She proposed establishing a branch of the Fearless League in Eleywood, recognizing the city's dense population as a potential source of martial arts talent. The idea was met with unanimous approval.
“It's time to say our goodbyes. Should any issues arise, contact me immediately. I'll return at once," Lilah said to the three elderly men, casting a Lingering glance at the island, her departure tinged with reluctance.
"You wretched girl, go on and don't get sentimental. When we have time, we'll come visit you for fun," Devonte said, his eyes red and his mood somber.
The other two elderly men also offered their advice and reminders, which Lilah carefully noted.
Seeing that it was time to leave, she turned to Barth. "Let's go."
Barth had endured much on the island, and Lilah hoped that a new environment in Eleywood might lift his spirits.
He nodded, his expression somber, and knelt to bid farewell to the three old men.
Just then, Jeffery ran over, clutching Lilah's arm tightly. "Lilah, take me with you. I want to help you. I don't want to stay here," he pleaded, his dependence clear.
“Why are you here? Didn't I tell you to stay and learn from the three elders?" Lilah asked, puzzled.
Jeffery, his eyes red with emotion, simply repeated, “Lilah, I want to go with you."
Xavier, arms crossed and pouting, chimed in, "I want to go with Lilah too. If she won't take me, how could she take you?"
Jeffery's grip tightened, his expression becoming even more dejected.
Lilah, feeling a mix of resignation and sympathy, realized that more people might indeed mean more strength. She nodded in agreement, leaving Xavier bewildered.
The next day, they arrived in Eleywood.
However, none of them expected that among the welcoming party would be that one unexpected person.
"Lilah, welcome home," Karol said, stepping forward with a smile and a bunch of flowers in her hands, moving ahead of everyone else.
Her legs were still a bit weak, which made walking a bit awkward, but it didn't affect much.
Lilah was taken aback and glanced at Gerard, who subtly signaled her to talk about it later.
Absolon was also present. When he saw her, a brief expression of relief flashed across the face of this usually stern man.
Not wanting to make Karol feel awkward in front of him, Lilah graciously accepted the flowers.
“Lilah, who is this?" Karol asked, noticing a handsome young man behind Lilah and expressing curiosity.
Lilah introduced Jeffery to everyone, explaining that he was a friend she had met on her travels and they had coincidentally returned to Eleywood together.
“Hello, everyone. I'm Jeffery Welch," Jeffery greeted, and then positioned himself behind Lilah once more, displaying an unexplained dependence on her.
Lilah informed Gerard about Jeffery's background and mentioned that he would be staying in a neighborhood close to their villa, explaining that he was here to assist with establishing a new branch.