Haa. Haa. Haa.

Sylvia was breathing heavily with an expression as if she were about to die.

It couldnt be helped.

The path on the right that Jinhyuk had guided her through was so rugged that even the elves didnt traverse it.

It was essentially a blocked and dangerous route.

Nevertheless, Jinhyuk had pierced through rock crevices and crossed through the thicket, basically sprinting like a madman all the way to the edge of the village.

Having arrived considerably earlier and performing calisthenics, Jinhyuk looked back at the belated Sylvia.

From now on, well use this path. Its much faster.

He normally wouldnt share such things.

Time was precious, therefore he was specially revealing the shortcut.

At Jinhyuks words, Sylvias face was a picture of astonishment.

Well, of course, its faster!

How could it not be faster taking such an unreasonably treacherous path?

Time saved would be multiple folds.

The problem was that it would not be surprising if several people died along the way.

How can a person even move like that?

Even if a high-ranking ranger were to stand here, performing such dazzling and natural movements was impossible.

Moreover, was he not perfectly familiar with a path unknown even to the native elves?

It was hard to believe even while watching.

This entirely undermined common sense.

Could it be, maybe a Polymorphed dragon? Or perhaps came down from the tower for amusement. To feast on elf meatgulp.

While Sylvia was lost in her wild imaginations:

Rustle!

Whoosh!

Accompanied by the sound of cutting through the wind, something flew in.

It was fast.

Huh?

Sylvia, startled, couldnt react, but a dagger with a red glint was already in Jinhyuks hand.

Clang!

The arrows that were deflected spun in the air before sticking into the ground.

A white wooden quiver and arrowheads engraved with elaborate patterns.

They were unmistakably of the elves.

Youve got a rough way of welcoming guests. Is it because I didnt bring a housewarming gift?

Jinhyuk shrugged his shoulders.

At that moment, multiple elves emerged from beyond the forest.

Theres quite a crowd.

At a glance, there were more than twenty.

Rangers armed with longbows and daggers perfectly surrounded Jinhyuk.

A guest you mean you?

The cold words were spoken by a male elf with long silver hair.

The kind of handsome face youd see in a movie.

However, what troubled Jinhyuk wasnt the elfs appearance but the annoying memories associated with the man.

The rangers commander and a high-ranking 1st class high elf, Theslon.

Yes. That would be likely be that bastards name.

Jinhyuk rapidly activated Eye of Gluttony.

Name: Theslon

Gender: Male

Age: 926

Level: 30

Strength 18, Agility 30, Stamina 21, Magic 45, Spirit of the Forest 40

Occupation: Senior Ranger

Unique Ability: Bullseye ()

Skills: Lv6 Quick Shot, Lv6 Spiritual Enhancement, Lv5 Light Footsteps, Lv5 Blessing of Wind, Lv4 Farsight

[Copy Conditions: Theslon is a proud 1st class ranger of the Elf tribe. If you want to copy his unique ability, which he prides himself on more than anything, land an arrow with higher accuracy than him at least once.]

Damn, its him.

That guy. The same one who chased me to the outskirts of the forest during the festival.

Jinhyuk let out a small sigh.

Looking at that annoying face reminded him of past grievances.

Chased all the way to hells end just for one failed performance.

If there were a spoiled brat in elf society, it would be this guy.

Thats when:

Lord Theslon! Wait, just a moment!

Sylvia, who had been standing beside, stepped forward.

Theslon, who was about to notch another arrow, hesitated.

You are Surely, the ranger who served under Elder Fenheim?

Yes. I am Sylvia, a 3rd class ranger.

Tell me. Why are you with a human?

That is

As Sylvia trailed off, a cold glint passed through Theslons eyes.

Surely you cannot spout such nonsense that you permitted this human into our territory. Even if youre a naive young elf, I shall not pardon you.

Its not that. The Elder himself permitted this gentleman as our guest.

What? The Elder granted permission?

Theslons brows knotted in an unsure expression.

Theslon, you were in the Central Forest when the decision was made. Here, this is the token that permits me to bring in this guest.

Sylvia pulled out a sculpture made of blue jade.

It was a holy artifact only the elf elders could possess.

I cannot believe it. The Elder invited a human to the festival and of all people, such a rude one at that.

Theslon muttered discontentedly, though that was the extent of it.

Even a 1st class high elf couldnt defy the Elders orders.

But as Jinhyuk was listening quietly, he scratched his head.

Hmm.

How should I put it?

If I just let it slide, there would be no incident, but after hearing such remarks, it feels uncomfortably wrong to remain silent.

Ah, my apologies for being such an unrefined human. But may I ask one thing? O venerable pointy-eared Sir, is your highness so full of poise that you shoot arrows at guests? Or is that brain so full of grace that it cannot think?

Jinhyuk blurted out rapid-fire.

Ah, its endlessly refreshing to speak my mind.

I wonder how others manage to hold their words back. Saying them out loud clears all upset.

What, what did you just say to me!

Just talking to myself, but you seem bothered, poked a sore spot maybe?

You really have a death wish!

Theslon quickly notched an arrow.

