As Ren and Isolde emerged on the other side, they were taken aback by an astonishing sight — an enormous castle nestled within the vast interior of a massive tree. The scale of the place made them feel as though they had been transported to another dimension.
Before Ren could even react, a mysterious ripple in the air enveloped them, and they found themselves instantly transported to the throne room, where the Queen awaited their arrival.
Ren had hoped for a chance to explore the Queen's lair, but it seemed that their entrance was closely monitored.
The fact that the map of the lair appeared blank on his screen except for the throne room proved that the Queen of Air and Darkness was cautious and didn't fully trust them yet.
Ren believed that there would still be choices to be made to reach the [True Ending]. Depending on their decisions, they might have the opportunity to explore more of this mysterious lair in the future.
Inside the throne room, the royalties were engrossed in their conversations, discussing politics and war tactics, while Ren took the opportunity to examine his surroundings. He activated his [Appraisal] skill to learn more about the items and objects within the room.
The centerpiece of the throne room was the Queen's majestic throne, intricately carved in the likeness of a fearsome dragon. Ren realized that the throne was not merely a decorative piece but actually one of the Queen's powerful lieutenants, capable of animating and defending her if needed.
The room lacked any other seats, emphasizing the Queen's authority, and was guarded by a dozen Unseelie servitors who stood watch at all times, ready to carry out her commands.
Inside the throne room, precious gemstones like sapphires, diamonds, and opals adorned the floor, shimmering in all their glory.
However, a grim warning was issued that anyone who dared to pick them up would face immediate death. These valuable stones were to be recovered safely only after the entire quest was completed.
Their combined worth was a staggering 7,00,000 gil, a fortune that could not be ignored.
"The merging of my court and this realm has been successful, and our plans are proceeding smoothly, thanks to all of you," the Queen declared, clutching the [Scepter of Season] in her hand. "With this scepter, we can neutralize Titania's advantage of controlling the seasons and challenge her from her high throne."
The Queen's piercing obsidian eyes scanned the faces of those present. "However, acquiring this scepter is not enough. To truly defeat the Fey Queen, we must also obtain the [Exile Blade]."
"Exile Blade?" Queen Aurora's amiable expression turned to shock. "But that blade is rumored to have slain a Fey Queen. I thought we were only seeking to make her submit?"
The Queen of Air and Darkness shook her head firmly. "Titania is not one to surrender easily. To claim a true victory over her, we must put an end to her reign once and for all and put a stop to her folly of eternal summer in the realm."
Inside the throne room, Queen Aurora wore a perturbed expression, clearly not in favor of killing Queen Titania. Elaine's face remained emotionless, hiding her thoughts.
Elena and Prince Zeroth exchanged worried glances, contemplating the consequences of such an action.
The Queen of Air and Darkness remained resolute, stating, "This is not a moment for hesitation. It's either we kill the Queen or risk being killed ourselves! And Titania Is prepared for it."
Isolde turned to Ren, seeking guidance. "What do we do now, Ren?" she asked, her confusion mirroring the uncertainty in the room.
With no prompt or choice appearing, Ren decided to follow the storyline and inquire about the Exile's Blade.
"How do we find this blade?" he asked the Queen.
The Queen's face softened slightly, pleased with his interest. "The blade is forged from three metals that are anathema to monsters: silver, adamantine, and cold iron. They're rare and don't naturally occur in the fey realm. However, you can find Cold Iron in Frostforge Mine, Silver in Moonlight Vein Mine, and Adamantite in Starfire Abyss Mine."
A map showing the exact locations of the mines in the Fey Realm appeared on Ren's screen.
"I cannot leave my lair undefended, so I entrust you, my dear adventurers, to retrieve these metals for me. There are three portals in the gate that will teleport you to each mine of your choice. I wish you all a safe journey."
A prompt appeared in front of Ren, stating about the progression of their current quest.
[The Queen seeks to forge the legendary Exile's Blade — a weapon of regicide among the fey, capable of slaying a Seelie queen at the pinnacle of her power. By obtaining this blade, the Queen believes she can secure her victory.
Tales of the Exile's Blade are scarce and shrouded in mystery, but determined characters may uncover some truths hidden within the rumors and legends.]
Ren and the others found themselves back at the gates, facing three portals that awaited them.
"We'll, that's rude," Isolde muttered, leaning on Ren and whispering in his ear. "I think they're just using us as errand runners and didn't bother to provide any real help."
Ren understood the sentiment, but it was a typical quest setup with NPCs. "We don't need an army; the princess and the prince are strong enough to defeat a boss."
Isolde shrugged, looking a bit disgruntled, but she didn't say anything more.
Elaine apologized, "I'm sorry we couldn't offer more assistance. The Queen is cautious, fearing an attack from Queen Titania, so all her forces are on guard duty."
Elena asked her sister, "Are you coming with us to the mines?"
Elaine shook her head. "Unfortunately, I must stay here and report my . . . 'findings' to the Queen. She wants me by her side at all times."
She must want her for her seer's ability. Ren mused to himself.
"She seems really paranoid," Isolde commented.
"What are we going to do now?" Elena asked Ren.
"Let's split up," Ren said without hesitation.
"Huh?!"
A sense of collective surprise filled the air.
