CHAPTER 622

【 CELEBRATION AND BARBECUE 】

—

The opening ceremony of the Harvest Festival had finally drawn to a close. The vast crowd of Chosen Ones who had gathered in Florence quickly began dispersing, scattering in all directions with remarkable speed.

Watching their figures dart away, Tonglu was momentarily taken aback. He blinked, then turned to the young elf girl at his side and asked, “Lady Little Salty Cat, what are they rushing off to do?”

“Ah, is that not obvious? After receiving the blessing of the Goddess, they want to make the most of it and… well, strengthen themselves while the effect lasts.”

“Strengthen themselves?”

Tonglu raised an eyebrow.

He recalled the scenes he had witnessed during the battle, when the Chosen Ones advanced in level after slaying demons.

These Chosen Ones seemed particularly fond of honing themselves through battle. Moreover, they often managed to achieve breakthroughs in combat, especially those at the silver rank.

Of course, Tonglu was unaware that this was due to a restriction placed upon the Chosen Ones. Specifically, only those who are at level 40 were permitted to take part in the missions within the Sealed Lands. Fully-leveled iron-ranked players could not advance any further, so only silver-ranked players below the cap were able to gain levels.

“Are they going off to seek enemies to fight?” Tonglu asked.

“Pretty much, yeah. For you, Sir Tonglu, the Goddess’s blessing is probably just a nice boost to your body. But for us, it is not only a chance to accumulate experience and grow stronger, it is also an opportunity to gain status and wealth.”

Little Salty Cat explained further.

“Status and wealth? Do the elves pursue such things as well? I always thought your people were free of such desire…”

Tonglu was taken aback, visibly surprised.

Little Salty Cat shrugged.

“Who in this world is truly free of desire? Besides, we are not elves in the traditional sense. We are the Goddess’s Chosen Ones. Apart from our appearance, we really are no different from humans.”

She said it in a light, almost careless tone, as though such a distinction carried little weight to her. Yet Tonglu frowned slightly upon hearing this. The legendary dwarf warrior shook his head, clearly disagreeing.

“Lady Little Salty Cat, I do not share that view. Do not compare yourselves to those cunning and greedy humans. You are entirely different from them.”

“I know that many of you were once half-humans who became elves through bloodline purification, but you are nothing like those selfish and deceitful scums.”

“Believe me lass, no other race shows the same unity and discipline as yours. None confront evil with such courage, and no one possesses the endless creativity and ingenuity that you do…”

Little Salty Cat: “…”

She froze, staring at Tonglu in disbelief.

Wait a minute… when did our image become so lofty?

Tonglu sighed. Casting a glance at the hot air balloons drifting above, scattering petals like a gentle rain onto the celebrating crowd, he continued in a solemn tone, ȓ𝐚Nồ฿Ɛ𝐒

“Perhaps the elves of today may have changed greatly compared to the past, but in my eyes, all of those changes have been for the better.”

He let the words linger before pressing on. “Some say your kind has grown bloodthirsty and cruel, but I believe that only applies when you are facing evil. And even then, I see it not as cruelty, but as resolve.”

His expression darkened slightly as memories seemed to surface. “Mercy without principle is not true kindness. That, I think, was one of the reasons the elves fell into decline in the first place. Even I know that there were those who took advantage of your compassion, twisting your mercy into a weakness to exploit.”

Then his tone softened again. “Yet despite this, you have not abandoned kindness or friendship. Toward your allies, you are warmer, more open, and more sincere than the elves I once knew. That sincerity… it is what moves me most.”

He paused, gathering his thoughts, his gaze distant as if he were speaking not only to her but to the memory of an entire people.

“In my view, you are like a people reborn from the ashes of suffering, reforged by hardship into something stronger. Perhaps the long years of decline have caused you to forget who you once were. But I say this to you, Lady Little Salty Cat—be confident. The elven race is a great race, once the race that led the entire world of the previous era.”

“You may have declined in the past, but now, you have risen once again, and you are doing even better.”

Little Salty Cat: “…”

No, no, no… this is only because of the restrictions of the game system.

Besides, you dwarves are not even hostile NPCs. So naturally, everyone wants to curry favor with you.

I bet if you were like those adventurers we encounter from the Shattered Divine Kingdom Dungeon, most players would immediately lose their minds in excitement, shoving divine statues bombs in your face within minutes!

Heck, even the weeds where that legendary-rank Orc died have already grown half a meter tall…

The elf girl’s expression turned peculiar as she muttered inwardly.

