Blake recounted their journey, explaining a mysterious magical mishap that transported them to this new world, carefully omitting the full details about the mansion.
He spoke of the sudden appearance of the wolves and his Adaptation Sage Authority, carefully leaving out sensitive details about their full capabilities and potential weaknesses.
Eryndor listened intently, occasionally nodding but offering no comments. The other elves remained silent, their expressions a mixture of curiosity and suspicion.
When Blake finished, Eryndor spoke, his tone thoughtful. "Your story is... intriguing. If true, it would explain much about your presence here. But we will see what our elders make of it."
Blake simply nodded, understanding that earning their full trust would take time.
For now, he was content to take one step at a time, knowing that Ayame's watchful eyes were always on him through the Surveillance Orb.
If ever they were in danger, Blake wasn't worried since Ayame was in the mansion and the power of the mansion spirit along with Ayame's should be enough to deal with most problems.
Eryndor, deep in thought, pondered the implications of Blake's presence. 'The timing of this human's arrival is suspicious. The Holy Church announced their hero summoning plans a month ago, and they should have been summoned around this week. Could there be a connection? Is this human somehow related to that summoning?'
He kept his suspicions to himself, not wanting to reveal too much.
Instead, he focused on the task at hand. "You will come with us, human. Our elders will decide your fate. Any false move and you will regret it."
Blake nodded, knowing that resistance would only make things worse. "I understand. I will cooperate."
As Blake agreed to cooperate, the elves kept a close watch on him as they led him through the forest toward the core area of the Mystic Forest and the Elf Kingdom.
As they walked, he noticed the Surveillance Orb hovering nearby, capturing every moment for Ayame.
Ayame's voice came through the orb again, her concern evident. "Blake, what's happening?"
Blake glanced at Eryndor and the other elves before responding, "I'm being taken to their kingdom. They want their elders to decide my fate. Don't worry, I'll be careful."
The elves eyed the orb warily but did not interfere further.
Eryndor, deep in thought, wondered about the true nature of Blake and his wife. 'If they are indeed otherworlders summoned at the same time as the heroes, what role will they play in the events to come? Are they allies or potential threats?'
These questions would remain unanswered for now, but Eryndor was determined to find out as they made their way through the forest toward the heart of the Elf Kingdom.
The journey through the Mystic Forest was long and arduous.
The towering trees and dense foliage made the path treacherous, but the elves moved with a grace and ease that spoke of their deep connection to the forest.
Blake, aided by his enhanced abilities, kept pace with them, all the while feeling Ayame's watchful eyes through the Surveillance Orb.
Finally, after hours of walking, they emerged into a clearing where the magnificent city of the elves stood.
The sight was breathtaking. Tall, slender buildings made of wood and stone seamlessly blended with the natural landscape. The city seemed to glow with a soft, ethereal light, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers.
Eryndor gestured for Blake to follow him closely as they approached the grand hall where the elders convened. "Remember, human, any sign of deceit and you will face the consequences."
Blake nodded, his expression serious. "I understand."
As they entered the hall, Blake couldn't help but feel a sense of awe.
The interior was just as beautiful as the exterior, with intricate carvings and glowing crystals illuminating the space.
The elders, seated in a semi-circle, looked at Blake with a mixture of curiosity and caution.
Eryndor stepped forward and bowed respectfully. "Esteemed elders, I bring before you a human who claims to have arrived in our world through a magical mishap. He seeks our understanding and aid."
The eldest of the council, a wise-looking elf with silver hair and piercing blue eyes, spoke first. "Human, state your name and purpose in our realm."
Blake took a deep breath, his voice steady as he addressed the council. "My name is Blake. I arrived in this world unexpectedly, and I seek to understand it and find a way back to my home. I mean no harm to your people."
The elders exchanged glances, their expressions thoughtful.
The eldest spoke again. "Your story is indeed intriguing, Blake. However, we must deliberate on what is to be done with you. Until then, you will be our guest and will not leave the city grounds."
Blake bowed his head slightly in acknowledgment. "Thank you for your consideration."
As the council members examined Blake, one of the elders pointed to his attire. "Your clothing is unlike anything we have seen. It confirms your claim of being an otherworlder. However, this does not explain the true nature of your presence here."
As the conversation continued, one of the council members voiced a concern about the Surveillance Orb. "This orb you carry can transmit information over long distances. How do we know it is not being used to spy on us and gather intelligence for some ulterior motive?"
Blake raised his hands in a gesture of peace. "The Surveillance Orb is simply a means for my wife and me to stay in contact. We have no intention of using it to spy on or harm your people."
The elder who had spoken narrowed his eyes but nodded slowly. "We will allow its use for now, but it will be closely monitored. Any sign of misuse, and it will be confiscated."
Blake nodded in agreement. "Understood. Thank you for your trust."
Eryndor guided Blake out of the hall. "You will be given quarters to rest. Do not stray from them until summoned."