is waiting for you inside," said the Elf who had brought him, going no farther.
Luo Laike hesitated, then stepped inside.
Anion's temple was exquisite and grand. The