But she kept those thoughts to herself, knowing full well that even if she tried to voice them, her words would simply be censored.

In the past, certain keywords such as World Tree would be instantly filtered out, vanishing the moment they were spoken. However, after the most recent updates, the system had become noticeably more sophisticated in its handling of such things.

In fact, many players had already tested it: whenever they spoke with non-elven NPCs, any mention of the players’ true origins or the existence of the game system would automatically be translated into something else entirely.

For instance, the phrase “I come from another universe” would be automatically adjusted to “I come from another realm,” while “I am actually human” would be translated into “I was once of mixed human blood.”

The developers of Elven Kingdom never gave an official explanation for this, but some veteran players speculated that it served as a narrative safeguard, designed to preserve immersion and prevent players from breaking the illusion of the world.

Others suggested a different reason. Unlike traditional games, the NPCs of Elven Kingdom were not bound to rigid, pre-written scripts. Instead, through the integration of advanced artificial intelligence, their personalities and storylines were permitted to evolve organically, adapting both to player actions and to the broader unfolding narrative.

Under such conditions, disruptive elements that might significantly interfere with the progression of the main storyline would naturally need to be filtered out or adjusted.

In other words, this was the developers’ method of maintaining narrative control, thus preventing the game’s storyline from derailing due to the antics of some mischievous players.

In light of the introduction of the Demirealm of Ouros, many further speculated that, according to the official lore, the avatars of the players were in fact elves whose bloodlines had undergone purification.

This was, of course, only speculation.

Naturally, after running for years, Elven Kingdom had expanded the realm of Seigües into an increasingly vast and lifelike world. As such, speculation such as “Is this truly a real world?” or “Was this game created by aliens?” had circulated among the player base since its inception.

At the same time, many players regarded such rumors as indirect evidence of the game’s success.

After all, the developers’ stated goal was to construct a world so authentic that players would experience complete immersion.

Therefore, the very fact that such questions were being raised was, in itself, proof of that achievement.

It was, without doubt, a groundbreaking masterpiece, and the accompanying slogan was far from an exaggeration.

As for Tonglu’s lofty perception of the Chosen Ones, Little Salty Cat had long since abandoned any attempt to correct him.

Nevertheless, being regarded in such a manner was not without its advantages.

After all, she still had her eyes set upon the markets and raw materials of the dwarven kingdom, not to mention their renowned mastery of forging techniques.

With this in mind, Little Salty Cat smiled sweetly and said, “By the way, Sir Tonglu, have you considered working with my guild, Moe Moe Committee to establish a stable trade caravan?”

“A caravan? Certainly,” Tonglu replied with a smile.

He was already thoroughly captivated by the elves’ unique products. Even setting aside everything else, their liquor, Erguotou, alone was reason enough for the dwarven kingdom to dispatch caravans.

“Let us continue our conversation as we walk. The festival parade is about to begin,” Little Salty Cat said as she rose from her seat and stretched her limbs.

Tonglu nodded, drained the liquor in his glass in one gulp, and rose to his feet as well.

Together, the elven maiden and the dwarven warrior departed from the plaza, their conversation drifting naturally toward the prospects of future trade and cooperation between their peoples.

The opening ceremony of the festival had concluded, and now the grand parade was about to begin.

Although many of the Chosen Ones had already dispersed, the city remained lively and full of cheer.

As he conversed with the elven girl, Tonglu also took in the celebration unfolding around him.

Handsome and graceful elves danced and sang to the melodious strains of elven music, their movements elegant and flowing like streams under moonlight. Each one wore a joyful smile, and the Chosen Ones who had joined in radiated with an excitement that blended seamlessly into the festive atmosphere.

From the elegant white pavilions on either side of the street, petals drifted down in gentle showers, carried by the breeze like falling snow. Playful elven children dashed across the cobblestone paths, their laughter ringing like silver bells as they eagerly offered fruits and pastries to passing travelers.

Everywhere, there was something to catch the eye—magical performances that dazzled the senses, nimble acrobatics that drew cheers, bards that lifted spirits, and endless waves of laughter and applause. At the very heart of it all stretched the grand parade procession.

Leading the way were the priests of the Church of Life, followed by elves dressed in traditional ceremonial robes. Surrounded by the Chosen Ones, they played cheerful elven tunes, performed captivating ritual dances, and bore aloft the statue of the Goddess of Life, Eve, as they advanced down the long streets.

Above, brilliant magical fireworks blossomed one after another, scattering light across the city. Though less magnificent than those of the opening ceremony, their colors painted the sky in dazzling hues, heightening the jubilant mood of the crowd.

