"Do you have a name?" Allen regarded the beautiful woman with a quizzical expression, his smile radiating gentleness.
He found himself intrigued by this woman.
As she had mentioned, she embodied the essence of the life crystal ball.
All he comprehended was that encountering the soul of the power crystal ball was one of the requirements to get an opportunity to undergo the crystal ball's power tests.
As the term implies, this trial served to determine whether the chosen individual was suited to acquire its immense power, thus becoming its partner.
Successfully passing this trial guaranteed the acquisition of exceptional power from the power crystal ball—an outcome akin to obtaining a treasure.
One can scarcely imagine the magnitude of possessing a power crystal ball, which is akin to drawing an incredible card from a deck.
Hence, Allen's curiosity soared, driving his desire to acquaint himself with the life crystal ball's soul.
He wasn't feigning, as his earnest desire lay in securing the life ball's endorsement and harnessing the crystal ball's life-bestowing power.
In response to Allen's inquiry, the woman's smile softened into a gentle giggle.
"You certainly don't veil your thoughts." The woman possessed a natural insight into Allen's intentions, prompting her to jest lightly.
Unperturbed, Allen had no qualms about revealing his emotions and aspirations without pretense.
In truth, it seemed more prudent to lay his intentions bare rather than cloak them behind a facade of artifice.
After all, the life crystal ball's acquisition defied conventional understanding.
Presenting a facade of guilelessness would be unwise, especially if the woman before him could discern his innermost sentiments despite any effort to conceal them.
"Absolutely, but before I can secure your approval, I yearn to understand you better." Allen chuckled, his teacup finding its way to his lips.
The woman's astonishment was fleeting, soon giving way to a soft laugh.
"I've never encountered someone so assured of gaining the life crystal ball's approval." Playfully shaking her head, she found this sight quite refreshing.
Typically, anyone undergoing a trial by the power crystal ball bore a solemn countenance, their disposition devoid of relaxation.
However, the adolescent before her exhibited an exceptional calmness, markedly distinct from any individuals she had encountered.
"Very well, as I find solace and affinity in your demeanor, I shall pose three fundamental questions to gauge your mettle as the test to get the life crystal ball." Her smile retained its gentleness as she brought her teacup to her lips.
Upon hearing this unexpected offer, Allen experienced a jolt of surprise, doubting whether he had misheard.
"Are you truly serious, or is this a joke?" His brows knitted as he directed a questioning gaze at the woman.
In response, the woman's smile grew fainter as she tilted her head, studying Allen.
"Indeed, why would I deceive you?" Resting her cheek upon her hand, she maintained her scrutiny of Allen's perplexed reaction.
After a deep breath, Allen affirmed his consent to the woman's terms with a resolute nod.
"If this is indeed a test intended to secure your approval, I am prepared to undertake it." His resolute crimson eyes exuded an air of firm confidence.
The woman acknowledged his declaration with a slight nod, a gentle smile gracing her captivating lips.
"Very well, then I shall initiate the first inquiry." She took another sip of her tea, her eyelids drooping slightly as if lost in contemplation.
In silence, Allen waited, his mind wholly focused on addressing the forthcoming triad of questions.
After a brief pause, the woman gently lowered her cup, her gaze resting lightly on Allen.
"How did you locate me?" Her query was immediate, and Allen took a momentary pause before answering.
"I discovered you within the confines of a grand altar, surrounded by eight colossal statues." Allen responded with an air of nonchalance.
Upon receiving Allen's answer, the woman nodded subtly, signifying her concurrence.
"Second question: how long has the world transpired since the era of the first summoned heroes?" The woman's eyes observed Allen with a curious glint.
"As for the precise duration, I lack knowledge, for the historical annals have relinquished any account of the era of the first heroes, remaining shrouded in obscurity. However, by my estimation, it should span more than thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of years," Allen elaborated with meticulous detail.
Nevertheless, the woman's inquiries deviated from his expectations, prompting him to wonder whether she was jesting or merely engaging in playful banter.
Naturally, he refrained from reproaching or expressing his internal musings.
Once again, the woman nodded subtly, her gaze lowering as if absorbed in contemplation.
Subsequently, her gaze lifted, her expression gentle as it settled on Allen.
"Two queries have elapsed, and we now approach the final inquiry. Successfully answering this question shall signify our agreement to form a contract." The woman's smile directed warmth toward Allen.
Acknowledging her words, Allen readied himself to receive the last question.
"The third question," the woman paused, her unwavering gaze fixed upon Allen.
"What is your intention behind obtaining the power crystal ball?"