Chapter 217: Chapter 217: System's Endurance

Elio took a deep breath before responding. "After that, you will return to the surface to bring more provisions. I will stay here."

A chorus of protests rose among the group. Their elephant summons trumpeted softly, as if echoing their masters' concerns.

"You can't stay alone!" Lila exclaimed.

"It's too much time by yourself," Micah added.

Elio raised a hand to calm them. "I appreciate your concern, but it's necessary. Someone has to stay to maintain the tunnel and continue the expansion. Besides, new recruits will come to join us. I'll teach them what they need to know."

"But Elio," Aria began, "the constant darkness..."

"I know," Elio interrupted softly, patting his own elephant's head. "It will be difficult. But it's what needs to be done, and... I trust that all of you will return as quickly as possible, right?"