Volume 5 Chapter 14 Let's Go To Pick You Up V
The atmosphere grew tense from Third High Jurist Gagana's unsettling remarks, yet the meeting continued without disruption. Letting out a small sigh, Dadana straightened his posture and resumed speaking.
"Margrave Shield, may I ask the purpose of your visit? It's difficult to believe someone of your position would abandon your duties merely for sightseeing..."
(He really doesn't hold back... Still, at least the discussion's moving along.)
Cain thought, glancing toward Margrave Shield.
"This isn't something that requires drawn-out negotiations," Margrave Shield said calmly. "I came to confirm Zain's—rather, the World Tree Forest's—position regarding the 'Teleportation Staff.' That legendary magic tool could easily become the spark for a war. I'd prefer to see it sealed away, out of anyone's reach."
He spoke softly, but his intent was firm.
"...Margrave Shield? It seems you may have misunderstood something."
Dadana replied after a brief pause.
"Hm? What did I misunderstand?"
"First of all, the 'Teleportation Staff' is Zain's personal property. It has no relation to the World Tree Forest. And yes, while it could pose a threat, do you know how much Mana it takes to use it? Becoming the staff's owner requires one million Mana. Using it once consumes one thousand Mana. The amount of stored Mana used depends on the distance and the number of people being transported. Its usability is also quite poor—it can only be activated outside of towns or on open roads. Frankly, we wouldn't consider relying on it."
Dadana explained, shrugging.
"Moreover, we high elves—and the elves of the World Tree Forest as a whole—rarely have reason to leave this land. Occasionally, there are exceptions like Zain, but that's because we already live in a peaceful and abundant environment. You may have noticed on your way here, but the outside world is nearly two hundred years behind in civilization compared to life here."
At that, Gagana let out a hearty laugh, making it clear the elves had no need for the 'Teleportation Staff'—nor any intention of using it for war.
"I see. So it's a magic tool difficult for elves to use... Then Zain, what about you? What do you plan to do with the 'Teleportation Staff'? You may not need it often, but if you wanted to, you could use it, couldn't you?"
"Margrave Shield... no, John," Zain said. "I no longer have any need for the 'Teleportation Staff.' I only intended to use it once, to return to the World Tree Forest with Merida. Once I return alongside Sir Cain, it serves no further purpose. In fact, I believe I've already transferred ownership of the 'Teleportation Staff' to Sir Cain."
He smiled, then gave Cain a quick wink.
At his words, Margrave Shield and the members of Cain's delegation all widened their eyes and slowly turned to Cain. Cain, equally stunned, shook his head vigorously, signaling he had no idea.
"...Honestly, what a ridiculous situation..." Margrave Shield muttered with a sigh, pressing a clenched fist to his forehead. "If possible, I'd prefer the staff remain here, but if it does, I won't be able to return..."
"Margrave Shield. Sir Cain. We have a request. May we ask for your help?"
The gentle voice belonged to Maria, who had been silently listening with a calm smile. Cain turned to Margrave Shield, as if asking for guidance. When the Margrave nodded, Cain replied, "Yes."
"Thank you. The World Tree's wounds are slowly healing thanks to Sir Cain's efforts. But in recent years, the miasma has been growing stronger, and there's a shortage of Mana available to sustain the World Tree. Would it be possible for you to use the 'Teleportation Staff' to visit us regularly—perhaps once a month, or at least once every three months—to offer your Mana?"
Notes:
• Dadana - The leader of the High Elf settlement and Zain's father.
• Gagana - A high-ranking magistrate (third-ranked) in the World Tree's shrine. He wears a distinctive pointed hat with three golden stripes and a vivid blue robe.
• Margrave Shield - Cain's grandfather. An elderly man, robust, with white hair.
• Zain - A man in his 30s with long ears, possibly an elf or a similar race. He works in the basement of Ms. Merida's shop and is highly perceptive, noticing Cain's incredible mana from a distance.
• Merida - The owner or manager of the magic tool shop Cain frequents in Margrave Shield territory.
• Maria - The First Priestess of the World Tree Shrine.
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