The atmosphere was so infectious that even Tonglu found himself smiling, his heart lightened.

As he walked, he chatted leisurely with the petite elf maiden at his side, occasionally pausing to accept small gifts from the residents who greeted him along the way. Each offering was given with a bright smile or a few cheerful words, and Tonglu, though somewhat overwhelmed, made sure to return their kindness with polite thanks.

Before long, his arms were already piled high with colorful fruits and baskets of pastries.

Stowing the gifts into his storage ring, he chuckled wryly.

“This… is far too generous.”

“Well, it is the Harvest Festival after all. And you, Sir, are our esteemed guest from afar. Elven hospitality is no empty boast,” Little Salty Cat replied with a cheerful smile.

In fact, she too had received an overwhelming number of gifts, even more than Tonglu himself.

Some of the elderly elves occasionally approached her directly, offering thanks. This left Tonglu rather amazed.

“The residents here seem to hold you in very high regard,” he remarked.

Little Salty Cat’s gaze softened.

As she placed another gift into her storage ring, she explained, “It is not just me. Nearly all Chosen Ones are respected among the elves… Of course, since our guild once led the major reconstruction efforts here in Florence, most of the residents here know me personally.”

Tonglu nodded and continued conversing with the elven maiden as they walked.

At the same time, he could not help but let his gaze wander across the city.

Although he had explored Florence the day before, the city during the festival was an entirely different sight compared to before the celebration began.

Today’s vibrant atmosphere far surpassed that of yesterday, and the dazzling array of performances left him almost overwhelmed.

In addition, the blessing of the Goddess of Life had completely transformed Florence. Amidst the richness of autumn, the city now brimmed with renewed vitality.

As the festival procession progressed, the number of elves in the city steadily increased. Tonglu even noticed quite a few Chosen Ones who had initially departed but had since returned.

“Heh, it seems the festival is truly popular. Many have come back again,” he remarked with a smile.

Little Salty Cat, however, glanced at them with an odd expression.

“No… I bet those guys just discovered that the city residents are handing out free gifts,” she muttered under her breath.

“What?”

“Nothing…”

༺⟐༻

The two continued their walk along the streets, discussing plans for cooperation, the customs of the elves, and recent rumors circulating in the continent, all while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Unknowingly, time slipped by, and dusk arrived.

At this point, the parade had already ended, yet Florence’s excitement was only just beginning.

The evening festivities were even more splendid.

As the sky gradually darkened, magical fireworks once again lit up the heavens with dazzling colors. With nightfall, the entire city came alight with lanterns and torches.

The faint, shimmering glow cast over the beautiful elven city gave it a dreamlike quality, akin to a city that never slept, awash in radiance.

The central plaza, which had been cleared of the seats after the ceremony, quickly filled again as people gathered for the bonfire celebration. At the center of the square, a huge fire was built, its flames rising high while music, laughter, and the sound of drums spread through the crowd.

Tonglu, as an honored guest, was invited to take part in the celebration. He noticed, however, that most of the participants this time were Chosen Ones. Their outfits and behavior made them stand out clearly from the native elves. Compared to the calm and graceful atmosphere of the daytime, the Chosen Ones were much louder and more energetic, and they showed a particular enthusiasm in welcoming foreign guests like him.

The food also surpassed Tonglu’s expectations once again.

A wide variety of dishes were offered—roasted meats, pastries, fresh fruits, and other delicacies he had never seen before. Each one was unique in flavor, and all of them were remarkably delicious.

The ingredients were plentiful, though most were ostensibly vegetarian. At least, that was how it appeared on the surface.

However, under Little Salty Cat’s guidance, Tonglu managed to slip into a small circle of Chosen Ones and was introduced to the true highlight of the bonfire celebration—the grilled barbecue meat.

That, at least, was how Little Salty Cat described it.

The assortment of grilled meats was diverse, primarily sourced from the magical beasts of the Elven Forest, though there were also lamb and beef raised by the Chosen Ones themselves.

The idea of elves raising livestock struck Tonglu as odd, yet after speaking with them, he discovered to his surprise that they possessed considerable experience in animal husbandry.

Having once been an adventurer, Tonglu was no stranger to roasted meat, a staple for those traveling the wilds.

Yet the skill displayed by the Chosen Ones far exceeded his imagination.

The seasonings they used were both mysterious and delicious. The skewers of meat emerged golden and glistening, with a light spiciness that mingled with savory fragrance. Crisp on the outside, tender within, the meat was fresh, succulent, and unlike anything Tonglu had ever tasted.

