Chapter 35: Forest of Despair 1
Thonias City, one of the major cities close to the border of the Doria Empire and the Ivory Empire, is situated to the north of the Ivory Empire and serves as a trade route connected to the Doria Empire. The city falls under the administration of the Miralis Dukedom, a neutral party that is not aligned with either the conservative or liberal factions.
This city also has an attraction, or at least it could be called an attraction for some, as it is the closest city to the Forest of Despair. As the saying goes, dangerous places often hold great rewards for cultivators. This forest is the dwelling place of spirits who are unwelcoming to outsiders, especially humans. However, it is rich in cultivation resources, many of which are not needed by the spirits themselves. It's no wonder this city has many vagabond cultivators from different races who are unaffiliated with any power and rely only on themselves.
The forest itself is vast, spanning from the Ivory Empire to a small part of the Doria Empire, and is divided into three sections: outer, inner, and core. Each section represents a different level of danger, with the spirits growing stronger the deeper one ventures.
After Aldrian and the entourage of nobles emerged from the teleportation station in the city, the people were astonished by the sudden appearance of such an unusual lineup. Their astonishment grew when they recognized the emperor and the imperial teacher among the entourage. Was there a big ceremony or event?
The entourage were greeted by a tall, blonde-haired female elf, her face beautiful and serene like a calm water surface, concealing her thoughts. She was Duchess Miralis, who had been informed of their visit.
"Welcome to Thonias City, Your Majesty, Your Excellency. We welcome you and hope you enjoy your stay. We have also prepared your accommodations," Duchess Miralis said while bowing her head. She then looked at the new faces, particularly Aldrian.
"Is he the one they are talking about?" she thought, curiously looking at Aldrian.
"Thank you for greeting us, Duchess Miralis. We would like to go straight to the Forest of Despair," Emperor Ladwin said.
"I have already prepared the carriages for Your Majesty and all the guests here," she replied, directing them to the row of carriages waiting for them.