Chapter 631: Chapter 631 - The Path of Twisted Trees

Chapter 631: Chapter 631 - The Path of Twisted Trees



"Broken!" Pawpaw called from a distance. "We are surrounded on all sides."

The dense fog that had cloaked the forest began to dissipate, revealing a path lined with tall, dark trees. Their gnarled branches stretched out like welcoming arms.

With the fog gone, a clear path now lay before them.

"They welcomed us!" Aerin said.

The trees had been bent and twisted into a grand archway, forming a tunnel-like entrance.

Broken shook his head, still grappling with the sight, before stepping forward to follow Aerin's lead.

After several minutes of walking, they noticed a faint light ahead. Broken squinted as its brightness grew, forcing him to shield his eyes. As they emerged from the wooded tunnel, the scene before him came into focus.

Scattered throughout the clearing were around a dozen elves, their pointed ears making their identity unmistakable. At the center stood an older elf. By human standards, he appeared to be in his fifties, but Broken knew he had likely lived for centuries.

Among the group were several females and what appeared to be knights-elves armed with swords and bows.

Surprisingly, the elves' attire was more modern than Broken had anticipated. Rather than the flowing robes he had imagined, they wore functional armor and leather clothing, practical for life in the forest yet unexpectedly sophisticated compared to the Faeries he had encountered before.

"Welcome, Aerin, my beloved niece!" the elder elf exclaimed.

"Uncle Zeno..." Aerin murmured.

She quickly stepped forward wrapping her arms around him.

"Ha ha ha... I've truly missed you," Zeno said.

Zeno's gaze shifted to Broken, studying him.

Aerin stepped back toward Broken.

"So... who is this man you've brought with you?" Zeno asked. "A human, a player... and someone beloved by the goddess," he added.

Aerin nodded. "He is Broken," she said. "A Baron in the Dissidia Kingdom, and someone who has made many contributions to the kingdom."

Broken's brow furrowed slightly at Zeno's words, particularly the mention of being beloved by the goddess.

Does he know?

Does he know that I'm the Champion of Sloth?

"Yes, of course, he is special," Zeno said with a knowing smile. "But enough about that for now. Why don't we continue this conversation inside? I'm sure you've been longing to return to this small village, haven't you?"

"Yes, Uncle," Aerin replied with a gentle nod.

him.

"Alright, thank you," Broken said with a nod.

Satisfied, Yuna excused herself with another bow and quietly left the room, leaving Broken to settle in.

Broken sat comfortably in a high-backed wooden chair, savoring the fresh air that surrounded him. The soothing ambiance of the forest was almost hypnotic, and he felt as though he could easily drift off to sleep.

The Forest Elves here had clearly established a dominion that rivaled the power and structure of any kingdom. Their knights were leagues above even the formidable Knights of the

Moonlight Fae.

Moreover, this tribe of Forest Elves held a unique connection to the Dissidia Kingdom. One of their families had married into the royal line, producing a daughter-a princess-destined to inherit the throne of the kingdom.

It was clear that this tribe of Forest Elves and the upper echelons of the Dissidia Kingdom shared a close and mutually beneficial relationship, their ties bound by both blood and

influence.

From his observations, Broken could tell that Aerin held a significant position among the Forest Elves of this village. She was evidently one of their highest-ranking members, likely

due to her lineage.

Her uncle, presumably the tribe's leader, had welcomed her warmly, despite the loss of her mother—a gesture that underscored her importance.

Still, Broken couldn't help but wonder about the true purpose of Aerin's visit.

None of her knights had accompanied her, as though this journey carried a secretive intent. Yet, he hadn't pressed her for answers, choosing instead to trust her judgment.

As hours passed and the sky darkened, a knock echoed from the door. The door opened to reveal Aerin, a warm smile gracing her face.

"So," she began, "are you enjoying your stay here? I have good news for you."

***

(Author's Note:)

That's it for November 2024! From the epic showdown with the Eternal Flame Elaine to the

creation of the Vensalor Guild, this month has been a wild ride.

I hope you've enjoyed every step of the journey!

What's coming in December? I can't spoil it, but let me just say-it's going to be the best Arc

yet.

Oh, and here's a little hint for you—just a few keywords, no context: Capital, Demon, Dragon. December's going to be Legendary!