Mage Legend
Chapter 301: Episode 12 Holy Land

Chapter 301: Episode 12 Holy Land

The river drifted forward, gradually shrouded by a thick mist. The mist floated like smoke, completely covering the clear river path. Without a local elf guide or eyes like Lynch’s that could pierce obstacles, one would easily lose their way in such a place.

However, this mist completely dispelled the summer heat, with cool droplets falling on people’s skin, providing a refreshing touch; the burning sensation in the lungs caused by the high temperatures was also alleviated.

Lynch sat comfortably in the small boat, not worried about controlling the boat’s direction. Enjoying the peaceful journey was the only thing he needed to do now.

A few faint lights floated through the mist, increasing in number. These lights were like fireflies gliding low over the river, flickering with a pale yellow glow. Curious, Lynch reached out to pick up one drifting close to the boat and discovered it was a small lamp lit with pine oil, placed on large layered leaves.

"This..." The mage looked in surprise at the two elves on the neighboring boat, "Aren’t these lights made for the peace of deceased loved ones? So many of them, has the Elf Kingdom experienced a war?"

"Yes, mage friend." The elf said, "These matters were originally to be discussed directly with you by Her Majesty. Our Elf Kingdom indeed went through a difficult battle some time ago." He paused, suppressing the sorrow in his heart, and continued, "It was not our intention for our friend to hear such news immediately upon entering Salantir."

"I understand your meaning." Lynch returned the floating lantern he held back to the water, "I will inquire about everything with Her Majesty."

The twinkling lanterns accompanied Lynch as he progressed, constantly floating around the small boat. Lynch recalled the documents he had read. This kind of lantern was meant to accompany the elves who sacrificed their lives for their compatriots, ensuring their souls could rest peacefully. Elves have lifespans akin to immortality, being able to live in nature like trees. Unless beset by a dreadful disease or perishing in battle, elves merely age slowly without dying. Elves believe that even if their physical bodies cannot exist forever, each elf’s soul can co-exist with the world, persisting unless the end of the world comes. Lighting a floating lantern on this river, seen by elves as "divine-given," helps those pitiful souls find their homeland sooner.

In another aspect, this extensive lifespan endows elf warriors with exceptional skills. In battle, they are always the elite troops. Lynch had never heard of elves sending their people to fight outside Salantir, as it went against their traditions; hence, this battle must have occurred within the boundaries of the Elf Kingdom. Fighting at their doorstep, in familiar terrain, with ancient defensive systems assisting them, still, the elf warriors paid a hefty price. What kind of enemy could achieve this?

"Dear friend, don’t let these matters affect your mood. Please first enjoy the comfort and peace of the Elf Kingdom." As the mage was lost in thought, a female voice suddenly appeared in Lynch’s mind. It was a voice full of both majesty and kindness, perfectly blending these two opposing tones. Even though it was an unsolicited intrusion, there was no way Lynch could feel any displeasure.

Lynch smiled, knowing this was the ability of the Elf Queen. Her powerful spells allowed her to communicate quickly with any creature within this country, even reading their thoughts. However, the Elf Queen never abused this power, only establishing telepathic connections in urgent situations. Lynch remembered during his last visit, he had used a spell to shield his thoughts from control, causing the Elf Queen to encounter resistance during a mental connection for the first time. Nonetheless, she smiled slightly, apparently unharmed. This time, she was merely greeting the mage from afar, stubbornly yet playfully attempting to even the score.

Lynch closed his eyes, ceasing to ponder over the news of war. All the answers would reveal themselves when he met her, and now he should indeed enjoy the pleasure of resting.