The Paladin in the Abyss

"Words cannot describe the distance between you and that door; you won't feel like you are moving, but the light door in the distance will become closer and closer, while the door behind you will grow farther and farther away. After about a thousand heartbeats, you will arrive in front of the door on the other side,"

"Just before you leave, snap the branch sealing this bag and violently throw the bag backward," Aspasia pointed to the bag that had just been handed over.

"The gemstones in the bag will explode within three breaths, releasing energy that will destroy the passage and thoroughly disrupt the surrounding space. Of course, you should be fine as long as you sprint forward immediately after exiting through the light door."

Lancelot listened silently, then nodded his head and said,

"There's no time to delay, I will depart now." He turned to look at Albert, "Your Majesty, I wish you all the best."

Albert suddenly felt somewhat ashamed, yet he had never loathed the man before him so intensely. He suppressed all his emotions and said blankly,

"Thank you for your service; we will all remember your achievements."

"Thank you, you will surely be a fine Emperor," Lancelot bowed one last time to Albert, resettled the Great Sword on his back, adjusted his armor and cloak, and turned to walk toward the light door.

He had once sworn to serve this man forever, but perhaps he had performed too well, as Albert seemed to wish he had never appeared.

The timing of this door's opening was perfect. The Elves didn't need to recount those ancient tales. Whether he truly wished it or not, he was inevitably the one to sacrifice himself to save the world. Stepping forward was actually his easiest choice.

He spoke immediately, not wanting to give Albert time to think. Everything so far had been within his acceptable range. But had Albert shown even a hint of coercion, he was unsure whether he could remain loyal to his previous vows.

"Wait a moment, Sir Lancelot," the High Priest of the Elves called out to Lancelot. "I have a gift for you."

Lancelot stopped in his tracks, looking at the three Elves approaching him.

The three favored by nature surrounded him, their hands clasped in front of their chests, their ethereal prayers echoing in his ears:

"Goddess, please hear my prayer…"

"This man is about to journey far, fearing he may never return to his homeland…"

"The common people are saved because of him, yet no one knows, nor can they repay…"

"We wish to exchange our power for your blessings upon him…"

The Elves' bodies emitted a strong light that enveloped Lancelot. He felt a warm current surge into his body, his soul seemed to be filled with something, and myriad colors danced before his eyes, with unfamiliar sounds drifting through his ears.

The ceremony started very abruptly and ended just as quickly. The three Elves each took a step back, looking exceptionally tired.

Lancelot discovered his vision had greatly improved, and his hearing had become very sensitive. Aspasia gave him a weak smile and said,

"This gift is called the Elves' blessing; it allows you to have a body like an Elf and some other abilities, just like a real Elf..."

Lancelot subconsciously reached to touch his ears.

The High Priest playfully winked, "But unfortunately, elf-like ears are not included."

"That's the essence," Lancelot realized he was speaking an unfamiliar language.

"It seems you've noticed, this blessing also includes much knowledge, and..." The High Priest paused. "It grants you a lifespan many times that of an ordinary person."

Lancelot was utterly stunned.

The High Priest smiled. "This blessing has drained the magic power we three have accumulated over countless years, but we gladly did so, as this is the Elves' way of thanking you."

"The world beyond is barren and dangerous, a place of survival of the fittest, but I believe you can survive. Go forth, bearing our blessing; from now on, time shall not weaken you. We hope that one day, you will find your way back home."

Lancelot smiled, his smile no longer heavy.

"Thank you, High Priest, I am suddenly filled with anticipation for the future," he said.

Having spoken, he no longer lingered but stepped through the light door.

Oh, homeland, will I ever see you again...