Chapter 632: Chapter 632 - Aerin’s Warmth
Aerin beamed brightly as she sat opposite Broken.
"I have some good news for you, Broken," she began. "There's a cave nearby where the Forest Elves do their mining. Inside that cave, you'll find the Mithril you're looking for."
"That's wonderful news," Broken replied. "But can an outsider like me mine these resources? Is there a price I need to pay for it? After all, Mithril is incredibly valuable."
Aerin nodded enthusiastically.
"Mithril is one of the most valuable minerals out there," she said. "It contains powerful magical properties, making it ideal for crafting weapons and armor. Unfortunately, the Forest Elves haven't been able to make good use of it for a long time-we lack skilled blacksmiths here. But from what I've heard, you're free to take as much as you need."
Broken furrowed his brow as he processed her words.
"Free?"
Mithril was a highly valuable resource, and he found it odd that they would so freely allow an outsider like him to claim it. He had no real influence over the Forest Elves, and the offer
seemed almost too generous.
Nothing in this world is truly free.
Should he be a bit more cautious?
"Alright," he said. "When can I start mining? Can I do it immediately, for example, tonight?"
"You can do it whenever you want," Aerin replied warmly. "But there's no need to rush. We still have plenty of time. I suggest taking a break and resting first. This place will look even more beautiful in the morning."
Broken nodded, her suggestion seeming reasonable.
One thing-one thing that Broken had increasingly noticed ever since Princess Alora began using her identity as Aerin-was how much cuter her way of speaking had become with this persona.
Yes, he was certain about it. The Princess Alora he knew was undeniably friendly, but she tended to speak more directly, especially when they were alone. In fact, they often ended up in heated debates over various topics, their dynamic more blunt and intense.
But this Alora-no, this Aerin-spoke with a gentler tone, her words carrying a cheerful softness that was almost disarming. Was the influence of her Aerin identity truly this strong? Could this be her original personality?
Perhaps the weight of her responsibilities as a crowned princess had forced her to harden her demeanor. After all, she was constantly under immense pressure, required to remain steadfast against the burdens and challenges closing in from all sides.
What troubled him further was the mystery surrounding their generosity.
"Broken," she murmured, "is there something that's worrying you?"
Broken hesitated. After a moment, he sighed and finally replied, "Yes, actually, there is..."
Aerin let out a soft giggle. "You know, my knights usually aren't this protective of me. They just follow my orders without question. But this is the first time someone has tried to protect me and tell me what to do."
"Is that a problem for you, Aerin?" he asked. "I am the leader of this expedition, after all. And you're not a princess here, so it's only natural that you'd listen to me, right?"
Aerin shook her head, smiling. "No... I'm okay with it. So, what's the plan?"
Broken hesitated, glancing around. He wasn't sure if this was the right place to discuss his
plans with her.
They were in the Forest Elves' territory, and he didn't want to risk anyone overhearing something sensitive. Additionally, he had no intention of entering the Moonlight Dimension unless it was necessary, preferring to keep it as a last resort for emergencies.
Finally, he responded, "The plan is for us to rest for the night. Tomorrow morning, we'll head
to the cave you mentioned and explore it."
Aerin nodded. "Yes... that sounds good."
Broken found himself debating whether to log out of the game for the night. It would save him some playtime, but in the end, he decided to stay and enjoy the serene evening in the
room.
He couldn't deny that the natural beauty of the Forest Elf village was captivating. The harmony of the sights and sounds was a feast for his senses.
The two of them spent time sitting side by side, sharing a simple meal and drinks. Aerin spoke
with enthusiasm about her past experiences in the village.
It was the first time Broken had seen her talk so much-and with such joy. She truly seemed to
love this place.
Perhaps there's no need to worry so much about the Forest Elves?