Along the border of the Human domain and the Devil's domain, not much had changed over the past few months.
Small groups clashed from time to time, with few casualties. Situations were similar all along the border, which left the war in a stalemate.
The SS-ranked Goddess of War, Seraphine Hart, who was stationed near the border in case war broke out, reported to The Authority less and less about the emergence of high-ranked devils.
This led them to believe the rumors of internal conflict in the Devil's domain—possibly a civil war—were true.
However, since there was no hard evidence, they had to remain cautious.
Initially, The Authority had planned to deploy young talents such as Hiro Ernest and his friends to the border.
However, an invitation from the Elven Royals for young geniuses to visit changed their plans, since the war had reached a standstill.
Additionally, The Authority saw this as an opportunity to improve their relationship with the Elven Kingdom, given the troubled history between humans and other races of Edolas.
Hence, it was decided that Hiro and his party would join the expedition instead of the army.
It had been one month since they began their journey from Etheron City to the Elven Kingdom.
The group of young geniuses had competed in the tournament and were rewarded, as promised in the invitation, with the use of the Luminary Springs.
All the participants grew significantly with blessings from the springs.
On their last night in Eldoria, the Regal King extended an opportunity for those who wished to learn more from the elves, generously offering to share the skills and knowledge passed down through the ages.
Most of the other races showed little interest, as they had their own fighting styles incompatible with the elven way.
Humans, lacking race-specific arts or skills, were mostly sword users—unlike the elves, who specialized in archery. Thus, only the humans remained.
After King Thranduil, along with Elara and the guards, left the Grand Hall, the gathered geniuses enjoyed a hearty meal, pleased with their growth after using the Luminary Springs—though some were a bit jealous of others' progress, especially Mia and Zero.
All the participants and their companions returned to their rooms to prepare for the journey home, except for a few humans who remained in the Grand Hall to discuss the opportunity King Thranduil had presented.
Nock Fletcher, the SS-ranked warrior who had led the journey and accompanied the geniuses, addressed them once they were the only race left in the hall.
"His Majesty, King Thranduil, has generously offered us the chance to learn their arts, skills, and culture passed down through the ages, which could benefit us in the future. I want to hear your opinions on what you'd like to do."
"However," he continued, "since we have our own arts and weapons of choice, which are not really compatible with the elven style, this may not benefit everyone."
"Their art may be refined through generations, but there's no guarantee we can master it in just a few months—it could be a waste of time."
"Our own arts are far stronger than theirs. We proved that in the tournament," some proud ones added.
As differing opinions were voiced, Sylvia said, "I think we could understand the elves better if we were to learn from them."
Lisa, Hiro, Zion, and Misha agreed, as they were already interested and had decided earlier that they would stay.
"Yes," Saintess Amelia joined in. "Arts and skills aren't the only things that can help humanity in the future—understanding their culture could help maintain a good relationship with the elves."
The discussion was divided. Mia proposed a solution: "Why don't we split into two groups—those who wish to stay can stay, and the rest can leave."
"Well, it shouldn't be a problem now," Nock replied with a relaxed expression. "We have two SS-ranked individuals, so each group can be led properly."
It was then decided: Mia would lead the group staying behind, while Nock would lead the departing group.
Since Mia had recently ascended in rank, she needed time to stabilize it.
Those staying behind were Mia, Amelia, and Hiro's group.
Zero was about to join Nock Fletchers' group when Mia approached him,
"Are you not going to join us?"
"Since I use sword arts and ice magic, I don't see a reason to stay here."
"So you plan to leave us poor damsels in distress alone?" Amelia added with a chuckle. "Since we came here together, we're your responsibility."
Amelia hoped Zero would feel guilty and change his mind.
"I was hoping you'd stay with us, Zero," Mia said. "This is a great chance to train and grow alongside your friends—just like the old days at Ace Academy."
She was also concerned that he needed to stabilize his stats after ascending to Rank S.
Zero was planning to leave because he felt that he wouldn't need training as his way of fighting and weapon of choice was different from elves. He wanted to spend some time with his parents too.However, upon seeing the list of people who chose to stay, two names made him reflect his decision; they were saintess Ameilia and Misha Kanon.
(since they were not a part of main characters group in the novel from Earth it was risky to leave them )
Saintess Amelia had saved his life and he could never repay this favor because he wouldn't have lived if not for her using her own life force to heal. As for Misha she was a childhood friend and was kind of scared because Eleanore would kill if something happens to Misha.
"I guess I could stay, since I don't have any urgent plans," Zero replied.
He also couldn't turn down Professor Mia, especially after seeing the genuine worry on her face.
The next morning, all the geniuses from different races gathered near the city gate for a final farewell. Princess Elenia was assigned the task of seeing them off.
As the geniuses completed their preparations, she addressed them:
"His Majesty, King Thranduil, conveys his heartfelt gratitude to all the geniuses for accepting his invitation and showcasing your talents. You have proven why you are the pride of your kingdoms. He prays for your safe return."
"We thank His Majesty for his kind hospitality and for providing this opportunity for growth and cultural exchange, which we believe will strengthen our ties and shape the future," Nock Fletcher replied, as the others nodded in agreement.
After bidding farewell to those staying behind, the others—led by Nock—began their journey home.
Though they hadn't become close friends, their mutual respect had grown, and they now had a better understanding of the younger generation from other races.
Since the training would not begin for a few days, those remaining were free to explore the city.
In the royal court, King Thranduil and Elara were reviewing the report submitted by Aranis about his escort of the human geniuses from the border town to Eldoria.
"Elara, I believe our savior is among the human geniuses, just as you foresaw in your vision."
"My King, I believe Hiro Ernest is a fine young talent destined to reach the pinnacle of humanity."
"That is true but Others like Mia Frostine also show great promise."
"The stronger they are, the greater our chances of survival."
With a loud bang, Princess Elenia entered the throne room, running toward the King.
"Father! I heard Zero Elea decided to stay and train! Does that mean I get to challenge him to a duel?" she asked, grinning with excitement . ( As for Mia Frostine She respected her as she lost and she has become stronger than before)
"Sure," the king replied, "but I have a few conditions. First, you must not disrupt their training. Second, if they refuse, you can't force them." Then with a smile, he added, "And if they do accept, don't forget to invite me to watch."
(I can't wait to see how much they've grown—they both broke through to a major rank.)
"Be prepared for a show," Elenia said, dashing off to find Zero and Mia.
"It'll only be worth it if you don't lose this time," the king remarked with a chuckle.