They only thought that Melika simply wanted to travel and improve herself, completely unaware that for the Elven Race, traveling wasn’t necessary.
Only after coming to the Elven Homeland did Shien learn that Melika’s travels weren’t just because she was dissatisfied with her own growth rate, but also because of this hidden reason.
Therefore, Shien was quite moved.
“N-no, it’s nothing like that!” Melika quickly waved her hands. “It’s not a big deal, even a bit embarrassing. I’ve never told anyone before.”
Speaking of this, Melika’s voice became a bit dejected.
“Moreover, I haven’t achieved my goal yet. Not only did I make Jenom worry about me even more, but I’m also far from being able to stand on my own. If it weren’t for Mr. Shien and everyone in Vivian’s squad taking care of me, I don’t know what I would have become…”
Melika was a bit depressed.
Recalling what had happened to her in the past two years, it was understandable why Melika felt this way.
After leaving the village, Melika had the help of her fellow elves in Larmigion and the protection of Vivian and the others, preventing her from being harmed by men with malicious intentions, safely adventuring until now.
After arriving in the capital, Melika was also taken care of by Shien, not only living in his mansion for free, but also receiving his help during incidents like those with Magray and Edel.
Looking back, Melika realized that she had never truly been independent, always being protected and cared for.
This sometimes made Melika feel lucky, and sometimes useless, making her feel down and depressed.
“For this Peace Festival, I originally wanted to invite everyone and repay them for their care, but Vivian and the others couldn’t come, and Mr. Shien was almost turned away because of unfair treatment. I’m really useless…”
As she spoke, Melika couldn’t help but feel self-reproach, guilt, and sadness.
Seeing Melika like this, Shien scratched his head, feeling helpless.
Suddenly, Shien smiled.
“You’re wrong, Melika.” Shien said, “Although we’ve been helping you, we also have our own reasons.”
“Reasons?” Melika was stunned.
“That’s right.” Shien said nonchalantly, “Like Vivian and the others, they definitely wanted an excellent magician to join their squad and provide support. They protected you not only because you’re a teammate, but also because you have value.”
This was the truth.
If Melika wasn’t an elf, an excellent magician, Vivian and the others might have still helped her, but definitely not to the extent of inviting her into their squad and helping her all the time.
“I’m the same.” Shien looked directly at Melika and said meaningfully, “Actually, I’m not a good person. I also have my own motives.”
“Motives?” Melika blinked.
“Yes.” Shien grinned.
A wicked grin.
“For example, I want to devour you.”