He especially favored the lamb skewers prepared by a pair of brothers.

According to them, the lambs had been raised on magically cultivated “Maniya Wheat.” They selected cuts with a perfect balance of fat and lean meat, ensuring that the first bite released piping hot juices, rich and fragrant.

The marinade was also a special blend, incorporating honey and rare herbs from the Elven Forest. This both removed the gaminess and enhanced the natural flavor of the lamb.

The meat chunks were skewered on branches of magical fragrant wood from the forest, alternating fat and lean to achieve the finest taste.

The brothers revealed that even before becoming elves, they had been masters of barbecuing meat.

In Tonglu’s eyes, their skill had already reached the level of artistry.

Biting into a steaming skewer, hot juices dripped as tender fat melted in his mouth. The lean meat, laced with tendon, was soft, savory, and full of satisfying chew.

When paired with a coat of spicy sauce and a strong draught of liquor, it became an unparalleled delight.

Tonglu ate heartily, gulping down the fine wine offered by the Chosen Ones, brimming with joy.

At that moment, he almost wished never to leave.

“Ah, grilled meat and fine ale… this is the very essence of dwarven romance!”

Tonglu voiced his admiration.

Clinking glasses with a male Chosen One seated beside him at the bonfire, he listened to their music while savoring the food.

Until… several flustered Chosen Ones suddenly rushed over.

“Quick, put it away! Put it away! The priest are coming!”

Under Tonglu’s puzzled gaze, the cheerful Chosen Ones immediately changed their expressions, hastily clearing the barbecue site—hiding the grilled meat in particular—while laying out only vegetarian ingredients.

Even the half-eaten skewer in Tonglu’s hand was snatched away by Little Salty Cat.

Tonglu: “…”

All around him, the Chosen Ones moved in a flurry, scrambling to cover up the “crime scene” before the approaching priests could notice.

At their head was Samuel Galewind, the senior priest in charge of Florence.

Samuel paused a short distance away, lifting his head slightly as he sniffed the air. For the briefest moment, his expression shifted into a peculiar look, as though he had caught the scent of something. His sharp eyes swept over a few of the Chosen Ones, who avoided his gaze and scratched their heads with sheepish grins.

After a measured pause, he turned his attention toward Tonglu. His stern expression softened, and his tone became warm and welcoming.

“Lord Tonglu, how are you finding the festival so far?”

“It is excellent,” Tonglu replied in admiration.

“I am glad to hear that, Lord Tonglu.”

Then, with a faint trace of apology in his tone, the elderly priest continued, “I must beg your pardon for coming to you so late. The church has been overwhelmed with duties throughout the festival, and I could not leave sooner.”

Samuel inclined his head respectfully before adding,

“Lady Alice has already reviewed your documents. If you are willing, we may proceed to the temple now to discuss the details. That said, it is late in the day, and if you feel weary, we can always continue tomorrow.”

At those words, Tonglu’s spirit immediately lifted. His eyes brightened, and a smile tugged at his lips. He gave a hearty chuckle, waving one hand dismissively.

“No, no, I am not tired. I am a Legendary-rank expert, after all. Such things do not trouble me.”

Then, his expression gradually turned solemn, his earlier levity fading into determination.

“Please, lead the way. I am prepared.”

༺⟐༻

Within the Temple of Life in Florence.

Still dressed in her ceremonial robes, Alice approached the central office and knocked gently on the door.

“Lady Zero, Tonglu, the esteemed Sky Knight of the Dwarven Kingdom, has arrived at the temple. Sir Li Mu, representative of the Chosen Ones, Lord Thranduil, leader of the Primordial Elves, and Lord Taylor, representative of the Ouros natives, are all also waiting in the main hall.”

She spoke with reverence.

For a brief moment, silence lingered beyond the door.

Then a cool, clear voice replied after a minute, “I understand.”

The wooden door opened with a soft creak.

Finally, Zero emerged, clad in her black skirt armor. Her expression remained impassive, betraying no hint of emotion. With an almost unnoticeable motion, she discreetly brushed the corner of her lips before speaking evenly,

“Let us go together.”

Without another word, she turned and strode toward the main hall, her footsteps steady against the polished floor.

Alice inclined her head in acknowledgment and moved to follow. Yet as she closed the office door behind her, she suddenly paused, sniffing the air.

“Hm? Why does it smell faintly like barbecue…” she murmured curiously to herself.

After a moment, she shook her head. The elven saintess then turned and continued on, following in Zero’s footsteps.

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