Parallel Memory

"Princess, why did you approach those humans?"

Gabriel asked, confused as Seraphine didn't seem interested in humans. She only approached Zero's group and ignored other humans who they encountered.

"They are strong! I never expected that so many humans, despite being young, would be so strong. In a few years, they might surpass me!"

Seraphine replied. When Seraphine saw Zero's group, she was surprised at how strong they were.

In their domain, she was considered the most talented and everybody revered her like a god. However, for the first time in her life she encountered someone who would make her feel threatened.

She felt Mia to be around similar strength and her age also seemed to be younger than her. Not only her, others always seemed to be very talented.

Seraphine was obviously curious about them as she felt that they could become her rivals.

She was right in her choice as not only she came to meet with Mia but also Hiro who was considered the greatest talent of humans.

She had heard about him before, though didn't consider him to be anything more than just a rumor. But meeting with him, she felt that those rumors were justified.

Rank-A - at his age was an incredible feat that even she couldn't help but be impressed. Right now, she was stronger but felt that Hiro might become stronger than her.

"Seraphine is still the strongest!"

Uriel said, not believing that there could be anyone stronger than Seraphine.

For the younger generation of Aasimar, Searphine was invincible who never lost. She even fought with the greatest geniuses who was 10 years older than her and emerged victorious.

Although Seraphine was praising Zero's group, they felt that Seraphine would still be stronger than them.

Seraphine smiled at Uriel's remark.

"Of Course! I can't be defeated, not unless they are Rank-SS!"

********

Zero's group continued to explore the place after their encounter with Seraphine. But despite going around different places, they didn't meet other races.

It could be that only Aasimar and humans have reached at the moment or it could be that they don't want to explore the place.

Anyways, Zero's group did meet other human groups who were also exploring Eldoria. They would at least be polite in front of them as they had Mia and Amelia with them who are both S-Rank.

Although Zero and his group tried to talk with many Elves, they found it incredibly difficult to hold a conversation with them. Some would outright ignore them while others would speak a bit but not much.

However, they couldn't blame them as it was their first time interacting with humans just like how it is with them. Fortunately, Lyria was there with them to communicate with others.

Lyria showed them a great place to have lunch and as expected it was great. Other customers who were also Elves looked uncomfortable and some even left the place. However, those who were underage looked at Zero and his group with curiosity.

Well, even though they were underage, most of them were around 80 years old. Their bodies were that of humans at age 16 or 17. Elves consider themselves adults only after age 100.

Anyway, while their lifespan was very long compared to humans, their growth was also the same. Elves whose age is 100 might only be at Rank-D or C just like humans are at age 18.

They returned to the Inn after it turned dark. Zero continued to mediate as he wanted to break through to Rank-A +. He felt that he was very close to breaking through to that.

Zero was not the only one, others also spent their time training. Meeting with Seraphine was a testimony to how strong other races could be.

There was no conflict at the moment with them but who knows what the future holds. If one wanted to be safe, getting strong was the only way.

In the days that followed, they continued their exploration of Eldoria with Lyria's guidance. They learned more about the Elven culture, their harmonious relationship with nature, and the profound magical knowledge they possessed.

There were many things that Eldoria offered which were unique to them.

Finally, time has come for them to meet with the Elven King who had invited them. They knew that it was going to be about Luminary Spring and the geniuses could help but be excited about it.

Even William and his friend were looking forward to it. The only reason that they came was for this spring.

Aranic was with other Elves guards. They had come to bring them to the Royal Castle.

"Now, before we meet with the Elven King, I must warn you all about the customs and protocols of our society," Aranic began.

"Elves place great importance on respect and discipline, especially in the presence of our king. In the presence of the King, you must show the utmost reverence and humility. Avoid any unnecessary gestures or actions that may be perceived as disrespectful."

He looked at the group of humans sternly, making sure his words were sinking in.

"When addressing the King, use formal language and refer to him as 'Your Majesty.' Do not speak out of turn or interrupt him during the audience. If you have questions or requests, wait for the appropriate moment to present them."

"Furthermore," Aranic continued, "There are other races that will join you. Make sure you don't fight with them. Those who break this rule will be excluded from using the Luminary Spring."

Elves couldn't recklessly punish the guests from other races, however, they could prevent them from using the Luminary Spring for which they came for.

"Listen, everyone, this meeting with the Elven King is of utmost importance not only for us but for all of humanity. We are representing our entire race here, and it's crucial that we conduct ourselves with the utmost respect and decorum."

He paused to let his words sink in before continuing. "So, let's be on our best behavior, show them the utmost respect, and remember that we represent not only ourselves but also our entire race. Let's make a positive impression and keep the doors open for future cooperation."

He took a deep breath before concluding, "Those who make trouble will be punished when we get back. The Authority will detain them for months to rehabilitate you. So, if you don't want to be punished, better behave properly."

The geniuses nodded. Even if they don't like it, they knew that for the opportunity to get stronger, they had to do what they were told.

Nock was not very worried about them, however, there was one group that made him very worried. It was William and his group.

Nock could make others obey what he said by threatening him with punishment, however, it was difficult for William and his group to follow any rules.

However, there was nothing he could do. At least, he thought that because they were not powerful, even if they made trouble, it wouldn't be a big one.

With Aranic leading the way and Nock's warning in mind, they made their way to the Royal Castle, ready to meet the Elven King and other races.