“Is that even a question? Of course she is great. Not only is she beautiful, but she has a very likable personality. Plus, with her current status, it’s hard not to like her, right?”
Starlight clearly didn't catch the underlying meaning in You’s words. Instead, he took a moment to seriously consider Lian before giving a very candid evaluation.
“Oh? It seems you’re quite satisfied with Lian. Then, how about you become our Night Elf son-in-law, young friend?”
A sly smile curled at the corners of You’s mouth. He seemed to have anticipated Starlight’s reaction and was now observing the boy’s shifting expressions with great interest.
“Yeah, I’m very satisfied—Wait!? Senior! What are you saying?! Son-in-law?! You’re joking!”
Starlight’s response had started while he was still immersed in his praise for Lian, but before he could finish his sentence, the weight of the words hit him. His eyes widened in utter disbelief.
Panic and shock were evident in his voice. Even when facing an onslaught from several Saint Rank experts, he hadn't shown such a look. He had never expected You to suddenly make such a proposal.
Seeing this, You laughed heartily and lightly patted the armrest of his wheelchair, as if everything was within his grasp. “Haha, look how nervous you are! But in all seriousness, I saw the connection you and Lian forged during the ritual with my own eyes. Moreover, your strength and character have left me very satisfied—so, this proposal isn't entirely baseless.”
However, Starlight found the idea completely unacceptable. He waved his hands frantically, explaining in a rush.
“Senior, you’ve misunderstood! Lian and I are just friends, comrades who fought side-by-side... There isn't that... that kind of feeling between us. And...”
Seeing his reaction, the smile on You’s face grew even wider. Though his weathered eyes had lost their original luster, they still seemed capable of seeing right through Starlight’s heart. He waved a hand dismissively, his tone a mix of teasing and reassurance.
“Alright, alright! This old man isn't forcing you to make a decision. You’re both still young, and the road ahead is long. You have plenty of time to think it over slowly.”
Starlight finally let out a breath of relief, the awkwardness and tension in his heart easing slightly.
The commotion between the two naturally drew the attention of the others.
Xia Duo was the first to turn her head. Her sharp gaze darted back and forth between Starlight and You, a flicker of surprise in her eyes. She lightly tugged on her sister’s sleeve, leaning in to whisper something to Moen.
By then, Lian seemed to have finished organizing the travel arrangements. She walked over with a curious look.
“Uncle, Starlight, what are you two talking about? Why are you laughing so happily?”
Starlight’s face flushed a deeper shade of red. He hurriedly waved his hands, trying to mask his embarrassment.
“It’s nothing! Nothing! Lian, is everything ready on your end? If so, we should head out immediately!”
His words carried a hint of urgency. He was clearly desperate to change the subject, fearing that You might continue that awkward topic.
However, Lian wasn't someone who could be easily fooled. She frowned slightly, looking at the two with suspicion.
“Hmm... We’re ready... but are you two hiding something from me? And... why is your face so red?!”
Starlight was left speechless by her questions. He could only manage an awkward smile, completely avoiding Lian’s gaze.
Meanwhile, You sat there with the expression of someone watching a good show, a meaningful smile lingering on his lips, though he offered no explanation.
The atmosphere became somewhat subtle for a moment, but Lian soon tucked away her suspicion and turned to You.
“Hmph, if you won't say it, then forget it! Uncle, we’re heading out! It feels a bit strange knowing you won't be there to guide us this time.”
You shook his head with a smile, his eyes full of doting and relief. He gently took Lian’s small hand and spoke with deep sincerity.
“The future is something you must walk into yourself, child. Your fate left my sight the moment you accepted the ritual. All I can do is offer some guidance and advice on your path of growth. Besides, you have reliable companions by your side now, don't you?”
As he spoke, You’s gaze swept over Starlight and his friends, his eyes filled with expectation.
Regarding You’s trust, Starlight collected his thoughts and gave a solemn nod. “We will take good care of Lian, Senior! Until we meet again!”
A satisfied smile appeared on You’s face. He lightly patted Starlight’s shoulder, as if passing his hopes onto him.
“Go on, children, don't waste time. And remember, that proposal I mentioned is always on the table! You can think it over, young friend, hahaha!”
Starlight felt a jolt of alarm and nearly stumbled. However, he quickly recovered and led Lian toward the group at a brisk pace.
Amidst You’s laughter, their figures gradually receded, leaving the morning-tinted Night Lotus Valley behind.
After bidding farewell to Night Lotus Valley, Starlight and his group once again set out for the World Tree. This time, with Lian’s party joining them, the journey became exceptionally lively.
The personal guards Lian had selected were the same veterans they had met on the ship, and they held no resentment toward Starlight and the other three outsiders.
In fact, when Lian personally recounted how Starlight and the others had disregarded their own safety to save her life during the crisis, the guards’ eyes filled with admiration and gratitude.
Unlike Moen and the others, the Night Elves placed immense importance on bloodlines. In the eyes of those guards, nothing was more important than the safety of their Princess.
While the common guards couldn't fully grasp the danger of the ritual itself, the mere fact that these people had traded blows with Saint Rank experts and escaped unscathed was a staggering achievement.
Most of the areas along their route had already been thoroughly explored. Potential dangers and unknowns had been marked and handled, allowing them to avoid many unnecessary troubles and risks.
What surprised Starlight and Po Kong even more was that due to the vast and profound protective range of the World Tree, even the ferocious beasts that should have been in the forest seemed to sense an indescribable pressure, and their numbers were greatly diminished.
In truth, this journey felt less like an escort mission and more like a relaxed and pleasant autumn outing.
Under such circumstances, the group was filled with a lighthearted and cheerful atmosphere. They admired the scenery along the way while sharing stories and experiences, occasionally stopping to appreciate the peace and beauty of nature.
Starting from the north of Night Lotus Valley, it took them two full days to finally return to the region sheltered by the World Tree.
Under Xia Duo’s guidance, they quickly found the relay station closest to the border. After a brief rest, they rented three Split-Toothed Beasts and sped toward the World Tree.
With the help of those docile giants, the towering World Tree in the distance grew larger at a visible rate.
Not long after, the group was met by the Third Ranger Squad. No doubt, Xia Duo had notified them via the World Tree’s network.
The Tree Elves naturally took the formal visit from the Dark Tribe very seriously. Not only had they heard that the visitors were of high status, but a large part of it was their inherent wariness toward the Night Elves.
At this point, Starlight and his group’s "escort mission" was officially complete. Now that they were in the heart of the World Tree’s territory, Lian and her party’s safety was absolutely guaranteed.
The remainder of Lian’s journey would be handled by the rotating Third Ranger Squad, who would escort them to the core area of the World Tree to meet with the Council of Elders.
Rate on N.U.
