If the source of the malice really was in Liao Leaf Town, the Altar was the most likely place. The Sprite had sensed something faintly wrong when it risked rushing into town to steal Duwak's gift box, but the feeling had vanished in an instant. It had more important things to do then, and it could not be certain.
Since arriving in Liao Leaf Town, the Sprite had been unusually quiet. Nestled in the loop of hair sticking up from San San's head, it only swayed now and then as Ye Chuqi walked. It was trying hard to sense something too. As a Reedleaf Elf, it ought to have been more sensitive to malice.
Red Beard raised an eyebrow at Ye Chuqi with interest. "Reedleaf Elves are real?"
Ye Chuqi copied his expression and raised an eyebrow back. "Captain, you believe in fairy tales meant to fool children?"
Red Beard: "..."
Seeing him at a loss for words only delighted her more. "Captain, that look on your face is priceless."
Red Beard sighed. She was all grown up now, and he could no longer reach out and ruffle her hair whenever he pleased. He gave her a sidelong glance and said gravely, "If you need my help with anything, just say so."
"Don't worry, Captain. I won't hesitate."
The Altar showed obvious signs of repair. Whoever had done the work had taken great care, but the contrast between old and new was too stark, leaving it looking mottled.
She felt no malice.
Even the loop of hair atop San San's head gave a little wobble. The Reedleaf Elf was confused. It had only sensed a trace of malice while hurrying past the Altar before. Now that it had returned, it felt nothing else.
"San San?"
"Over there. There's a fragment