Chapter 85: The Winter's Court

The wind howled through the branches, as if it were singing an eerie tune of warning. The icy mist swirled around the dark-armored figure of Cheol Su, the flames of his power barely able to keep the cold at bay.

He stood tall, unflinching in the face of the elves' uncertain gazes, his black scythe grasped tightly in his hands. The murmurs of the crowd rose and fell like waves on a turbulent sea, their emotions as tumultuous as the winter storms that raged around the open space.

A festive buzz filled the air as the Elven forest came alive with a flurry of activity, despite the frigid chill of the winter day.

The people gathered in the clearing, their silver robes rustling in the breeze and their voices ringing out in merry chatter. Some carried decorated baskets filled with berries and flowers, others carried lanterns to ward off the darkness that crept between the trees. Despite the friendly atmosphere, not everyone was happy to see the outsider. Eleena, the princess of the ice elves, stood apart from the crowd, her expression as cold and hard as the snow on the ground. She shot Cheol Su a venomous glare, her jaw clenched tight with displeasure.

But the King of the elves, in contrast, welcomed Cheol Su with open arms. "You honor us with your presence, Cheol Su," the King said, his voice as smooth as silk. "Our kingdom has been waiting for a hero like you." The King smiled kindly, adding, "The Saint Gods have been a monument to our people, our role models, and protectors. For a thousand years, their blood has blessed us with power and wisdom, guiding us through the ages. To have a descendant of the Saint Gods among us is an honor."

Despite the King's words, Eleena remained unmoved. "You forget, Father," she interjected, her voice sharp as an icicle. "This 'descendant' is a wielder of flames, our sworn enemy. You insult the memories of our ancestors by allowing him to stand before us." The crowd murmured, some in agreement with Eleena's words, while others shifted uncomfortably at her blatant disregard for her father's authority. The King frowned, the corners of his mouth tightening with disappointment.

"Even if he wields the flames of our enemy," he said, his voice stern yet steady, "Cheol Su is here for a reason. The Tower of Chaos found him worthy to be trailed and receive the legacy of a divine god, and we cannot ignore the will of the heavens. We must trust in the wisdom of the gods and offer him our hospitality."

Eleena's mouth twisted into a sneer, but she remained silent. Cheol Su let out an aloof at the father daughter conversation, he says to himself what all the gibbering about, me blood of a saint god? As if thank God it's in my favor, why don't I use this mistaken identity of mine to get through this floor? He says to himself, unaware of his true identity." I understand your concerns, King Ulron," Cheol Su said, bowing low to show respect. I am here for the core of the mother yin tree and I must hurry. "Time passes differently in the Tower, and every moment I spend here could mean hours, days, or even years back in the real world."

The King's brow furrowed, a hint of sympathy in his expression. "You speak of urgency, and yet I cannot ask my people to part with our greatest treasure without cause. Tell me, Warrior of the Flame, why do you seek the Mother Yin Tree's core? What purpose does it serve in the Tower of Chaos?" Cheol Su straightened, his eyes meeting the King's, unwavering. "Your Majesty, the Tower of Chaos has bestowed upon me an important mission of heavyweight. I must ascend each floor, conquering the challenges that await if I want to return home, I must claim the core of the Mother Yin it is the condition the tower had given. With this core, I can unlock the next floor and continue on my quest."

The King considered his words for a moment, his gaze drifting over the crowd. "Your cause is noble, Cheol Su. But the fate of our kingdom rests with the Mother Yin Tree. The King pondered for a moment, his expression resolute. Finally, he spoke, his voice carrying over the crowd with the power of an ancient oak.

"It is my honor to aid a descendant of the Saint Gods," he declared, ignoring the gasps of the gathered elves. "Even if it means parting with our precious core, I believe it is the right thing to do. The Mother Yin Tree herself would be proud. We should not fight against Cheol Su, but stand by his side."

The crowd erupted into a frenzy of arguments, but the King held his ground, his expression firm. "I will not stand idly by and watch you hand over our most precious treasure to this outsider!" Eleena seethed, her voice rising above the crowd. "He is no ally of ours, and we cannot simply place our faith in the words of a human!"

The King's gaze shifted to his daughter, his expression stern. "You forget your place, my daughter. The elves have always respected the will of the heavens. The Tower of Chaos has chosen Cheol Su, and we must honor that choice. Your fear of change does not override our duty to protect our world." Eleena's cheeks flushed with anger, her fists clenched at her sides. "Father, you mistake my concern for fear! I do not oppose change, but I will not sit back and watch you hand over our future to a human flame wielder."

The King's patience was beginning to wear thin. "I will not tolerate your insolence, Eleena. The decision has been made. As your King and your father, I command you to step down and respect my authority." Eleena stared at her father, her gaze piercing as an icicle. But she knew better than to defy him in front of the entire kingdom. With a curt nod, she backed away from the King, her eyes burning with defiance.

As the murmurs of the crowd began to quiet, King Ulron turned to Cheol Su once again. "Come," he said, his voice resolute. "I will take you to the Mother Yin Tree myself. The core will be yours, but you must promise to use it wisely. The fate of our world rests in your hands."