Parallel Memory
Chapter 519 - 519: Goodbye to Eldoria

(Sorry readers this part was left out from chapter 518 beginning I made a mistake when uploading it)

"It could be because I could use dark energy before I got the dragon heart."

It was just an assumption, and Valor continued as if he understood there was no answer to the question.

"Before I forget, congratulations on completing the task. Everything you have done after activating the runes—battling the monsters—has proved your strength. As for your mana energy, which is in perfect balance of Yin and Yang, you have rightfully earned the reward: the right to learn the Art of Dragon Slayer."

"What? Art of Dragon Slayer?" I replied. I had never heard of it, not even in the novel as far as my memory from Earth goes. Did the story change because of my actions? There were no records of Hiro traveling to the Elves' kingdom. It was definitely taking a turn.

"Yes," he continued to explain. "It is an art directly passed down from the ancient dragons themselves—said to be so powerful that the user alone is capable of taking on an ancient dragon."

If it was so powerful, then why is there no one wielding the art? I asked.

I was so confused. If it was such a powerful art, why wasn't it a popular choice for humans, as they usually went for the most powerful art?

"That is because, firstly, art is rare," he answered. "As I told you, it must descend directly from an ancient dragon. For a human to be selected, they must undergo the most grueling challenges and tasks of the dragon's choice."

So they had to kill each other for it?

"Yes, mostly—because the dragons enjoyed the bloodbath. Friends and families turning on each other… they liked how human nature was exposed in front of true power."

"And another reason was that the art was too powerful for mortals. Even the basics of the art used so much mana, many who were selected fell into the purgatory of darkness after not being able to control their art they lost themselves forever."

"They would often describe my way of choosing a successor a poor choice, weak and wrong,

But you proved all their comments wrong if only they could see they would understand"

After a few discussions he started teaching. The days passed in a blur of sweat, mana, and fire...….

***************************************

"Enjoy it while you can," I muttered under my breath. Because I was back.

"Aren't you celebrating a little too soon?" I shouted, to which they turned around, stunned.

They couldn't comprehend that the secret forbidden technique of the elves had no effect.

"Not even a single scratch," one of them gasped. They understood that they were screwed, and panic ran through their minds. It wasn't like they could run away— they stood no chance against my speed. So, as a last option, they tried to plead for mercy.

All except Elrond, who was too proud to beg for his life.

Suddenly, an idea came to my mind, and I gave them a dark smile.

"Since I'm in a good mood, I've decided to give you all a chance at redemption… under one condition."

"We are ready to do anything at your will, Master Zero!" one of them shouted, bowing at my feet.

"The condition is this—if you all can convince your friend Elrond here to apologize to me sincerely, on his knees… your sins shall be forgiven," I said in a low voice, almost threatening. Truthfully, I was just curious to see their reactions.

Surprisingly, they seemed so loyal to their friendship that they hesitated, lost in a dilemma. Given their numerical advantage, they could definitely force Elrond to comply. But after a few minutes, they made their decision to take me on, even though their lives were at stake.

(I guess humans were truly cruel to be able kill and treat their own kind badly)

If anyone had seen their expressions as they stood beside Elrond, they wouldn't believe these were the same elves who were begging at my feet just moments ago.

With a gentle smile, I said, "For showing me your true selves, I'm willing to let you all go."

I was feeling generous today.

"And a word of advice—don't go around bullying others. It reflects badly on your character."

With that, I dashed from their sight, carried by the sound of wind—my speed had increased yet again.

After that little "reunion" with Elrond and his crew, I took a detour through the quieter streets of Eldoria City. The scent of grilled vegetables and sweet fruit caught my attention, and despite everything, I realized—I was starving.

I stopped by a small elven food stall run by an elf woman who didn't seem to care about race. I ordered something that looked like roasted mana-infused food and a fruit nectar drink. The flavors were so good. Spicy, rich, and unlike anything back in the human domain. I guess it goes to show their expertise in vegetarian food, as the elves were vegetarian

For a few moments, I let myself relax, no mana pressure, no duels: just food and the city's gentle hum.

Eventually, I made my way back toward the Royal Academy, as I turned the last corner to enter the dormitory

"Zero!" Sylvia's voice snapped me out of my peaceful walk.

I looked up to see Sylvia, Lisa, and Misha standing by the gates, clearly agitated. Sylvia's arms were crossed, her brows furrowed. Lisa and Misha looked relieved but equally exasperated.

"Where have you been?" Misha demanded, marching up to me. "You just vanished before training! No word, no sign—nothing!"

"I thought you got caught up in something," Lisa added more softly, but worry was written all over her face.

I scratched the back of my neck. "I, uh… went for a walk. Then got hungry and tried some street food. Pretty good stuff you guys should try it sometimes."

Sylvia narrowed her eyes. "You think we'd buy that?"

"Not like there's anything new for me to learn," I replied with a smirk

That didn't ease their expressions, but at least they stopped yelling. After a few seconds of silence, Lisa groaned.

"You're impossible," she muttered, but there was a hint of relief in her voice.

We walked back to the dorm together, the tension easing with each step. They filled me in on the rest of their training—how they had refined their mana base and even sparred among themselves. I listened, genuinely interested. It was good to hear their progress.

The final week passed quickly. We wrapped up our month-long training in Eldoria. Despite the rough start, I had to admit—it was worth it. Each of us had grown. Stronger, sharper, more aware of our powers and limits.

When the time finally came to return to the human domain. Professor Thalior gave us a rare smile. "You've all exceeded expectations. The Elven Council has taken note. May all your futures be bright."

And just like that, we began our journey home