Noticing the strange expression on [Deception Apostle]'s face, John became even more puzzled.
However, the Apostle's name gave a clue about his abilities, likely related to base desires, especially considering the changes in the Elf Queen...
"I think I get it. He can control people's lust, right?"
"Seems you understand quite well. But it's more than that. This is just a side effect of his power. The specifics, I don't really know. He and I have never gotten along."
"Got it. Anyway, wait for my message. I'll find a new vessel for you as soon as possible. By the way, do you have any preferences for gender or appearance?"
"If possible, I'd prefer a handsome man, someone fitting my aura."
John: "...I'll see what I can do."
"Alright then, I'll take my leave. Without a vessel, staying too long might draw attention. Oh, and you should deal with Qing's soul quickly. Something from [Abyss] in the game world might cause errors. Use your best judgment."
With that, [Deception Apostle] vanished before John could ask more questions.
John sighed, his mood plummeting once again. Juggling three [Apostles] at once was exhausting.
"Tsk, tsk, tsk, keeping secrets, are we? Didn't know you were tangled up with [Apostles] too. I underestimated you, John."
"You heard all that?"
"Hard not to, you were practically shouting. So, when did you start getting involved with [Apostles]? From what I know, you should be enemies. They're not exactly the good guys."
John felt exasperated. Sure, the [Apostles] weren't good, but at least they admitted it.
But what about her?
To this day, John had no clue about the woman's origins. No matter how much he questioned her, she never revealed anything about herself.
John was completely in the dark.
"At least the soul crystal he gave you is real. Is it the soul of the person you wanted to resurrect?"
"Yes, it is. With this soul crystal, can you start the resurrection process?"
"I told you before, I need other materials too. The divine stone alone isn't enough."
"Alright, we'll take it slow."
John waved his hand, not wanting to dwell on the topic any longer. He turned to Elowen.
"Elowen, you saw everything earlier, right?"
"Master John, the person who crawled out of the stomach, he is..."
"He doesn't belong to this world. It's complicated. Just keep this to yourself and tell no one. The person you wanted to kill, I've taken care of him for you. Is that a fair deal?"
"No problem, Master John. I won't mention this to anyone!"
"Elowen, I understand the situation. John, thank you."
"It's nothing, just doing my duty."
Doing his duty...
Hearing those words, Elaria couldn't help but feel that John was mocking her. Did this guy think he was the ruler of the elves?
It was supposed to be just a fleeting romance!
Even though it was her... first time.
But so what? She was the Queen of the Elves! She had seen all kinds of things. Sleeping with a man was no big deal!
Elaria mentally bolstered her confidence, finally daring to meet John's gaze. But seeing his deep, ink-black eyes made her feel a bit guilty.
"My... Queen?"
Elowen's voice pulled Elaria back from her drifting thoughts. She coughed lightly in embarrassment and said, "Elowen, is there anything else?"
"My Queen, this is a personal request. Please, allow me to bury Lyra and the others in the Whispering Forest. I know they haven't made any significant contributions to the elves and don't deserve to be buried there, but... please!"
Elowen knelt heavily, lowering his head and not daring to look Elaria in the eyes. His heart was filled with anxiety.
What if the Queen refused?
After all, Lyra and the others did violate the Queen's orders by approaching the labyrinth without permission.
Even though their intentions were good, wrong was still wrong, with no excuses.
Fortunately, Elaria was not a harsh or unkind person.
"Do as you said, Elowen. I'm also very sorry about Lyra. I hope you can overcome your grief soon."
"Thank you, Your Majesty. I shall take my leave now!"
"Go ahead. John, stay here."
"Is it already time for another round?"
Elowen didn't understand what John meant by that, but Elaria clearly did.
"Shut up! This is about the labyrinth. I have some questions for you!"
John immediately quieted down under Elaria's intense gaze, shrinking back and not saying another word.
Once Elowen had left the palace and it was just John and Elaria, the Queen dropped her regal demeanor.
She lifted her gown, quickly descended the stairs, and gave John a hard kick.
"You bastard! Didn't I warn you not to say anything!"
"Ouch! That hurts! What the hell! This is domestic violence!"