The elves jumped back in surprise, several of them letting out startled cries. took instinctive steps backward.
"What in the name of the spirits—" One elf began, her hand flying to her chest.
"Why is the Hero summoning a portal right now?" Another asked, her brow furrowed with confusion.
"Maybe he wants to make travel easier for us?" A third suggested, tilting her head. "He really doesn't need to go to such lengths for our convenience."
An older elf squinted at the portal, her expression growing wary.
"Wait." She said slowly. "This portal looks a bit strange. The color is darker than usual—more ominous."
Luca, who had been watching the portal with a knowing expression, finally shook his head and let out a small chuckle.
"That's not mine." He said, his voice carrying easily across the now-silent crowd. "It seems like the goddess up above want to speak with me."
Recognition dawned on the faces of the assembled elves.
But that recognition was quickly replaced by fear.
