I am the fairy\elf king???/

Jace awoke to the soft glow of dawn filtering through the curtains of his modest room in the Hestia Familia's temple. His thoughts lingered on the bittersweet memories of his recent adventures and the companions he had gained and lost. Today, however, he faced a new challenge—one that might finally provide the answers he sought about his origins and destiny.

As he descended the stairs, the familiar chatter of the Familia greeted him. Bell Cranel and Hestia were engaged in a lively discussion, while Naofumi meticulously prepared his gear for another mission. Kirito's absence was glaringly apparent, a reminder of the adventurer's recent departure to explore the unknown.

"Morning, Jace," Hestia greeted warmly, her eyes sparkling with her usual enthusiasm. "You're up early. What's the plan today?"

Jace hesitated for a moment before speaking. "I've decided to leave Nexus for a while. I need to explore the world… to understand more about myself and the powers I've been given."

The room fell silent as the weight of his words sank in. Hestia's expression shifted from surprise to understanding. "I see. If that's what you need to do, I won't stop you. Just remember, this is your home. You can always return."

"Thank you," Jace said sincerely. He turned to Bell and Naofumi. "I have a favour to ask. Naofumi, I need you to return to Melromarc and rescue as many slaves as you can. Bring them back here—they deserve a chance at a new life in the Familia."

Naofumi's eyes narrowed with determination. "Consider it done. I'll ensure they're safe."

"Bell," Jace continued, "I trust you to support Naofumi in this mission. Your courage and kindness will be invaluable."

Bell nodded earnestly. "You can count on me."

Jace then turned to Touya. "Touya, I want you to return to Oedo. Your unique abilities and knowledge could bring us valuable allies from there."

Touya's lips curled into a small smile. "Understood. I'll make sure to find capable people to join us."

With their assignments clear, the group began preparing for their respective journeys. Jace, however, had one final destination in mind: the Fairy King's Forest in Britannia. The place his body's original owner had called home.

The journey to Britannia was long and arduous. Jace boarded a small merchant ship bound for the continent, his thoughts consumed by the mysteries of the Fairy King's Forest. The crew, though wary of his imposing presence, found his tales of Nexus and the Hestia Familia captivating.

One evening, as the ship sailed under a moonlit sky, Jace overheard whispers among the sailors. They spoke of Melromarc's summoned heroes and a newly formed group in Britannia called the Seven Deadly Sins. The mention of these legendary figures intrigued Jace, but he remained focused on his goal.

Upon reaching the shores of Britannia, Jace set out on foot toward the Fairy King's Forest. The lush landscape was unlike anything he had ever seen, with towering trees that seemed to touch the heavens and an air of ancient magic that filled every corner.

As he approached the forest's edge, Jace felt a strange sense of familiarity. The whispers of the wind and the rustling of leaves seemed to beckon him forward. Steeling himself, he stepped into the enchanted woods.

The Fairy King's Forest was a realm of wonder and peril. Glittering streams wound their way through emerald glades, and luminous flowers cast an ethereal glow in the twilight. Yet, the deeper Jace ventured, the more he felt the forest's watchful presence.

"Who dares enter our domain?" a melodic voice rang out.

Jace turned to see a group of fairies hovering before him, their delicate wings shimmering in the dim light. "My name is Jace," he said, bowing respectfully. "I seek answers about the one who once called this place home."

The fairies exchanged glances before one of them stepped forward. "The Fairy King's spirit lingers here. If you truly seek the truth, you must prove your worth."

Jace nodded. "What must I do?"

The fairies led him to a clearing where a massive, ancient tree stood. Its gnarled roots twisted like serpents, and its bark was etched with glowing runes. "Enter the tree's heart," the lead fairy instructed. "There, you will face a trial that will reveal your destiny."

Without hesitation, Jace stepped forward, placing his hand on the tree's surface. The runes flared to life, and he was engulfed in a blinding light.

Jace found himself in a surreal landscape, a fusion of memories and dreams. Visions of the Fairy King's past played out before him—his rise, his fall, and the sacrifices he made to protect his people. As the images faded, a voice echoed in Jace's mind.

"You carry my legacy," the voice said. "But it is your choices that will define your path. Will you embrace the power of the forest and protect those who cannot protect themselves?"

"I will," Jace vowed. "I will honor your legacy and forge my own."

The voice grew fainter, replaced by a sense of warmth and acceptance. When Jace opened his eyes, he was back in the clearing, the fairies watching him with newfound respect.

"You have passed the trial," the lead fairy said. "The forest recognizes you as its guardian. Go forth and use your power wisely."

Jace felt a surge of energy coursing through him, the forest's magic now a part of him. As he prepared to leave, he looked back at the fairies. "Thank you. I won't let you down."

With renewed purpose, Jace set out from the Fairy King's Forest, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. His journey was far from over, but he knew he was not alone. The spirit of the forest and the bonds he had forged with his companions would guide him in the days to come.