Fast.

But still

It seems unwise to flout the Elders orders. Are you sure you want to go through with this?

Jinhyuk didnt even blink an eye.

In fact, he provoked even further.

Even if you do shoot, you wont hit anything, but if shooting helps you feel better, feel free to try.

You. The invitation from the Elder emboldened you. Youre making a big mistake right now.

Its you who is making a grave mistake.

Because.

Given the current lack of Swamp Figs for the festival, I am the only hope to get them in time.

There were reasons like this.

A brief silence followed.

And what ensued was utter commotion.

Theslons pupils shook as if struck by an earthquake.

The other elves were equally shocked.

How, how could you know?

How did you find out were short on swamp figs?

Its impossible. Theres no way an outsider could know

The murmurs grew louder.

They must be perplexed.

To think, a human they first met had such deep insight into the elves private matters.

But with such hints given, it was hard for Jinhyuk to pretend ignorance.

Theslon and the other elves were probably picking figs in the swamp just before this.

Jinhyuks gaze descended.

Dried mud still clung to the elves shoes.

In such fine weather, only a minute walk from wet areas would draw such a conclusion.

Plus, Sylvia had mentioned the Central Forest known to be dangerous but with an abundance of fig trees.

The mobilization of rangers, whose primary duties were scouting and guarding, suggested a severe shortage for the festival.

So you know a way to acquire the figs? Theslon asked.

Exactly. However much you want. I can help with that. Only if I choose to do so, of course.

Theslon pressed his lips tight as if considering something.

But it didnt last long.

Although I have my doubts, were in dire straits. Just this once, Ill trust you.

Well

It seems theres some misunderstanding.

Jinhyuk chuckled.

I said I could do it. I didnt agree to actually do it, though?

Special permission, is that what you think it is?

You still dont understand, I am a guest here.

Youre just one of the twisted hosts treating your guests rudely.

With a firm refusal, Jinhyuk turned to look at Sylvia.

Lets go. After meeting with the elders, well discuss how I can assist. Of course, that rude elf over there is excluded, Jinhyuk gestured.

Yes? YeYes.

Sylvia nodded reflexively.

They both walked past the circle of elves and headed serenely towards the village.

Of course, Theslon could not move a finger.

He only ground his teeth in frustration, glaring at Jinhyuk.

Shortly afterward, they came upon a village where trees and houses harmoniously blended.

Please wait here for a moment. Ill go inside and bring out the Elder.

Sylvia asked for Jinhyuks understanding.

Left alone, Jinhyuk leisurely admired the surrounding scenery.

The sight of warm sunlight shattered on the leaves was truly magnificent.

Ah. It really is beautiful.

How long had I yearned to return here?

If only I hadnt played that damned Titanic, I wouldnt have faced the disgrace of a permanent ban.

But theres no need to worry about repeating the same mistake.

Ive already stored relevant unique abilities in preparation for this occasion.

All thats left is to ensure the gains and opportunities from the festival fall into place in the order I desire.

Ill completely erase the black history this time.

Jinhyuk was burning with determination.

How much time passed since then?

Creak!

Finally, the door opened, and an elder elf with signs of age appeared.

A different aura from Theslons.

Indeed, could this old man be one of the elders?

Thank you for traveling the long distance. I am Fenheim, entrusted with the position of village Elder.

Fenheim extended a hand in greeting.

Jinhyuk Kang.

Jinhyuk briefly introduced himself and shook Fenheims hand.

Nor did he forget to add the customary civilities.

First of all, thank you for the invitation. Ive always wanted to visit this place. Opportunities to see the beautiful and peaceful elven village dont come often.

Its no trouble at all. Sylvia praised your cooking ha-ha. Were the ones fortunate to meet you.

Pleasure evident, Fenheim laughed heartily.

Ill gladly prepare a meal for you this evening.

Ah While thats a generous offer, I have a question before that.

Go ahead.

Ive heard about our predicament from Sylvia, but is it true that you can help us resolve our difficult situation?

This was about the Swamp Figs.

Good.

Ive been waiting for this topic to come up.

Of course, its possible.

Why wouldnt it be?

But, Jinhyuk cleared his throat and came to the point.

Theres something I want in exchange. I wouldnt call it a reward, but Ive been longing to witness elven archery, if thats possible? In my ascent of the tower, I need to master archery, considered the strongest at mid-range.

Elves were famously adept with the bow that was common knowledge.

Fortuitously, Fenheim nodded as if nothing could be simpler.

Of course, thats something we should offer. How would you like us to arrange it? Should we assign Sylvia to teach you?

No, Id feel inadequate learning from an elf who shoots too well. Ideally, someone slightly less skilled would be perfect. That way, theres hope I might match them or perhaps perform slightly better.

Then, from whom would you like to learn? Is there anyone in particular you have in mind?

Theres just one person suitable.

Jinhyuk pointed to a certain elf.

That one, over there. I believe hed match my beginner level perfectly. Ah! Maybe I could even surpass him.

The indicated elfs expression twisted angrily.

You insolent.

The elf was none other than Theslon, the head of the ranger elves.